When a client approached me to build five custom workstations, I knew this would be the biggest challenge my woodworking business had faced yet. It wasn’t just about the size of the project—it was the complexity of creating five identical, durable, and functional pieces that would stand up to daily wear and tear. Transforming my shop into a makeshift production line was a test of both my skills and creativity. From braving freezing temperatures to converting my garage into a painting station, every step pushed me outside my comfort zone.

In the end, seeing all five workstations delivered and set up was incredibly rewarding. The client’s excitement—and their joke about these desks outlasting the building—made every late night and cold toe worth it. This project was a milestone for me, marking not just growth in my business, but in my confidence as a craftsman.

Starting woodworking can feel overwhelming, but it’s a journey worth taking. Begin small to build confidence—simple projects like birdhouses or shelves teach the basics without frustration. Remember the golden rule: measure twice, cut once (and double-check everything). Quality tools trump quantity, so stick to reliable basics like a circular saw, drill, and sander. Prioritize safety by using goggles, ear protection, and dust masks—it’s cooler to keep your fingers intact than to skip gear.

Learn your materials; pine is budget-friendly, while hardwoods can add elegance. Acclimate wood to your workspace to avoid warping. Master the router but use jigs to ensure precision. Embrace sanding as a necessary evil—patience pays off in the finish. Glue often beats nails for seamless joints; dry-fit and clamp for best results.

Mistakes are inevitable, but they lead to creativity. Join the woodworking community to share knowledge and find inspiration. Most importantly, enjoy the process—woodworking is about creating, learning, and discovering the beauty of imperfection.

Behind the Scenes: A Day in My Workshop

Step into my workshop, and you’ll find a world where creativity and craftsmanship collide. It’s rarely clean, never quiet, but always buzzing with the hum of tools and the scent of freshly cut wood. My mornings start with Mt. Dew in hand as I juggle family life and woodworking, setting up my tools and plans for the day. By midday, sawdust flies as I tackle each project—sometimes with smooth precision, sometimes wrestling with knots in the wood or convincing my wife I reallyneed a new tool.

As the day winds down, I marvel at the transformation—a pile of raw wood becoming a handcrafted treasure. Woodworking isn’t just about making things; it’s about embracing the mess, solving problems, and creating something meaningful.

From Scrap Wood to Game Changer: How I Built the Tonal Accessory Anchor

Turning 40 was a wake-up call, and my search for the perfect fitness solution led me to Tonal. While it checked all the boxes for a great workout, the one issue I couldn’t ignore was the mess of accessories constantly cluttering the floor. Armed with some scrap Ash wood and a bit of creativity, I set out to design a wall-mounted organizer that would not only hold everything but also blend seamlessly with my home gym decor.

The result? The Tonal Accessory Anchor—a custom, functional, and stylish piece that kept all my gear off the floor and within arm’s reach. What started as a personal fix quickly turned into a product I now offer as part of the Henry Hardwood lineup. Whether you're a fitness enthusiast or someone who loves a tidy space, this anchor proves that organization doesn’t have to sacrifice style.

When my wife asked for a picnic table in late 2020, I thought, "How hard can it be?" Turns out, building my first "client" project was a race against time, nerves, and freezing temperatures. The result? A cedar table with hidden drink buckets that she loved—and a woodworking journey that truly began.

That table taught me valuable lessons about wood, finishes (RIP, linseed oil), and the beauty of learning as you go. Every project since has built on that first step, proving that starting small can lead to something much bigger.

Welcome to the first official blog of Henry Hardwood! I'm thrilled to share this space with you—a place where craftsmanship meets creativity and every project tells a story.