Stephen, here. My journey with sawdust and hardwood didn't start with a business plan; it started with my grandfather. He was a woodworker who built things to last—I still have pieces he made for me nearly 40 years ago. When his health made it difficult for him to stay in the shop, he gifted me his collection of hand tools and saws. Today, I still use his small tape measure and jigs on almost every project. They are more than just tools; they are a constant reminder that quality woodworking outlives the maker.

Inspired by my dad—the most resourceful person I know—I’ve learned that there is always a way to make a vision happen if you’re creative enough to see it. That resourcefulness is at the heart of my work. I exclusively use clear finishes because I find stains and paints to be "soulless." I want you to see the natural elements, the grain, and even the flaws. Mass-produced items try to be "perfect," but nature isn't perfect, and neither am I. I strive to keep my work as authentic as I try to be.

Since 2023, I’ve been running Stu’s Wood full-time out of my Bowling Green, Ohio garage. If you walked in today, it might look like a bomb just went off. It’s a chaotic mess fueled by ADHD and a constant rotation of podcasts and audiobooks. I simultaneously have no idea where anything is and know exactly where I left that one specific chisel. It’s all over the place, it’s a vibe, and it’s me.

I build because wood is strong, durable, and uniquely beautiful on its own. I build because things should be passed down through generations, not thrown in a landfill after three years. When you buy from Stu’s Wood, you aren't just getting a cutting board or a tray; you’re getting a piece of a family tradition and a bit of the "creative chaos" that makes handmade work worth having.