JCCFS: Tell us a little bit about yourself. What’s your background in your medium? How did you get started?

TR: I build Windsor chairs using 300-year-old traditional chairmaking techniques that root in green woodworking. My journey into woodworking started with the simple need for work. As my carpentry skill grew, I started learning about greenwoodworkers (Curtis Buchanan, Peter Follandbee, Drew Langsner) and could not get enough.

Fortunately, greenwoodworking does not require expensive tools or many tools at all. And, that’s good for everyone. I’ve spent so much time learning, as Curtis Buchanan teaches, how to “diminish the returns” of any particular handtool, refining my skillset and eliminating the need to pick-up (buy) the next best thing. I believe that these set of skills can be learned by all and taken into other facets of life.

JCCFS: Tell us more about your class’s specific technique or process. What can students expect to leave your class with?

TR: This class is intended to lower the bar of entry for woodworking. There is a world of woodworking that all can be a part of. In the first few days of this class we will build each student their very own shave horse they will be taking home. The last few days, students will learn how to use their shave horses’ as well as develop a basic set of greenwoodworking skills while building a post and rung footstool.

Students will leave this class with and brand new shave horse and a post and rung footstool. They will also leave this class with an invaluable set of greenwoodworking skills they can build upon.

JCCFS: What is your favorite aspect or part of the Folk School?

TR: I love the learning community that JCCFS has build. When I’m there (teaching and learning), the transition into “folk school life” is seamless. It’s a well deserved reprieve from everyday life for so many who attend!

JCCFS: Where do you draw inspiration from for your work? What’s one piece you’ve made recently that you are proud
of, and why? 

TR: My inspiration for my work comes from the idea that everyone can be a woodworker. It’s such an intimidating craft to get started in. Lowering the bar of entry and being able to create a space for potential woodworkers to come together as a community gives me much motivation.

I’m proud of all my work. It’s not easy. But, a classic Continuous-arm Rocking Chair takes the cake.

JCCFS: What tips would you give a student or aspiring craftsperson?

TR: Be curious. Ask questions. Remember, every craftsperson you may look up to started where you are right now.

JCCFS: Where can folks find you if they want to stay up to date on your work? 

TR: My website is trchairmaker.com and you can find me on Instagram @trchairmaker.