🌿 At SmallShopWoodwork, I make cherry, maple, and walnut cutting boards, charcuterie boards, and cheese boards. I like creating unique items for my customers. My name is Bruce. I hope you enjoy looking through my portfolio.
About Me
I am a happily retired social worker who loves working with wood. When I was 12, a neighbor helped me build a cherry napkin holder for my mother in his small shop. Now, over 50 years later, I create projects that are both functional and pleasing to the eye in my own Small Shop. My focus is on craftsmanship and attention to detail in creating one-of-a-kind pieces, mainly from locally grown and harvested hardwoods.
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I do help out part-time at the local Woodcraft Store, sharing and learning from co-workers and customers alike who are continually developing their skills. We sell many varieties of wood tools and have woodworking demos as well as instructional classes for all skill levels of woodworkers.
A few of my pieces are sold locally at The Prairie Kitchen Store in downtown Iowa City. This brick-and-mortar kitchen store has a great feel and helpful, friendly staff.
If you are interested in the work you see displayed, Please Contact Me concerning any customized work.
Testimonials
“I have three items made by this artisan. The quality and meticulous attention to detail shows in all three products. The beauty of the wood is showcased so attractively! It is a real delight to have such gorgeous AND functional items. I receive many complements on the cutting board, lazy susan, and napkin holder.”
– Karen, Appleton, WI
“I met Bruce through Woodcraft in Iowa City. I was looking for help with a wood project which was very meaningful and emotional for me. We had cut down a tree on our farm on which generations of our family had played. I wanted 13 cutting boards made from this wood for my siblings and our children. He did a great job and everyone loved them! I enjoyed working with Bruce. He is very pleasant and easy going, as well as talented. I will hire him for additional projects. I enjoyed working with Bruce. He is very pleasant and easy going, as well as talented. I will hire him for additional projects.”
– Liz G, Iowa City, IA
“We recently acquired a couple of hand-crafted wood kitchen and serving items designed and produced by Bruce Tarwater of Small Shop Woodwork. We love to cook, both for ourselves and friends. The wooden trivet is super functional as well as aesthetically pleasing with its geometric shapes. It lives next to the cook top and is used daily. We also enjoy assembling charcuterie boards with local meats and cheeses. Bruce’s live-edged board makes for a functional and beautiful presentation. We are more than satisfied with the products Bruce produces. We’re keeping an eye out to see what he comes up with next!”
– Rick and Rosan Z, Stevens Point, WI
“I love my cutting board. It is perfect for prepping and chopping for a large meal. It is also the perfect size for cutting pizza. The craftsmanship is beautiful, and the cutting board is not too bulky and easy to store.”
– Kate M, Iowa City, IA
“Bruce has made a beautiful cutting board for us, as well as a unique and equally beautiful “ fly box”. As a trout fly fisherman who makes his own flies, it’s a perfect way to display my handiwork, while showcasing Bruce’s as well. His work is professional and meticulous. You’ll not find anything that matches this quality and detail.”
– Ray and Jeanne C, North Liberty, IA
“We have always loved both the form and function of our SmallShopWoodwork cutting board. Not only is it a beautiful piece of art, but also a purposeful item we enjoy using in the kitchen. It’s clear Bruce’s creations come from a place of love and skilled craftsmanship, and we would recommend his wares to anyone for their own home or gift giving needs.”
– Jason N, Iowa City, IA
Contact information