Q10: The Cabinet Maker

The Cabinet Maker, LLC
9401 S. 13th St. Suite 200, Oak Creek, Wis.
John Phillips
(414) 238-7766
thecabinetmakerwi.com
john@thecabinetmakerwi.com

1. What kind of cabinets do you make with what sorts of materials?

Custom designed and built kitchen and bathroom cabinetry. The materials vary widely depending on customer desires. We work with common woods like red oak to exotics like Brazilian cherry. We also work with reclaimed materials as well as sustainable materials such as bamboo.

2. Do you only make cabinets? What spectrum of services do you provide?

We design and fabricate bars, built-in pieces like bookcases, fireplace mantels, and furniture from coffee and end tables to entertainment centers. We are also working on designs with retractable lift systems for large screen televisions that will lower the screen into a cabinet so it is out of the way when not in use.

3. How did you learn your craft?

Hanging out in my dad’s workshop as a kid and watching him work and shop classes in middle and high school. Many years of watching The New Yankee Workshop and a lot of trial and error learning about what not to do when building something. Various woodworking seminars and visiting many larger cabinet shops around the country and learning from their operations. Being an active member in the Cabinet Makers Association (CMA) has been a huge help for the business side.

4. What made you decide to make a career and business in woodworking?

I have been an avid woodworker for many years and always felt it would be impossible to pursue this passion and be profitable. After approximately 17 years in the mortgage business I realized I needed to do something more tangible and wanted to be able to use my creativity. Prior to starting The Cabinet Maker, officially in 2006, I was building rec room bars for friends and it just seemed to be a natural fit to make this a full-time business.

5. Do your customers know what they want? Do they make drawings for you? Show you photos? Do you work with their designer or decorator?

We are flexible to any situation. We can start from “I need a change” through “I have plans drawn-up.” I work directly with the consumer and with other professionals, including designers and architects, who have a plan in mind. We start out by making a list of likes and dislikes and develop a plan from there. Visuals from magazines or other sources help get us started.

6. What sustainable materials or practices do you utilize?

We offer sustainable product options like FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) materials, bamboo, and beech, and we work with reclaimed materials as well as manufactured products. Our finishing process can be completed with low environmental impact or low VOC (volatile organic compound) materials. We also offer many options in waterborne finishes. Almost all of our cutting boards are made using recycled materials from prior jobs.

7. What are your favorite woods to work with? Why?

Cherry is one of my favorite woods because it machines well and has a beautiful grain. We are starting to work with German beech because of its versatility in machining and finishing. It has the ability to be finished to look like almost any wood.

8. How has your business changed over time?

Last year we rolled out our Express Cabinets line. This line allows us to help homeowners upgrade their kitchens and baths on a smaller budget. Our consultation and design process is the same for both product lines. We are opening a new showroom this month.

9. Do you think public middle and high school students are still being exposed to woodworking through shop classes? Do you think they’re still being introduced to your craft/trade as a possible vocation?

There is concern in the industry about a shortage of real craftsmanship being passed on to the next generation. Wood Links (woodlinks.com/USA/home.html) is a great program that is promoted through the manufacturing industry. It works with local high schools by outlining curriculum and sponsoring intern programs.

10. What advice would you give those who are considering purchasing custom cabinetry?

Custom cabinets and any home renovation can be a major investment. You will be looking at the finished project for a long time. It is critical that you choose the right contractor, someone you can trust, who listens to your needs, and who will deliver what is promised. They should also have the contacts with other reputable local contractors for a seamless job. Taking the time to plan properly at the beginning of the job saves money in the long run and ensures that communication and expectations from all parties are met.