It all started during the pandemic. Like many, I found myself spending a lot more time at home. One day, while sitting on my old wooden deck, I got up, and my foot went straight through a rotting board. That was the moment I decided the deck needed to be fixed. Without much experience, I began tearing off the old boards—a project that quickly became a mix of frustration, learning, and moments of, “What am I doing?” But when the remodel was complete, I realized something: I genuinely enjoyed working with wood.
Fast forward to Christmas 2023. I had a bright idea—to build my daughters a dollhouse each, something special and made with love. Once again, the project came with its fair share of challenges and learning curves. But when Christmas morning arrived, and I saw their smiles light up as they opened their gifts, it made all the effort worth it.
From that point on, woodworking became more than just a hobby. I started taking on small projects around the house, like building a coffee table that doubled as a kids’ table during holiday gatherings.
Each project taught me something new and deepened my appreciation for creating functional, lasting pieces.
That journey led me to create Gentle Grain Workshop. I discovered that I could craft items that not only solve everyday needs but also bring joy and comfort to people for years to come. Gentle Grain Workshop is built on a love for woodworking, a passion for learning, and a desire to make things that matter.
Those same skills — the ones I first used building a coffee table and a couple of dollhouses — are what go into the bars, live-edge tables, and one-of-a-kind furniture pieces I build for clients today. Cutting boards are still a big part of what I make, but if you can picture it in wood, I want to build it.
Based in South Plainfield, NJ, I ship across the United States and welcome local drop-off for reconditioning services.
Ready to see what I can build for you?
What customers say
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I purchased a beautiful cutting board from Gentle Grain Workshop! I couldn’t be happier. It cleans up well, looks fantastic and is very well made! I highly... read more 
Lori
September 25, 2025 Purchased a custom cutting board for my wife and was incredibly satisfied with the result. Amazing craftsmanship and super easy to upkeep. Will definitely be a return customer 
Red
September 25, 2025 I asked Nick to make me a charcuterie board with slots! On point! I let him be his creative self and I couldn’t be more happier!... read more 
April
December 19, 2025 - I saw Nick’s cutting boards & asked if he could build a bar. So he built that bar & it’s fabulous! The top is made from a slice of a... read more
Jodi
February 21, 2026
