Crafting dreams: A woodworker’s journey from hobby to artistry
Photos by Jennifer Sherwood
In the realm of woodworking, each creation is a masterpiece; a symphony of skill, passion and creativity. One artisan who has carved his unique niche in this world is Hartselle native Matt Holmes, a self-taught craftsman whose journey began in 2015 as little more than a hobby.
“I didn’t care for our dining table,” Matt confesses, reflecting on the catalyst for his woodworking journey. In 2015, he embarked on a mission to build a piece that not only boasted superior quality but also resonated with his personal taste. What started as a dissatisfaction with furniture evolved into a full-blown passion for craftsmanship.
“I have always been a creative person,” Matt shares, tracing his roots back to childhood. A love for creating things fueled his artistic endeavors, making woodworking a natural progression. With no formal background in carpentry, Matt’s journey was a trial by fire. Armed with an art background and an insatiable curiosity, he delved into the craft, learning through hands-on experiences and online tutorials.
Matt’s portfolio showcases a diverse array of furniture, ranging from tables made of wood or wood/epoxy mix to desks, cutting and charcuterie boards and more. His specialty, however, lies in tables and cutting boards, with a particular fondness for crafting custom epoxy tables where he can unleash his creativity.
“The hardest project I’ve taken on was a custom American Flag table,” Matt shares. Designed for The Shawn Ryan Show, this project pushed him to new heights. Ensuring the flag details were proportional to a real flag and infusing a unique design challenged his skills and creativity. I wanted to make sure that it was really unique since I had free reign on the design,” he added.
Matt’s dedication to his craft is evident in the time he invests in each project. Allotting a month for completion, he allows for contingencies such as special wood orders and the unpredictable nature of life. This approach, he said, ensures that every piece bears the mark of meticulous craftsmanship.
Beyond his standard repertoire, Matt gladly takes on custom projects. From signs and boards of all kinds to golf putter heads and kitchen island tops, his versatility knows no bounds.
While some dream of storefronts and brick-and-mortar establishments, Matt’s woodworking shop on his home property is his haven; a space where creativity flows, sawdust settles and dreams take shape. It not only serves as the birthplace of his creations but also reflects the essence of his craft—an intimate and personal experience for both the artisan and the admirer.
For those captivated by Matt’s craftsmanship, reaching out is just a click away. His website, www.mh-creations.com, serves as a portal to his world of woodworking wonders. Alternatively, inquiries can be directed to his email at holmesmatt68@gmail.com.
In Matt Holmes’ hands, wood transcends its form, becoming a canvas for creativity, dedication and the pure joy of bringing dreams to life.
