March 26, 2014
A&K Woodworking & Design
While in Austin we had the pleasure of stopping by the A&K Woodworking and Design studio. Amanda and Khiem teamed up with The Maker Co-op at our Renegade Craft Fair: SXSW Edition this year. We were so excited to talk to Amanda and Khiem in person and see where their incredible wood furniture and accessories were created.
A&K was started in April 2013 after we moved from Boston, MA to Austin, TX. We both graduated from the Massachusetts College of Art and Design where we studied woodworking and photography. We moved to Austin because it is a place full of opportunities for artists. The people who live in this beautiful city know the importance of supporting the arts and local businesses. We are inspired by the architecture around us and the mix of mid-century modern and Japanese design.
Our pieces are handcrafted with great attention to detail. We believe in using oils and finishes that protect the wood while enhancing the natural beauty. Quality is our focus, we strive to make pieces that will last life times.
When it comes to our process it definitely varies a bit between custom furniture for clients and our own designs. In many cases we begin by creating our design, planning costs, taking a trip to the lumber yard, milling the wood, and finally hand-crafting the piece. A lot of time is spent planning the piece and its construction before beginning.
Khiem is working for A&K full-time while Amanda is working for both A&K and has a small part-time job on the side. We currently sell smaller home goods such as cutting boards, mini lanterns, and coasters in addition to our larger furniture pieces.
A few tips and suggestions for potential makers would be to keep making! It’s important to continue practicing your craft. In addition to making, be sure to document your work! Having your work documented helps to show potential clients what you have been creating. Join groups! For us, joining The Maker Co-op here in Austin, TX, helped us to have a group of artists who are in the same boat as us. It is important to have people to turn to who will help you as you embark on your small business journey.
Thank you, Amanda and Khiem, for letting the Renegade Craft Gang tour your amazing workshop! Be sure to check out The Maker Co-op as well as A&K Woodworking and Design, plus their blog, facebook, twitter and instagram!