The Story Behind the Wood: Why Materials Matter in Handmade Art | Leave A Mark®

Why Wood?

Wood is living. It carries history in its rings, texture in its grain, and strength in its fibers. It’s grounding, timeless, and warm—the perfect medium for meaningful, lasting art. Whether it's the backer for a bathymetric map, the petals of a wooden flower, or the handcrafted walnut frame that surrounds the final piece, the type of wood we choose plays a key role in both beauty and purpose.

 

Hand-Selected, Never Mass-Produced

We don’t just grab any piece of wood off the shelf. Each type is hand-selected based on the specific project. Walnut for its deep richness. Birch for its smooth finish. Poplar for its subtle coloring. These decisions aren't random—they’re intentional, and each adds to the overall story the piece tells.

When you hold a piece of handmade art, you’re not just holding a finished product—you’re holding a story. Every curve, every grain, every carefully chosen material holds meaning. At Leave A Mark®, the materials we use are just as important as the design itself, and that starts with one of the most humble yet powerful elements: wood.

The Process: Turning Raw Into Remarkable

There’s something powerful about turning a raw plank of wood into something meaningful. We shape every flower by hand, taking time to carve, smooth, and bring it to life. No templates. No shortcuts. Just intention, tools, and time.

Even the frames are handmade in our shop. That’s not an afterthought—it’s part of the art. A frame doesn’t just hold the piece, it finishes it. It’s the final brushstroke.

The Emotional Weight of Materials

We believe art should carry emotion. The same way a handwritten letter holds more meaning than a text, handmade art made from natural materials creates a deeper connection. You can feel the weight. The texture. The story.

Why It Matters to Us—and to You

You’re not just buying art when you shop with us. You’re investing in a piece that was made with thought, care, and purpose. You’re choosing something that doesn’t just decorate a space—it tells a story in every detail.


Want to See the Process?

Follow us on Instagram for behind-the-scenes videos and in-progress builds, or check our events page to come see the art pieces in person.

Back to blog

Leave a comment

Please note, comments need to be approved before they are published.