Gary Ellis - Woodwright is a multi-qualified craftsman with a life making things in multiple fields: Joinery, Furniture making, Boat Building, Building ++
Now retired, I may take on an interesting paid job if like the challenge. If you've ever heard of a Shipwright or a Wheelwright, well It's basically a claim to be able to do almost anything in wood, and do it well! I also call myself a 'Multi -
Qualified Craftsman", and that is due to my 45 years experience working in the woodworking field. My work history includes 2 complete apprentiships, as well as many other high level practical experience in such fields as: Making timber Joinery and High-end Kitchens (PVC edged, lacquered, and solid timber); Furniture Making; Boat Building (timber boats built from scratch as well as numerous repairs) and fibreglass over plywood. The use of vacuum bagging; Refinishing of furniture and spray finishing; real french Polishing and the Restoration of real Antiques
(I owned Tauranga Antique Restoration - later Gary Ellis - Woodwright in the 90's);
I became a woodworking Tutor for 8 years at TDET and also was a Roving assessor for the Furniture ITO. I became a Builder in 2002 and later served my BCITO Apprenticeship under Dave Strange, also working with Graheme Hey. We did many renovations and new builds together. As an apprentice Woodcarver at 'Casa Tallista' (1980 to 1983), I learned woodcarving, wood turning, and veneer and fretwork, as well as reproducing antiques in solid timber. Since Building I have worked with several people on numerous jobs and have added a lot to my many and vast experiences. I have also worked installing timber ballustrading and handrails on site in solid Timber that's getting varnished, so has to be tight and neat. In short, if it's made of wood, I can do it! Not many can say that to that extreme or to the high level of competency that I have had the privilege of learning. I am a Virgo, but balance good quality with a balance of the time it takes to get the job done and the requirements of the customer. I also believe in the fair deal principle. I charge a fair price and everyone's happy. That's why I never have to advertise for work, and can pick and choose which jobs I take on. I also like a challenge and learning new things. And being creative. I'm very good at visualising and thinking outside the square. Physically I remain in good health and am fit and strong still despite now being 62yo. I can still do a good day's work that's for sure.
