Mokuchi Studio Episode 3: Brian Holcombe
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Jul 11, 2023 Brian Holcombe, a professional woodworker from Princeton, specializes in Japanese-inspired furniture and architectural projects. He shares his unique journey from a sales career to full-time woodworking, influenced by iconic pieces and mentors. Brian discusses the balance of hand tools and machinery, and how it enhances his craftsmanship. His passion for shoji screens and traditional joinery is evident as he reflects on teaching and creating community connections. Plus, he highlights the joy of involving his son in their woodworking adventures.
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Clients Funded Creative Growth
- As commissions grew Brian added framed art and veneer work to his services to create steady income while building the studio.
- Early patrons often deferred design choices to him, enabling creative development.
Explain Craft Choices To Clients
- Explain choices like planed finishes to clients and let them defer to your expertise when appropriate.
- Educate clients briefly so they understand and accept the craft-driven decisions you propose.
FirstDibs Led To Custom Orders
- Listing designs on FirstDibs brought commission requests that required customization rather than pure off-the-shelf sales.
- Customers often asked size and detail adjustments, which led Brian to build bespoke versions of his designs.