The Unstoppable Woodworker: Karissa Cross, The Sanding Blonde
Against the Grain is a captivating series that shines a light on individuals who are often overlooked in the woodworking and construction industry. In this edition, we delve into the world of Karissa Cross, also known as The Sanding Blonde, a self-taught woodworker, single mom, and founder of a woodworking and furniture restoration shop in Brunswick, Georgia. Karissa’s journey is one of resilience, determination, and a passion for creating beautiful pieces from scratch.
Meet the Expert: Karissa Cross
Karissa’s journey into woodworking began with a simple desire to repurpose and refinish furniture. Her initial steps into this world were guided by a friend who introduced her to the art of transforming old pieces into something new and exciting. As she delved deeper into the world of woodworking, Karissa discovered her passion for building and creating.
Living on a mini-farm filled with goats and chickens, Karissa’s creativity knows no bounds. Through her business, The Sanding Blonde, she has carved out a niche for herself in the woodworking community, earning recognition for her unique style and craftsmanship. You can find Karissa showcasing her work on Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and, of course, in Brunswick, Georgia.
From Refinishing to Starting From Scratch
Karissa’s journey into woodworking began with refinishing furniture pieces, a skill she cultivated over the years. However, it wasn’t until a major life change—a divorce—that she decided to take the leap and turn her passion into a full-fledged career. With two young children to care for, Karissa embarked on a journey to build a business from the ground up.
Bouncing Back After a Major Life Change
The unexpected opportunity to build a coffee bar for her church marked a turning point in Karissa’s career. From that moment on, requests for her woodworking skills poured in, propelling her into the world of building and construction. Karissa’s ability to balance motherhood with a burgeoning business is a testament to her resilience and determination to succeed.
The Power of Self-Discovery
As Karissa navigated the world of woodworking, she drew inspiration from other women in the industry who paved the way for her. Accounts like Anne of All Trades and If You Give a Girl a Saw motivated her to push beyond her comfort zone and explore new avenues within the craft. With each project, Karissa discovered a newfound sense of self-awareness and empowerment.
Facing and Embracing Her Fears
One of the key lessons Karissa learned on her journey was the importance of facing and embracing her fears. Despite initial trepidation, she conquered new challenges and expanded her skills by investing in new tools and techniques. The router, in particular, became an indispensable tool in her arsenal, highlighting the transformative power of overcoming fear.
In Pursuit of Dream Projects
Karissa’s quest for growth led her to pursue two dream projects: a custom-built greenhouse and the restoration of a vintage Airstream. These ambitious endeavors challenged her skills and creativity, pushing her to new heights in her woodworking journey. Through dedication and hard work, Karissa proved to herself that she is truly unstoppable in the face of any obstacle.
Another Career Pivot
With the success of her Airstream restoration project, Karissa found herself embarking on a new business venture. The complexity and diversity of skills involved in refinishing an Airstream energized her passion for woodworking and fueled her desire for new challenges. This pivot in her career trajectory opened up exciting possibilities for the future.
Finding the Balance With Social Media
As Karissa’s career evolves, she continues to navigate the ever-changing landscape of social media. While Instagram remains her primary platform for showcasing her work, she recognizes the potential of TikTok and YouTube for sharing more in-depth content with her audience. Balancing her creative output with the demands of social media is a delicate dance that Karissa embraces with enthusiasm.
Life Lessons From Woodworking
Through her woodworking journey, Karissa has learned valuable life lessons that extend beyond the workshop. She emphasizes the importance of planning and preparation in achieving success, acknowledging that diligent groundwork is essential for a seamless project execution. The forgiving nature of wood allows for mistakes to be rectified, highlighting the resilience and adaptability required in both woodworking and life.
Tips for Women Who Aspire to Build, Too
Karissa’s journey serves as a beacon of inspiration for women who are eager to explore the world of woodworking. Her advice to aspiring female woodworkers is simple yet profound: embrace challenges that excite you and push your boundaries. By tackling projects that are both manageable yet challenging, women can embark on a fulfilling journey of self-discovery and empowerment within the craft.
Figuring Out What the Future Has in Store
As Karissa sets her sights on future projects and goals, her passion for woodworking remains unwavering. With a focus on Airstream renovations and the prospect of monetizing her social media presence, Karissa’s entrepreneurial spirit drives her towards new horizons. Her commitment to building a strong online community and expanding her creative endeavors underscores her dedication to growth and innovation.
In conclusion, Karissa Cross, The Sanding Blonde, exemplifies the unstoppable spirit of a self-taught woodworker who defies expectations and pushes boundaries in pursuit of her dreams. Through resilience, determination, and a relentless pursuit of self-discovery, Karissa’s journey serves as a testament to the transformative power of woodworking and the limitless possibilities that lie ahead for those who dare to dream.
