'Hug' Stories
I’m often deeply touched by the messages people send about the 'Hug' sculptures — stories of where they’ve gone, who they’ve been given to, and what they’ve come to mean.
These carvings have travelled around the world as quiet gestures of love, comfort, and connection. Some mark happy milestones. Others are sent in times of grief, illness, or distance.
This page shares a few of those moments — from people who found something meaningful in the simple shape of a'Hug' , carved in stone.
If you’ve given or received a 'Hug', and would like to share your story, I’d love to hear from you.
"A simple and powerful message carrier.
I watched the tv show where jan showed how his talents had developed and I was drawn by the simplicity yet powerful emotional impact his work had on me. My purchase now provides the love of my life A Little Hug whenever she views or touches our beautiful sculpture."
John, Bedford
"The centrepiece of our remodelled garden."
"Jan’s sculpture is striking, beautiful and an intimate statement of love; he has a real talent and all the better that he creates these works in our beautiful county of Herefordshire."
Stewart, Herefordshire
"I love my Small Hug.
My husband died suddenly last year after being together for 42 years and sharing many thousands of hugs. The night before he died he was up very late listening to music and I got up in the early hours to see if he was ok. He was obviously pleased to see me and gave me a big hug before I went back to bed. That was our last hug. When I saw your Small Hug it perfectly represented our hugs. Thank you so much."
Cathryne, Barrowford
"Jan went above and beyond with this one,
it's a beautiful gift and my partner loved receiving it for his 30th birthday"
Anne-Sophie, Los Angeles
"Thank you Jan, this is beautiful and elegant.
The hug feels real. It will be cherished. Very pleased that Mind charity is supported in the process too."
Jo, Broad Oak
"Thank you
for making a statue / figurine that expresses the support, compassion, understanding, and love that two people can have toward one another in good and bad times."
Pat, Michigan
"I bought this sculpture for my husband
after watching you on TV. It has been so beautifully sculptured & I thought of what a beautiful gift I could buy for hubby he absolutely loves it"
Hermione, Berkhamsted
"Simply Beautiful.
Absolutely gorgeous piece. Came extremely well wrapped so I was almost loathe to unwrap it to check (it's a gift) glad I did as it's delightfully tactile and beautifully finished. Hope the recipient is as pleased as I am."
Liz, Kings Lynn
"Even better in real life,
so tactile and such a beautiful sentiment just perfect for the person I bought it for. Very happy and also beautifully presented."
Anne, Bristol
"Just Beautiful.
I bought 'Small Hug' for my wife as an anniversary present after seeing it when Jan was on the TV. I'm really impressed by the simple beauty of the piece and my wife absolutely adores it."
Mike, Lytham St Annes
"Grateful"
"I saw the Make It At Market program on BritBox recently and was overwhelmed at the beauty and sincerity of Jan's work, especially the "Home" sculpture that spoke to me and brought me to tears remembering my dear husband who passed away unexpectedly last year. I am so grateful to have the sculpture which combined the essence of the hugs we shared and our love for being at home together and it has a special place now in our home where I can see and appreciate it every day."
Elaine, Texas
"Gentle reminder of a warm hug.
The transfer of the unique design from a magnificent sculpture to truly beautiful pendant. With perfect weight comfortable hanging chain a magical gift for a loved one."
John, Bedford
"Home"
"I had such an emotional reaction to this sculpture. (I was widowed 7 years ago) I had to have a smaller version made as a beautiful memory of my beloved husband. I absolutely adore it."
Pemble, Monmouthshire
If one of these stories spoke to you - or reminded you of someone who might need a hug (even if that someone is you) - you can send a Small Hug of your own.
Each sculpture is hand-carved with care, made to hold and be held. Whether it’s for a loved one going through a hard time, to celebrate a bond, or simply as a reminder that you’re thinking of them, a Small Hug is a gesture that speaks without words.
Click below to order:
👉 Buy a Small Hug
They’ve travelled across the world. Maybe the next one is meant for someone in your life.
Want to send a Small Hug to someone you're thinking of?
If you'd like to send a 'Small Hug' to someone - or keep one close for yourself - you can order here
Want to Share your own 'Hug' Story?
Please leave a review for your 'Hug' on the shop listing & I'll include it here.
If you prefer, you can use the form below: