Fine Woodworker Larissa Huff: Furniture-Maker

About Larissa Huff:
"WHO? I am just a girl, holding a saw, hoping I can use it to turn some wood into something functional. I was once a math teacher in Florida but, as it turns out, woodworking in Philadelphia is the kind of applied math in a colder climate I was looking for.
WHAT? I design, build, and finish furniture (and anything else I find interesting) from local Pennsylvania hardwoods. I showcase the material and joinery as the primary design details in my work. I still love to teach. I have been designing and teaching long and short form woodworking courses for nearly 1o years.
WHERE? I live and work in Philadelphia, PA. I do love a chance to take a trip to teach a class or schedule a delivery out of state!
HOW? WHY? I learned this craft beginning with an apprenticeship under a master woodworker, Jeffry Lohr. I have been trained in traditional furniture-making with a deep appreciation for the material and wood science. I love to design things that showcase the properties, figure, and colors of hardwoods. My background in math often shines through in fun angles or repeating patterns in my work" (excerpt from larissahuff.com).
Video by Justin Mabie
Instagram: / _callmemabie_
Website: callmemabie.com/
Shirts: www.callmemabie.com/shop/
Larissa Huff
Instagram: / larissa.huff
Website: www.larissahuff.com/home
Call Me Mabie all new shirts! www.callmemabie.com/shop/

[@scottdigregorio4952]

This is possibly the most beautiful interviews I’ve ever seen.

[@debiallen4053]

Inspiring on steroids for a 68 y.o. beginner woodworking woman 3 years. My dad was a woodworker, life took me on other paths now I've started. I know I can only dream to make all these beautiful things but, I try to learn every day and enjoy every minute. Wonderful video, story. Beautiful pieces. So very beautiful. I will keep dreaming!

[@deldridg]

Great stuff Debi - it's a fabulous journey isn't it! At 55, it's one I've been on as a serious hobbyist for many years, but like all craftworkers, there is always so much more to learn. How fortunate we are. Cheers from Sydney - Dave

[@kathynesbitt5451]

the only limitations to your creativity is your own imagination and your creativity is endless.

[@clars7146]

…. At close to 70, I am always surprised where I find inspiration… Thank you, Larissa… Your work inspires! 🤠

[@oldpedals]

Assume designs complemented by stunning craftsmanship. Teaching the best way, by inspiration!

[@wadewoehrmann2835]

Larissa - kudos for starting with your connection to the community of wood workers. Thanks for the inspiration.

[@christopherharrison6724]

Definitely see the maths influences lots of curves and angles love your work

[@trackie1957]

I was near flunking in math in high school when it was abstract to me. “X” was something I didn’t understand, but when I went to engineering school, “X” became something real, like how fast, how strong, how hot, and I thrived, so, yeah, it’s all about how it’s perceived.

[@elzamiller]

Thanks Mable for posting this. I really enjoyed watching.

[@timdoyon1964]

Wow, I've been woodworking for about a dozen years now, and every time I think I'm getting good, somebody like Larissa comes along and makes me feel like an amateur. I'm impressed... Her workmanship is incredible, her attention to detail is impeccable, and she has a great smile/personality to boot. What an inspiration!

[@deldridg]

My friend - it's wonderful that you are working with your hands to make things. That puts you squarely in the same class as Larissa and other artisans. We're all just at different stages of our journey. No matter what stage you're at, there are always wonderful things to learn, skills to gain and others to inspire. As for Larissa - yes, she's a beautiful soul and a beautiful lady. Cheers from Sydney - Dave

[@debbieditrapani9666]

So very IMPRESSED keep enjoying YOUR AMAZING CRAFT 👏

[@ktstudebaker]

Dude the desk at your house is so sweet!! All those tiny drawers! It’s beautiful

[@davidleslie1963]

Pure inspiration.

[@CoffeyCustomBuilds]

Great video. I really enjoyed it from start to finish.

[@CallMeMabie]

Love ya, dude. Thanks a ton for taking the time to watch 🖤

[@andrewpinson1268]

Larissa is giving back to the woodworking craft by teaching. For KZbin viewers the truly gifted woodworkers are slowly disappearing. The ones that lean slightly towards hand crafted old style furniture makers are just either going into business for themselves or creating for profit only courses through the social media. Few are offering this free to KZbin any more.

[@gbwildlifeuk8269]

Rob cosman offers what you want free. He sells tools instead but you dont have to buy them

[@andrewpinson1268]

@@gbwildlifeuk8269 I have been following him for over thirty years. I pay for his online videos I think about 400 a year. Been doing that for over ten years also. Doucette and Wolfe are one of my most favorite people to watch. I do have about 200 WW sites I monitor, so there is plenty to watch and a lot of them are very good WW. The old hand tool quality work is slowly disappearing. Side note - I have also bought many of Rob Cosman's tools.

[@theofarmmanager267]

With respect, I can’t say that I understand and/or accept your point. I don’t see any evidence or have not read any evidence that the number of gifted woodworkers giving free tutorials on YT is changing remarkably. Of course, people come and people go but that is very healthy. Given that I learnt 45 plus years ago when you had to pay for tuition (either through courses or apprenticeships whilst earning very little), anything on YT is a great bonus for todays woodworkers. The term hand-crafted can mean different things to different people. I see that Larissa uses machines to do the rough dimensioning but then it’s hand tools. I’m not sure that this is any different to any of the exceptional people I watch on YT. Makers that I respect such as Pedulla Studios, Sawyer Design are showing how they are trying to extend the previous limits of woodworking by using curves and more curves. Others such as Ramon Valdez show the techniques of marquetry to us all - and there are many, many others. The options if you want more focussed teaching are legion. You can still do this remotely although, if I had to pay, I would prefer to go to a decent furniture school. Should we pay? I think the real question is whether we should expect lessons for nothing. We had a small bespoke furniture business and were lucky in that we were always busy but I think it’s increasingly hard for a cabinet maker to earn a decent living just making. The percentage of the population who will pay many thousands for a desk or table or whatever is very small. Because of this, most makers of my acquaintance have gone hybrid and probably spend more than 50%of their time teaching paying students. We can have no issue with that as they all have families and commitments.

[@christophsan4040]

What?

[@simonlinser8286]

Can you blame them tho? Theres enough between Paul sellers and rex Kruger and all the other guys, honestly there's enough content already to learn so much for any beginner. It's great.

[@briantanner9900]

Thank so much for sharing, I have been woodworking for almost 50 years and always are amazed at others who find away onto this craft what inspired them , my grandfather inspired me and I hope I can inspire others like you have done on this video and your life journey ,

[@grahameanderson6913]

Thank you for your inspiration.

[@sgsax]

The thing I love about your docs is you get right to the heart of the individual and put it on display. Another great one! Thanks for sharing!

[@scottlandb6579]

Awesome for you, awesome for women. I’m a 50 year old male and haven’t been more happy than now (in this era) to see so many women thriving and setting trends in what was once male dominated arenas. Keep at it, keep pushing boundaries and setting trends, i truly feel we are seeing what I hope are the beginnings of equality. Please don’t ever stop and keep teaching cause we can truly all learn from each other. Freaking incredible 👍🏼

[@robertwyatt553]

I was lucky enough to attend a basic woodworking class that was co-taught by Larissa and Rob. Great folks, great talents. You could easily see the passion and dedication that they both have for woodworking. Great video and even better story!!

[@Chill76120]

100 years from now, if our amazing planet survives, your gorgeous creations will be priceless treasures to those who can appreciate the work of an amazing artist. You are so fortunate to have found your niche and be able to love the process of creating and sharing your knowledge with others. I hope your channel will grow exponentially. 🏆🏆🏆🏆🥰🥰🥰🥰

[@camillewing4507]

I had the privilege of taking 2 classes with Larissa and Rob. Absolutely the highlight of my woodworking journey. Both extraordinary teachers and craft persons. I will be looking for the opportunity to take another class. So happy this interview popped up!

[@davidgreen5938]

WOW! I feel like I just met a wonderful young person! I'm happy that you're following your dreams. My heart soars with the wonderful detail and beautiful wood you work with. Looking forward to seeing more from you in the future.

[@b1j]

Good for you. I wish you much success and fulfillment.

[@user-ph8zz7zm5f]

You do exquisite work.

[@dinkles_woodshop]

Larissa is an awesome craftswoman and just awesome person in general

[@CallMeMabie]

Agreed! Thanks so much for watching!

[@davidjohnbrassell6016]

Hi Larissa, you are doing such beautiful work, lovely designs, I am 83 years old live in Sydney Australia, a furniture maker and luthier making classical guitars, done let how old you are just keep going, Kind Regards, David John Brassell.

[@davidjohnmorris1127]

This series and the film making just seems to get better with every episode

[@JeffFontecchio]

Great job both of you! Larissa does amazing work and thanks for teaching, Justin another great job capturing a Maker and showing a little bit of how they live and work. Keep it up both of you!

[@CallMeMabie]

Thank you for the compliments! I appreciate you taking the time to watch

[@johnbold7965]

Larissa, your approach to woodworking is inspiring and radiant. Your creations are magnificent and it's a pleasure to see the inspiration that guides you. Bravo for your work!

[@markduykers6603]

Thank you, Larissa, for sharing your inspirational story! Your energy, approach, creativity and smile are infectious! I feel the same way when I step into my shop - there is a focus on the present moment that is otherwise often missing. There’s something about creating something unique and useful…(and hopefully beautiful) that is zen-like! I’ve read that many of the best coaches in any sport are those to whom their sport did not come easily. They had to work at it. You mentioned that math was that way for you. I’m sure that’s an important part of why you’re an amazing teacher, whether math or woodworking is the subject! Also, the pieces you’ve made are amazing!

[@mt-nv4jd]

You are a lovely person. I recall a story about a guy who spent many years attempting to build the perfect rocking chair. Most of them became firewood. Don't remember if he succeeded. I think it was about the journey. Good luck to you.

[@davebauerart]

Larissa is doing amazing work, and another great story Justin. You really know how to find the best people.

[@CallMeMabie]

Thanks so much, Dave! I appreciate this

[@NewmanSpecialsWoodwork]

Justin- these are just amazing. Thank you for capturing the spirits of all these amazing people! 🙌

[@CallMeMabie]

Awesome! I appreciate you watching!!

[@NewmanSpecialsWoodwork]

@@CallMeMabie just watched the one for Patrick and Carlina too! Great stuff man. You are such an artist in both the video and the questions!

[@daveleo7248]

So good to see people like you out there and telling your story on KZbin. Nice work, kid.

[@mbatcher2001]

Glad to see your still woodworking,. I miss going to the Lohr School, but lucky enough to have experienced it.

[@keithtate3298]

Great story! Wood is magical... keep the magic flowing and kudos for teaching others the art.

[@aircommuter]

I saw you on Burns tools. One of my favorite suppliers. I have been a woodworker since the seventh grade. Have a little 2000 square foot shop at home. Near Yosemite on 15 acres. Got a few machines like Oliver, Ulmia,Festool, Rockwell and Yates American. Well over 50hp. Make all my own own cabinets and doors solid wood. You would like it.

[@DiabloSpearguns]

Some serious talent, these documentaries are so well done and interesting.

[@buroakenthusiast6107]

Inspiring! Love it. Thanks

[@singhivan]

Greetings from South Africa. Just stumbled across this video. First time seeing this channel and OMG this entire video had me captivated. You are an amazing human being. For wanting to teach woodwork to young kids is absolutely amazing. I wish you all the best on that venture as the younger generation needs to be drawn into woodworking. I am truly inspired by what you do. I love your enthusiasm and outlook towards life. Your husband is a very lucky man 😂. Just subscribed to your channel and hope to learn from you even though I'm across the globe from you 😂. Having said that, I've never seen the process the way you bend thin strips with a gas burner and a metal pipe. Absolutely amazing........so yes....... I learnt something new today. Let's live and learn. Cheers

[@mgmoody42]

I've been following Larissa on IG and love her creativeness. The hurricane shelf is beautiful, functional and inspired. I never would have thought to create that even though I once lived in places that were susceptible to hurricanes. Thanks for sharing.

[@carpeinferi]

Another beautiful video showcasing the artist and their work.

[@SableSunsets]

Wow I found you, then you started to talk about hurricane Ian and we were directly hit by that storm here near pine Island FL. Couldn’t identify with you more between wood working and your passion for your art.

[@a.ndrea_cortes]

Thank you for sharing this story. Larissa's work is very inspiring for other women woodworkers out there.

[@makelifeart2164]

gorgeous video work, and a fascinating character study of a humble fine craftsperson

[@rogergarcia3021]

Enjoyed your video and your love for math and te science of making something from raw material s. Keep it up. Like the new path of bending wood.

[@Targetinthecrosshairs]

Thank you for being such an inspiration! You are just like a snowflake, an original unlike no other.

[@alejomoreno6524]

Great video! Took a couple classes with Larissa and her energy and enthusiasm were inspiring to say the least. If you get to read this, I wish you the best Larissa!

[@martingagne3136]

so inspiring , we all cross woodworking by accident of some sort ... miss huff your craftwomanship is awesome , thanks for sharing that

[@thomasblinka978]

At CFC taking a class. Just saw your hurricane cabinet this evening. Beautiful!

[@thesplinteredfinger]

Larissa, love your story! It reminds me a little of my background and it is inspiring to know that you can do anything you put your mind to. It doesn’t matter what you learned in college because it is the key to open almost any door you approach. Justin, another excellent job highlighting a maker’s path that we all love to see and learn from.

[@joleeliving]

Beautiful work Larissa and Call Me Mabie! Great to see folks carrying on traditional work.

[@ga5743]

So glad to finally “meet” Amanda and Eric shop mate. Sweet job on the video Justin. So many talented young folks out in this big world.

[@CallMeMabie]

She’s awesome, huh? Thanks so much for watching!

[@giselaruther8495]

Ich bewundere Dich. So super Arbeiten . Die Liebe zum Handwerk kann ich gut verstehen.Ein Traum ❤

[@jmnaik6]

Wow! Beautiful furniture and a wonderful life story!! I’m inspired. Thank you, Larissa!

[@mindyhall4638]

Such incredible work Larissa and so thrilled for all your success from those early days of meeting you as an apprentice! You truly have a gift; would love to do a class with you if you ever decide to teach how to make the kestrel chair. Great video Justin! Thanks for your work in highlighting these amazing makers!

[@robwpowell3]

Great interview and editing. Well done.

[@richardgeorge9750]

Wow … I’m at a loss for words, but inspiring, optimism, and hope are 3 that seem to to persist.

[@HonestReflections3000]

Super impressed with your work and the fact that you are following your passion.

[@sarah.sawdust]

Awesome episode!! Feeling super inspired. Thank you Justin and Larissa! 🙌🏼

[@DudeSawdust]

She has a great talent for design. I love the pieces you highlighted in your doc. Always great content. Thanks so much for sharing this with the world.

[@CallMeMabie]

As always, thanks so much for watching!

[@jonbarlow3542]

Wow, Larissa you are gorgeous! lovely video, thanks for sharing.

[@osu122975]

Wow! You are incredibly talented! Very impressed with your skills.

[@rollinrock6696]

Phenomenal

[@kennethpasko1499]

Love your enthusiasm for the craft. Larissa ,always keep moving forward, it looks like your on the right path. Good Luck !!!😎

[@jimrosson6702]

Beautiful work Larissa very inspiring

[@danstultz2610]

Thank you, much appreciated

[@lagartijoazul75]

Beautiful video, beautiful woodworking, beautiful Larissa.

[@CallMeMabie]

Thank you for watching!

[@markg1531]

Inspiring. Thank you and God bless you!

[@spencerwendt4800]

WOW! Great story! Thank you!!

[@KitchensbySavina]

Beautiful work Larissa.

[@manelqueralt3876]

Thanks for the video, Larissa, it's very motivating, you aiready have a subscriber in Barcelona!!

[@ElonPete]

Thanks for sharing the journey 🙏🏻

[@paulreis223]

JUST FOUND YOUR CHANNEL, LOVE YOUR WORK AND PASSION!

[@dansouth2088]

This is way cool...congrats!! Thank you for inspiring others and wish you the best in your journey!!

[@bluetunatiger1]

Great video. This was extremely well produced. I'm inspired to get to the shop.

[@davidclark9086]

Extremely well-made and fun video.

[@UndertheWaterDesign]

Such an amazing talent!!

[@Dan-jq8se]

You are an inspiring young lady. Good luck on your journey.

[@ChessTurner]

Beautiful job, thank you so much for great video

[@johnmccawley4566]

Great video and cabinetmaking!

[@torinhalsey6313]

Outstanding. Well-done profile on a very talented artist.

[@ForgeAheadwithMike]

Really nice pieces you've built. Gotta be nice to be in a local area with great trees/woods. And the studio is super cool!

[@michaelbeck7799]

I see you have the eye for furniture with curves and serious details. You create lovely work. Have you explored the Italian and French work? We primarily work with Italian and French pieces. We have also have made some Art Nouveau pieces. Mixing woods, careful consideration of colour and grain placement, curving, bending, shaping, laminating, tinted finishes, adding shaped marble and onyx tops mixed in with the woodworking. Discrete back and under lighting. There should be some local (sort of) small mills that can supply you with other than stock lengths, thicknesses, etc. All those wonderful crotch pieces and the occasional birds-eye maple worked into the designs. Check out some of Anton Gaudi's designs. So much to make, so little time! Thank you for the vision and passion conveyed in this video.

[@michaelmakarevich601]

Impressive work! Best to you guys!

[@RBWI]

Wow. How cool and inspiring!

[@displaychicken]

I love your stuff

[@DomaskConstruction]

Great Job!

[@hillcountrygarage]

Awesome!!!

[@jackthompson8560]

Welcome to Pa. I live just west of you in Amish country. Go chase your dreams before it to late.

[@kfwoeltje]

Great video!

[@BearCreekWoodworking]

Very Inspiring Video! 👏

[@mingueyox]

So inspiring ❤️🙏

[@michaeldehart648]

Great video. Thanks

[@damonw2286]

Reminds me of a book I read "Shop Class as Soul Craft" by Matthew Crawford.

[@ian_simbotin]

Larissa, you had me at "calculus books." Well, actually, you had me at woodworking, but the math was the cherry on top. I hope and pray that in my next life, my next reincarnation, I will be a carpenter. Praying does work for atheists too, doesn't it?

[@dwaynekoblitz6032]

Let her make millions!! Philadelphia is NOT the city of brotherly love. It's a dump. But I had a good time.

[@billballeza377]

I’m terrible at higher math and I’m terribly unfocused and impatient. But woodworking requires math, focus and patience, so my weaknesses are becoming stronger through my passion for working wood.

[@HieronymusHertogenBosch]

Zo mooi al die kunstwerken