Get to know me...

I began my journey with wood in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan — yup, I'm a Yooper (at heart — but I'm loving living in southern Oregon these days!). I was inspired by a couple of friends who are meticulous woodworkers, by the majestic, diverse forests of the central U.P., and by customers who encouraged me to stretch my creative wings. My passion for working wood evolved into a passion for art! When I'm at the lathe, I listen to what the wood is telling me it wants to be. I almost always have an idea of what I want to produce from any given piece of wood, but I rarely complete it as envisioned — the wood guides me to its best form and use.

My career with the National Park Service contributed heavily to my love for natural and cultural resources. I believe in stewardship of our forests and their importance to maintaining wildlife habitat, as well as the overall health of our planet. I never cut a standing tree, alive or dead (still useful habitat!). The small amount of wood that I purchase comes from certified, sustainable sources. I forage as much as possible for the wood I use, collecting windfalls, logging left-overs, and orchard culls. Did I mention that I work with arborists, too? I support using the parts of unwanted urban decorative or hazard trees for firewood, while I strive to employ the parts that can bring utility and solace to the weary mind, for their best and highest use.