In July, stonemason and sculptor Carrie Horwood, founder of Cat’s Eye Carving, was shortlisted for the Sole to Sole category in The Small Awards 2025, which honour outstanding sole traders across the UK. Carrie (BA/BSc (Hons) Art (Single Honours), 1999), works from her shop in Sandwich, Kent and was recognised for her resilience, creativity, and contribution to heritage and community through her craft.

As part of the honour, she was invited to 11 Downing Street for a reception hosted by Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves (pictured below), celebrating the UK’s 5.45 million small businesses. Carrie stood amongst 40 finalists and champions of local enterprise. Reflecting on the experience, Carrie said:

“What a thrill to be invited to Downing Street. I was lucky enough to speak to Rachel Reeves—I invited her and her children to come and have a go at stone carving and told her that if they need any more art for the building, I take commissions.”

Establishing a career

Carrie’s journey into stonemasonry began with determination and a pioneering spirit. After completing her degree, she gained work experience at Canterbury Cathedral. Encouraged by the masons there, she applied for one of two apprenticeships at Gloucester Cathedral. At 25, she became both the oldest and first female apprentice in the cathedral’s history. Just six months into her training, a 70kg block of stone crushed the fingers of her left hand—an injury that threatened to end her career before it had truly begun.

Despite the setback, Carrie completed her apprenticeship and worked for three more years as a stonemason. In November 2005, she founded Cat’s Eye Carving, named after her A-level sculpture project and this is now her mason’s mark. For 18 years, she operated from craft centres in Gloucestershire, building her reputation one commission at a time. In August 2023, she returned to her hometown of Sandwich, Kent, where her business has flourished anew.

Her recent work includes a 4ft compass rose commissioned by Dover District Council (pictured above) and museum pieces for the historic Maison Dieu in Dover, where she now serves as stonemason-in-residence. In 2026, she will organise a stonemason festival to celebrate the site’s grand reopening following its renovation.

Cementing her success

Carrie has earned national recognition for her craftsmanship and dedication to the stonemasonry profession. She is the official letter-cutter for the Worshipful Company of Founders in London, a role that reflects her mastery of traditional carving techniques and her commitment to preserving heritage skills.

She also holds the title of Yeoman Mason with The Worshipful Company of Masons, awarded in recognition of the charity stonemason festivals she organises – events that celebrate the craft and foster community engagement. In 2023/24, she was commissioned to carve a commemorative plaque for the Lady Mayoress of the City of London, further cementing her reputation for ceremonial and civic artistry.

Though she works independently, Carrie is supported by her partner and family, whose encouragement has been instrumental throughout her journey. With a thriving commission schedule and a flourishing shop in Sandwich, she hopes to mentor the next generation of stonemasons in the future.

This year marks 20 years since Carrie launched Cat’s Eye Carving. Her story is one of artistic mastery, fearless perseverance, and enduring community spirit—a true gem in the UK’s small business landscape.