Discover handmade woodland crafts inspired by the forests of the Lake District. Jo Clayton of Designs from the Woods makes distinctive furniture and decorative objects from timber gathered through woodland conservation, combining traditional coppicing with contemporary design.
Woodland crafts with a story
Jo and her partner care for an ancient broadleaf woodland in the southern Lake District. Through careful coppicing they create a renewable supply of wood, particularly hazel and birch, while helping woodland habitats thrive. The natural shapes, colours and bark of the timber become features of her individually made pieces, including rustic furniture and smaller ornamental crafts.
Visit the Grizedale studio
Jo’s website describes an open studio at Grizedale Forest, where visitors can see and purchase her work. As studio availability may vary, check directly before making a special journey. Grizedale Forest itself offers walking and cycling trails, woodland sculptures and visitor facilities, making it easy to combine a visit with a day outdoors.
Workshops and woodland experiences
Jo has previously offered woodland experiences and nature-inspired printing workshops, including cyanotype and botanical printing. Her published events calendar currently lists no forthcoming dates, so contact the business or check its website for future opportunities rather than assuming sessions are running.
Before you visit
- Studio: Grizedale Forest, near Hawkshead, Cumbria.
- Woodland contact address: Great Lindeth Wood, Bouth, LA12 8JJ. This is not necessarily the studio or public meeting point.
- Telephone: 07920 776193.
- Email: hello@joclayton.co.uk.
- Opening and workshop times: check directly before travelling.
Visit Jo Clayton’s official website for studio enquiries, crafts and workshops.