Embracing Mistakes in Woodworking: A Journey of Passion and Growth

In the world of woodworking, carpentry, and construction, there are many talented individuals who often go unrecognized. These are the individuals who bring their creativity and passion to life through the art of building and creating with wood. One such individual is Char Miller-King, a woodshop educator based in Atlanta, Georgia, who has a unique perspective on the value of making mistakes in woodworking.

Char Miller-King: A Passion for Building

Char’s journey into woodworking began as a happy accident when she decided to build a platform bed after graduating from college. Despite having no prior experience, she was determined to create something with her own hands. With the guidance of her contractor uncle and a borrowed drill, Char spent three months crafting her bed. Although it was far from perfect, she was thrilled with her creation. This experience sparked a new hobby for Char, leading her to take on various projects, from bookcases to ottomans.

Char’s passion for woodworking only grew as she continued to challenge herself and learn from her mistakes. She realized that every misstep was an opportunity to improve and hone her skills. Char’s journey is a testament to the importance of perseverance and the willingness to try, fail, and try again.

The Value of Making Mistakes

One of the key lessons Char has learned throughout her woodworking career is the value of making mistakes. Instead of viewing failures as setbacks, she sees them as opportunities for growth and learning. Embracing mistakes has allowed Char to push herself out of her comfort zone and expand her capabilities as a woodworker.

In Char’s own words, “It’s better to make those mistakes in a group. That way, you’ll know what to do when you’re by yourself, or if you see someone else doing something potentially dangerous, you’ll know how to assist them.” This mindset has not only shaped her approach to woodworking but has also influenced her teaching style as a woodshop educator.

Teaching and Empowering Others

As a woodshop educator at Decatur Makers, Char is dedicated to empowering individuals of all ages to explore their creativity and discover the joy of woodworking. She believes in providing a safe and supportive environment where people can make mistakes, learn from them, and grow as makers. Char’s approach to teaching emphasizes the importance of instilling confidence in her students and giving them the freedom to experiment and explore their potential.

Through her work with children, including Girl Scouts and middle school students, Char aims to inspire the next generation of makers. She believes that by exposing young individuals to woodworking and other hands-on activities, she can help them develop important skills and confidence in their abilities. Char’s dedication to teaching extends beyond the classroom, as she also works with individuals with learning disabilities to provide them with access to the world of making.

Balancing Passion and Parenthood

Despite the demands of being a mother of four, Char has found a way to prioritize her passion for woodworking while also including her children in her projects. She emphasizes the importance of setting boundaries and learning to say no when necessary, both in her woodworking projects and in her personal life.

Char’s advice to aspiring woodworkers, especially women and girls, is to listen to their hearts and follow their dreams, regardless of societal expectations. She encourages individuals to embrace their unique abilities and strive for their goals with determination and perseverance.

Conclusion

Char Miller-King’s journey into woodworking is a true testament to the value of making mistakes and learning from them. Through her passion for building and her dedication to teaching others, Char has inspired individuals of all ages to explore their creativity and embrace the challenges of woodworking. Her story serves as a reminder that growth and success often come from pushing past failures and embracing the opportunities for learning and improvement.

In the world of woodworking, every mistake is a stepping stone towards mastery. And as Char Miller-King exemplifies, the journey of a woodworker is not just about creating beautiful pieces—it’s about embracing the process, learning from failures, and ultimately finding fulfillment in the art of building.