Turned Vase
Vase turned from Elm wood. Size is approximately 12 1/2 inches tall and 8 inches wide. Buyer can request any size and I will happily accommodate, depending on materials availability.
Long-time member
A Maker who has been a valued part of this community for several years.
Fast shipper
Customers say that this Maker ships promptly after completing a project.
Great service
This Maker has consistently demonstrated excellence in craftsmanship and customer service.
Woodworking was my hobby for many years. Over the years, this resulted in some commissions, many gifts for grateful friends and relatives, and many times I was told "You should be doing this for a living!".
My career was in the Contact Center industry, and I worked very hard, ultimately advancing to the Senior Leadership level. But the hours were long, and the travel was difficult. I always thought to myself, "Wouldn't it be great if I could do woodworking for a living?" Little did I know what was around the corner!
In 2011, my company was bought out by a competitor who replaced leadership with their own people. The layoff forced me to finally make leap to doing this full-time, and it is the best thing that ever happened to me.
This is certainly not the path to wealth, but money is only part of the total compensation package - not many people can honestly say when they wake up in the morning "I love my work!" - I am fortunate enough to be one of the few who can. And I never miss pee-wee football games any more!
Update, May 2017. Money may only be part of the total compensation package, however it is a very important part. Unfortunately, I am suspending MGA Custom Woodwork - it may be indefinitely, or it may be for a short time. We shall see what the future holds. Those who have in-process projects that may be impacted have been contacted. If you have in-process projects and have not been contacted, then you can expect your handcrafted item by the
original due date. Thank you to all who support the maker community.
MKMatus Kalisky
For End Grain Cutting Board5.0The cutting board (wave pattern with relatively small cube size) Michael made for me is used daily since receiving it 6 months ago. Not only it looks great, it is pleasure to use. With little care wood butter here and then + wiping after each use) it looks as new (actually it looks even better). Michael was very helpful and open to try new things and pleasure to work with. I would not hesitate to order again. Thanks Michael.
- MC
Matthew Ciborowski
For Jewelry Box4.7Working with Michael was a charm. He was straightforward and engaging, and was able to complete everything I was asking for in a very timely manner. The final product is gorgeous! Highly recommended.
KFKevin Finn
For Kevin's Bed4.8I reached out to MGA Custom Woodwork to create a Mid-Century Revival platform bed; I am nothing less than delighted with the final product.
After some discussion, we went with a minimal design and a contrasty sappy walnut wood. Micheal has an excellent artisan's eye, and skillfully assembled the wood planks to maximize the designerly beauty of the grain.
We initially went with a push drawer mechanism that ended up sticking a bit upon delivery. However, Michael exhibited a true commitment to his work but coming to the house a second day to replace the push drawer rails with more conventional ones; he also added customs knobs that worked well both in form and function.
Michael is excellent with communication, timely and shows a deep knowledge of the craft. He is always ready to suggest alternative ways to improve the look/function of the furniture in a very personable and easy way. I plan to contract Michael again in the future to construct a gentleman's wardrobe cabinet. I do not hesitate to give him my highest recommendation for you CustomMade project.
RBRick Brenkus
For I would like to have a Flip chart made4.8thanks for a great job
- PC
pedro casapons
For Walnut End Grain Cutting Board5.0The cutting board is awesome. the workmanship is unparalleled. Michael's communication was amazing, and he even credited me a portion of the shipping when he saw there was an small error made when i was charged.
looking forward to having MGA Custom Woodwork design and build me a desk!
thank you Michael!
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