Finding My Place in the Woodworking World

There are moments in life that remind you exactly why you started.

For me, one of those moments happened at Central Connecticut Woodturners.

When I first began working with wood, I had no idea how much this craft would become part of who I am. What started as curiosity slowly became confidence. Then it became passion. Then it became Sassy’s Quills.

But getting there was not instant.

I had to learn the tools. I had to make mistakes. I had to ask questions. I had to ruin pieces, start over, sand again, measure again, and remind myself that every maker begins somewhere.

One of the most meaningful parts of that journey has been the community.

At Central Connecticut Woodturners, I found more than a place to learn. I found people who understood the patience, precision, and heart that goes into this work. I found encouragement. I found shared knowledge. I found a space where beginners and experienced woodworkers could stand side by side and simply create.

That is also where I was introduced to pen turning through Woodcraft’s Turning for Troops program. The idea that something handmade could become a message of gratitude for a veteran made the experience even more meaningful.

A pen may seem small, but when it is made by hand, with care, intention, and purpose, it becomes something much bigger.

Over time, I went from learning to helping others learn. One of my favorite experiences was teaching a young maker named Oliver, who was only twelve years old. Watching someone that young focus, learn, and light up when their piece started to take shape reminded me how powerful this craft really is.

Woodworking teaches patience.

It teaches problem solving.

It teaches you to slow down, trust your hands, and respect the material in front of you.

Every piece of wood has its own personality. The grain, the texture, the imperfections, the way it responds to a tool. You cannot force it to become something it is not. You have to work with it.

Maybe that is why I love it so much.

Sassy’s Quills was built from that same spirit. A little trial. A little grit. A lot of learning. And plenty of sass along the way.

Being part of the woodworking world has shown me that creativity does not have to be perfect to be meaningful. Sometimes the best pieces come from the lessons you did not expect to learn.

And sometimes, the most beautiful part of the process is not just what you make.

It is the people you meet.

The community you find.

And the confidence you build every time you walk back into the shop and begin again.

That is what woodworking has given me.

And that is what I hope Sassy’s Quills continues to share.