Whanganui craftsman's wooden bird houses on show at Expressions Gallery

Steven Price with two of his beautifully crafted creations at Expressions Gallery. Photo / Stuart Munro

Steven Price used to build houses for human habitation now he makes miniature bird house versions.

"I have used totara that was given to me from 'old cocky's' fences and my friend Peter Shepherd game me recycled kauri," says the Whanganui craftsman.

The little houses are very grand for avian use as Price's craftsmanship leads him to create multiple stories and beautiful detail.

Expressions Gallery owner Steve Selfe was enchanted with Price's work and asked to have them in the Guyton St showroom.

"I convinced him to make smaller, more basic versions that would be more likely to sell but people love the large multi-storey ones too."

One pioneer cottage style house has beautiful, individually crafted wooden tiles on its roof and finials at each end.

"I carve those with a Stanley knife," says Price.

"I do cut myself quite often because I get really engrossed in the work."

Price said he draws the miniature houses and has been convinced to stock his framed drawings at Expressions as well.

"I really enjoy drawing the old Whanganui buildings and I never thought about selling them but Steve convinced me so I have framed some.

"My sister is getting some of them professionally framed for me."

If you fancy the deluxe windmill bird house or the multi-storied tree house version, they are for sale at Expressions or you can opt for the modest standard style.

Expressions at 56 Guyton St is open Wednesday to Saturday from 11am until 3pm.