Joseph Dart Carpentery

I originally trained as an climbing arborist at Merrist Wood College in Surrey. After studying and working an apprentice in the industry I worked as a tree surgeon for four years. I have always loved trees and climbing so the job was perfect but during this time I discovered an interest in the wood itself and made a smooth transition from the tree tops to the warmth of my workshop via two more apprenticeships and eight years hard graft.

The first carpentry apprenticeship was for a hardwood flooring company where I worked up to floor fitting manager responsible for three teams. I then applied for a position at a Westwind Oak, a timber framing company who opened my eyes to the fantastic potential of wood and the joy it gives both to the client and to me the carpenter. I was sad to leave the lads but I embarked on 14 month paragliding trip around Europe, where I found my dog, Vej. On returning I felt the time was right to start out alone.