Discover how whiskey, woodworking, and a custom branding iron power one of Chicagoland’s most creative makers.
How R&C Woodworking Got Started
Ross Graham, founder of R&C Woodworking, first discovered his love for the craft in high school shop class. Five semesters later, it was clear that woodworking was more than just an elective — it was the foundation of a lifelong passion.
Years later, a Father’s Day gift from his wife, a chop saw, reignited that creative spark. What started as a one-off coffee table soon became a stream of requests from family and friends. R&C Woodworking was born.
“When I built that table and saw how much people loved it, I knew this was more than a hobby.”
“Custom coffee table that launched R&C Woodworking”
The R&C Woodworking Approach to Custom Furniture
Ross now focuses on building custom furniture that blends modern design with traditional craftsmanship. His most prized project? A live-edge spalted maple table that uses Japanese joinery and sleek, minimalist lines.
He’s currently working on:
-
A 10-foot custom dining table for a restaurant in Chicagoland
-
A “board game-centric” coffee table with hidden puzzle storage and modular add-ons
“I like solving design problems. That’s what custom furniture is about.”
Want to see Ross’s latest creations? Visit R&C Woodworking online to browse or commission your own custom piece.
A Day in the Shop: Woodworking Meets Whiskey
Ross wears many hats — furniture designer, small business owner, and whiskey sales director. He often runs his whiskey business from his woodworking shop, building in between client calls.
“If I can carve out even an hour to build each day, it’s a win.”
His routines reflect a maker’s mindset:
-
Shaving with a straight razor helps him slow down and focus.
-
Cigars become intentional pauses in a fast-paced schedule.
-
Family keeps him grounded and reminds him of what truly matters.
What’s Next for R&C: Legacy-Quality Craftsmanship
Ross doesn’t want to mass-produce cutting boards. He wants to build generational furniture — pieces that last decades and tell a story.
“I want R&C to be the go-to custom woodworking shop in Chicagoland.”
One dream project? A custom music production desk, merging his love for music with his woodworking talent.
Favorite Tools of the Trade
Ross’s essential tools include:
-
A custom leather shop apron from Leather by Dragonfly
-
A Festool 2200 router for precision shaping
But one tool rises above the rest — his Gearheart custom branding irons.
“I brand every piece right before I apply the finish. That mark lasts forever.”
Ross uses different branding irons for different projects, including events and his signature R&C logo.
Why Every Maker Needs a Custom Branding Iron
Whether you're a woodworker, leatherworker, or craftsman, a branding iron for makers helps establish identity and quality. Ross’s use of Gearheart irons proves that even the smallest mark can make a big impression.
“If you want to be remembered, you have to leave your mark.”
At Gearheart, we specialize in custom wood branding irons and tools for creators who want to stand out. Explore our shop to find the perfect iron for your brand.
Browse Custom Branding Irons
See Ross’s Work
[Insert Image: Gearheart branding iron close-up – Alt text: “Custom branding iron for woodworking professionals”]
Meet Ross Graham of R&C Woodworking, a custom furniture builder balancing whiskey, craftsmanship, and branding. See how he uses Gearheart branding irons to leave his mark — and learn why every maker needs one.