Shop Talk Live · 20 May 2022 · 1h 08m
Nancy Hiller and Mike Farrington, professional woodworkers and authors, discuss the realities of running a custom woodworking business, including managing client expectations, pricing strategies, and the importance of clear communication. They detail their distinct contract processes—Hiller’s detailed multi-phase agreements versus Farrington’s simpler proposals—and emphasize that presenting oneself professionally is key to selling high-end work. The conversation covers how to handle difficult client requests, such as painting walnut white, and the necessity of building a network of trusted referrals to sustain a diverse portfolio of built-ins and freestanding furniture.
early-stage companies
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Jimmy Diresta, Bob Clagett, and David Picciuto discuss major life and business updates, including Diresta buying a commercial building to house his office and production, Clagett completing a large post-and-beam barn, and Picciuto planning a costly garage expansion. They also cover Clagett's acquisition of a massive 4-foot throat railway bandsaw, the success of Workbench Con, and the technical details of finishing wood and metal projects.
Jimmy Diresta, Bob Clagett, and David Picciuto discuss the tension between perfection and profit in their maker businesses. Jimmy Diresta details a commission for a Brompton Cafe sign where he chose to cut 14-gauge steel with a bandsaw instead of a water jet to meet a tight deadline, learning new welding and filing techniques in the process. Bob Clagett shares his strategy of pricing by the day rather than the hour and explains why he avoids commission work to maintain creative control, while David Picciuto discusses the realities of selling handmade goods at flea markets and the importance of setting client expectations regarding durability.
Jimmy Diresta, Bob Clagett, and David Picciuto discuss the business of maker content, focusing on the tension between 'exposure' and actual revenue. Bob Clagett details his work creating large epoxy resin stained-glass art and his strategy for protecting content, while David Picciuto shares his experience building a mobile workshop trailer using walnut plywood due to rising material costs. The hosts debate the value of giving away content to networks, with Bob advocating for paid licensing and Jimmy highlighting the calculated risks of projects like a custom stool for Shaquille O'Neal.
Jimmy Diresta, Bob Clagett, and David Picciuto discuss the challenges of saying 'no' to friends, family, and businesses requesting free custom work or content usage. They share strategies for setting boundaries, such as quoting full day rates to deter non-serious requests, refusing to let others repurpose their videos without control, and prioritizing projects that align with their personal goals. The conversation also covers the practicalities of moving workshops, including layout planning, lighting for filming, and the emotional aspects of leaving established spaces.
Jimmy Diresta, Bob Clagett, and David Picciuto discuss their recent projects, including Diresta's molding and casting experiments with Alumilite and Smooth-On, Picciuto's CNC work and wedding rings, and Clagett's one-board challenge. A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to the complexities of business insurance, with Diresta and Clagett sharing frustrations over rising premiums, coverage gaps, and bureaucratic hurdles when dealing with equipment loans and state regulations. The hosts also recommend resources like the Essential Craftsman YouTube channel and discuss the importance of high-quality educational content from manufacturers.
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