About Mike McCleary
owner of McCleary Woodworks, Whitman MA
My story.
In 2014 I moved into a new home and wanted some home decor pieces and furniture to fill the new space. I wanted a couple large solid wood floating shelves that were rustic looking and very sturdy. I couldn’t find what I was looking for online or at a store. Everything was cheaply made or not solid enough to hold any weight. I decided to look on YouTube for a DIY video and found one that was exactly what I was looking for. I had no experience in woodworking. I went out and bought a cheap circular saw and a small nail gun and got to work.
The shelves came out great.
I was very proud of my work and gained the confidence to build some more items.
I built a couple ladder shelves, some benches, and some wine racks. People that came over really seemed to like the mudroom bench that I made so I decided to list one on a Facebook yard sale site. I got so many requests for orders. I hardly made any money but with the money I did make I went out and purchased more tools. My garage gym quickly turned into a garage woodshop. When someone asked me to build them a farm table I was hesitant but excited to give it a shot. It didn’t come out perfect and it wasn’t the best construction but the customer loved it and I was hooked.
I knew that’s what I wanted to focus on. The idea of finishing a piece of furniture and knowing this is where their family would gather made it special. I got addicted to learning everything I could about making tables. I saw a table from another maker in Florida. It was a big curvy pedestal trestle table and I just loved the design. I never saw anything else like it before.
I wanted to focus my work on this type of furniture. There was a lot of trial and error in making my first table with this design but eventually I got it. I listed some for sale and it took off. I noticed people loved the unique look. Everything I make is 100% handmade by me in my shop with solid locally sourced hardwood. I feel very lucky to be able to do what I love and can’t wait to make you your dream table.
Can’t find what you’re looking for?
I can build custom tables, benches, bar tops and more. Be sure to reach out with any specific requests.
“If anyone is looking to get a table this guy is a magician and local”
— Jason Minassian