Empowering You to Dive into Woodworking: A Chat with Kelly DeWitt

Welcome to our series focusing on those who bring creativity, passion, and uniqueness to the woodworking, carpentry, and construction industry. Today, we have the pleasure of chatting with Kelly DeWitt, the founder of KKDW Construction, a business that not only creates beautiful pieces but also prioritizes kindness in every aspect of their work.

As we dive into our conversation with Kelly, you’ll learn about her journey into woodworking, the projects that excite her, and the valuable lessons she has learned along the way. With Kelly’s warm and relatable demeanor, you’ll feel inspired to explore your own woodworking aspirations.

Discovering the Passion for Woodworking:

Kelly’s journey into woodworking began in a unique way—through a relationship that sparked her interest in the craft. She shares, “My then-boyfriend, now-husband had a cabinet shop, and being around him and the tools, I fell in love with woodworking. It was a beautiful space for me to learn and experiment.”

Key Takeaways:
– Sometimes, inspiration can come from unexpected places.
– Building a supportive community can fuel your passion for woodworking.
– Learning from experienced individuals can accelerate your growth in the craft.

From Hobby to Business:

What started as a hobby soon blossomed into a thriving business for Kelly. Despite initial doubts from others, Kelly’s persistence and passion for woodworking paved the way for KKDW Construction to become what it is today. She mentions, “Designing and building furniture started as a side gig, but with the encouragement of mentors and friends, I took the leap into making it my full-time career.”

Key Takeaways:
– Transitioning from a hobby to a business requires dedication and belief in your craft.
– Surrounding yourself with supportive mentors and friends can push you towards your goals.
– Taking risks and pursuing your passion can lead to fulfilling opportunities.

Embracing Growth and Creativity:

As KKDW Construction expanded, Kelly found herself exploring new horizons in the woodworking industry. With a team of talented individuals by her side, she now undertakes projects that blend residential warmth with commercial design. From designing offices to crafting furniture for restaurants, Kelly’s creativity knows no bounds.

Key Takeaways:
– Collaboration is key in fostering growth and creativity within a business.
– Embracing new challenges can lead to exciting opportunities for innovation.
– Balancing residential aesthetics with commercial functionality opens up unique design possibilities.

The Journey of Self-Discovery:

Through her woodworking journey, Kelly has learned valuable lessons along the way. One of the most significant revelations for her was the power of collaboration. She reflects, “I used to feel the need to do everything myself, but now I understand the value of teamwork. Having a supportive team has been instrumental in our success.”

Key Takeaways:
– Acknowledging the importance of collaboration can enhance the quality of your work.
– Learning to delegate tasks and trust your team can lead to greater efficiency.
– Embracing different perspectives can fuel creativity and problem-solving in woodworking projects.

Inspiring Others to Dive into Woodworking:

Kelly’s passion for woodworking extends beyond her own projects; she aims to empower others to explore the craft. She believes that getting started in woodworking doesn’t have to be daunting and encourages beginners to take the first step. “You don’t need fancy tools or a large workspace to begin. Just dive in and start creating,” she advises.

Key Takeaways:
– Starting small and experimenting with basic tools can build confidence in woodworking.
– Overcoming perceived barriers by taking that initial step can lead to a fulfilling journey.
– Sharing knowledge and experiences can inspire others to pursue their woodworking dreams.

Building Connections Through Woodworking:

One of the most rewarding aspects of woodworking for Kelly is seeing her creations come to life and being used by others. The communal aspect of woodworking, where people come together to interact with and appreciate the crafted pieces, brings a sense of fulfillment to Kelly’s work.

Key Takeaways:
– Creating pieces that foster connections and shared experiences adds meaning to woodworking.
– Seeing others engage with and appreciate your work can be a powerful motivator.
– Building a sense of community around woodworking enhances the impact of your projects.

Dreaming Big in Woodworking:

When asked about her dream project, Kelly envisions creating a compound that combines bar and restaurant design with elements of hospitality on a grand scale. Her dream project reflects her desire to create spaces that inspire and welcome individuals, showcasing the transformative power of woodworking in shaping environments.

Key Takeaways:
– Dreaming big and pushing the boundaries of your creativity can lead to ambitious projects.
– Envisioning projects that reflect your values and aspirations can drive innovation in woodworking.
– Creating spaces that evoke a sense of hospitality and inspiration can leave a lasting impact on others.

Conclusion:

As we wrap up our conversation with Kelly DeWitt, we’re inspired by her journey, passion, and commitment to kindness in woodworking. Her story serves as a testament to the transformative power of pursuing one’s passion and the joy of creating meaningful connections through craftsmanship.

So, whether you’re a seasoned woodworker or just starting your journey in the craft, remember Kelly’s words: “If you’re interested in woodworking, just try. Start small, explore, and never underestimate the impact you can make through your creations.”

With Kelly’s kindness at the core of her business and her unwavering dedication to creativity, she continues to inspire others to carve their own paths in the world of woodworking. May her story ignite a spark of passion and drive in all who dare to dream and create through the art of woodworking.