Most of my work is done to commission and it is a process I enthusiastically endorse. For me it offers connections with the 'big world' outside the studio, a chance for my work to be woven into other lives and places. For the client I hope it offers the possibility of a real collaboration and a unique result.

The design is generated from initial discussions. These may take place at the studio, where I have stone samples and photographs of work, or at the site where the work is to go; I do often travel to meet clients. From these discussions I will make a design drawing, which will be sent with an estimate of costs. Anything at this stage may be changed; it can often happen that the design and estimate are amended several times.

When the design is agreed upon, and any necessary permissions have been obtained, I will order the stone from the quarry and at this stage ask for a deposit. Typically it will be a third of the whole cost, though it will depend on the size of the job; the balance will be due on completion. On very large jobs I may also ask for one or more stage payments as work progresses, to a timetable agreed in advance.

Timing will depend on the quarry and my workload at any one time. I keep clients informed as the stone arrives and work progresses. Visits at this stage are welcome; it can be a fascinating process. When the work is finished I usually fix it in place myself.