The maker behind Rua Boards

I’m Marc Mac Lochlainn. By day I’m artistic director of Branar, the theatre company I founded in 2001 that makes theatre for children. Designing and building sets and miniatures has always been part of that work, and making things with my hands is what I love most.

From gifts to a workshop

Rua Boards started as presents for friends and family. Word spread, and now the boards are in kitchens all over the country. Every one is made in my workshop in Sliabhrua, near Headford in Co. Galway, which is where the name comes from.

Déan Tú Féin É

In 2024 I presented my own DIY series on TG4, Déan Tú Féin É, produced by Glór Media and Tyrone Productions. It was a chance to bring together two things I care about: making, and the Irish language. Watch the series on TG4 Player.

How the boards are made

I choose each piece of hardwood by hand, source materials responsibly, and finish every board with a food-safe oil. Each one takes one to two weeks to shape, sand and finish. The shapes repeat, but the grain never does.

Custom boards

If you have something particular in mind, get in touch. If I can make it, I will.