A carpenter who is so successful that he even manages to sell his products to Hollywood stars has a very important business partner to thank: his beloved grandmother.
More on their fascinating story here:
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Joseph Burton, 34, took up a woodwork course in 2016 and started his business soon after. His artwork and sculptures have been sold to customers around the world. His customer base includes a Hollywood movie mogul and some high-profile tattoo artists.
Last year, his family was informed that Shelagh Fane, Joseph’s grandmother, would need to be transferred to a care home because of her deteriorating health.
But Joseph accepted an offer from his 87-year-old grandma to move in with her. Now, her garage in Oadby, Leicestershire, serves as his base of operations.
Because of this arrangement, she can continue living independently.
Since Shelagh takes an active role in Joseph’s business, he also marks his creations with “Grandma Approved” stickers.
He said: “The business is an online shop and it’s really taken off.
“I make woodwork items like shelving, coat racks and serving tables and sell them on my online shop worldwide.
“I have sent two bespoke Robertson Cheney tables with geometric patterns to someone involved in the movie industry in Hollywood.
“They bought the pair for £1,000.($1300)
“I also sell to some high profile tattoo artists in the UK. I sold a very large dining table to one artist for £1,200.($1430)
“I have always been creative. I have been lucky as I grew up in a family where being creative was not only encouraged, it was celebrated. I am really lucky to have parents like that.
“The woodwork came in because my dad, uncles, and grandad were builders and I used to go and work with them.
“I generally use geometric artwork in my design. The inspiration comes from all over the place.
“The floor in Naples cathedral is incredible, but it might be a pattern on somebody’s jumper.
“I now work in gran’s garage. I moved the business into her house last summer because she needed somebody around a bit more.
“She suggested I could do my work in her garage and I agreed. We love spending time together and she is a real help and inspiration to me.”
“In the morning, we have breakfast together, then I do a bit of woodwork. So many people have their independence taken away from them. She is still the center of the family.
“To me, it’s not a chore, it’s an honor.
“My mom and dad are very supportive of what I’m doing.
“I generally know if a piece is a winner when grandma gives it the thumbs up. She’s got a real eye and the business has thrived, thanks to her.
“If I show her a new idea and she doesn’t agree with it, then I’m right back in the workshop and work on it a bit more.
“It’s important for me that she feels involved as well.”
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