Meet Local Furniture Maker - Jason Van
We're excited to feature local furniture maker Jason Van, owner of Rise and Pine Woodworks, remind you of our incredible giveaway, and highlight the impact of creative collaboration. Partnering with talented local makers like Jason isn’t just inspiring—it’s a vital part of cultivating a thriving, connected community.
How did you first get into making furniture?
When COVID hit, I was still a full-time accountant and looking for a creative outlet. Working from home freed up some time so one day I decided to build a coffee table for our home with the tools I had. My wife liked it so much that she told me I should put an ad on Marketplace. Slowly, interest in my furniture increased and now it's grown into a collection of furniture that I believe stands out from anything else on the market today. I decided to take a chance and quit my corporate job to put all my time and energy into growing my business.
How do your ideas come to life?
My process usually starts with a sketch whether it’s my idea or a request from a client. I then determine what types of wood are appropriate for the finish the client is looking for, what tools I'm going to use and what joinery methods are going to be most efficient. I'll also ask myself how it will look in my own living room. I'm a bit of a perfectionist but I think it's necessary with fine woodworking.
Why is collaborating with Moffatt Grace Design so important?
From the beginning, Victoria has always supported small businesses, whether it be through purchasing from small shops or referring them to her clients. It's important for small businesses to continue to support each other so we can all benefit from each other, use each other's resources and be successful in this unpredictable market.
Tell us about one of your favourite projects.
The coffee table I made for a mutual client of ours and MGD was a great one. Victoria asked me if the design could be done and I took a few days to get back to her. I had to make a little mockup version of it first to make sure the real one would come together perfectly. I used all the tricks and techniques I've learned since I started woodworking to get it done. The design included fluted aprons and a base that had miters and tapers. It was definitely a piece that showcased how I’ve levelled up my skills.
How would you describe your style and how has it evolved?
My style is a very clean aesthetic. It can fit in many different styles of homes and decor. Every piece of material that goes into the build is hand picked by me so I can ensure the final piece has uniformity in colour. As the business has evolved, I’ve wanted to deliver a higher quality product, so we’ve naturally become pickier with the material we use in the final product.
The Ultimate Designer Entryway Home Giveaway
Three talented creators have joined forces to offer an incredible prize package valued at over $2,800. Rise & Pine Woodworks, Lori Dedato Collection and Moffatt Grace Design bring you The Ultimate Designer Entryway Home Giveaway!
What’s included: A custom-made console by Rise & Pine Woodworks, one piece of original art work and one framed print by the Lori Dedato Collection and a vase, stems, two candle holders with candlesticks, a book stack, small dish and a lamp from Moffatt Grace Design. A value of over $2,800.
