We Are Big Island Engraving

Aloha! We’re Mark and Karen Stebbins, the artists behind Big Island Engraving. We have been applying our skills for over 20 years and have served customers across the globe with superior quality hand-crafted turnings, custom engraving, elegant gifts, and other wood art made in Hawaii.

Lab to Lathe: Where Science Meets Art

Our journey in woodworking took an unusual path – from the biomedical research labs of Seattle and Princeton where we met to the vibrant woodturning community of the Big Island. Throughout our scientific careers, woodturning remained our creative escape. In 2003, Hawaii became our home, and we finally turned our passion into our profession.

Karen’s Artistry

Karen’s eye for detail, honed by her science background, transforms each of our custom platters into a canvas for exquisite wood inlays. Her designs play with the wood’s natural grain, creating stunning patterns. Every platter features our signature inlaid heart, a little symbol of our passion poured into every piece.

Mark’s Hawaiian Inspiration

Mark’s fascination lies in the history of Hawaiian vessels, particularly the iconic calabash bowl. Inspired by the wisdom of master woodturners, he crafts breathtaking wooden bowls from sustainably sourced Big Island Koa trees. His nesting technique is a testament to his skill, allowing him to create multiple treasures from a single piece of wood. Mark also restores antique bowls, breathing new life into cherished heirlooms.

From Our Hands to Your Home

We hope our love for Hawaiian wood and the art of wood turning shines through in each piece we create. Let us add a touch of island warmth and artistry to your home.