JK Chicago

student "Quite frankly, I think Jeff's studio is one of the best woodworking resources in Chicago. I moved here from North Carolina, where I had my original training in woodworking and furniture design. In the nearly two years I've been here, I've researched a number of shops and/or furniture classes. Jeff's knowledge and enthusiasm, his course offerings, and his fantastic shop setup are a great combination. The equipment is up to date and well-maintained, and he's great about helping when needed."
- James Hyatt, Client Services Director, mStoner Inc.

student "Since high school, I've wanted to take a woodworking class. My first piece is completed - mission accomplished! At JK Chicago, you'll dispel the fear or lack of knowledge in woodworking. You'll gain the confidence in using tools and techniques. Every detail is important: measuring, wood cuts, assembly, and finishing. All said and done, I felt the sense of accomplishment. Now, I'm ready to start the next piece."
- Ricardo Miranda, Restaurateur, Café 28

student "I am the lead designer at a boutique web development company. The majority of my time is spent sitting in front of a computer. But on Tuesdays, I make my way over to JK Chicago, where no computers are in sight, and I learn the art of woodworking. It's a rewarding process and I highly recommend it! Jeff's Beginner Woodworking Class is a great introduction to getting a feel for the equipment and overcoming any fears of power tools you may have. Be prepared to attend all classes, to stay focused and on task. You will have a beautiful table by the end of the session to showcase to all who inquire, and believe me, they will inquire."
- Catherine Larson

student "This was my first woodshop class. At JK, you don't just make furniture; you create a functional work of art. There is a total appreciation for craftsmanship and the art of woodworking. It is a comprehensive program where you learn all aspects of making a quality product. The philosophy is to create enduring pieces that will last a lifetime. The experience will leave you with a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction. Oh, and did I mention how much fun you will have? Jeff and his staff are hands-on and anxious to answer any questions. Very encouraging and positive environment. JK is a great place with great people. Give it a try, you'll love it."
- Jay Sharp, Internet Entrepreneur/Investment Professional

student "Jeff's independent study workshop has been fantastic. It's the kind of thing I searched for in Chicago for years - a great woodshop with great equipment, flexible class hours, and an experienced teacher there to help me out when I needed it. With Jeff's guidance I'm building a chair I couldn't have dreamed of building on my own. I plan on continuing to take the independent study workshop until Jeff turns me away."
- Rick Bell, Internet Marketing Manager

student "You're gonna love it," is what Jeff told me when I first came in to check out the shop, a very short 12 weeks ago. I've learned a lot about working with wood and now I am very impressed with this table that I built (with the help of Jeff and Chris). It has been great learning this new skill. JK is a great place to start a woodworking hobby. I really do love it now, and I have an endless list of things I plan to build! Thanks JK."
- Simka Feldman

student "I have always respected the master craftsmen who use wood as their medium to create things of beauty. Jeff is one of those master craftsmen. I was intimidated going into his class and I lacked confidence in my ability to create anything that would look good. Man, was I wrong. Jeff not only taught from the heart but in a way that was easy to understand. The class was a joy to take and my completed project looked great."
- Nicholas O'Neill, O'Neill Glass Studio

student "When I started woodworking at JK Chicago about a year ago, I was a complete beginner and by the end of the summer, I will have finished building an Arts and Crafts chest-of-drawers under the independent study program! Jeff has a great teaching style that strikes (a) balance between encouragement and demand that students make full use of the skills they have learned and continue to hone them. The classes follow a well-defined sequence and are fast paced; the workshop space and the tools are first rate, and the workshop is never crowded so students get plenty of individual attention. There is great synergy among students working at various levels so students are exposed to a variety of projects and design styles. Without a doubt, the best opportunity to learn woodworking from conceptual design to finishing that I have found in Chicago!"
- Brian Whiteley, IT Manager

student "I have a background as a tool and die maker whose career has taken me out of the shop. I have had the desire to do something creative with my hands and felt that furniture building would be a good choice. Taking both the introductory and beginner's class at JK Chicago with Jeff has given me the skills and experience to take on other furniture projects with confidence. I would highly recommend this class to anyone interested in learning about woodworking. Jeff's enthusiasm and knowledge has made this class an enjoyable and educational experience. The table that I built will be a beautiful addition to our home."
- Chris Norman, Engineer

student "I am an architect who has always been intrigued by woodworking but has never had the opportunity or ability to do it. Being a complete novice, I really needed to find the right setting in which to learn. Jeff's class was a perfect fit for me. Our class size was small so we received a lot of individual attention from Jeff and everything we did was hands on. The tables we made incorporated a full range of woodworking techniques. I really enjoyed this class and my table is awesome."
-Ann Norman, Architect