On Friday, October 4, and Saturday October 5, 2013, woodworkers, new and experienced, joined us for two days of sharing techniques and discussing new technologies with their peers and top industry experts such as award-winning Mike Belzowski, sharing his expertise in wood bending. We want to extend a big thank you to all who were able to join us for great conversations.

Below are some photo highlights from the show...

Mike stays involved thru project completion, to achieve clients’ vision.

Raised near LaPorte, Indiana, Mike Belzowski had a unique passion early on for creating objects from wood. By the time he turned three, Mike had acquired many tools from his first mentor, his grandfather. Mike’s grandfather also passed along much knowledge and insight about tools and how they help complete the vision of an original design.

As a young man, Mike continued to hone his skills in woodworking and design. High school industrial arts programs helped channel this interest. He later attended Purdue University, graduating with a degree in Building Trades and Construction Management. Mike also drew inspiration from Roy Underhill and David Marks. In addition, he has attended seminars offered by other masters of the woodworking profession and won the Master’s Award from the Marc Adams School of Woodworking. These masters – from Frank Klauz and Sam Maloff to Marc Adams and Michael Fortune – quickly became Mike’s new mentors.
Mike started his own carpentry business in LaPorte in 1999. He blended his knowledge of woodworking and design to create unique living spaces unlike others in the trade. Over the years, Mike has employed as many as three associates. Most importantly, his wife Nora has always been Mike’s partner in their business. As the business grows, Mike has become more involved in the entire process, from design through project completion, helping his clients complete their vision.

We know exactly how Mike’s clients feel. He has shared his expertise by hosting seminars at our Wood Expo in Charlotte, Woodworking Showcase in South Bend, and Wood Fair in Grand Rapids. These programs clearly show Mike’s passion for shaping wood and completing the original design − and his ability to be a mentor in his own right.