Vendor Spotlight: Paterson Woodcrafts

Photo credit: Natasha Newby

​For Adam of Paterson Woodcrafts, woodworking began as a quiet hobby; something he did for himself, his friends, family, and for pure enjoyment. “I used to just give it away,” Adam said with a smile. But over time, that passion took root, shaped by decades of deep respect for the craft. 2025 has marked Adam's first year of selling his works publicly - and the Horton Farmers' Market is happy to be his launchpad.

​Adam is entirely self-taught, and it all started 20 years ago with a simple wooden school suggestion box. Now, he handcrafts everything from whistles, pens, chairs, and more - making them from reclaimed wine barrels. “You learn all the little things they don't tell you in books and YouTube videos,” he says, “You’ve got to do it to really get it.”

After spending 10 years running a corporate moving and event logistics business, Adam realized the toll that it was taking on his body and his spirit. “I just couldn't keep up that pace anymore,” he said. So, Adam traded his high-pressure role for a slower, more intentional life in the workshop, where time passes differently, and every piece tells a story.

​These days, Adam spends most of his time in his home workshop - where nothing goes to waste. He sources most of his material from Century Mill in London, transforming offcuts and leftover trimmings into small gifts. “I don't like to throw stuff out," Adam explained. "If I can make something of it, I will.”

Adam's creations are functional and personal; you’ll find boxes in whimsical designs, puzzle piece key racks, and an ever-evolving collection of handcrafted works that speak to his joy of experimentation. “I just like making something out of nothing," he said with a proud smile. "Seeing the final product is always amazing.”

​While new to the business scene, Adam isn't in a huge rush to scale it up. “I’m happy if it just pays the bills,” he said. “I don't want to do it so much that I stop liking it.” That mindset keeps him grounded. He will do some custom work on occasion, but only if it doesn't veer too far from the joy of the process. His creative energy is recharged by nature; walking along the trails behind his home and camping trips up north. His love of the outdoors filters into his designs and fuels his desire to stay small, local, and present.

At the Horton Farmers' Market, Adam has found a likeminded community. “It's such a nice place, people are approachable, they carry on a conversation with you. That's what we go for.” Through connections made at Horton, he's been invited to other local pop-ups and shows, and is even considering joining a local woodworking guild to continue to learn from fellow artisans.
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For Adam, Paterson Woodcrafts isn’t just a business, it’s a lifestyle that returns to hands-on work, slow days, and meaningful connection. You can find him most Saturday mornings at Horton, and he will be happy to chat with you about what he loves to do.