The journey of a craftsperson is deeply personal – it starts with early exposure and grows through years of dedication. My path began in my father's workshop, where I loved the smell of sawdust and watching him make incredible pieces with his woodworking tools. Today, as the owner of Foxmoor Studio, I love to create custom furniture pieces that combine functionality with artistic vision. This isn't just about making things from wood – it's about creating lasting value through sustainable practices and authentic craftsmanship.

Creating a sustainable woodworking business requires more than just technical skill – it demands a holistic approach to both materials and business practices. In today's environment-conscious market, artisans across different mediums are finding ways to prioritize sustainability. From my own woodworking practice to metal craftsmen like the Heffners at MakerTable, we're all exploring ways to combine traditional craftsmanship with responsible business practices. Working primarily with domestic hardwoods, particularly walnut and maple varieties, I put strong emphasis on responsible sourcing. While I initially focused on crafting larger furniture pieces, it was actually a simple monitor stand design that took off on my Etsy shop bringing in orders from across the country. This experience taught me that market success isn't always about creating the most complex or expensive products – sometimes it's about finding that perfect intersection of simplicity, functionality, and craftsmanship.

Sustainable Practices and Business Philosophy

Creating a sustainable woodworking business requires more than just technical skill – it demands a holistic approach to both materials and business practices. In today's environment-conscious market, businesses across industries, from small workshops like mine to specialty packaging companies like RXD Co are finding ways to prioritize sustainability. Working primarily with domestic hardwoods, particularly walnut and maple varieties, I put strong emphasis on responsible sourcing. My materials come primarily from local suppliers in Tennessee and Pennsylvania, ensuring both quality and environmental responsibility. This commitment to sustainability extends beyond wood selection to waste management, where even the smallest scraps find purpose.

Operating from my workshop just 30 feet from my home, I maintain a deliberate approach to growth, choosing to keep operations intimate rather than expanding into a larger operation. I want to keep it as simple as possible, prioritizing quality and personal connection over rapid expansion. This approach allows me to maintain high standards while creating a sustainable work-life balance. I have friends and family who are therapists in the rehab industry, and they're very big on ensuring that we all work hard to find balance in our lives.

 

Woodworking Through The Seasons

The rhythm of my woodworking business follows its own seasonal patterns, with slower periods after Christmas and during mid-summer. These cycles provide opportunities for innovation and creativity, allowing me time to explore new designs and techniques. The key to sustainability in this field isn't just about managing materials – it's about managing energy, creativity, and motivation throughout the year. I've found that staying organized is crucial to maintaining creative momentum (I actually find custom planners to track my projects and design ideas really helpful), but even more important is learning to work with your natural creative rhythms.

Creating a successful, craftsmanship-based business in today's market requires finding the right balance between traditional and modern business practices. Whether it's through online marketplaces like Etsy or local client relationships, my focus remains on creating pieces that combine functionality with artistic vision. This approach has allowed Foxmoor Studio, to thrive while maintaining our core values of quality, sustainability, and personal connection to each piece we create.

To everyone who has welcomed our creations into their homes and workspaces – thank you for allowing us to be part of your story. We look forward to crafting pieces that will become cherished elements of your living spaces for generations to come.