North House Folk School

A woodworking enthusiast-turned-chairmaker, Joe is motivated by the observation that there are too many uncomfortable chairs in the world. As the most intimate form of solid furniture, we should expect chairs to be comfortable. Working out of his small shop in Northeast Minnesota, Joe endeavors to build comfortable Windsor, ladder back, and contemporary chairs that draw one in to “sit a spell.” Joe also builds benches and tables that complement his chairs. All of these pieces incorporate naturalistic features and colors found in the world of wood. He prefers to use natural finishes over paints in order to emphasize the range of wood’s stunning natural characteristics…from elegantly clear grain to the swirling storm of a burl…from classically rich tones of cherry and walnut to the outrageously colored rainbow poplars and spalted maples. Joe approaches his work energetically, practically blending modern and traditional materials and methods, all the while emphasizing craftsmanship.