Maker Spotlight: Woods by Warren

Sometime woodworking is a hobby, sometimes it is a business. For some people, it can quickly go from one to the other. That is the story of Warren Price from Woods by Warren.

Located in Eastern Ontario, Warren started woodworking in 2019, but when things slowed down in 2020 (hello COVID), like many eventual small business owners he found he could take his creative outlet and bring on projects for others.

We had an opportunity to ask Warren about his journey and his answers offer great insights for anyone starting out, or experienced, in the world of woodworking.

Grand Finishing: Why did you start woodworking?

Warren Price: Like many, Covid slowed my regular job down to a crawl and I'm the kind of person that can't stand still. I'm pretty handy and have dabbled with making things in the past. So I figured why not? I think I really needed a creative outlet.

GF: Your work has a fingerprint, or distinct aesthetic. Has it evolved over time to get where it is today?

WP: I've always liked mid-century design, as well as minimalist modern design from Japan and Nordic countries. I try adapting these styles to functional decor pieces and furniture. I'm hoping to continue growing in skill to be able to create larger and more interesting pieces that can be viewed as art, as much as it is functional.

GF: Do you have any advice for aspiring woodworkers? Maybe something that could help them avoid early mistakes?

WP: Embrace the mistakes! Everything I make, good bad or ugly, teaches a lesson that I take to the next piece. Don't be afraid to try... never stop trying. Keep learning from everyone and everything you can connect with.

GF: Are there any important milestones you’ve hit that might be important to other craftspeople?

WP: For me it was finally dropping the "imposter syndrome". I could start having real fun in whatever I take on. I'm confident enough now to know what I want to make, and the fun comes from figuring out how the hell I'm going to do it!

GF: How do you primarily sell your work?

WP: Word of mouth through my regular clients, and I do some markets.

GF: If people would like to learn more about your work or commission a project, what is the best way to reach you?

WP: They can reach out directly on social media or send me an email.

If you would like to see more of Warren’s work, or reach out, you can find him on Instagram (@woodsbywarren), or contact him by email at woodsbywarren@gmail.com.

If you want to learn more about Grand Wood Finishes line of products, you can find our portfolio of natural, renewable-based finishes here.