Wood Craftsman

Wood craftsmen create drawings, images, and 3D mockups of wood furnishings and cabinetry. In large companies, designers work directly with customers or with marketing teams to create a general design, then they work with engineers and manufacturers to continue working out how to put the piece together. In a smaller business, wood craftsmen do it all, design, engineer and manufacture. Wood craftsmen need to be able to visualize what somebody wants and turn it into reality.

• • Can tolerate conditions of a wood shop environment
  • Creative
  • Insightful
  • Able to learn and adapt

Median $66,000: $42,000 – $100,000

+2%

High School diploma

1-2 or 4-year degree in furniture design, industrial design, interior design or related field

4-year degree will qualify them for membership to IIDA and ASID – some jobs require

• • Design
  • Woodworking
  • Math
  • Physics
  • Photoshop/Graphics

Wood craftsmen often work in both offices and shops. They often need to travel to attend meetings. Craftsmen benefit from attending conferences and workshops to continue learning about design and trends within the field.

• • Use draft and design tools like AutoCAD, CET, CAP Studio
  • Use woodworking tools
  • Design, plan, cut, sand, construct and finish projects
  • Pay attention to detail
  • Communicate and collaborate effectively
  • Problem Solve

• • Know about and be able to identify different types of wood
  • Draw and sketch furniture and other designs
  • Work with clients and manage projects
  • Prepare multiple designs for each piece
  • Research and recommend new styles
  • Work with engineers and manufacturers
  • Make and maintain good relationships

North Central Technical College: Furniture Design and Craftsmanship Certificate

US Bureau of Labor Statistics: Industrial Designers : Occupational Outlook Handbook

US Bureau of Labor Statistics: Woodworker : Occupational Outlook Handbook