About Gary Rawlins

After years of working as a finished carpenter in the fine homes of southern California Gary Rawlins took off for England where he trained in Oxfordshire, England at Rycotewood college for furniture designer/makers.

Gary still influenced by the traditions of England’s greatest “Arts and Crafts” leaders of the past, as well as England’s best contemporary furniture makers he wanted more. He credits his exposure to the “English Scene” for his success. “My training and experiences in England (1984-1986) gave me a very sound basis in design and traditional craftsmanship. I feel most fortunate to have had the opportunity to study directly under so many of England’s best craftsmen. Their sense of quality and tradition gave me first-hand knowledge of not only what was possible, but of what was expected of a ‘world-class’ furniture maker.”

Gary then returned to California in 1988 to continue his career in woodworking choosing the quiet, sensitive path of the “impractical cabinetmaker”, James Krenov. After further training at James Krenov’s school in Ft. Bragg, California, in 1991 and again in 1993-94, Gary set-up shop in the San Francisco Bay area. Photographs of Gary’s “Non KISS” cabinet is included in James Krenov’s fifth book, With Wakened Hands, published in October, 2000.

In 2003 Gary moved to the mountains surrounding Asheville, North Carolina. Since his arrival he has been featured in many shows and publications. He was prominently featured in Andy Rae’s book               Doors and Drawers and Lark Book’s 500 Cabinets.

Gary has been known for his use of exotic woods but since relocating from Southern California to the mountains of North Carolina he is taking great pleasure in discovering the beauty of Western North Carolina hardwoods.

A new piece usually starts with “nature’s artwork” as Gary calls the natural character and color of the chosen wood. He is then led to shape and design, using no stains taking special care never attempting to improve the beauty of what is perfect in nature.