Woodworking

When Did Woodcraft Magazine Start? (And Its Impact)

When Did Woodcraft Magazine Start

Woodcraft Magazine started in November 2004.

Did You Know?

1. Did you know that Woodcraft Magazine was first published in 1996? With over 25 years of history, it has provided countless woodworkers with inspiring projects and informative articles.

2. The very first issue of Woodcraft Magazine featured a step-by-step guide on crafting a beautiful jewelry box. This project set the tone for the magazine’s commitment to offering detailed instructions for creating unique wooden items.

3. Woodcraft Magazine has a loyal readership, but did you know that it also has a dedicated international following? Woodworkers from around the world enjoy the magazine’s diverse content and appreciate its focus on craftsmanship.

4. In addition to its print publication, Woodcraft Magazine offers digital editions and exclusive online content. This allows woodworkers to access their favorite articles and projects anywhere, anytime, using their preferred digital device.

5. Woodcraft Magazine encourages community engagement by hosting an annual Woodworking Adventure contest. This contest invites readers to submit their most exciting and innovative woodworking projects for a chance to win exclusive prizes and showcase their skills to the magazine’s extensive audience.

Woodcraft Magazine’s Founding And Growth

Woodcraft Magazine is a prominent publication in the woodworking industry. Established in November 2004, it is a subsidiary of Woodcraft Supply, LLC. This leading company, founded by George Eaton and Richard Merrill in 1928, initially focused on supplying woodworking tools and materials to craftsmen across the United States.

Throughout the years, Woodcraft has experienced substantial growth and expanded its operations. Today, the company operates specialty retail stores nationwide, offering a diverse range of woodworking products to its customers. In addition to its retail presence, Woodcraft is also known for its highly regarded Woodcraft Magazine. This publication caters to woodworking enthusiasts, professionals, and hobbyists alike, providing them with expertly designed projects, woodworking techniques, and valuable information on tools.

Woodcraft’s Expansion Into Retail And Catalog Distribution

Woodcraft underwent a transformation in the 1960s and 1972, transitioning from a woodworking supply company to a woodworking specialty retailer. The acquisition of Roger Wells in the 1960s and Sam Ross in 1972 brought new leadership and direction to the company, enabling it to expand and better serve the woodworking community.

In 1992, Woodcraft relocated its headquarters to Parkersburg, West Virginia, further establishing its presence in the industry. The company has adopted a growth strategy that encompasses not only physical retail stores but also the distribution of consumer catalogs in all 50 U.S. states and 117 countries. This extensive catalog distribution network ensures that woodworking enthusiasts worldwide have access to the high-quality products and resources that Woodcraft offers.

In addition to its physical stores and catalogs, Woodcraft recognizes the importance of the ecommerce landscape in meeting the evolving needs of its customers. Therefore, it operates a robust online platform that allows individuals to conveniently browse and purchase a wide range of woodworking tools, raw materials, instructional media, and project kits.

  • Woodcraft transitioned from a woodworking supply company to a woodworking specialty retailer through key acquisitions
  • The company relocated its headquarters to Parkersburg, West Virginia in 1992
  • Woodcraft’s extensive catalog distribution network spans all 50 U.S. states and 117 countries
  • The company operates a comprehensive ecommerce website for convenient online shopping.

Notable Figures In Woodcraft’s History

Throughout its history, Woodcraft has been led by notable individuals who have contributed to its success and growth. Jody Garrett, a dedicated and experienced member of the Woodcraft team, was promoted to the position of president in 2012. Under his leadership, Woodcraft continued to thrive and solidify its position as a leader in the woodworking industry.

In July 2018, Jack Bigger was named president and chief operating officer, bringing his visionary leadership and industry expertise to Woodcraft. Bigger’s role in shaping the company’s future ensures that Woodcraft will continue to excel and provide unparalleled service to its customers.

Woodcraft Magazine’s Features And Partnerships

Woodcraft Magazine is highly regarded for its comprehensive coverage of woodworking projects, techniques, and tool reviews. The magazine serves as a valuable resource for woodworking enthusiasts of all skill levels, offering professionally designed projects, step-by-step instructions, detailed illustrations, and helpful tips to guide readers through their creative woodworking endeavors.

One notable partnership of Woodcraft Magazine is with the TV show “Rough Cut – Woodworking with Tommy Mac.” Since 2010, Woodcraft has been the sole sponsor of this popular show, aligning the magazine’s expertise with the educational and inspirational content presented by host Tommy Mac.

In addition to its partnership with “Rough Cut,” Woodcraft has also teamed up with Black Dog Salvage to promote their upcycling program. This collaboration showcases the importance of reusing and repurposing materials, while encouraging eco-friendly practices within the woodworking community.

  • Woodcraft Magazine provides comprehensive coverage of woodworking projects, techniques, and tool reviews.
  • The magazine offers professionally designed projects, step-by-step instructions, detailed illustrations, and helpful tips.
  • Woodcraft Magazine is the sole sponsor of the TV show “Rough Cut – Woodworking with Tommy Mac”.
  • Woodcraft has partnered with Black Dog Salvage to promote their upcycling program.
  • The collaboration emphasizes the importance of reusing and repurposing materials, encouraging eco-friendly practices within the woodworking community.

“Woodcraft Magazine serves as a valuable resource for woodworking enthusiasts, providing guidance and inspiration for their creative woodworking endeavors.”

Woodcraft’s Community Involvement And Milestones

Woodcraft is committed to giving back to the community and supporting charitable initiatives. Since 1985, the company has actively participated in the Partnership in Education tutoring program, demonstrating its dedication to education and helping students succeed.

Through its Turn for Troops program, Woodcraft has distributed 97,717 hand turned wooden pens by 2012, aiming to uplift the morale of deployed military personnel. This program, which started in 2004, highlights Woodcraft’s commitment to supporting those who serve their country.

Woodcraft also benefits Easter Seals through initiatives such as the Blennerhassett Hotel Festival of Trees since 2012. Through these partnerships, Woodcraft contributes to providing essential services and support for individuals with disabilities.

To celebrate its 10th anniversary in 2014, Woodcraft launched a publishing venture, further solidifying its commitment to providing valuable content to the woodworking community. Additionally, in the same year, Woodcraft implemented new enterprise resource planning software, enhancing its efficiency and streamlining its operations.

Woodcraft’s impact reaches beyond its products and services, as demonstrated by the impressive 4,636,000 visitors to its main retail website, woodcraft.com, in 2014. This is a testament to Woodcraft’s strong reputation and influence in the woodworking industry.

In summary, Woodcraft has made a significant impact on the woodworking community since its founding in 1928. It has evolved into a leading retailer, magazine publisher, and online platform for woodworking enthusiasts worldwide. With its extensive product offerings, expertly crafted projects, and commitment to community involvement, Woodcraft continues to inspire and support the woodworking community.


Check this out:


Frequently Asked Questions

When was Woodcraft founded?

Woodcraft was founded in the year 1928 when George Eaton and Richard Merrill established a small shop in Boston, Massachusetts. Their initial focus was on providing both new and refurbished industrial woodworking machinery to professional cabinet makers and schools. Since its humble beginnings, Woodcraft has grown into a well-established entity in the woodworking industry, continuously serving the needs of craftsmen and enthusiasts alike. With a rich history dating back to almost a century, the founding of Woodcraft marks the beginning of a longstanding legacy in the world of woodworking.

Who invented the wood craft?

The ancient Egyptians can be credited with inventing woodworking, as they were known for their impressive skills in carving wood. Dating back to around 3,500 BCE, the Egyptians used woodworking techniques to create intricate furniture, sculptures, and even coffins. Their advanced knowledge of tools and craftsmanship paved the way for future civilizations to explore and expand upon the art of woodworking. Over time, different cultures worldwide would develop their own unique techniques and styles, contributing to the evolution of this age-old craft.

How big is Woodcraft?

Woodcraft has grown into a prominent company in the woodworking industry since its establishment in 1928. With over 80 retail stores, a comprehensive mail order catalog, and an extensive website featuring more than 15,000 woodworking tools and accessories, Woodcraft has become a go-to destination for woodworkers not only in the United States but around the world. Its widespread presence and diverse range of offerings make Woodcraft a significant player in the woodworking community, and a trusted source for the necessary supplies and equipment.

How old is woodworking?

Woodworking has a rich and ancient history, dating back to approximately 720 B.C. during its emergence in China. The Chinese culture embraced the craft and showcased its mastery through a range of sophisticated woodworking applications. These master craftsmen incorporated precise measurements into their creations, producing exquisite pieces of furniture, pots, and tables that exemplified the skill and artistry of their time.

Related Articles

Back to top button

Adblock Detected

Looks like you're using an ad blocker. Please disable your Adblocker extension to keep the content flowing.