Shaped by Wood, Made to Last
Boards shaped by grain, guided by place.
Respect for Material
Of Surge & Keel is rooted in material — wood that has already lived a life.
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Each piece begins with local Vancouver Island or Discovery Islands trees, salvaged boards, and weathered offcuts, shaped slowly by hand and finished with care.
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No two pieces are alike. The grain leads. The imperfections remain.
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This is woodworking rooted in place — shaped by tide, cedar, and patience.
WHAT IT IS
Wood with a Story
Each species brings its own character.
Yew
Ancient, warm, deeply grained.
Fir
Aromatic & uniquely patterned.
Figured Maple
Light-catching, ocean-like ripples.
How a Board Takes Shape
From the first cut to the final coat of oil, each board passes through a slow, thoughtful process. No two pieces of wood respond the same way — knots reveal themselves, grain shifts, curves appear. We follow the nature of the wood, shaping it into the piece it wants to become.
WHERE IT COMES FROM
Board Balms
Each board from Of Surge & Keel is finished by hand and designed to be used — which means it deserves care over time.
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Our board balm is made in small batches to nourish, protect, and extend the life of your board, helping the wood retain its depth, tone, and character through years of everyday use.
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Simple in composition and easy to apply, it’s intended to become part of the rhythm of owning a well-made object — not an extra step, but a quiet habit.
Made slowly. Made simply. Made to last.
HOW TO
Made to Be Used, Cared for
and Kept
With simple care, your board will last for years — deepening in color, softness, and character. Learn how to clean, refresh, and re-oil your board so it stays beautiful for everyday use.
