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

DN: I have been woodworking for over 25 years. I specialize in craft items anywhere from Birdhouses and planters to signs and Christmas trees. I started out on a scroll saw and have worked my way up to a 3 car garage with no rooms for cars. I love being in my shop creating fun things for others to enjoy. We all need to start somewhere and I would love to help you make that start.

JCCFS: Tell us more about your class’s specific technique or process.

DN: This class will start with simply getting to know the equipment by making some practice cuts. The equipment will also be explained as well as the proper safe use of each piece of equipment. You will go from making simple cuts to making wonderful birdhouses and planters. You will experience the joy and pride making these items will bring. This class is unlike any other woodworking class as you can come to it without so much as having picked up a screw driver to leaving saying “I made that!”

Class Examples

JCCFS: What can students expect to leave your class with?

DN: You will leave this class having the new found confidence and pride of a woodworker. And on top of that you will have fun getting to that point. You will find this class to be un-intimidating because I was once where you are now.

JCCFS: What do you enjoy most about The Folk School?

DN: I like the whole experience of the Folk School because it is truly an experience and not just a class. I encourage my students to participate in any and all activities the Folk School has to offer. What I love about teaching is watching my students blossom and seeing the looks of pride and accomplishment on their faces.

JCCFS: Where do you draw inspiration for your work?

DN: I draw inspiration from my experience as a crafter and my customers. I was also inspired by teaching my first class at the Folk School last year. This lead me to propose another class to teach and it has been worked into the Holiday schedule.

JCCFS: What’s one piece or craft object you’ve made recently that you are proud of, and why? 

DN: I made some segmented snowmen. They are a little over a foot tall. I am proud of these because I got the idea while watching a YouTube video of someone making a segmented pumpkin. After watching that video I said to myself I could totally make that into a snowman. I designed it and created it on the fly which is so against my character as I am a planner and I almost always draw something up before making it.