For over 350 years, Welsh love spoons have been crafted to tell stories of love, faith, and joy. The love spoon art form has evolved into a beloved cultural tradition in Wales, with each design carrying a deep symbolic meaning.

A Short History of the Welsh Love Spoon

The oldest known Welsh love spoon dates back to 1667, though the practice likely began earlier. Traditionally, a man would carve a spoon from a single piece of wood to demonstrate his affection and skill to his sweetheart. The more intricate the carving, the deeper his devotion appeared.

Over time, love spoons also became a symbol of celebration, and today, they are gifted for weddings, anniversaries, births, and special milestones. While each symbol has historic meanings, it is up to you to find the perfect symbolic design to express what you feel.

Symbols of Love & Affection

The heart symbol is the most popular to express love, affection or the timeless message, “My heart is yours.” A heart-shaped bowl adds another layer of meaning, wishing for a full and happy life together.

Birds often appear in pairs, representing companionship and the phrase “birds of a feather flock together.” Flowers and daffodils (traditional emblems of Wales) symbolise affection and the belief that “our love will grow.”

Symbols of Faith, Blessing & Unity

For many, faith and unity are central to the message behind a love spoon. The cross signifies divine blessing and shared belief that “Faith binds us together.” Celtic knotwork and chain links both represent eternity and the unbreakable connection between two souls, echoing “Our destinies are linked.”

Twisted stems also convey togetherness, suggesting two lives intertwined forever, while soul signs remind us that “our union will be blessed.”

Symbols of Strength, Prosperity & Good Fortune

Other carvings express strength, stability, and hope for the future. The anchor represents steadfast love and a wish to settle down, “I want to stay with you.” Diamonds symbolise prosperity and wealth, while horseshoes bring good luck and God’s favour.

The dragon, a proud symbol of Wales, embodies courage and national pride. The wheel reminds us of life’s journey and shared effort, “Be my guide,” or “I will toil for you.”

Symbols of Celebration & New Beginnings

Love spoons often celebrate the joyful milestones of life. Bells are tied to weddings and anniversaries, representing harmony and the idea of “let us make music together.” The stork conveys blessings for a baby or hopes for a growing family, while the double bowl signifies togetherness and a bountiful life.

A Living Tradition

We have explored the traditional meaning of Welsh love spoon symbols, but it’s important to remember that a love spoon is a personal expression of love and artistry that you can give your own meaning to. At Angel Woodcraft, every love spoon is uniquely crafted, so you can choose symbols that reflect your own story.

By combining traditional symbols with personal sentiment, the love spoon continues to bridge generations as a timeless Welsh gift that speaks the universal languages of love, faith, strength and new beginnings (to name but a few).

Read more about love spoon symbols and history, or view the vast collection of traditionally hand-carved Welsh love spoons on the Angel Woodcraft website. Alternatively, if you would like to speak with our customer care team to ask any questions, please email contact@angelwoodcraft.co.uk or call 01443 480138.