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.
What people are saying
- PS
Paul Stiles
For Wood benches on a budget4.8I was very happy with the benches that were hand built and custom for my coffee shop. Will be ordering more in the future.
- 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!
- BM
Bryan McAdams
For Speaker Cabinet5.0Michael Anderson built a pair of custom speaker cabinets for me based on a design I have from Europe. The results are stellar with a truly ‘hand-made’ quality in the best sense of the word. They are constructed with care, precision and a clear passion for detail and refinement. Michael matched the color I wanted precisely with only a photo reference and created a truly stunning gloss finish.
There was one minor glitch based on a confusion in the plans - Michael not only picked up the cabinets from my home but he made the change quickly and hand-delivered them back to my front door.
Throughout the process he was friendly, professional and extremely responsive with communication. He explained in depth the many options I had to choose from without ever overwhelming me with variables. I expect these speakers to last a lifetime.
Seriously fantastic work at a fair rate. I highly recommend Michael and would hire him again without question.
- KV
Kerry Varwig
For Mirror frame and bench5.0My vision became reality with the excellent help from Michael. From old playground wood to a mirror and a bench. I am actually thinking up projects for this amazing, patient carpenter to work on in the future.
- DA
DON AVARY
For End Grain Cutting Board5.0The cutting board exceeded my expectations in craftsmanship. It is a beautiful addition to my kitchen. I would have liked to receive some care instructions with it.
I will consider ordering again as this is truly a unique board.
Maker Policies
Discover true craftsmanship each week
A guide to the best items from the best makers and the stories behind them.
