Project Etched Echos
When healing the heart, we must learn to accept the echoes of the past—those pieces of hurt that never seem to completely fade away. In an attempt to quiet those echoes, Kristin turned to the grounding art of traditional woodworking.
This connection between healing and craft was cemented with the very first handle she made, which bore the inscribed words: "May the flowers bring you home." It was a tribute inspired by Freya’s meadow—a serene resting place in Norse mythology where the best and bravest warriors lay their heads to rest, choosing quiet peace over heading off to eternal war with Odin.
Project Etched Echoes is born from that journey. Drawing on the rich myths, runes, and symbology of the North, every single piece is uniquely designed and hand-carved in-house. It is an exploration of turning deep, internal reflection into bold, lasting art.
Wayfinders’s vigil
Wayfinders’s vigil
Berserker’s Legacy
Channel the raw strength and ancient wisdom of the North with this hand-carved 90cm Chieftain shield. This specific piece features a personalized handle inscribed with the words: “May the flowers bring you home.” A subtle nod to Freya, the wife of Odin. While many believe that all great warriors go to Valhalla to train for the end of days, Odin and Freya actually share the fallen. Freya receives the first pick, taking the very best of the best to Fólkvangr, a beautiful meadow where they may finally lay their weary heads in eternal peace.
The Twin Bears: At the heart of the design stand the Twin Bears, a tribute to the legendary Berserkers—the most feared warriors of the Viking Age. In Norse mythology, the bear was the sacred animal of Odin, representing indomitable strength and protection. These carvings capture the primal energy of the forest, serving as a reminder of the power found in one's own nature.
The X Rune (Gebo): Prominently featured, the Gebo rune translates to "The Gift." Its shape—the X—symbolizes the intersection of two paths or two people. It signifies partnership, hospitality, and the sacred exchange between warriors, loved ones, and the gods.
The Rune Ring: Surrounding the centre, the Elder Futhark inscriptions ground the piece in historical mysticism. This ring represents the completion of knowledge and the infinite nature of all possibilities, creating a focal point of balance.
Every inch of the shield’s surface is defined by Traditional Norse Knotwork. These flowing, interlaced patterns represent the interconnectedness of all things—life, death, and the eternal cycle of the universe.
To honour historical authenticity, the back is reinforced with linen and the edges are wrapped in cow leather, providing the same durability required by the shields of old. The deep relief carving, achieved through precision routing and Dremel work, creates high-contrast textures that play elegantly with light and shadow.
Product Specifications
Size: Approximately 90cm in diameter (Chieftain scale).
Material: Aspen wood, genuine cow leather, steel boss, and linen reinforcement.
Finish: High-contrast stain to emphasize the intricate hand-carved details.
Mounting: Designed for prominent wall display or as a centerpiece for historical collections.
The Berserker’s Legacy
The Wayfinder’s vigil
This shield serves as a spiritual map and a protector for the journey ahead, blending the watchful eyes of the gods with the ancient magic of the pathfinder.
The Ravens of Odin (Huginn and Muninn): The four ravens circling the shield represent the constant presence of the All-Father. In Norse mythology, Odin has two ravens: Huginn (Thought) and Muninn (Memory). These Divine Scouts fly across the world every day, returning at night to whisper what they have seen into Odin’s ear. On a shield, the raven represents higher intelligence, foresight, and the ability to see hidden truths. They suggest that the bearer is never truly alone, guided by both wisdom and memory.
The Vegvísir (The Runic Compass): The prominent eight-armed symbol at the bottom is the Vegvísir, often called the "Viking Compass." Derived from Icelandic grimoires, it is said that "if this sign is carried, one will never lose one's way in storms or bad weather, even when the way is not known. It represents spiritual and physical guidance. In the context of your work, it acts as a protective charm to ensure the traveler always finds their way back to their true home.
The Algiz (Y) Rune: The rune at the very top, resembling a trident or a "Y," is Algiz. Algiz is the rune of the elk and represents a shield or a protective "higher self." Its shape mimics the antlers of an elk or the spread fingers of a hand raised in protection. It serves as a spiritual lightning rod, connecting the earthly realm to the divine. Placing it at the "North" position of the shield marks it as the primary source of defense against negative energy.
The Vine Work & Growth: In contrast to the rigid geometry of the compass, the flowing Vine Work weaves through the center. These vines represent Yggdrasil, the World Tree, and the organic growth of the soul.
While the runes provide the structure and the ravens provide the sight, the vines represent the living, breathing journey in between. They signify that even in the heat of battle or the struggle of a journey, there is life, flexibility, and the potential for new growth.
Product Specifications
Size: Approximately 90cm in diameter (Chieftain scale).
Material: Aspen wood, genuine cow leather, steel boss, and linen reinforcement.
Finish: High-contrast stain to emphasize the intricate hand-carved details.
Mounting: Designed for prominent wall display or as a centerpiece for historical collections.
on the bench
Commission Your Legacy
Have a specific rune or spirit animal in mind? Let’s discuss the symbols that tell your story.