How Fallen Trees Become Functional Art: The Peterman’s Process
At Spencer Peterman, we don’t harvest trees—we rescue them. Our bowls and boards begin not in a factory, but in
Shaped from storm-fallen cherry, ambrosia maple, or black walnut, each board follows the natural curve of the tree. The carved handle offers a place to hang it when not in use — not just for storage, but to let it be seen. Whether you’re slicing herbs or setting out a spread, it’s the kind of board you’ll reach for again and again. Each one is made by hand from reclaimed wood, with the grain and edge left just as nature shaped it.
Spalting happens when decay meets just the right conditions—and the result is stunning. With its bold lines and intricate patterns, spalted maple turns every bowl or board into a one-of-a-kind piece.
Every bowl begins with a discarded log from our local forests—Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Vermont. Where others see waste, Spencer sees possibility. With decades of experience and an artist’s eye, he turns decomposing wood into heirloom-quality pieces. Each bowl is hand-turned in our New England workshop, shaped by the history of the tree and Spencer’s craftsmanship. No two are ever alike—and that’s exactly the point.
At Spencer Peterman, we don’t harvest trees—we rescue them. Our bowls and boards begin not in a factory, but in
Upcycling backyard trees into handcrafted wooden bowls and cutting boards is a sustainable and artistic process championed by Spencer Peterman.
Nothing says summer like a picnic under the sun. But while we all love a relaxing meal outdoors, it doesn’t
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