1. featuring different working methods and uses of materials
2. showcasing makers
3. promoting prototype projects
4. exploring shops and workspaces
Name: Kathryn Miller
Title: Maker of beautiful things
Company: kathryn miller design
Website: www.kathrynmillerdesign.com
Instagram: kathrynmillerdesign
Tell us a bit about your background and how you came to be making jewellery cabinets?
I have always had a compulsion to create. Like most little kids I covered the family fridge with awesome artwork, but unlike many kids I never stopped making things. When I moved out as a young adult I really started to build furniture. If I needed something I would probably build it from scratch or refinish and reupholster something from the thrift store. Eventually I had enough furniture, but I just needed to keep making it. A few years ago I had the privilege of taking the Fine Furniture program at Camosun College in Victoria. This course really opened my eyes to the possibility of wood, furniture, and most importantly my imagination. During that time I created my first wall hung jewellery cabinet.
How would you describe your handcrafted jewellery cabinets?
The cabinets from this series are round wall hung pieces which are about 25” in diameter. They are really more like a wall hung art piece than furniture. I believe that there should be a place for everything and everything should be in its place, so within its walls there are hangers for necklaces, bracelets, earring racks, ring holders, and drawers.
How do you approach each piece?
I approach each piece from a place of respect. Ultimately I know that these cabinets will be filled with the work of hundreds of people’s hands. That is pretty powerful. Think of your own jewellery collection; just imagine where it came from – not just where you bought it, but where each piece really came from. I like to think of the cabinet as a shrine to those makers and their works.
Which materials do you use?
I usually use local species of wood in my cabinets, some of my favourites are maple, walnut, and birch. I try to find pieces of wood that are stunning just as they are. If I begin with beautiful wood, chances are good that I will end up with a beautiful product.
How do you pick your materials and do you do any special treatment on them?
Each piece of wood is picked by hand from the reserves of a one man portable mill operation. When I select a piece it is usually because it has an interesting shimmer or ‘figure’. Or the piece might have a colourful heartwood sapwood combination. In the end I want the wood to speak its own story so I finish them with an eco-friendly hardwax oil. This product simply brings out the natural luster of the wood while giving it a good protective finish.
What method/technique do you use to make your jewellery cabinets?
Slow and steady would be my production method. Over 200 hours goes into every cabinet so patience is essential in seeing them through to completion. They are a labour of love.
What is your most cherished tool?
Oh no, I have two most cherished tools! One tool that I cannot do without is a router, but I love that tool like I love water I just need it. My other most cherished tool is the cabinet scraper. It is nothing really, just a small rectangular piece of steel. You sharpen its edge to hook over in a tiny curl, then you flex it and drag it over your wood to remove fine shavings. It is so peaceful, I love it like wine.
Where can we find your work?
In November you can find me and my work at the Eastside Culture Crawl. My studio is located within the Vancouver MakerLabs building at 780 East Cordova Street. I would love to show both my art and my studio so definitely come to the Crawl!
What are you making next?
I have a design brewing for a men’s wall hung watch cabinet. It is going to be so sleek I am really excited about that one.
Is there anything else you would like to share about your creative process?
Yes! I would love to share the whole creative process – I love bouncing ideas around and learning from other people. We are infinitely more creative when we are connected to others, so be in touch.
