Meet the Maker: Behind the Scenes at Oakdene Laser Crafts

When you choose a gift from Oakdene Laser Crafts, you’re not just buying a product — you’re supporting a small, Lincolnshire-based workshop where each piece is designed, cut, and finished with care. From the gentle hum of the laser machine to the smell of freshly cut wood in the studio, every coaster, journal, dice tower, or sign carries a story.

In this post, I’d love to take you behind the scenes to show you how it all comes together — and introduce myself (I’m Angie!) along with my husband Dave, who cheers me on and often joins me at Makers Markets.

My Story

Like many small businesses, Oakdene Laser Crafts began with a spark of creativity and a love for making. I’ve always been drawn to design and craft, and when I first experimented with laser cutting, I was fascinated by the possibilities.

What started as a hobby soon grew into something more. Friends and family asked for personalised gifts, and before long, I was selling at local markets. From that moment, I knew I wanted to bring my ideas to a wider audience.

The heart of Oakdene Laser Crafts is simple: I create unique, personalised gifts that mean something special to the person receiving them. Whether that’s a Dungeons & Dragons dice tower, a weaving loom, or bunting for a new baby’s nursery, everything I make is designed brighten someone's day.

Early morning starts with a cuppa in hand

Meet the Maker (and her biggest supporter)

So who’s behind Oakdene Laser Crafts?

I’m Angie — designer, maker, packer, and chief tea drinker. I spend my days in the workshop dreaming up new designs, creating products, and making sure each order is just right.

By my side is Dave, my husband and number-one supporter. While he’s not involved in the day-to-day making, he plays an important role in helping me run the business. At craft fairs and markets, you’ll often see him manning the stall with me, chatting with customers, carrying stock, or offering a reassuring smile when things get hectic or the SumUP refuses to connect for credit card payments! Running a small creative business can be full-on, and having his support means the world. Oakdene Laser Crafts might be my craft, but it’s very much a family effort.

Out and About

Dave looking dapper at Doddington Hall, at our first stall

While most of my time is spent in the workshop, some of the best moments happen out in the community at Makers Markets. These events are a chance to meet customers face-to-face, hear your stories, and sometimes even design something unique on the spot.

Our typical stand now - that's me peering through!

This is also where Dave shines — he’s right there with me at every fair, helping run the stall, chatting with people, and making sure things go smoothly. He may not be in the workshop during the week, but at markets, he’s an essential part of the Oakdene Laser Crafts experience.

We also love the sense of community among fellow makers. Craft fairs are full of talented people, and it’s inspiring to be part of that creative energy.

Click here to see our list of upcoming Makers Markets!

Closing Words

Whether it’s a personalised coaster for a friend, a dice tower for your next D&D campaign, or bunting to celebrate a new arrival, every Oakdene Laser Crafts piece is made with care, creativity, and a touch of Lincolnshire charm.

Thank you for supporting my journey — for choosing handmade, and for letting me share my passion with you. If you’d like to see more behind-the-scenes moments, keep an eye on the blog or follow along on Facebook. And if you’re nearby, come and say hello at one of our upcoming Makers Markets — we’d love to meet you!