About Us
We take pride in crafting one-of-a-kind products that showcase the beauty of both imported exotic hardwoods like Sapele, Jatobá, Zebra Wood, Padauk, and Wenge from Africa, as well as a selection of premium domestic hardwoods. My love for woodworking ignited in high school woodshop class, where I created my first piece, a Walnut and Maple bowl turned on a lathe, which my mom still cherishes over 40 years later. This experience sparked my realization that with just my hands and a few tools, I could create enduring pieces that last a lifetime.
Our on-site kiln not only dries our carefully selected wood but also ensures every slab is cured and ready, allowing us to create beautiful, sustainable pieces that showcase the natural essence of each unique hardwood.
I utilize an Alaskan chainsaw mill that enables me to cut logs with a diameter of up to 48 inches. By milling and processing my own slabs, I have complete control over my material supply. The subsequent step involves drying the wood, for which I constructed a 10 by 14 foot solar kiln. This kiln not only dries the wood but also eliminates any pests that may inhabit it. By maintaining a specific temperature within a controlled environment, I harness the sun’s natural energy to accomplish this task effectively.
Progression Of The Kiln Build
This video was done by my cousin Neil Koch who has his own YouTube channel called Dig Drive DIY. He kindly featured a bit about me, my shop, and my solar kiln as well as some of the projects in progress. I would like to thank him for featuring me in one of his videos and allowing me to use it here.
Years In Woodworking
Of Completed Projects
%
Quality Wood Used In Every Project
A Bit About Me
My wife Traci and I have been happily married for over 31 years, raising seven wonderful children together and now enjoying the joy of 19 grandchildren. I began my journey as a volunteer firefighter in 1992, dedicating more than 33 years to serving our community. After graduating high school, I spent my early years working in a steel joist factory until 1997 when I transitioned to a new steel mill, Steel Dynamics. The unique 4 on 4 off work schedule provided me the opportunity to pursue home construction projects on my days off. In 2002, I proudly earned my General Contractor’s License and launched my own construction company, focusing on exterior siding, wood trim, deck construction, and later on, interior trim. My career eventually led me to become a Project Manager for a respected local home builder. In 2011, I shifted my career path to accept a position as Maintenance Supervisor for our town’s Water and Sewer Department, embarking on a new chapter in my professional life. This role allowed me to explore side projects while keeping my General Contractor’s License, and I also rekindled my passion for woodworking at home. In 2021, I was able to construct a 30 by 40-foot shop in my backyard, where I have been actively tinkering and bringing my creative ideas to life ever since.
Lazer Engraving
The working area of my laser is 20” x 20”. This allows me to personalize any of our smaller wood products. Epoxy/wood charcuterie boards are favorites for wedding gifts. We typically engrave the last name and the wedding date. Lake maps are very popular engravings as well.
Wood Conditioning
All wood products will eventually lose their luster. We treat all our products with a food grade oil and bees wax product.
We make our own “Board Butter” product that can be used on any wooden kitchen utensil, as well as our products to bring back the beauty of the wood. Just wipe it on, let is set for 20-30 min, then wipe it off with a cotton cloth.
About My Shop
Since the completion of my 30′ by 40′ shop in 2021, I have immersed myself in the art of creation, indulging my passion for building a diverse range of projects. This well-designed space provides the perfect balance, allowing me to take on larger, ambitious builds while also facilitating the production of more compact items. Among the many projects I’ve brought to life are sleek 2′ by 4′ epoxy river coffee tables, which showcase intricate designs and craftsmanship, and a striking 15-foot long by 5-foot wide conference table, along with a variety of other custom pieces that cater to different needs and styles.
