Molly Sjöstam – Woodcarver
A charming mix of traditional woodcarving and imagination

Foto: Sofia Runarsdotter
Molly Sjöstam is a Swedish woodcarver with a unique style. She carves flowery spoons, fika-scented shrink pots, and floral kuksas. Her work is often recognized by the relief carved floral patterns, leaves and classic Swedish fika. Molly lives in the small village of Gräsmyr in northern Sweden. She holds carving and sloyd courses with knife and axe. Her beautiful work is appreciated all over the world.








A Passion for Crafting and Tradition
Molly Sjöstam, more commonly known as SlöjdarMolly, is a Swedish artisan whose journey into crafting is as inspiring as the beautiful wooden creations she makes. Born and raised in Umeå, the City of Birches, Molly's fascination with wood began early in life, shaped by her natural surroundings and an early experience with carving.
It Started with a Carving Kit
Molly’s love for working with her hands was evident from a young age. During a family trip to the famous Dalahäst factory in Nusnäs, Mora, at just eight years old, Molly received a carving kit that included a roughly cut wooden horse and a carving knife. “I was amazed that such a simple tool could turn the rough shape into a smooth, rounded figure,” she recalls. While school and sports took up most of her time growing up, the joy of carving stayed with her.
After high school, her fascination for old houses led her to Vindelns Folk High School*’s program on building conservation. During her year studying that, she discovered the school’s Woodworking & Forging program which became the next step for Molly. “The moment I picked up the carving knife again, it felt like a missing piece of my life puzzle clicked into place. I knew this was what I wanted to do for the rest of my life.”
Since then, Molly’s journey has been one of constant growth and discovery. In 2019, she founded her own craft business, SlöjdarMolly, creating and selling her carved pieces while also teaching courses. She now works with Kalthoff Axes and has been honored to serve as an ambassador for Morakniv in 2023–2024 – a special nod to the brand that sparked her carving journey.
*Folkhögskola (Folk High School) is a institution common in Scandinavia offering adult education and specialized training in various fields.

The Role of Tormek in Her Craft
Molly’s journey into sharpening tools began during her time at Vindelns Folk High School, where students regularly used Tormek sharpening systems. The school encouraged the students to sharpen every week, not only to keep their tools sharp but also to practice their techniques. “At first, I was nervous about sharpening, worried I might ruin the blade. But the more I engaged in it, I grew more confident, and it became fascinating, even fun,” she says.
When she decided to fully commit to crafting, acquiring her own Tormek sharpening machine was a priority. A second-hand Tormek machine, complete with jigs, became one of her best investments. “Without my Tormek, I honestly don’t know if carving would still be as enjoyable for me. Keeping my tools sharp makes the work not only easier but safer and more fulfilling.”
Her favorite Tormek accessories include the KJ-45 Centering Knife Jig with the SVM-00 Small Knife Holder, the SVD-186 R Gouge Jig, and the newly discovered AX-40 Axe Jig.
Molly's Advice for Beginners
For those new to sharpening, Molly understands the initial hesitation but encourages persistence. “Start with an old knife you don’t mind experimenting on, maybe something from a flea market. With practice, you’ll gain confidence and discover the satisfaction of working with sharp tools.”
Philosophy of Craft and Maintenance
For Molly, crafting is more than creating objects – it’s about having fun and embracing imperfection. “I tell my students, ‘There’s no such thing as wrong –just something different, maybe even better,’” she says.
Sharp tools are at the heart of her philosophy. A dull knife not only makes carving less enjoyable but also more dangerous. “Tool maintenance is crucial,” she emphasizes. “It ensures the process is smooth and lets you focus on the joy of creating.”
To Molly, crafting is deeply tied to history and tradition. “It feels like I’m holding a baton of knowledge passed down through generations. My goal is to prepare the next generation to carry this baton forward and to inspire them to see the possibilities of craft.”
What's Next for Molly Sjöstam?
Molly’s ambitions are simple yet profound: to continue crafting, teaching, and spreading her love for the art. She hopes to inspire others to discover the joy of working with wood and the satisfaction of shaping something with their hands.
“The world would be a kinder, more harmonious place if more people found their way to crafting,” she says. And with Molly’s dedication and infectious enthusiasm, she’s ensuring that this tradition remains alive and thriving for generations to come.
