Ironbark Toolworks

Devon Campbell is designing and building world-class tools from his shop in Queensland.

- Logan Wittmer

Sometimes, the universe has a way of connecting the dots, whether you're looking for it to or not. Back before the last Handworks Tool Show in the Amana Colonies, I was browsing some of the Facebook groups, seeing who was attending. Someone, and I apologize―I can't recall who, mentioned that there was a last minute addition to the show, a company called Ironbark Toolworks. I recall seeing it, but I didn't pay much attention, as there's a lot of small tool makers that pop up once or twice and disappear. Little did I know that I would cross paths with Devon Campbell from Ironbark Toolworks, and want to share his story.

Tools From Down Under

Devon Campbell, the founder and owner of Ironbark Toolworks, started manufacturing and selling tools in 2020. Originally from Colorado, Devon moved to Australia to be with family, and has been exporting his tools from down under ever since.

1-2 Devon Campbell spends his working hours hand making each and every tool that leaves the Ironbark shop. This includes the machining, sharpening, and testing of each tool.

Ironbark originally caught my eye at Handworks with their beautiful layout tools, unique spokeshaves, and edgy-looking block planes.

How did you come to decide to build tools, and why Australia?

I developed a love for music as a young kid and that evolved into a curiosity about how instruments are made. In middle school, I would spend breaks with a guitar builder in my home state of Colorado learning how to make musical instruments. After graduating college, I found myself living in Hawaii, working at a cabinet shop.