Many woodworking enthusiasts know of Rick’s interest in woodworking, his previous teaching experience, and for his determination to undertake challenging furniture projects. He began woodworking in 1989 and graduated from The Center for Furniture Craftsmanship in Rockport, Maine. Having made hundreds of custom furniture and cabinet pieces ranging from a jewelry store display case, fireplace mantels, many kinds of tables, cabinets for kitchens and bathrooms, custom quilt tables, hanging jewelry cabinets, hall mirrors, and bedroom sets. Rick teaches from his extensive experience in making fine furniture. He has decided to focus on teaching and welcomes anyone of any skill level.
TAKE A WOODWORKING VACATION IN MAINE
I began woodworking in my hometown of Topeka, Kansas, doing custom work. I was mostly self-taught, so in the winter of 2000, I decided to take a Woodworking Vacation in Maine and learn new skills in fine furniture making. It was a great experience. All I had to do all day, everyday, was go to work in a first class shop and do woodworking with some great teachers, and without any distractions, deadlines or demands. In the off hours, Linda and I would drive around and explore this beautiful state, finding picture postcard view around every turn.
When Linda and I moved to Maine, and opened our B&B a few years later, I decided that I would focus on teaching, and build a shop that would allow people to come to Maine, and have a great woodworking experience as well, with the added convenience of being able to reside on site. Everyone has different skill levels, desires and schedules, so I try to cater to each person and help them achieve a woodworking experience that suits them, whether it is honing their skill, learning a new technique, or building an entire project. There are also woodworkers who have the basic knowledge and and a project in mind, but just need a little guidance, a functional shop to work in and the freedom to work at their own pace. What I have found to be a good approach is to ask a student what they would like to build, and use that project as a teaching vehicle from design to completion. That way, the student is working on something that they are truly invested in, and have a pretty clear image of in their head. Then they can go back home with something to show for their Maine Woodworking Vacation.
I also offer a variety of classes on basic and advanced techniques. The shop is open from 7AM to 9PM every day. Classes will run for various lengths of time between the hours of 9AM to 5PM. The classes are designed so that students will have plenty of time to explore the beautiful Mid-Coast Region, visit other craftsmen in the area, sail, canoe, or swim in the lake, or just relax in an Adirondack chair and enjoy the peace and quiet of rural Maine.
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