Justin Moon

My philosophy is simple, and one that I believe is shared by many more than just me. I believe that modern consumerism has conditioned us to push aside the pursuit of craftsmanship in lieu of obtaining something "right now." I believe that this has gone on for so long that we are so far removed from simple skills and access to information on these skills that we are reliant on mass manufactured garbage in multiple facets of our lives and are left with little choice but to buy something that we ultimately throw away, and never quite fits the need in the first place. I could go on for a while about this, but I imagine if you're here, that you are one of a growing population that shares the sentiment.

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For years I've built furniture, random pieces, trying to provide a service to the community in terms of quality furniture built with traditional methods and actual joinery. I've done this to equip myself with tools and experience to pursue my ultimate goal, which is only partly to build furniture, but more, to build craftsmen. During this time, I've focused and studied as much as I could, but there is only so much you can learn from books and videos. The skills I have, I've gained at the bench. I've spent my time with the tools, the materials, the industry. I've studied styles, makers, tools, design, joinery, and methods. And all the while, I've been working in the e-Learning industry in corporate and higher education jobs since 2003. 

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At this point, I'm going to combine my skills with two goals in mind. I'm going to design and build every piece of furniture in my home, and I'm going to teach you to do the same. I understand that there are many barriers to entry. I also understand that for most this is just a hobby. I understand that some might not feel like they have the "talent." I'd remind you of Bob Ross' quote "Talent is nothing more than a pursued interest." What I'm offering is a skill. Skills can be learned. 

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While some projects will include what appears to be complex joinery, and at times I will use tools that shorten the process for me, I assure you, because I've done it myself, that they can be done with a simple set of hand tools. The majority of what I do will be done with basic hand tools, and I will walk you through the process. The projects will progress you towards your own mastery, and whichever ones you choose, will also provide you with useful, and heirloom quality furniture. 

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I plan to make a project out of everything I design and build. I'm also designing and building a course, that is aimed at building craftsmen and women. I hope you'll join me. 

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-Justin Moon