Stephen Ryan, from Green Woodwork Ireland, is based in the heart of Belfast’s Lagan Valley. Stephen has had a passion for woodcraft from an early age, culminating in over twenty years of professional experience and BA Honours in Furniture Design. Stephen started his career as a church pipe organ builder and has practiced many forms of woodwork over the years. His range of traditional woodcraft products includes furniture, carvings, kitchenware, children’s toys and other bespoke creations. With inspiration taken from traditional Irish life, each piece is carved by hand, using locally sourced hardwoods, and traditional handtools. The wood is shaped while it is still fresh. When dried the pieces are either left natural or completed with natural oils and waxes, giving each piece individuality and a tactile touch. Stephen is helping to revive an ancient form of woodland craft that has been practiced for thousands of years but has long since disappeared from our woodlands and workshops. He accepts commissions, sells products and runs a variety of workshops and demonstrations teaching the skills of green woodwork.