Erika Torres. Mom. Woodworker. Dreamer.

Woodworking has been a part of my life since I was 12 years old (2000) in middle school shop class. I made a step stool and a small water pump lamp. Projects that are still used to this day.

Since that first class, woodworking became part of who I am. I went through the rest of primary education taking as many shop classes as they would allow and struggled find a way to continue my education in woodworking. During this time I met and married my husband who jumped right into step with me in pursuing my dream of woodworking. After our 3rd child, while living in Portland, Oregon I found Gary Rogowski (owner of The Northwest Woodworking Studio) and signed up for his school. During this time I found myself pregnant with our 4th. The challenge of being pregnant and having intense schooling was something I didn’t know I could do. But I did. In the 2nd year I had a nursing newborn and still had a full year of school to go. I am thankful for my patient mentor during this time and I feel I surprised him and myself with the projects I was able to create and contribute.

After graduating I have made multiple pieces for customers and for my own home. I have been interview with Fine Woodworking podcast with Ben Strano. I have built custom pieces for SawStop. I also taught alongside Gary Martin for Portland State University helping to introduce beginners to this wonderful craft.

Some projects really tested me with time crunches but also with design. I found a lot of joy working with all sorts of wood materials and getting my hands busy. My shop is a hybrid shop, both power tools and hand tools have found their place here and work side by side in harmony. I have worked with exotics and locally sourced lumber shaping them into furniture that will last several lifetimes. Wood furniture created from small shops, such as mine, find their place through the generations, loved by each owner. Knowing that it will fit into any home and any style, because this was made for you. Traditional joinery and quality materials means that your furniture will continue to be loved through the years, through moves and life changes.

Most recently my husband had a new career opportunity that brought us from the west coast over to the east coast landing us in Maine. From one coast to the other. With the challenges that such a big move have on a family, my shop is now up and going again and I cannot wait to work with you.