Why the Blog Went Quiet
When I opened The Joinery I had no idea how to promote a woodworking shop. The one thing I knew how to do was write, and tell a story. So that’s where I started.
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New Classes This Spring — Spots Still Open in April & May
Spring is a great time to start something new — or level up what you already know. We’ve just added new sessions across three of our most popular classes, and spots are still available. Whether you’ve never touched a table saw or you’re ready to tackle your first piece of real furniture, there’s something here…
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Episode 9: It Takes Two — Introducing Co-Host Alex Baum
Eight episodes in, I was getting tired of hearing my own voice. That’s the honest version. The slightly more diplomatic version is this: the most interesting woodworking conversations I have aren’t me explaining how to cut a dovetail. They’re the ones that happen between someone who just started and someone who’s been doing this for…
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Just Show Up: Removing the Roadblocks to Getting Back in the Shop
Let’s be honest—making time for yourself can feel impossible these days. Between work, family, and the constant noise of daily life, doing something purely for your own enjoyment often slips to the bottom of the list. But here’s the thing: it’s not selfish to take that time—it’s essential. When you make space to create, build,…
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Take a Class – Give Holiday Cheer!
I’m excited to announce a trio of fresh-class offerings at The Joinery, LLC, perfect for the coming holiday season and beyond. Whether you’re exploring a new craft or ready to commit to a woodworking habit, we’ve got something for you. 🎨 New Glass Classes for November 1. Holiday Fused Glass Art – A special seasonal…
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S1E8 – Joiner’s Bench – Chin Up: How My Wife and Sam Maloof Saved My Woodworking Career
Welcome back to The Joiner’s Bench. This episode is a little different. No segments, no tool talk—just a story. A story about failure, persistence, and the kind of lesson you only learn when everything goes wrong. ⸻ The Chair That Almost Ended It All Back in 2005, I took a class at the Marc Adams…
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Seats Available: Join a Woodworking Class This Weekend!
Looking to get into woodworking or expand your skills? Good news—we have immediate openings in our upcoming classes, including this weekend’s Introduction to Woodworking session! This is your chance to dive in, get comfortable with the tools, and start building something real. Whether you’re brand new to the craft or getting back into it after…
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A Day Away From the Screen: Reflections on Joinery Fest
This past weekend, we wrapped up another Joinery Fest, and I have to say—it was one of the best days we’ve had at the shop. The energy was incredible. So many people came through the doors—members, friends, families, and curious neighbors—each drawn in by the smell of fresh sawdust, the hum of tools, and maybe…
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S1E7 – The Joiner’s Bench – Sharpen Your Skills
Episode Summary: The Joiner’s Bench – “Sharpen Your Skills” In this episode of “The Joiner’s Bench,” host Stephen Ricks delves into the often overlooked yet essential aspect of woodworking: sharpening. Stephen not only highlights how sharpening is crucial for both the performance of woodworking tools and the overall woodworking experience but also attempts to demystify…
