Seven hours drive East of Vancouver, British Columbia,

in the West Kootenay town of Castlegar,  you will find the woodcarving studio of Dave Francis.
 

Since November of 1992, when Dave first picked up a

knife and started woodcarving, the demand for these

hand-carved figurines has not slowed down. Totally

self-taught, and with an immense desire to learn this

age-old artform, Dave plunged in with both feet, and the response has been overwhelming to say the least.

 

With an art background in school and 23 years experience as a hairstylist, Dave has been able to transport ideas from his head, to the paper, to the wood. “You have to be able to visualize the finished product in your head before you even begin to carve the wood” says Dave. “I could not draw to save my life, but somehow I’m able to carve my ideas into the wood”.
 

Dave’s woodcarvings are now on every continent in the World (with the possible exception of the Antartica). People from every corner of the World have added these Santa figurines to their collections. Dave carves 200-300+ Santa’s every year, which keeps him VERY busy to say the least. With lots of love and support of his wife Tammy, he is able to keep up with the still growing demand for his creations. “I try to not take it for granted” says Dave. “I’m SO fortunate to have been able to turn my hobby into my

full-time passion!”.