Tradcraft
Tradcraft is a small hobby based family business located in the North of England in the heart of Cookson Country. Our name evolves from the 'traditional craft' of the craftsman woodworker using long established skills including hand carving and freehand woodturning. As makers of fine traditional wooden toys we specialise particularly in Rocking horse making, a craft which is now centuries old.
Sadly the making of Rocking horses did fall into decline after world war two, as being so labour intensive it became no longer viable as a commercial industry. The craft is still alive today however thanks to the influence of Anthony Dew, renowned in today's world of Rocking horses for his dedication to the rejuvenation of the craft in the early 1970's.
Tradcraft's Master Craftsman Richard Betts was himself first elected to membership of the Guild of Woodworkers in 1975 and became a member of the Guild of Master Craftsmen in the same year. Richard is also a member of the Guild of Rocking Horse Makers. We at Tradcraft are therefore very proud to be among those who are dedicated to keeping alive the great traditions of the craft.
It was once said that 'Those who work with wood have a head start on the others in the quest for happiness.' The Rocking horse carver not only works with wood, he nurtures it and shapes this living material into a new form. He gives it a totally new identity in the shape of a Rocking horse which will undoubtedly outlive the very craftsman who created it. It will hopefully give much pleasure to children of new generations. This will be his legacy.
Tradcraft was established in 1998 and is registerd in accordance with the Business Names Act 1985. Tradcraft is owned by Richard and Christopher Betts makers of traditional wooden toys and fine carved Rocking Horses
Tradcraft is located in the village of Whitburn between the rivers Tyne and Wear in North East England
A member of the Guild of
Rocking Horse Makers
Business Registration No. 2241208