Blogs
A Day in the Woodshop: From Log to Finished Piece
There’s something special about stepping into the woodshop in the morning.
The air smells like cedar and sawdust. Sunlight comes through the windows. The tools are waiting, and so is the wood.
Some days I start with a plan. Other days, the wood tells me what it wants to be.
Choosing the Wood
Every piece starts long before the first cut. I spend time walking through my wood stacks, looking at grain, knots, edges, and character. I pick up boards, turn them over in my hands, and imagine the possibilities.
A board with a live edge might become a bench.
A small section of walnut might become a candle holder.
The wood always has a story — I simply help finish it.
The Build
Once a piece is chosen, it’s time to shape. The tools come out:
- planer
- saws
- chisels
- sander
Some pieces come together quickly. Others need time, patience, and a few walks in the woods to think about the next step.
This is the part I love the most — listening, shaping, refining.
Finishing Touches
Every creation is sanded smooth and sealed. Pieces used for food are coated in food-safe mineral oil. Furniture gets a satin or matte finish that highlights the grain.
When the final coat goes on, the wood comes alive.
And Then… It Leaves Home
Watching a finished piece go out the door never gets old.
Someone else will use it, love it, and make memories around it.
That is what makes this work so rewarding.
Why Reclaimed Wood Matters
The wood we use isn’t store-bought lumber.
It’s reclaimed, local, and full of life before it ever enters the shop.
Where Our Wood Comes From
We select logs and boards from local sources:
- fallen trees
- old barns
- storm-damaged wood
- family properties
We mill it ourselves and bring it back to life.
Why We Choose Reclaimed
Reclaimed wood has character you can’t manufacture:
- knots
- natural curves
- rich color
- history
It has already lived a life. Now it gets a second one.
Good for the Earth, Good for Your Home
Using reclaimed wood means less waste, less cutting, and more appreciation.
The result?
Pieces that feel warm, honest, and real.
When you choose reclaimed, you choose a story.
Meet Ridge: Shop Supervisor & Morale Booster
Every good shop needs a supervisor.
Mine just happens to be four-legged.
Who Is Ridge?
Ridge is my loyal companion, a Mountain Feist with a brindle coat and a big personality. He spends his days:
- patrolling the woods
- keeping squirrels in check
- supervising sawdust production
- napping on laps when the work slows down
He is regal, playful, and always ready for an adventure.
His Role in the Shop
Ridge has several official duties:
- emotional support
- tail wags
- reminding me to take breaks
- approving every final piece with a sniff
He brings joy to every day, and I’m convinced the pieces turn out better because of him.
The Inspiration Behind Our Name
Macon + Ridge.
Two best friends.
One woodshop.
A whole lot of heart.
How to Care for Your Wooden Pieces
A little care goes a long way.
If you take care of wood, it will last for generations.
Everyday Tips
- Wipe clean with a soft cloth
- Avoid standing water
- Keep away from direct, hot sunlight
- Use coasters or mats under hot items
Cutting Boards & Food Items
For boards or pieces that touch food:
- Use food-safe mineral oil
- Oil the surface whenever it looks dry
- Never put wood in the dishwasher
Scratches & Dings
Wood is meant to be used.
Scratches add character.
If needed, a light sanding and fresh oil will make it look new again.
Enjoy Your Piece
Wood is strong, beautiful, and alive.
With a little love, it will last a lifetime - and beyond.