Exploring the World of Woodworking: A Conversation with Laura Mays
Woodworking – a craft that has been around for centuries, allowing creators to transform raw materials into beautiful, functional pieces of art. In this article, we dive deep into the world of woodworking through the eyes of Laura Mays, an architect-turned-woodworker who discovered her passion by chance. Laura’s journey from architecture to woodworking is a fascinating one, filled with twists and turns that ultimately led her to where she is today – teaching at The Krenov School in Northern California and creating custom projects that showcase her love for the craft.
Laura’s Journey into Woodworking
Laura’s journey into woodworking began with a long and winding bike ride along the Irish coast. As a trained architect who found herself feeling disconnected from the process of making things, Laura stumbled upon a woodworking school in the west of Ireland during a cycling holiday in Connemara. This serendipitous discovery led her to dive headfirst into the world of woodworking, where she spent two years honing her craft at the Galway Mayo Institute of Technology in Letterfrack.
Standing Out in a Male-Dominated Field
As a woman in a field that is often dominated by men, Laura’s journey in woodworking is not just about creating beautiful pieces—it’s also about breaking down barriers and challenging traditional gender norms in the industry. Through her work and dedication to the craft, Laura is paving the way for more women to enter the world of woodworking and make their mark.
Teaching the Art of Craftsmanship
Now based in Northern California, Laura focuses on teaching her students at The Krenov School the importance of craftsmanship and attention to detail. Instead of focusing on speed or efficiency, Laura instills in her students the value of taking the time to create high-quality pieces that showcase their skills and dedication to the craft. By emphasizing quality over quantity, Laura hopes to inspire a new generation of woodworkers who are passionate about creating beautiful, lasting pieces.
The Joy of Creating
For Laura, woodworking is more than just a career—it’s a mental health exercise, a form of meditation that allows her to engage with her creativity and problem-solving skills. Whether she’s working on a large chair or a small cabinet, each piece she creates represents a new challenge and an opportunity to push her skills to new heights. Through her work, Laura hopes to not only create beautiful pieces but also to spread the message of the underrepresentation of women and other demographics in the woodworking industry.
Rapid-Fire Questions with Laura Mays
- Favorite Wood: It’s always the one I’m working on, right now, it’s California walnut.
- Favorite Tool: A plane that I’ve made myself, with a big chunky blade in it.
- Favorite Piece: The chair that I’m sitting on.
- Biggest Goal: Keep on going.
- Favorite Accessory: Magnifiers for better precision.
- Favorite Step: Planning, where the beauty of the wood truly shines.
- Favorite Assistant: My dog, Sid, who came all the way from Ireland.
- Music On or Off: Half the time, I don’t listen to anything, and half the time, I listen to podcasts like Ideas and Material Matters.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Laura Mays’s story is a testament to the transformative power of following your passion and embracing new opportunities. Through her dedication to woodworking, Laura has not only found a fulfilling career but has also become a trailblazer for women in the industry. Her commitment to craftsmanship and attention to detail serves as an inspiration to aspiring woodworkers everywhere, reminding us that the true beauty of woodworking lies not just in the finished product, but in the journey of creation itself. Join us in celebrating Laura Mays and the incredible work she continues to do in the world of woodworking.
