Greg Klassen of Everson, WA is studio furnituremaker, who’s River® Table Collection has garnered international attention and orders. Here is Greg’s story, in his own words:
I began woodworking while a theology student in college. Getting married at 21, I took a job as a “garbage man” at a door manufacturer to help make ends meet. Among my duties was to recycle wood waste, and I brought home wood scraps to play with. Though I had no woodworking experience (beyond a woodshop class in high school), I was able to construct needed furnishings for our very empty apartment.
In the process, I discovered that I really enjoyed working with wood, and this developed into a passion. I discovered Fine Woodworking, the work of Sam Maloof and George Nakashima, and the writings of James Krenov. This lead me to want to develop my skills, and I enrolled in the College of the Redwoods Furniture Program, after earning my college degree. I also had the opportunity to spend a semester at Capellagården School of Craft & Design in Vickleby, Sweden, founded by Krenov’s mentor Carl Malmsten.
Upon completing this woodworking study, we returned to the Pacific Northwest in 2008 and went into business. Among my first jobs was kitchen cabinetry, and thereafter decided that I did not want the temptation of chasing money and becoming a cabinet shop. Rather, I chose to focus upon one-off furniture projects of my own design. Those first six years were a struggle—as I created rocking chairs, fine cabinetry, entry doors, and the like—but I remained true to only taking on projects that excited me.
Continue reading your story on the app
Continue reading your story in the magazine
Profile: John P. McCormack
As the Port Townsend School of Woodworking welcomes master woodworkers from around the Northwest to their November Woodworking Show, we caught up with its newest faculty member, John P. McCormack. Here is John’s story in his own words:
From David Marks Studio- Patina Applications & Questions
For years, many of you have read my discussions about gilding and chemical patination techniques, but are unsure about its application to your own work. I'd like to share a recent email from Sandra Walkin of Louisiana, who took my Gilding & Chemical & Patination class and a 2-day private class in 2015:
Education: NW Woodworking Studio
Education: NW Woodworking Studio
From David Marks Studio Milling Guitar Backs
David Marks has been a studio furniture maker in Santa Rosa, CA for nearly 40 years and was the host of the popular woodworking television program WoodWorks on the DIY network.
Tools & Techniques Understanding Greene & Greene
Craft in America, the Peabody Award-winning PBS television series, showcases the creative spirit of America’s handmade craft artists.
Profile: Jim Piper
Jim Piper of Portland, OR draws upon the natural world in creating his exquisite turned and embellished wood pieces.
Profile: Greg Klassen
Greg Klassen of Everson, WA is studio furnituremaker, who’s River® Table Collection has garnered international attention and orders. Here is Greg’s story, in his own words:
Rubbing Out Arm R Seal & Questions
Rubbing Out Arm R Seal & Questions
Turning Topics AAW Members' Exhibition
Continuum
Profile: Scott Grove
Scott Grove of Rochester