Resident Van Johnson learned his craft in woodworking shop class when he was 12-years-old. He began making birdboxes, tables and shelves. After 35 years in the commercial printing business, he decided it was time to switch gears back to this passion. He found that woodworking was something he could do nonstop, without even having to leave his house on Hovey Road. Johnson and his wife of 42 years, MaryAnn, renovated their basement into an approximately 600-square-foot commercial shop and the business was born.
“My shop is my happy place,” Johnson said. “Especially in the winter time, I find it very relaxing and get so immersed I can lose track of what day it is. I build up my inventory like a chipmunk with its acorns from January to March.”
Business has been booming for the past seven years. In winter months, the pair build up the shop’s inventory until they are brimming with more than 200 bowls and 300 cutting and charcuterie boards.
The Johnsons showcase their products at festivals and markets throughout the year. They will be present at the Greenfield Farmers Market in Middle Grove Park from 4-7 p.m. on Aug. 15, Aug. 22 and Sept. 19. Other upcoming shows include the Gore Mountain Harvest Festival Oct. 12 and 13, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and the Ballard Rd. Craft Fair on Oct. 19, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
“You really need to see our pieces in person,” Johnson said. “It’s not the same to view something online. Picking it up, touching it and feeling its weight makes all the difference.”
They make a large variety of artisan bowls, coasters, cutting/charcuterie boards, beverage tables, cheese-cutting boards, custom signs, corn hole boards and more. The bestselling item is the $75 beverage table that holds cans, bottles and wine glasses. Products can be custom ordered. Bowls cost approximately $25-$140, size and material pending. Charcuterie boards run from $80-$120 and can be engraved. Don’t hesitate to call them with your own ideas, they aim to please their customers. Products can be ordered by calling 518-893-2233, emailing orders@adirondackwoodproducts.net or even messaging via Facebook.
The artistry is evident in his process. A simple hand-turned bowl can take three to four months to produce. Johnson starts with a solid chunk of wood, creates a rough shape and lets it sit to dry for 2-3 months to make sure to relieve the pressure and eliminate any cracking. After drying, it is cut down to the proper 3/8 to 5/8- inch thickness and then sanded, oiled and sometimes waxed. Some of the items incorporate an epoxy resin to add color and the couple recently began using a CNC Router tool to engrave letters, words or images.
Wife MaryAnn grew up in Greenfield and has served as a town councilmember for the past 9 years and served as deputy clerk and then town clerk for a combined 30 years prior to that. She now spends time every day in the shop alongside her husband.
It is Adirondack Wood Product’s first year participating in the Greenfield Farmers Market.
“We love what is happening at the market, with so many crafters, food vendors, fresh produce, homemade baked goods all joining forces in one area,” Johnson said. “This town loves when people get together face-to-face and catch up.”
Stop by and see the Johnsons to view their products so you can support this local business with your gift giving.
