April Newsletter | Exciting New Beginnings

Here is what happened and what is coming!

Welcome to our very first newsletter. The past three months have been an absolute whirlwind for us. We kicked things off by bidding farewell to Etsy and saying hello to our shiny new website. It was a leap of faith, but boy, are we glad we took it! With that under our belt, we’ve been hustling to build up our inventory for some upcoming craft events. And hey, we even got our license to sell—because, let’s face it, paying taxes is the responsible thing to do (even if it’s not the most fun).

We’ve been diving deep into sustainability research, determined to make our products as eco-friendly as humanly possible. And speaking of human, we’ve been on a mission to connect with fellow queer woodworkers, forging alliances and building a network that feels like family.

And let me tell you about the cherry wood on top of this whirlwind—our Japanese woodworking workshop experience. It was nothing short of mind-blowing! I’m talking about techniques that aren’t just about putting wood together, but about elevating it to a whole new level. The possibilities are endless, and we can’t wait to incorporate these techniques into our projects to make something truly special for all of you.

But wait, there’s more! We’ve curated a lineup of events, festivals, and markets where we’ll be showcasing our goodies in person. First up? A date for your diary: April 27th at Bethany Arts in Ossining, NY. Whether you’re free as a bird or just looking for something to shake up your routine, swing by and say hello—we’d love to meet you!

So here’s to new beginnings, exciting discoveries, and the wonderful journey ahead.
Thanks for being a part of it all.

Warmest regards,
Madhu & Jes

Personal Story

March was a month of dreams realized for me. After years of longing, I finally had the opportunity to immerse myself in the captivating world of Japanese Woodworking. Stepping into the class/shop, I was met with a scene unlike any I had encountered before – not a single clamp or vice in sight. For anyone familiar with woodworking in the West, this absence might initially seem shocking. Yet, therein lies the magic, the allure, and the profound beauty of Japanese woodworking.

What unfolded before me was a world of unparalleled sophistication and complexity, all deeply rooted in a reverence for the craft and a commitment to human-centric techniques. Gone were the whirring of power tools and the reliance on machinery; instead, it was the raw power of hand tools, the boundless ingenuity of the human mind, and the dedication forged through countless hours of practice that shaped every piece. In the realm of Japanese woodworking, I discovered not just a craft, but a philosophy—a philosophy that celebrates the harmony between human and material, between form and function.

As I delved deeper into the workshop, I marveled at the intricacy of the joinery techniques. From the elegant simplicity of the mortise and tenon joint to the awe-inspiring complexity of the Kanawa tsugi, each method was a testament to the boundless creativity and skill of the carpenters who had perfected them over centuries. But beyond the technical mastery, what truly resonated with me was the profound sense of connection—to the material, to the tools, and to the lineage of craftspeople who had come before.

So, as I reflect on my journey through the world of Japanese woodworking and in general, navigating and breaking gender norms in woodworking, I am filled with gratitude—for the opportunity to learn, for the wisdom passed down through generations, and for the reminder that true art is not found in the speed of production, but in the depth of understanding and the sincerity of heart.

Madhu

Community News

Community Build – Organized by Dykes With Drills

DWD is a nonprofit that empowers people with tools to build. We learnt about them through a Volunteer onboarding session and they were the only queer inclusive group we found on the East coast. We are excited to participate in our first community build with them. Updates will follow on how it went. Stay Tuned!

Upcoming Events

First Event of 2024

Get ready for an absolute blast! Picture this: a vibrant gathering filled to the brim with awesome vendors and us, soaking in the fun together! But wait, there’s more! Live music, witnessing thrilling Chainsaw Chix performances, and savoring delicious barbecue all day long. Trust me, you won’t want to miss out on this epic event! See you there.(April 27, 11 AM @ 40 Sommerstown Rd, Ossining, NY Rain Date – April 28, 11 AM)