What steps will my wooden object go through to get from tree to object?

All your objects will have gone through a long process and are the result of many hours of work before arriving at your home. Here's an overview:

  • I fell the tree or retrieve it from the ground.
  • I cut it into sections, then take it to the sawmill where it will be cut into slabs.
  • The wood will then need to dry for a minimum of one year (it takes 1 year of drying for every 1 cm of thickness. So, patience is key).
  • Once my wood is dry, the slabs find their place in my workshop where I mark out my templates with a compass.
  • Then I move on to sawing to roughly cut out my shape.
  • Now that my templates are ready, I let them dry for an additional month to ensure they maintain their shape perfectly for you.
  • And it's only after all these steps that my woodturning talents come into play: I turn the piece, profile it, and hollow it out, turn after turn…
  • I will then sand my piece for the first time with 80, 120, then 180 grit, and finally 240.
  • I immerse my piece in water to bring out any imperfections.
  • Once dry, it's back to the beginning: sanding with 240 grit.
  • Then I immerse my piece in water again.
  • I wait for it to dry to finally finish my sanding with 320 grit, which gives you a soft and smooth touch.
  • Finally, I brand it with the "Tour après Tour" logo to sign my work.
  • And I oil my piece with grapeseed oil for a beautiful glossy finish.
  • Then, carefully packaged, the object goes to your home to offer you all my expertise.

Now that you know its whole story, it's your turn to take care of it.

What precautions should be taken?

Wood's enemies are excessive heat and excessive humidity. I therefore recommend that you avoid dishwashers, microwaves, and other similar uses, as well as soaking your wooden items in water for too long. Allow your dishes to dry thoroughly, ideally in the open air and vertically, before storing them.

What are the advantages of wood?

Wood is a living material, very resistant. Thus, a well-maintained wooden object can last a lifetime. It is an ecological alternative, guaranteed chemical-free and 100% handmade.

Will my dishes get scratched by knives?

Logically, wood can show knife marks. But don't panic! The wood fibers naturally re-bond when you apply a new coat of food-grade oil (such as grapeseed oil) to refresh your tableware.

How do you care for a wooden object?

To wash your wooden items, simply use a little lukewarm water and your usual dish soap if necessary. Rinse then let air dry in a place where water does not stagnate. Once completely dry, store your item flat.
Wood is naturally resistant, but most importantly, remember that it is a living material: so don't hesitate to nourish your wood from time to time. A little food-grade oil of your choice when your item dulls to maintain its shine, and you're all set!

Is the wood treated?

The wood I transform is guaranteed untreated and can therefore be suitable for any food contact use. All the objects I create are simply finished with fine sanding, to ensure a smooth and pleasant texture to the touch. I also apply grape seed oil to them, which provides protection and shine.

Where does the wood in the workshop come from?

I mainly work with local woods that I fell or salvage and transport myself, or buy directly in planks. The trees I work with are mainly those that have fallen due to wind or are destined to be felled, not from overexploitation.

Ash or walnut? Which wood to choose?

First of all, these two wood species are chosen for their strength, aesthetics, and compatibility with food products. Walnut offers a nuanced grain, with dark and/or light tones, which often results in that wonderful two-tone grain.

Ash, on the other hand, is all elegance and subtlety. It is light, honey-colored with pearlescent reflections.

Both species are very common in Isère and are therefore harvested near the workshop by me.

Will the ordered part be identical to the photo?

Each piece is unique. As a woodturner, I can guarantee the regularity of the shapes and dimensions announced (very slight variations may be observed), but from one piece to another, the wood grain will offer a unique pattern. The color may also vary, especially on walnut pieces.
Please feel free to write to me at contact@ateliertouraprestour.com to request a photo before shipping to validate your order and ensure your complete satisfaction.