The Lovespoon Tradition

The custom of giving lovespoons as a token of affection began in Wales in the 16th Century. They were given to the one you loved as a courting gift (in a similar way to a bouquet of flowers, but of course the lovespoon would be lasting!).

Even the most elaborate lovespoon is carved from one piece of wood, showing the skill of the expert carver. It was almost always the handle of the lovespoon which was decorated. This was eventually enlarged to form a panel giving greater scope for decoration, with common forms being, piercing the panel, relief carving, fretwork or a combination of all three.

Other developments included wooden chains, swivels and rings, the purpose being to make an object from one piece of wood, which seemed initially to be made from several pieces. The decoration of lovespoons takes many forms to allow for the artistic expression of the carver and to give personal meaning to the design. (see "meanings")

In the 1800's, when the Victorians started greeting cards, the tradition of the Welsh lovespoons broadened to be given to family and friends and to mark special occasions, although the original idea of a courting gift is still as strong. In Wales we have this wonderful romantic tradition which is appreciated universally - we love to share it with you and the World.