Michael James has been interested in woodworking since he was a child. At an early age, he discovered The New Yankee Workshop and was fascinated by all the tools and the amazing furniture that could be built. However, due to family circumstances, he wasn’t able to pursue woodworking often and did not get heavily involved until he was in his thirties. 

It started with picture framing. As a professional photographer, Michael decided to frame his prints himself rather than pay someone else to do it. After purchasing some basic tools, he began to teach himself how to build picture frames from barn wood and other rustic materials. As he built frames, interest in larger items began to surface. At the same time, his second child was on the way, and, as in many woodworker’s lives, the need for more furniture breeds the need to build. The first major project, a murphy bed, was done to provide a guest space in the basement for grandparents and other family members to sleep when visiting. That project lead to a set of coffee/end tables, a bunk bed for his son, and an entertainment centre for the basement. In 2020, Michael completed his Master of Arts in Professional Communications where his thesis was based on Edmonton makers – The YEG Makers  explored both tools and materials of making through a podcast, personal project, and written paper.

Now, with an expanded set of tools, Michael has moved into more fine furniture building, attempting furniture design, and turning. Many of his pens have been sold to clients throughout western Canada and he is slowing growing his business to help with the relatively expensive endeavour woodworking has become.

Most recently, Michael has joined many other makers in selling his good in markets. This included bowls, pens, shaving sets, peppermills and other turned goods. While furniture is still a passion, the wood lathe has become the main driver of the business.