Transforming from a Finance Pro to a Professional Woodworker
Are you considering a career change or looking to delve into the world of woodworking? If so, you’re in the right place! In this in-depth article, we will explore the journey of Fiona Gilfillan, a former finance professional turned successful woodworker. We will uncover her story, achievements, challenges, and aspirations, providing valuable insights for anyone interested in woodworking or seeking inspiration for a career transition.
Discovering the Passion for Woodworking
Fiona Gilfillan’s transition from finance to woodworking was not a sudden leap but a gradual evolution driven by passion and determination. Her journey began with upcycling and crafting furniture from scaffolding boards during her breaks from the finance industry. Over time, her hobby grew into a full-fledged passion as she experimented with power tools and discovered the joy of working with wood.
One significant turning point for Fiona was enrolling in an introductory course at the Chippendale International School of Furniture. It was here that she experienced woodturning for the first time, sparking a newfound love for creating with her hands. Inspired by the artistry and craftsmanship of woodworking, Fiona purchased a lathe, rented a workshop, and began honing her skills in woodworking, particularly in turning bowls.
Transitioning to a Full-Time Woodworker
As Fiona’s skills and enthusiasm for woodworking grew, she faced a pivotal moment that led her to make a life-changing decision. Encouragement from a friend, coupled with a personal realization that life is too short to stay in a career that didn’t fulfill her creatively, motivated Fiona to take the plunge into full-time woodworking. Leaving behind her finance career, she embraced woodworking as her new path, embarking on a journey of self-discovery and artistic expression.
Proudest Projects and Lessons Learned
In her woodworking career, Fiona has tackled a diverse range of projects, from traditional furniture pieces to unique and challenging creations. One of her proudest accomplishments was crafting a Victorian porch finial, a project that pushed her beyond her comfort zone and allowed her to learn and grow as a woodworker. Additionally, transforming her wife’s home office with custom walnut shelves and bookcases was a testament to Fiona’s evolving skills and craftsmanship.
Reflecting on her woodworking journey, Fiona acknowledged the importance of embracing failure as a learning opportunity. She shared how her perfectionism and reluctance to seek help hindered her progress, emphasizing the value of humility and mentorship in the woodworking craft. Through trial and error, Fiona discovered that mistakes and setbacks are not roadblocks but stepping stones toward improvement and growth.
Building Dreams and Overcoming Challenges
When asked about her dream woodworking project, Fiona expressed her desire to create a fully-fitted kitchen from start to finish using natural timbers. While she has already completed smaller cabinet projects, envisioning a complete kitchen build showcases her ambition and dedication to mastering the craft. However, Fiona also highlighted the challenges woodworkers face in conveying the true value of handmade, artisanal furniture in a market driven by mass-produced, low-cost alternatives.
The Rewards of Woodworking and Teaching
For Fiona, the most rewarding aspect of woodworking lies in the process of creation and the satisfaction of seeing a tangible outcome of her labor. Whether it’s shaping a piece of wood into a functional item or sharing her skills with others, Fiona finds joy in both the physical and educational aspects of woodworking. As she looks toward the future, Fiona hopes to transition into teaching, passing on her knowledge and passion for woodworking to aspiring craftspeople.
Rapid-Fire Insights from Fiona Gilfillan
- Favorite wood: Scottish Elm
- Favorite tool or equipment: Festool Domino
- Favorite piece: Console table made in the intermediate course
- Biggest goal: To move into teaching woodworking
- Favorite accessory: Self-made mallet from lignum vitae
- Favorite step of the process: Milling the wood
- Favorite assistant: Fellow woodworker with complementary skills
- Music on or off while working: BBC Radio 6 for inspiration
As you embark on your woodworking journey or consider a career change, take inspiration from Fiona Gilfillan’s story of transformation and passion for the craft. Remember that woodworking is not just about creating physical objects but also about personal growth, creative expression, and the joy of shared learning. Whether you’re a novice woodworker or a seasoned professional, embrace the challenges, celebrate the successes, and keep exploring the boundless possibilities of woodworking. Happy woodworking!
