About Me

I began to think of carpentry as a vocation in the early 1980s after learning about contracting from a professional house painter in the Chicago area. The jobs I began to acquire on my own involved both painting and carpentry. The carpentry jobs interested me most. I had been making things from wood since childhood, and this work felt natural and satisfying. During this time I also explored my interest in the visual arts by attending The School of the Art Institute of Chicago. I hoped that in time I could blend these interests and skills.

When I moved to Vermont in the mid 80s I was lucky enough to land a job with City Builders and begin a three-year woodworking apprenticeship with skilled carpenters. Learning a little family history at this time shed more light on why I felt so much at home in the workshop: my ancestors included a cabinet maker, a machinist, a woodworker, and a kitchen designer.

I began designing and building furniture on my own in the late 80s when close friends offered workshop space on their farm. My clients were those who could not find what they wanted in retail shops. Also at this time, my wife and I started Storybook Toys, a company specializing in handmade costumes and wooden toys for children. Even as Storybook Toys grew, I continued to make furniture. Our decision in 2006 to produce only a select line of wood toys has allowed me to work full time on furniture projects. It is my joy to continue applying all of my skills and experiences to this rewarding trade.