Why Woodworking?

The thought of retirement was very scary to me because I was defined mostly by my job. Sure, I was a husband and a father, but most of my time was spent being an engineer and/or project manager. What was I going to do if I did not have that? My wife, whom I love dearly, sure did not want me hanging around the house getting in the way. So, I thought of what I have done that really brought me enjoyment and satisfaction and the answer was making things. After doing some research into woodworking, I found the Sam Beauford Woodworking Institute and started taking classes, learning to make knives, cutting boards, Windsor chairs and bandsaw boxes among other things. Upon retirement, I had already started a new career as a woodworker. Now, I spend much time at the woodshop keeping things running, teaching some classes and mostly making objects from wood.

Whether you call yourself a woodworker, craftsman, maker or hobbyist, you enjoy making things from wood. The question is why. I cannot speak for anyone but myself and I do woodworking for several reasons. First, I need something to occupy my time having retired several years ago. Second, the process of creating an object from wood is very satisfying. The art of woodworking also gives me the opportunity to create something that will bring pleasure to someone else. Creating an object from wood that has a function and is artful in form, color and texture is very enjoyable and especially brings satisfaction to me when someone else appreciates the work. Finally, woodworking provides a means to live beyond my years.

Woodworking is a cathartic process for me. Like yoga or jogging is for others, Making things from wood creates a calm feeling for me (except for sanding). I get deeply immersed in the tasks then time seems to melt away and I am in a different place for a while. And at the end there is something that has been created.

Steve and his daughter Anne at the Great Lakes Woodworking Festival, 2023.

Having crafted pieces like a chess table, modern Nordic chair, Windsor chair, marquetry and a myriad of bandsaw boxes gives me the opportunity to live beyond my years because part of me goes into every project I make. I remember my father fondly every time I look at a hope chest we made together about 50 years ago. My dad lives on in the object. I think the same will be true for my children when they look at something I made for them.

These are the reasons I do woodworking. Maybe one of these will inspire you to begin woodworking as a hobby or career.