Cleft Oak Work

Using sustainably managed oak harvested from the woodlands in the local area, we make a range of gates, fencing, benches and garden structures from cleft or riven oak.

Cleaving or riving is the art of splitting wood along the grain, working with the natural shapes and fibres in the material to create resilient, durable and beautiful products. Often starting with large sections of tree, the wood is gradually split down radially to produce usable sizes of timber. Each piece is then cleaned up with a drawknife and carved by hand with traditional woodworking tools.

This process works with the natural variations in the wood and as such each piece is completely unique. Oak is extremely durable outdoors to due a high tannin content and will make a beautiful feature for many years to come.

We have created cleft oak work for private gardens, woodlands, nature reserves and local businesses. See some of our projects below and please contact us for a quote should require your own bespoke cleft oak project.