The Carpenter – My Father and His Passion for Woodworking.

In my fondest memories, my father always appeared with his petite figure, calloused yet skillful hands, and bright eyes as he spoke about his passion for woodworking. My father is a skilled carpenter, but more than that, he is a true artisan who has dedicated his life to his love for wood since childhood.

A Childhood Tied to Wood

My father was born into a poor family in a rural village where wood was the most familiar material. As a child, he was fascinated by the leftover pieces of wood scattered around the house. In his tiny hands, these scraps were not just lifeless chunks but became toys, small boats floating along the river, or miniature houses built in his childhood games.

He often recounted that his first attempt at "carving" happened when he was just eight years old. One day, he borrowed a utility knife from my grandfather to shape a small piece of wood into a bird. Although the product was rough, the joy of creating something with his own hands made him realize that wood was not just a material but a way to express creativity and dreams.

The Turning Point Towards Carpentry

As he grew older, my father often followed my grandfather into the forest to chop firewood and saw timber. Instead of feeling burdened, he found joy in touching each tree trunk, smelling the scent of resin, and listening to the rustling of leaves in the wind. At the age of 15, he decided to apprentice with a skilled carpenter in the village.

At first, he was assigned simple tasks like cutting wood or sanding surfaces. However, his eagerness to learn drove him to stay late in the workshop, observing every step of the process and trying his hand at crafting whenever possible.

He recalled the excitement of completing his first wooden chair. Though flawed, it represented his initial efforts and determination in the craft. From then on, he began creating increasingly intricate products, from small tables and wardrobes to decorative items with complex patterns.

The Range of My Father’s Creations

My father’s workshop became a place of wonder as his skill and creativity grew. Over the years, he crafted a wide range of products that not only served practical purposes but also brought beauty and warmth to homes.

Tables and Chairs: My father specialized in making dining tables and chairs that were not only sturdy but also elegant, featuring natural wood grain patterns. He often designed matching sets that added a sense of harmony to the room.

Beds and Wardrobes: From simple single beds to intricately designed four-poster beds, his creations always emphasized comfort and durability. His wardrobes, made from solid wood, were built to last for generations, with detailed carvings on the doors and spacious interiors.

Storage Cabinets and Shelves: My father loved making cabinets and bookshelves that were both functional and decorative. Many of his shelves featured unique designs, like curved edges or hidden compartments, which amazed his clients.

Small Houses and Gazebos: One of his most ambitious projects was crafting small wooden houses or gazebos for gardens. These structures were built with meticulous attention to detail, from the perfectly aligned planks to the roof beams that created a cozy, natural ambiance.

Custom Items: My father took great pride in creating custom pieces like altars, tea tables, or wooden toys. He loved taking on unique requests, as they challenged his skills and allowed him to bring his clients’ visions to life.

A Lifelong Passion for Wood

What I admire most about my father is his endless passion for woodworking. Despite life's many challenges, he never gave up his craft. Every day, he devoted hours to exploring and designing new models. "Wood is a living material," he often said. "Each grain tells a story, and it's the carpenter's job to uncover it."

He had a special fondness for using recycled wood. To him, every old piece of wood carried memories, and recycling them was a way to continue their journey. From discarded planks, he could craft storage boxes, picture frames, or even small gifts for loved ones.

Spreading Love for Nature Through Wooden Products

My father pursued woodworking not only out of passion but also to promote the message of environmental protection. He always believed that wooden products are not only beautiful but also environmentally friendly. “Plastic is cheap, but every plastic item burdens the Earth,” he would say. “Wood is different; it’s a gift from nature, and by using wood, we help maintain the planet’s balance.”

The products he made—whether a chair, a dining table, or small household items—always carried a message: live in harmony with nature. He constantly encouraged people to choose wooden items over plastic, not just for their superior quality but also for a cleaner, greener planet.

My Pride

To me, my father is not just a carpenter but also my greatest inspiration. He taught me to cherish simplicity, appreciate meticulousness, and always nurture a passion for what I do.

Looking back on my father’s journey, I feel incredibly proud. From a poor boy fascinated by wood to a dedicated carpenter, he has not only created beautiful products but also instilled in me a love for nature and an awareness of protecting the environment.

If there’s one thing I’d like to share with everyone, it’s to try incorporating wooden items into your life. Not only are they durable and beautiful, but they are also a way to contribute to the Earth’s protection—just like my father has done throughout his life. 🌳