Dating back from as early as 1664 in Germany and very likely beginning before that, Welsh lovespoons are handmade gifts that were carved and given as a sign of romantic intent which showcased a persons skills at carving and artistry. This was also a way for their fathers to see that the suitor was capable of caring for his daughter. These spoons often had symbols relating to love (heart), togetherness (twisted stem), willingness to work for their partner (wheel) and security (lock), but also occasionally featured anchors due to sailors often carving lovespoons during their long journeys out at sea.

Lovespoons are meant to be more of a decorative item with elaborate and symbolic patterns incorporated into the spoon itself rather than being a practical spoon. They are often seen as prized pieces to be displayed on the wall of a home and have some sentimental meaning for their owners. While Welsh lovespoons are the most well-known, there are also similar crafted lovespoons seen in Scandinavia e.g. the Norweigan wedding spoon and Eastern parts of Europe, with the oldest dated lovespoon originating from Germany.

A stained Welsh lovespoon produced by Paul Curtis in Wales.

In more recent times, lovespoons are often given as a wedding favour, Valentine’s Day gift, birthday present, Christmas present or just as a souvenir from a trip to Wales. They are no longer specifically a gift given from men to their romantic interest and are the perfect gift for a friend or relative as a decorative item with sentimental value. Lovespoons can also have laser engraved personalisation to include names, dates or words in the design, which adds an additional layer of meaning for their recipient.

The most well-known crafters of Welsh lovespoons today are Paul Curtis and Huw Jones. Both of which have a large range of lovespoons featuring many different symbols and finishes…

• Paul Curtis founded the business Angel Woodcraft in 1985 after his designs became very popular. He had an interest in wood carving from the age of 16, learning how to make and the history of the Welsh lovespoon from a master craftsman called Gwyndaf Breese. To this day, Angel Woodcraft produce over 100 different designs of lovespoon for all sorts of occasions.
• Huw Jones under the business Brookwood Powys is well known for his large range of hardwood lovespoons, featuring prominent symbols and a unique grain. Brookwood Powys also produces miniature lovespoons which can be used for wedding favours or as keyrings. Most of the larger lovespoons are usually engraved with details, such as the date and names of a couple as a wedding gift or the date and name of a newborn baby.

We sell a large collection of lovespoons at Welsh Gifts in all shapes, sizes and materials including wooden lovespoons, pewter lovespoons and mini lovespoons; which are great for wedding favours. Several items in our collection of welsh lovespoons can also be personalised to include names and dates in the design (products by Huw Jones). A touching reminder of a special day such as a christening or wedding.

On our website, we stock lovespoons expertly crafted by two of the most talented woodcarvers in Wales: Paul Curtis and Huw Jones. Additionally, we also have a smaller collection of pewter lovespoons that have been crafted A.E. Williams, who specialise in pewter crafting. You can find a small selection of our small Welsh lovespoons below, along with a link to the full gallery.

Click here to visit the full lovespoon gallery