Who are you and what do you do?
My name is John Saunders and I have picked up a habit...I mean a hobby in woodworking over the last year or two. It is currently a side business/hobby, as I work full time as well.
What made you take this leap into being your own boss?
I have never liked or accepted the idea that I would need to give a company 40 hours of my time every week for 40 years. When my dad retired he immediately jumped into being his own boss and told me how freeing it was to do so. Once I found woodworking and realized I could do it, I jumped at the opportunity to try making it work. Another important factor is having a good support system if you have 4 (soon to be 5) kids at home. My wife, Leigh, is the person that makes this possible by supporting my obsession and being my biggest cheerleader. She also helps considerably in the organization and cost tracking areas, as I'd rather just go go go sometimes.
What has been your favorite moment since creating your business?
The moment when a piece is finished, which in woodworking is applying the finish. Most of the processes involved in woodworking have me in a state of "will this work?", the moment the finish goes on and the colors pop you feel an instant sense of pride and relief all at once.
Why did you start working in this field?
I made a cubby, bench and storage system in the entryway of my house and I was hooked. I immediately purchased tools and wood to start with making cutting boards.
What are some tips or suggestions you would like to offer?
Don't be afraid to try going into business on your own, if you are passionate about it and you can provide someone value it can work.
What is the latest thing you have been working on?
Recently I began working on some charcuterie boards/serving trays made using black walnut, as well as a waterfall coffee table made from a single slab of black walnut.
Will you be featuring any special holiday items?
I plan to bring my recently made Black walnut waterfall coffee table and hope to have a bench or side table made from a single piece of purple heart (a naturally purple exotic wood species)
www.etsy.com/shop/SaundersDesignsStore
