Wood We Create is bringing new life to locally sourced timber, transforming it into handcrafted pieces that celebrate sustainability, craftsmanship and the natural beauty of wood.
Based in Walcha, the gallery and studio offers a range of timber giftware, homewares and sculptural art, all created from salvaged materials.
“Each piece is made from salvaged timber with exceptional craftsmanship,” owner and artisan David Barden said.
“From functional kitchenware to collectible art, our creations are unique, sustainable and perfect for gifts or those who appreciate the beauty of natural wood.”
Established in 2013 and owned by David and Fiona Barden, the business relocated from Coffs Harbour to Walcha in 2023 and is now proudly part of the local community.
“Wood We Create is a locally run gallery and studio in the heart of Walcha, where every piece is thoughtfully designed and handcrafted,” Mr Barden said.
At the core of the business is a commitment to using locally salvaged timber, often sourced from fallen or removed trees that would otherwise be discarded.
“Our work celebrates the beauty of locally salvaged timber – materials that are not commercially available and often exist in only small limited quantities,” he said.
“These timbers are sourced from fallen or removed local trees that would otherwise be chipped or burnt, giving them a second life through craftsmanship.”
That limited supply means each piece is inherently unique.
“Because of the limited availability of our salvaged timbers, no two pieces can ever be exactly alike,” Mr Barden said.
“This scarcity makes every item truly one-of-a-kind.”
Each creation is finished with a natural, eco-friendly process designed to enhance the timber’s character.
“We finish all our product with a hand-rubbed oil made entirely from naturally derived materials,” he said.
“Free from synthetics, this finish is eco-friendly, sustainable, and chosen specifically to bring the natural grain, colour and character of the timber to life.”
For Mr Barden, the work is about more than producing objects — it is about preserving and celebrating local materials and stories.
“At Wood We Create, we don’t just make wooden pieces – we honour local trees, local stories and local craftsmanship,” he said.
“Each work carries the essence of Walcha and the hands that shaped it.”
Alongside timber works, the gallery also features handcrafted glassware, including platters, earrings and pendants.
Explore the collection at www.woodwecreate.com.au or visit the gallery in Walcha.
Were celebrating all things made in New England! Read more Made in New England stories here.