A Cut Above

Ian Little’s Custom Metal Art

The Little Workshop | Spirit River, AB

Welcome to The Little Workshop where Ian Little has taken his work as a machinist to create a business that supports the life he wants to live.

“I’m a machinist by trade,” said Little. “Over the last 25 years or so I’ve been acquiring different equipment because I knew I wanted to eventually go into business for myself.”

When Little acquired a plasma cutter, it gave him a big boost creatively, and he started producing custom metal art, home décor, signs and functional pieces in his home shop.

“My neighbours asked if I could make a sign for outside of their house, and that’s kind of where it all started,” said Little.

After that sign was completed, word spread and more people began asking Little about signs.

“I was approached by the farmers’ market after that, and it exploded from there,” said Little.

Little creates a variety of ready-made designs but also enjoys doing custom work. At farmers’ markets, he strives to ensure his booth showcases unique items, staying away from types of designs found in stores.

“I try ideas I think could become interesting pieces of artwork or home décor, and then I use my computer software to design it,” said Little. “Then, I head out to the workshop, cut it out, sand it and paint it.”

For custom pieces, Little takes a more personal approach.

“I like to chat with the client about what they’re interested in, what they like, what they have on the farm if they have one—basically anything of interest to them that I might be able to incorporate,” said Little.

For his yard signs, Little asks his customers for pictures of where the sign is going to be, so he can make a digital image showing the sign in place.

“I like to show people an image of what the signs will look like right where they plan to put it,” said Little.

Little’s custom pieces tend to range from $50-$75 per square foot.

“At the markets, I keep my prices roughly in that neighbourhood. Although, a lot of the times they are a little bit less as they are not one-of-a-kind designs,” said Little. “For example, a horse and rider key hanger is $40 because I can make more from the template I already created.”

For the holidays, Little suggests buying one of his custom clocks as it’s a unique gift.

“I create custom clocks, and I always try to have a few designs available at each farmers’ market,” said Little. “And, I can make them custom. I’ve done clocks with dragons, wolves, bison and more.”

Finding the time to sit down and design has been a challenge for Little, and the price of metal somewhat limits his output.

“I purchase supplies as I can afford them. With the price of materials, I don’t always have tons of stock to bring to markets,” said Little.

Little is looking forward to utilizing a 3D printer for his future creations.

“I initially purchased a 3D printer to create a gear for one of my lathes, but now I’m looking forward to adding new items to my repertoire,” said Little.

Little says he is quite content to continue following the road he is on.

“I’m motivated because I’m doing something I’ve always enjoyed, and I’m doing it for myself on my own terms,” said Little. “I plan to continue for as long as I can and just enjoy life.”

For those looking to pursue their own creative passions, Little says go for it.

“Even if you’ve got a regular job, find some time to pursue it. Find someway to incorporate it into your life. Without the risk there is no reward,” said Little.

Find Little at various markets around the region, and visit his Facebook page.

Contact him directly at 780-864-8855 or thatlittleworkshop@gmail.com.

By Siobhan Kennedy | Photography Submitted