Workshop journal

Natural cork bowls and trays with irregular outlines and preserved bark, in the workshop.

One-of-a-kind pieces: the shape suggested by cork

I select each fragment for its qualities and possible shapes. Working by hand preserves the cork's identity in each one-of-a-kind piece.

One-of-a-kind pieces: the shape suggested by cork

I select each fragment for its qualities and possible shapes. Working by hand preserves the cork's identity in each one-of-a-kind piece.

Workbench with cork pieces, tools, gloves and working materials.

Working cork: from slab to shape

Made by hand in small batches, using cork selected for each product. I share the preparation, trials and adjustments that lead to the intended result.

Working cork: from slab to shape

Made by hand in small batches, using cork selected for each product. I share the preparation, trials and adjustments that lead to the intended result.

Detail of a round cork box with natural variations in colour and porosity.

Choosing cork: thickness, colour, density and t...

I select the best cork qualities for each product. Thickness, colour, density and texture are chosen according to the intended use and result.

Choosing cork: thickness, colour, density and t...

I select the best cork qualities for each product. Thickness, colour, density and texture are chosen according to the intended use and result.

Cork slabs and fragments stacked outdoors with trees in the background.

From cork oak bark to the workshop

From selecting cork to making small batches by hand: I choose the material for the qualities best suited to each product.

From cork oak bark to the workshop

From selecting cork to making small batches by hand: I choose the material for the qualities best suited to each product.

Fragmentos de cortiça natural com casca rugosa e marcas brancas de identificação.

Natural cork: getting to know the material

Understanding natural cork and its different qualities helps me select the material best suited to each product.

Natural cork: getting to know the material

Understanding natural cork and its different qualities helps me select the material best suited to each product.

Finished cork work: boxes, soap dishes and an organic piece on pale fabric.

Cork soap dishes and travel boxes: from the wor...

I make the Tróia and round and square travel boxes by hand in small batches. Interior grooves and supports are designed to make soap easier to use and dry.

Cork soap dishes and travel boxes: from the wor...

I make the Tróia and round and square travel boxes by hand in small batches. Interior grooves and supports are designed to make soap easier to use and dry.