About Us
From passion to business
The Maple Grain - the name
The name The Maple Grain is rooted in both my craft and my hometown. I grew up in Maple Lake, Minnesota, a place that’s still home to me today. “Maple” is a nod to the town that shaped me as well as the beautiful hardwood I often use in my work. “Grain” reflects the natural patterns found in wood, symbolizing both the materials I work with and the uniqueness of every piece I create. Together, the name blends where I’m from with what I love to do — creating handcrafted pieces that feel personal, lasting, and true to their roots.
The day to day
While my professional background is in the medical device industry, where I’ve built a career leading teams and driving quality as a Senior Quality Manager, woodworking has always been my true passion. The precision and attention to detail I apply in my day job naturally carry over into every project I create in the shop. This business is more than a creative outlet, it’s a way to share something meaningful, crafted by hand and built with purpose. I’m also a husband and proud dad to two young daughters, and everything I create is rooted in the same values I bring to my family - care, intention, and a whole lot of heart.
The future
My background in education laid the foundation for the creative side of my craft. While earning my undergraduate degree at Bemidji State University, I gravitated toward engineering and design courses, particularly those focused on SolidWorks and AutoCAD. The university’s open lab featured an Epilog laser engraver available for student use, and I quickly found myself drawn to it. I spent countless hours experimenting, eventually creating custom pieces like a laser-etched Bemidji-branded clock and other personal projects. That experience stuck with me, and years later, I’ve come full circle—wondering why I’ve been buying custom wall décor, wedding signs, last name pieces, and sports memorabilia when I already have the skills to create them myself...and soon to poses the tools. Soon, I’ll be bringing this side of the business to life, offering custom laser-etched pieces designed with the same creativity and craftsmanship I first discovered back in that college lab.
Join Our Journey
Get Updates on Our New Services
We’re excited to announce that soon, we’ll be offering laser etching services to personalize your décor and gifts. Stay connected with us as we continue to grow.
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