The Story

We met during the summer of 2000 while working together at the Texas Shakespeare Festival as a carpenter and an actress.  After getting married, we moved to Chicago to pursue careers in the theater.  We quickly began building, rigging, teaching and performing all over the city.

Our son Owen was born in the summer of 2008.  As new parents with many commitments and fresh perspectives, we decided to change our artistic pursuits.  After nearly thirteen years of building scenery, John longed to build something that wouldn’t be thrown away after two months of use.  With JRR Woodworks, we hope to model to our son the joys of working with your hands and the benefits that come from pursuing a craft.

JRR Woodworks was borne with the intention to design children’s furniture of natural materials.  As artists and parents, we value the grounding that a wooden piece can bring to a child’s increasingly plastic world.  Our children’s pieces are available for purchase on our etsy website.

For a more adult look, check out our portfolio section.  John has built furniture ranging from desks to shelving units and would be happy to discuss a piece from your imagination that will fit your needs.  Please join the mailing list or request a consultation.

Thank you for supporting small business!
-John and Sara