As seasons change so do the projects one is working on. Rolling into spring often means more outdoor creations. How can you adapt as a woodworker? Should you adapt?
Seasonality affects many industries and woodworking is no exception. Fall sometimes generates the buzz for fire pit chairs or accessories and storage solutions. Winter often means holiday projects and more crafts. Spring means renewal and plant projects (planters and flower boxes). Summer is mixed but benches and Adirondack chairs seem to always be popular.
As a woodworker there are times that your project and build list may be affected by seasonality as I noted above. This certainly isn’t the case for everyone or folks that strictly make indoor furniture or other specifics. How can you adapt or prepare for seasonal changes if you’re part time or a hobbyist? Below are a few of my thoughts and tips.
GO WITH THE FLOW – Trends in woodworking ebb and flow. Don’t try to always go against the current with your designs and projects. Yes there’s absolutely something to be said about creativity and uniqueness, but burning out is a whole different un-fun way to work on projects. Instead, take a look at what others are making. Find simple builds to get started with and see if it’s something you enjoy making.
STAY AHEAD OF THE CURVE – The four seasons are pretty much built in. We know that fall brings cooler outdoor activities (ie. fire pits), winter brings the holidays (ie. gifts & crafts), spring brings gardening (ie. planters and flower boxes) and summer is often outdoor activities (ie. patio chairs & charcuterie serving boards for parties).
Knowing this pattern can help you anticipate your project list. As you near the end of winter, perhaps start thinking about building flower boxes for inventory. As summer closes maybe think about getting a jump on the holiday season builds.
START SLOW & SCALE UP – I always advocate for starting slow and smaller with projects. Look for (or create) simple project plans that are budget AND time friendly. Make a few things and if it’s something you enjoy then focus on scaling up or refining your process. Maybe you can get more creative or doing things that are a bit fancier if the mood strikes you. “Go Slow So You Know”
What are your adaptations to seasonality? What favorite “go-to” projects or builds do you work on?