About

Siôn Llewellyn was born in the Ogmore Valley in October 1959. Siôn began carving Lovespoons at the age of twelve. His interest in the art began when his elder sister was given a Lovespoon by her then boyfriend. Being an inquisitive boy, Siôn enquired as to the relevance of the gift. He was then provided with a brief explanation as to the tradition and custom of Lovespoon making. With this in mind Siôn went along to the local grocery store and acquired the side of a discarded orange box (yes, they were made of wood in those days). Armed with his penknife, Siôn began to fashion his first Lovespoon. On completion of the spoon Siôn proudly presented it to his mother who cherished it for her lifetime.

Siôn’s parents, acknowledging his interest, knew of the local renowned Lovespoon maker, Len Evans and introduced Siôn to him. Len explained in detail the fine art of Lovespoon making, identifying the symbols which may be depicted on a Lovespoon. He also demonstrated the techniques and the methods in which Lovespoons are traditionally made. Enthused with Len’s passion Siôn continued to develop his skills, self taught, using the same traditional symbols and methods to create the unique Lovespoons that he produces today.

On leaving school Siôn was suitably talented to gain an apprenticeship with Merlin Madog, the renowned local harp maker. This enhanced his passion for craft and woodworking. While undertaking the apprenticeship Siôn attended college, gaining his City and Guilds qualification in Cabinet Making. Siôn designed and made his own Harp, winning the National Eisteddfod of Wales craft section proving his prowess and demonstrating his competence in the technical craft of harp making.

With extensive skills and experience gained Siôn furthered his career with a company producing replica scientific instruments. Again the work was precise with emphasis on the high quality of the finished product. After several years the company relocated, Siôn then obtained employment as an instructor in Furniture and Cabinet Making passing on his skills to apprentices.

During Siôn’s employment he utilised his spare time making Lovespoons and attending various craft fairs and exhibitions in Wales where he sold his unique Lovespoons. He also undertook special commissions on a regular basis. Due to this success and complementary comments from customers Siôn decided in 1997 the time was right to start his own business focussing on the art of Lovespoon making. The company has grown steadily over the years trading through numerous quality Welsh retail outlets. In 2015 his early mentor, Merlyn Madocks the harp maker, with whom he began his working life sadly passed away. Siôn took over his workshop in Pontycymmer where he now carves his spoons.

Siôn continues to supply the outlets although now mainly undertakes special commissions some of which are exported to countries around the World.

Siôn continues to strive to keep the true tradition of Lovespoon making alive with a passion and pride that is clearly distinguished in each Lovespoon he produces.

Accolades

'Apprentice Of The Year' Bridgend College 1975

'National Eisteddfod Winner' Craft Section 1974

Siôn has participated in a number of television programmes for example 'Ade In Britain' (2013) and the 'Science Of Love' (2016) - a programme developed for S4C to celebrate St Dwynwen's Day.

In October 2017 Siôn was invited as a guest of Japan to demonstrate his skills and inform the Japanese people of the tradition of the Lovespoon. Siôn spent two weeks in a number of locations in Japan enjoying the Japanese hospitality and culture. The Japanese people were enthused by the Lovespoons and made many purchases.

Many books have been written on the subject and origination of the Lovespoon some of which include articles on Siôn's original creative work and photographs. To name some:

A Gallery of Spoons By Norman Stevens

The Fine Art Of Carving Lovespoons by David Western

A History Of Lovespoons by David Western

Traditional Spoon Carving In Wales By Gwyndaf Breese