Bella is always there in the quiet hum of my workshop, surrounded by the scent of freshly cut wood and the rhythmic scrape of a hand plane. She’s not just a dog; she’s my constant companion, confidant, and, in many ways, the heart of my creative space. Bella, my Australian Kelpie and a rescue dog has become an irreplaceable part of my woodworking practice, embodying the patience, mindfulness, and connection that define my philosophy of slow woodworking.
Bella’s Story
Bella’s journey into my life is a story of second chances. As a rescue dog, she came to me displaced, wary, but full of potential. From the moment she stepped into my home, she found her place—and, soon enough, her spot in the workshop. There, amidst the tools and shavings, she transformed from a timid soul into a calm and grounding presence. Her watchful eyes and quiet demeanour seemed to understand the rhythms of the space as if she’d always been meant to be part of it. I sometimes wonder who rescued who. Her companionship is so rewarding in my daily life.
Life in the Workshop
Bella has her routines in the workshop. Her favourite spot is by the front door in the shade, where she can survey the yard and enjoy the cool of the prevailing breezes. From there, she keeps a watchful eye on my work, occasionally moving to investigate a curious sound or the scent of freshly cut wood. The scrape of a plane or the soft tap of a mallet doesn’t faze her; instead, she seems to take it all in as part of the natural rhythm of the day.
When I pause to stretch or step back from a project, Bella is there, ready to remind me to take a moment. A quick scratch behind her ears or a playful toss of her favourite toy brings a smile and a much-needed break to my focus. In her quiet, unassuming way, Bella reminds me that the process is just as important as the outcome.
Lessons from Bella
Bella teaches me lessons daily, not through words, but through her presence. Her patience is unmatched; she waits, calm and steady, through long work hours, content to be near. She embodies mindfulness, grounding me when my thoughts threaten to wander too far ahead. Watching her find joy in the simplest things—a patch of sunlight, the scent of fresh wood—reminds me to slow down and appreciate the beauty in the small details.
Bella’s influence extends beyond companionship; she’s also a source of inspiration. Her energy and loyalty inspire the designs I create. I’ve even crafted a few pieces for her: a simple raised dog bed made from reclaimed wood, a toy box to hold her belongings, and a leash rack that blends practicality with craftsmanship. In these small projects, I find joy in giving back to the companion who gives me so much.
The Bond Between Craftsman and Dog
Woodworking is often seen as a solitary pursuit, but Bella’s presence transforms it into something shared. She’s there for every triumph and every misstep, offering a quiet kind of support only a dog can provide. Her companionship brings balance to my work, reminding me that woodworking isn’t just about creating objects and cultivating a meaningful connection—with the wood, the craft, and those who share the journey.
Reflecting on my time in the workshop, I realise how much Bella has enriched the experience. She’s more than a bystander; she’s an integral part of the process, a living reminder of why I chose this path in the first place. Through her eyes, I see the workshop not just as a place of work but as a sanctuary, a space where time slows down and the world’s noise fades away.
Bella taught me that woodworking is more than the pieces we create. It’s about the journey, the quiet moments, and our connections. For that, I am endlessly grateful to her—my partner, my muse, and my best friend.
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