OUR PRODUCTS
Products that inspire
Well, my personal aim was to convert our home into a setting that has the smallest possible environmental footprint, not only in the daily use of resources, but also in the embedded energy of the items it contains. So, in the slow conversion of our home to a more environmentally sustainable setting, I make the products we would be happy to use at home – only more of them. In all aspects of making the product I try to source local, environmentally friendly materials that are strong and durable so they can last for generations to come. I try to keep my designs as simple and efficient as possible, whilst still allowing for some level of artistic licence. This makes the whole process more personal to me and keeps me motivated and excited about what I make.
Our Story
The Houtkapper Story
It all started…
A few years ago I decided to quit my day job to pursue a business in woodworking. I had just recently lost both my parents and was re-evaluating what I really wanted out of life, which I think happens to everyone who loses loved ones. With a very limited background in woodworking and none in business, it was a very risky but exciting prospect. So, I threw all caution to the wind and what do you know, I found myself face down on the floor! It would be great to say I developed these incredible skills in setting up a business, learning woodworking, knocking out marketing materials, developing a following of millions on social media etc, and now have a booming business that employs hundreds. But, the truth is, this is not the case. I find myself in a part-time job whilst still scratching my head at times about what I am and should be doing. Not down and out but a very humbling experience I must admit.
Getting back to basics.
What to do – give up or go on? Probably the biggest shift I had to make was in my mind. Somehow, it had felt to me, I had to take on making and doing all the things that all the well-intentioned people around me were advising me. This was totally overwhelming and I found myself all over the place with no clear direction and no motivation to work on everything I had been so excited about when I started out. So I had to get back to the basics, which was to recognise what I love doing and what I am able to do well when I try hard. I also had to recognise what I am not good at, it doesn’t matter how many people tell you that you need to do it (e.g. marketing and social media) and for these I should rather get someone else to do it or not do it at all. So, I had to re-evaluate my business plan (yes, I did have one). First to go was the idea of Social Media as I am no good at it and would much rather chat to you face to face, via e-mail or phone. Then, as far as marketing goes, I found a wonderfully talented designer (with plenty of patience) who has designed my branding and manages my website. This leaves me with the time I need and motivation to design and make products that inspire me.
