Hi, I’m Evan Markham, the woodworker behind WoodworkInsights.com.
This site is where I share everything I’ve learned from more than two decades of working with wood, tools, and sawdust-covered shop floors.

I grew up in a small town in the Midwest where my first “projects” were rough, uneven birdhouses nailed together in my dad’s garage. That garage workshop became the place where I learned the value of patience, safe tool handling, and the simple satisfaction of building something with my own hands. Over the years I turned that childhood hobby into a lifelong passion.

My Background in Woodworking

I’ve spent over 20 years working on woodworking projects of all sizes:

• Handmade furniture
• Outdoor builds like pergolas, planter boxes, and benches
• Custom shelving and storage
• Home improvement projects
• Restoration and refinishing
• Tool testing, comparisons, and maintenance

During this time, I’ve built up practical skills that come from real-world experience. I’ve worked with hardwoods, softwoods, reclaimed lumber, and specialty materials, and I’ve made every mistake you can imagine. Every lesson I’ve learned is reflected in the articles and guides you’ll find here.

Professional & Collaborative Experience

I’ve worked with or contributed to woodworking communities, DIY groups, small local contractors, and hobbyist clubs over the years. Some of my most meaningful collaborations include:

• Volunteering with local trade workshops to help teach basic tool safety
• Partnering with small community makerspaces on beginner classes
• Working alongside independent carpenters on larger structural builds
• Participating in small woodworking groups that share tool tips and project ideas

These experiences shaped how I write. I focus on practical, honest, tested advice – the kind that comes from actually doing the work.

Why I Started Woodwork Insights

I created WoodworkInsights.com because I wanted a place where everyday woodworkers could find:

• Clear, realistic project guides
• Straightforward tool advice
• Honest opinions based on hands-on experience
• Safety-minded instructions
• Inspiration for builds of all sizes

You won’t find perfect showroom photos here. The content is based on real builds, real workshops, and real tools. That’s the kind of woodworking site I always wanted but rarely found.

My Skills and Areas of Knowledge

Over the years I’ve developed skills across many woodworking areas:

• Joinery basics
• Finishing techniques
• Project planning
• Hand tools and power tools
• Lumber selection and grading
• Workshop setup and organization
• Tool care, sharpening, and maintenance
• Outdoor woodworking and weatherproofing

I continue learning every day, because woodworking is one of those crafts where you can never truly know everything.

Courses, Learning, and Ongoing Education

I’ve taken multiple courses and attended workshops in areas like:

• Furniture finishing
• Router and joinery skills
• CNC basics
• Beginner cabinetmaking
• Woodturning techniques

I also read woodworking publications regularly and test new tools whenever possible.

How to Contact Me

If you have any questions, suggestions, or want to collaborate, you can reach me at:

[email protected]

I read every message and appreciate hearing from readers who share a love for woodworking.