about us
We’re passionate about woodworking and our customers. Since 1996, we have been providing the tools, materials and education to thousands of woodworkers to help turn their creative vision into real pieces of functional wood art. If you’re reading this, you probably have some inclination toward crafting. You may have taken a shop class in school and want to rekindle the satisfaction of making something with your own hands or perhaps you just bought a new home and want to furnish it with real wood instead of plastic covered particle board. Regardless of your experience level or the size of your project, you will find a welcoming environment with knowledgeable staff, good advice, classes and everything you need to accomplish your woodworking dreams.
meet our team
ralph duarte
Ralph started out his woodworking apprenticeship literally at hip height of his grandfather, who enjoyed creating ornate boxes, pipe holders and humidors. Being the patriarch of a large extended family (6 daughters and 20 grandchildren), Grandpa never ran short of ideas or requests from his family. Ralph was one of the few grandchildren who took an active interest in learning how he made everything. In 2010, a co-worker brought the Woodworkers Club business to his attention. After seeing the incredible facility and feeling the creative excitement from the Club members and customers, he knew this was an opportunity that he needed to be a part of and share with other passionate woodworkers.
amy bender
Amy is a displaced Chicagoan who has come to woodworking via the opposite end of the tree’s life-cycle, having been in landscaping in various guises for years. An inveterate traveler, Amy has spent time observing, working with, and learning from woodworkers of various global traditions, from American chainsaw artists to African wood carvers who first must fashion their carving chisels and gouges out of silverware with rudimentary hand tools. She is in charge of making sure the bills get paid on time, and that there’s goodwill enough to go ‘round.
chris johnstone
Chris has been working with wood for most of his life and still remembers his dad showing him proper hand saw technique when he was about five years old. He has a well-developed knowledge of building practices, architectural renderings, cabinet making, hardware, power tools, large and small equipment and most construction materials. Chris finds sharing what he knows and learning what he doesn’t through interacting with the woodworking community immensely gratifying.