How to Start a $30K/Month Woodworking Business

What does it take to start a woodworking business? Today we’re taking a behind-the-scenes tour of Westbrook Carpentry and Millwork, a $30K/month woodworking business that’s become one of the most sought-after carpentry shops in Seattle.
Daniel Westbrook is a third-generation woodworking craftsman, and that long experience is the cornerstone of Westbrook Carpentry and Millwork’s success. Today, he’ll talk us through the woodworking tools you need to open a home woodworking business, along with how much it costs to start, what experience is a must-have, and other advice about woodworking for beginners.
You can’t make money woodworking if you don’t have customers. We’ll hear Daniel’s marketing strategies for reaching the right customers, and how (and why) he rebranded his company from Westbrook Restorations to Westbrook Carpentry and Millwork. The types of woodworking projects he took on changed, too. We’ll find out the pros and cons of working on smaller projects compared to whole home restorations, and how to start a woodworking business that focuses on either niche.
Woodworking is a career with a long tradition, and this tradition is integral to Daniel’s business values. We’ll find out why concepts like hard work, respect, and trust are important to him as a business leader, what living those values looks like in the real world, and how holding to those principles has helped him sustain long-term growth.
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Resources:
www.upflip.com/academy - Start, Build, or Grow Your Business
builttowithstand.com/ - Find Out More About Daniel's Woodworking Business
Timestamps:
0:00 Intro
1:52 Meeting Daniel
2:56 Revenue
3:55 Initial Budget
4:56 Monthly Expenses
6:16 Daniel’s Other Businesses
7:04 Inside Look To Daniel’s Truck
8:44 Advertising
10:02 Equipment
11:10 Most Important Skillset
12:40 Inside Look of Daniel’s Truck Part 2
14:07 Skill an Entrepreneur Needs To Have
14:57 Estimating Cost of Projects
16:27 Daniel’s Advice For Those Just Starting Out
17:13 Social Media
18:15 Shop Setup
20:18 Advantages or Disadvantages to Employees
21:54 Insurance
23:49 Tools in the Shop
24:55 Seasonal?
26:01 Daniel’s Current Project
27:35 Profit Margins
29:03 Mistakes
30:24 Competitiveness in the Industry
31:50 Daniel’s Biggest Challenge
33:03 Switching From Hands-on to General Contractor
34:37 How To Increase Your Hours
37:30 What’s Next For Westbrook Carpentry
#woodworkingbusiness #woodworking #earnmoneywoodworking

[@UpFlip]

Check out UpFlip programs taught by world-class entrepreneurs: www.upflip.com/academy

[@joecooper8527]

This is the video I needed but never expected to be done so soon.

[@metdukh955]

I am making some wood working plans and this video was right on time

[@metdukh955]

"Employees are not a part of bad things"

[@TheMct14]

More of this guy please ! He's obviously got a plethora of business information and experience aswell as Woodworking hacks

[@pnwgrown_360]

I’m starting my woodworking business, loved this video. I do construction (framing, finish carpentry, drywall, painting, flooring, etc) the knowledge this guy shared was very good- helpful for me at the stage I am l currently at. Glad to see he is a local guy from Washington !

[@Mike-bs5xi]

Last week I made 11,500 dollars in a day in a half doing excavation work on a new duplex. Water and sewer hook ups and dig footings. Best money I've made in a day and a half.

[@dominicfrench6708]

Honesty, this man has given me the knowledge of 60 years, which has articulated ideas I’ve had with the problems you run into with my families 3rd generation painting business. Much appreciation for your commitment for your channel. The knowledge from this man is appreciated.

[@ericmilley6253]

wat

[@UpFlip]

Glad he was able to help!!

[@AshChildOfGod]

He definitely helped thank you

[@SpencerJan]

"Am I growing? I'm growing inside." - Amazing answer to a question we hear all the time. Love it!

[@UpFlip]

Right?!

[@KyleHallwoodworker]

As a Small business owner , rustic furniture builder/ chainsaw carver I really appreciate this video . I have hopes to take my business full time in the near future. The knowledge shared in this video was very encouraging and helpful Thank you .

[@UpFlip]

We wish you all the best! Keep us updated :)

[@AxGryndr]

It is nice seeing a full scale shop like this and seeing that he has the tools that work for him. For example, the Rigid oscillating belt sander. He didn't buy a huge, expensive, over featured tool.

[@nickolas9375]

I was watching this on my TV and jumped on my phone just to be able to comment that this interviewer did an EXCELLENT job with the questions he was asking. Very good interview.

[@UpFlip]

Thank you Nick!

[@paulgallinato9736]

The wealth of valuable information in this video is astounding. From carpentry specifics, to entrepreneurial and personal growth advice and more. Thanks to you both. Cheers from Buenos Aires, Argentina.

[@UpFlip]

Thanks for watching! We appreciate you!

[@westbrookrestorationsllcca6527]

Thank Paul!

[@chrisnash2154]

One thing I found peculiar, yet refreshing… He is NOT a huge Festool fanboy. Other than the dust collector that was it. He doesn’t even have a Sawstop (gasp)! A little surprised that he didn’t have a larger dust collection setup, but perhaps the craft he focuses on doesn’t create a lot of sawdust. I loved all of the detail provided regarding the creation and management of his business. Surprised, but DEEPLY appreciative of his honesty regarding income. For once we get to see how this trade can pay off if run properly under the right circumstances.

[@westbrookrestorationsllcca6527]

Thanks Chris. I believe it’s the craftsman that makes the tool not the tool that makes the craftsman. Festool does make some pretty good tools but I kinda like Makita and a lot of other brands so I figure a variety is best. I do have a bigger dust collection system and recommend every shop have one. You are correct, it’s the business system that makes revenue wrapped around the hands on skill set, not the hands on work alone. Business system engineering is a process of refinement over time. Are you a business owner or entrepreneur?

[@chrisnash2154]

Unfortunately no. I’m an average weekend DIY guy that watches a BUNCH of KZbin woodworking channels. I have nearly all of the tools and I dabble around doing a bunch of woodworking projects. Some pretty decent, many are obvious it’s my first time. I loved woodworking since I was a kid, but never looked deep enough into the craft to make it a career. Like so many before me becoming a homeowner made it a necessity to fix stuff, but I wanted to do more than just a quick fix. Sometimes it annoys the crap out of my wife and other times she’s telling me to go into business. I am a technician/engineer by trade averaging 70K/per year. Most of the business woodworkers I see are either on KZbin or are real life handymen and money they make appear to be a good side hustle at best. Obviously carpenters do well, but I’m 55 and too old to start that lifestyle let alone start over. That’s where you came in. For once I saw a part of the craft that at least looks to be focused on certain aspects of the trade. What I mean is you’re not on the roof patching holes or replacing rotted floorboards. I really like the idea of bringing your work back to the shop, but what I really love is that you work on the finer highly detailed restorations. To me it’s more interesting, a greater challenge and appears to be highly lucrative, which you confirmed. You being a fellow Pacific Northwest guy only made it more interesting. I would have loved to have been an apprentice of yours, but I found your KZbin channel so I look forward to learning as much as I can from them.

[@antonpishchik]

Believe me, he's got festtools in boxes around his office somewhere. My dad had nearly all of them, both gens and uses just the impact gun from time to time for fun. And he just does tile work.

[@westbrookrestorationsllcca6527]

@@antonpishchik nah. The only festool I have is a vacuum. Festool is for portability and setting up shop somewhere. I don’t need that. Plus they make you spend a ton of dollars needlessly. I mean why are all their dust port sizes different? They make it so you can’t mix and match hoses together. They Engineer it so you have to buy all their proprietary gear. They make quality tools but I don’t like being locked into a brand or any one system.

[@mkelly5375]

My friend and I built a kitchen for a remodel client and and now 4.5 months later we have 14,000 cabinet doors and 4,200 full cabinets on the books. I can't believe we have been able to turn a hobby into a living! Follow your dreams and if if you are willing to "GRIND WHILE THEY SLEEP LEARN WHILE THEY PARTY" and a little luck you can achieve those dreams.

[@UpFlip]

That is amazing!!

[@tyranasaurusty1180]

What is the name of your business? Congratulations on your amazing success. I hope to follow a similar path. Any advice for someone to achieve your results? What do you think made your order backlog explode like it did? Thanks!

[@phillipemmons3714]

Good for you !

[@SRC503]

Awesome bro! What's your website? How would you recommend going back learning woodworking?

[@edawadezz]

i really liked this video! The only thing better for me to see than this would be what it would be like to be a residential general contractor. Im a ticketed carpenter myself, this guy is legendary. Nice attitude, nice shop, nice business. A true OG

[@UpFlip]

He truly is a legend!

[@theliberianperspectivepodcast]

Glad i found your channel. It’s refreshing to get real answers and real world issues answered. Most folks just talk to biz owners and get their fantasy stories and that’s it. Thanks for your content, i learn a lot. Great questions.

[@UpFlip]

Thanks for watching! We appreciate you. That is EXACTLY what we try to do. Real stories, real answers, real help for business owners.

[@chippytecarpenter4890]

It was nice to hear what you said about being a master Carpenter and I would totally agree with you it’s best to keep going from one level to the next! and this is all part of the journey and our passion for the craft.

[@UpFlip]

Absolutely!!

[@westbrookrestorationsllcca6527]

Amen to that! Well said.

[@YourFriend_Ben]

@ It's so heartwarming to hear real backgrounds that gave this entrepreneur his drive as I hope my own is enough to start my own journey. "Do I own my business, or does my business own me?" That reminder as the next level of self affirmation after hearing in the past, "If i'm not working towards my own goals, then I'm working towards another's goals" is going to stick in my head. Another home run by upflip and the amazing genuine people they meet up with. Thanks to both of you guys!

[@UpFlip]

Great comments! Thanks so much for watching! We appreciate you!

[@westbrookrestorationsllcca6527]

Thank you and glad you contemplate that sort of thing. I figure it’s most important to understand ourselves inside first before listing to what the world has to say. Otherwise we risk being influenced and pushed around by things that are not genuinely us. What are your goals?

[@billystray7007]

As a lifelong craftsman , my biggest struggle is not performing high-level work ,but being a decent businessman, I have always put a lot of emphasis on my abilities (maybe too much) and less on business, it's certainly a tough balance to achieve. Hats off to this man for blending both

[@UpFlip]

Thanks for the great feedback, Billy.😀 What are some small steps to achieve balance for those who may be new to the industry?

[@billystray7007]

@UpFlip set yourself up with comp & liability insurance as soon as you can afford to create a little overhead . Often, your steady job won't mind keeping you around on a subcontractor type basis and still pay you an hourly wage. That and having your own tools coupled with a van or truck suitable to move them and your well on your way to independence.....

[@erikandersen4811]

It’s really encouraging to see this guy and his journey. Gives me ideas to methods to use and benchmarks to aim for. 🙂

[@UpFlip]

Hey Erik! So glad to hear that! Are you in the woodworking business?

[@erikandersen4811]

@@UpFlip yup, I make custom furniture out of wood and steel. I’m still ramping that business up and actively make money working on customers homes.

[@bigsergio04mex]

Thank you Daniel!!! Great and simple explanation. Im by myself trying to make my company grow up and you are a great inspiration boss. Thanks!!!

[@UpFlip]

You can do it!

[@westbrookrestorationsllcca6527]

You are welcome Sergio! It all starts with being honest and truthful with yourself inside. Success is more than money. Feel free to check out my KZbin channel for more if you want to learn from some of what Ive done. Cheers Bro.

[@caleblee3629]

Daiel is a great craftsman, I've know him for several years. Was a perfect candidate for UpFlip to interview!

[@mattwest8642]

Much appreciation for this video. Great guy with a stack of knowledge

[@UpFlip]

Glad to help!

[@sheridanbabcock5016]

I like that you mix up the segments of the video, so that one part is about his specific craft and the next part is about a more general part of owning a business.

[@UpFlip]

Thank you Sheridan. We like to try and keep the information fresh and new. 😀Thanks for paying attention to detail. Should we do another woodworking video?

[@sheridanbabcock5016]

Sure why not. But I would like to see an interview of a large Amazon seller, personally.

[@matatatv6063]

As a business owner myself, I understand him. Dealing with employees is time consuming. It’s so easy to loose control because in his field, the most important thing is Quality. But as a self-employee, the government is taking a lot in taxe from him. You have to be smart to keep that 💵

[@UpFlip]

Thanks for watching! We appreciate you!

[@bvictory5698]

I’m sure he writes off as much as possible.

[@ThePotatoPrductions]

This channel inspires people to get back into the trades, i love it.

[@LuisCasstle]

My advice is to focus on what you would enjoy building and learn as much as possible. Some things take very little to build and sell for a lot, other things can take way more time to make and sell for the same, equaling to less $$/hr. I am trying to find those items that are a specialty. Buy tools that help you be precise like Incra Rules, Incra Miter gauge, and Incra Jig. Little by little each tool will up your level of quality. That and learning how to use the tools properly. I would get a table saw first as that can do most cuts a miter saw can. Second probably a router and router table. Can't forget a good set of drill and impact driver with quick-change chucks. Now after having power tools I'm seeing that hand tools are just as indispensable, especially for fine detail work. Power tools can be too brute sometimes. For that, I recommend a block plane, router plane, and a Rabet plane, and if you do frames a Miter cutter. Mind you, hand tools can cost more than some power tools, so I'd get those after you're good with power tools (except for chisels, get those starting out). Hand tools are great for the final touches to your work, the power tools are great for cutting fast. I tend to buy as many tools as possible on sale or with coupons, that alone will save you hundreds, like right now you can buy a $400 set of Dewalt batteries and jigsaw from HD for $200. Find something that you want to make, work to make it better than what you see. Through trial and error, you'll land on the items that work and those that don't. I use Facebook marketplace but there are other specialty sites. For example, music studio furniture would be good to post in an audio gear marketplace like Reverb. There are items that I've built for my home and post them for sale, eventually someone orders one. Some things sit for a week to a day, others can sit for a year before someone orders it. Those that get a lot of interest I boost to increase their visibility. Another important thing is learning what is available in your area, what stores sell what. For lumber I prefer Menards. Learn what kind of woods you can special order for no extra charge. Another good supplier for business supplies is Grainger, they have plenty of warehouses that you may have one close by and that will save you hundreds on shipping costs. I order huge boxes and being able to pick them up nearby saves me hundreds on shipping. Learn and keep learning. Reverse engineer things you find interesting. I'm always inspecting furniture, frames, etc just to see if I can find out something to add to my designs. Some great youtubers for woodworking information are Stumpy Nubs and Katz-Moses, those 2 alone give out troves of free knowledge. For inspiration, I recommend Matthias Wandell and Pask Makes. Those guys make nice stuff and can inspire one to perfect their craft.

[@UpFlip]

Great advice!

[@kathleen9812]

Reverse engineering is the best! That's how I've leveled up in building things. It pushes me to learn new techniques and is a lot of fun, albeit sometimes frustrating but feels so good when I accomplish a build I never thought possible. Great advice!!

[@andrewking8123]

This is honestly one of the best youtube channels!

[@joeymerrell8585]

My best friend started off on a framing crew during the summer of high school. He was toting wood to start. Then after years and years he had been framing and running his own crew, he made the move to trim work. About 6 years in trim and now he’s doing custom cabinetry for last 10 years and is one of the premier builders in this area. Lots of blood sweat and tears and he is on top of his craft.

[@UpFlip]

Hey Joey! Great story. Sounds like your friend really loves what he does.

[@ericlipps7152]

By the time you get proficient at it all your joints in your body are on fire from 30 years of work then your limited to about 6 hours a day.

[@chrisreynolds2410]

That’s all you need if you are a beast….you’ll get more done in 6 than most schmucks in 8 hours

[@SirFency]

This was a good interview. I am working on setting up a small shop area in my garage to specialize in wood turning practical art pieces and small furniture. I will set it up to do on the side and hopefully be able to sell it. I have had multiple businesses and my issue is always figuring out how to get clients. I'm great at doing the work but getting the clients is where I always fail. Since I really enjoy working with wood and doing art projects I think it wont be as much as a chore and more of a passion thing and if the pieces do sell I will upscale. If not I will just have a much nicer home with a lot of decorative pieces in it.

[@carvrich]

Unbelievable interview with this a Unbelievable man... great work! The knowledge shared in this video is something you don't find. I can understand the slowing down its not about the money it's about being happy with what you do.

[@guidedbyvoices23]

Great channel, I'm a newbie, but have have gained alot of insight on the subject, yall ask the critical questions, I really appreciate that

[@UpFlip]

Thank you for your support! What would you like to see on the channel in the coming year?

[@themiddleclasstaxslave651]

Dave, thanks for allowing a peak into your business. Woodworking is a hobby for many, few of which can turn it into a profitable business. So congrats on your success, its not easy. I can appreciate your work from a far. As a part time woodworker to a home owner of a late 1800’s house, please spread that knowledge, we need more people with your skills. BTW … super jealous of your tool collection! Congrats again.

[@UpFlip]

Thanks for your feedback TheMiddleClass. He's a great guy. How long have you been in the industry?

[@themiddleclasstaxslave651]

@@UpFlip Enjoy the channel, some good lessons to be learned. To clarify, I’m not in industry, as in owning a business. I’m strongly considering it, but for now, I am a student of the KZbin. What is impressive about this company, is that he is turning a profit. From hearing other woodworkers stories, they fail because they can’t sell (salesman skills) or they waste their time on perfectionism, eating profits and overworking. He seems to have it figured out.

[@westbrookrestorationsllcca6527]

@@themiddleclasstaxslave651 you have to be confident, branded and be able to sell your skill and business for sure.

[@deusvult6920]

People can't make the transition because they don't leave behind the hobbyist mentality.

[@myrkvoir]

​@DeusVult this is super important 👏

[@michaelduke4500]

I want an apron like Daniel's. This guy is so organized it would make most carpenters envious. Daniel is the perfect "shop" teacher; darn, I wish I had him here in Florida.

[@UpFlip]

This is very nice of you Michael. He's a great guy and very professional. Thanks for watching and commenting on the video. 😀How long have you been in carpentry?

[@pmelchman]

his apron is made by Leather By Dragonfly

[@garysimmons1631]

Excellent video. I can't tell you what was the most interesting because all of it was interesting. I am now a subscriber.

[@UpFlip]

Thanks so much for the support Gary!

[@boonphitphanthavong4334]

Great stuff! Rare Knowledge you may not get on a daily basis. Awesome!

[@UpFlip]

More to come!

[@nevinkuser9892]

One of the best episodes yet.

[@garrettstevensen2467]

Absolutely incredible videos. Keep them up, and more subscribers should come...

[@UpFlip]

Much appreciated!

[@CHrisG-ol3ei]

What great insight into how to start a woodworking business, so much great information , keep up the good work with your videos .

[@UpFlip]

Thanks for watching, Chris! Are you in the industry?

[@DaileyWoodworks]

Thank you so much for charging for consultations/estimates. You are dead on with that!

[@UpFlip]

Indeed!

[@acoustictreatmentservices9926]

That and also screening the client. After a while you will find out which clients to stay away from

[@westbrookrestorationsllcca6527]

@@acoustictreatmentservices9926 That is exactly right

[@westbrookrestorationsllcca6527]

Thanks Robert. I learned that the hard way, but eventually figured it out. Cheers!

[@abrahamlincoln6619]

I dont know how to charge for estimates but I know I should. Ive been trying to incorporate some of that time into the estimate. You are absolutely correct on making sure to screen your customers. I have had a few now that have taken advantage. I also need to stop offering any discounts, I get screwed every time I do. It's time to start charging what I am worth and see how it goes.

[@letsdanceonhere]

This is very informative and inspiring! Thanks Daniel.

[@UpFlip]

So happy to hear that Da Masky. Are you new to the channel?

[@BasedDad]

One of your best entrepreneur/business videos 👍

[@UpFlip]

Thanks Vogel!

[@pjdale8620]

Great video, this guy is sharing personal info to help others, we need more.

[@UpFlip]

Exactly! What was your favorite part?

[@pjdale8620]

@@UpFlip I enjoyed where he was sharing that he charges $300 for an estimate. During the estimate process he is sharing his 30 years of experience on how he would tackle the job, which the owner benefits from. He is a smart businessman, because he knows people will pay for his experience a day he is not hurting for business. It’s about supply and demand. Good luck.

[@tymyshoes103]

This video does have some very important information! Thank you

[@UpFlip]

Thank you for watching! Glad you enjoyed the video.

[@naptownplaya32]

Very insightful, I started a woodworking business 3 years ago and still learning. This might help me get to the next level.

[@kenoshakid2579]

Good luck. This is a lie.

[@UpFlip]

That's great Brandon! Keep us updated :)

[@westbrookrestorationsllcca6527]

If you are passionate to the practice of carpentry and woodworking you can find a way to support yourself through it. be it business or working in the field. Business understanding and implementation is learning a whole other skill set from hands on carpentry trade learning. Im sure you have that figured that and Id say that business engineering takes just as much attention and hands on workmanship. If you head on over to my KZbin channel you'll find some videos and articles about the contracting business and management in general. You never know, it might help. Cheers,

[@naptownplaya32]

@@kenoshakid2579 where’s the lie?

[@alexanderdeleon4242]

🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥 Gonna watch this again and again!!

[@UpFlip]

Glad you enjoyed it! Are you starting a woodworking business as well? :)

[@alexanderdeleon4242]

@@UpFlip I'm also a third generation carpenter. And third generation business owner / entrepreneur. Currently make furniture in my backyard shop. Ready to hit the next level!!

[@SilasRobinson]

Awesome video! Great interview :) Very inspiring. Thanks!

[@UpFlip]

Glad you enjoyed it, Silas! Are you in the industry?

[@puppx13]

I learned so much from this video from start to end. Learning from the wise is priceless. ---Los Angeles, CA.

[@UpFlip]

So glad to hear this Puppx13. It really is!😀😀Thanks for watching from Los Angeles. Are you in the same type of industry?

[@guillermoraya4967]

These are the carpenter's I learned all my tricks off the trade

[@UpFlip]

That's awesome!

[@trooperjoe73]

That's right. Lean right in on that miter saw and get a good look. 🤣

[@ericjdiaz4747]

as a burned out cabinet maker working almost everyday 12 hrs. I needed to listen to this. thanks

[@UpFlip]

You're very hard-working Eric. It will all pay of in the end and we're so happy this video helped.😀 Do you work for yourself?

[@ericjdiaz4747]

@@UpFlip yes i do

[@darioxbrow9223]

keys I've taken away from this other video (been binge watching all of your videos guys, you're amazing): 1)Personal growth is fundamental in your business journey 2)10k is the minimum amount of money anyone should get started with 3)your profit margin should be between 35% and 65% (although I think this is too high of a margin) 4)get into google ads asap. Don't use any other platforms, they're just making money off of you 5)buy a truck to securely use your tools 6)have your equipment on wheels (another amazing piece of advice right there) 7)employees are kind of a burden 8)know your numbers 9)make sure both you and your customers know what you're gonna do so that you don't have any problems 10)Contracts are crucial 11)business isn't about money, it's about you owning it ;)

[@UpFlip]

You're amazing Dario!⭐What steps have you applied thus far in your business that you've learned from the videos?

[@doneldridge202]

Keep in mind the type of work Daniel is doing and the years of experience he has doing it. Alot of that 35-65% profit is from his knowing how to get the job done without it taking as much time and/or materials as a lesser experienced person. He has devised a mothod of bidding that includes the cost of everything. Remember every dollar you spend over what you thought the job would cost comes out of your pocket. If you don't cover the cost in your bid it comes out of your profits (pocket), so bid accordingly.

[@cesarleylim]

Absolutely love uplift is a safe heaven ! I have learn so much from this guys ! Super interesting keep up your awesome work

[@UpFlip]

We really appreciate you supporting the channel Cesar and we're so happy the content has been helpful and interesting. 😀What type of business do you want to see featured on the channel next?

[@off-gridhillbillystyle3735]

Take time for personal growth. Thank you sir .

[@qomco]

I love that this guy uses Husky tool bags, so humble not trying to impress anyone. His work obviously speaks for itself

[@UpFlip]

Great point! Thanks for watching! What was your favorite part of the interview?

[@qomco]

@@UpFlip honestly, the numbers. The fact that this guys making the income hes making doing real craftwork. Im in my 30s, been doing renovation n resi construction since 15, still trying to find that niche for myself. Besides that excellent video editting, interview, camera, audio etc. I used to work on movies a bit myself👍and I know how much time goes into the boring behind the scenes

[@msk3905]

I hope others are paying attention to that, I am surprised (well actually not) that so many think because they are “pro’s” they need to go out and buy the best tools. Rigid tools will do the same job that a Festool or Milwaukee will, owning high end tools will not impress anyone if you produce subpar work with them. You need to run a business with very close attention to money knowing exactly what’s coming in and going out (such a simple concept that so many don’t follow), you need to save money for downtimes and spend/invest wisely.

[@freddyg1210]

Awesome video! What a talented guy! I wish he would of answered some of your questions on how much he paid for his tools and where he got them. Specifically the table saw. It was a nice one.

[@UpFlip]

Thanks for watching Freddy. Many of the tools he's acquired over the years. Are you in the woodworking industry as well.

[@pmelchman]

That apron he is wearing is spot on. It must be custom made.

[@UpFlip]

Thanks for watching! We appreciate you!

[@dustinmarquand5301]

Great interview!

[@UpFlip]

Glad enjoyed Dustin!

[@SuperUShopFitting]

Woodworking business is a great charm....because you have to focus and make something real and intangible. Not just some fancy ideas that cannot be implemented

[@UpFlip]

Very True Super U Shop! Thanks so much for watching and commenting on the video. 😀👍Are you in the woodworking industry as well?

[@CarlottaART]

I learned from this interview...thank you both!

[@UpFlip]

Wonerful CarlottaART! You are very much welcome. 😀💖So glad you enjoyed the video and it was informative. Thank you for watching. What was your biggest take away from the interview?

[@CarlottaART]

@@UpFlip when he said, it's your business, you can run it however you choose.

[@thedude20125]

Master carpenter or woodworker or restoration carpenter or whatever he wants to call himself this is absolutely the kind of guy I avoid working with like the plague.

[@justwoodwork4337]

This is really usefull ! thank you !

[@UpFlip]

Glad it was helpful Just wood work. How long have you been in the industry?

[@drumfanatik316]

The thing about these videos is, you have to have the knowledge, skill, the desire, and dedication to be able to do this! The titles of the videos can be misleading, like it’s saying anyone can do this!!!

[@bryanyankulov3162]

For A 3rd Gen. Woodworker He Seems To Be Intunne With His Personal Growth & Feelings ~ How Progressive And In Fashion He Is. 😮

[@MinhvuLy]

I have gone over a year without subscribing. This video made me subscribe to your channel.

[@UpFlip]

Thanks so much!

[@adventurexperience]

great knowledge, great video

[@UpFlip]

Glad you liked it Benjamin. Are you currently in this industry?

[@ronniegonzales7112]

I would kill to apprentice under someone like this

[@jaceks88]

People always leave out the end of that quote. “a jack of all trades is a master of none, but oftentimes better than a master of one.”

[@KevinSolem]

Good and interesting interview. When people have been years in the business, they can give you a hint on what to expect in the future.

[@UpFlip]

Glad you found the interview interesting, Kevin! Are you new to our channel?

[@KevinSolem]

​@@UpFlip I discovered your channel for about a week ago. Me and my twin brother are running a builder/painter company together so it is interesting to see the experience of other people. Your channel has great value for us business owners, it's educational and entertaining. Greetings from Norway.

[@UpFlip]

Awesome! Wishing you both the best of luck. We hope you can gain a lot of knowledge to help with your journey. Were you in the industry prior to running your own?

[@KevinSolem]

​ @UpFlip ​thanks for the reply, I was in the shipbuilding industry for about 10 years before we started the company. So I was pretty new to the builder/painting business. One of the first big differences I noticed about being a normal employee vs. an owner is you have to have more discipline and be more proactive.

[@Vean440]

Man looks like a Bill Gates of woodworking :D Master@work.

[@UpFlip]

He truly is a master!

[@roadiejames]

I seriously need a copy of Mr. Westbrook's contract and the item line document for estimate. I am a master carpenter in South Texas and work solo for the last year and it's been a wild ride. Never had a shady client until pandemic life and so far there were 4 of them in a three-month span. Going to be very meticulous with my contracts and have the things I explain to the client in writing for their reference.

[@UpFlip]

Thanks for watching! Sounds like you have a GREAT business! How long have you been in business?

[@chrisreynolds2410]

Contact the old timer and buy a copy of the contract for a few hundred.

[@JShel14]

There's so much insulation on the walls but not the roof of his shop. I know this is so off topic but I'm trying to insulate my own garage shop in IL and that stuck out for me.

[@everythingnnothingpodcast]

Thank you for sharing

[@UpFlip]

Thanks for watching!

[@gregsandifer2398]

We usually don't make that much for comparable work here. Great video

[@UpFlip]

Thanks for watching Greg!😀 What area is that you're referring to?

[@perpetualyouth760]

Great Vid and great contractor.

[@UpFlip]

Awesome Perpetual! Thanks so much! Are you new to the channel?

[@elgimecastillo3965]

I'm working on to open my small woodworking shop

[@MCEdziits]

The is an old saying - real master doesn't need advertisement. The client always finds them. Yust do your projects as good as you can and the clients themselves will take care of ads.

[@blackhistoryonsteroids8196]

The entrepreneur vs business owners is golden.

[@UpFlip]

It absolutely is! 💪

[@richardmckrell4899]

I specialize in wood window restoration with linseed oil paint in New England. It's a good home based restoration niche.

[@UpFlip]

Hey Richard! Thanks for watching and what a cool niche! Can you tell us more about what you do?

[@richardmckrell4899]

@@UpFlip Sure, I restore wood windows sashes, storms and wood screens by stripping down to bare wood, make repairs, clean the glass and reglaze with linseed oil putty. I condition the sashes with raw linseed oil and paint with linseed oil paint. I also make new wood sashes, storms and screens as needed. I also do restoration work probably similar to what you do. I have a wood shop and a glazing and painting shop.

[@westbrookrestorationsllcca6527]

@@richardmckrell4899 Yes! Awesome to hear. Keep up the good work.

[@richardmckrell4899]

@@westbrookrestorationsllcca6527 You keep up the good work too!

[@bnuggg]

There is a guy that walks up and down my street with a stick and screams at everyone he passes. This guy looks exactly like him.

[@mitchellkasdin1899]

Good job 👍

[@UpFlip]

Thank you! Cheers!

[@antonpishchik]

I love how he walks around his truck is like " well you know here I kinda store stuff, here too, some kneepads, some doritos bags...like whatever man" every guy in the trades is watching this and thinking how much stuff he REMOVED to make it look that clean 😄

[@antonpishchik]

Because if you know then you know

[@UpFlip]

Ha! I'm sure he cleaned up a bit for the interview. Can't blame him for that!

[@ajs96350]

I have been thinking about charging for quotes, there are days I don't work at all because I'm looking at 12 jobs and I don't get them all. People don't understand the time and effort we put into it, plus the cost of the truck, fuel, repairs and so on. Overhead can be a killer.

[@westbrookrestorationsllcca6527]

There should be enough revenue in your overhead to pay yourself for doing estimates or sales is another word for it. If not then charge directly for each one out front. That can be hard though. So it depends on what kind of jobs your bidding on and what service your providing for an estimate. For instance are you doing any drawings? Offering suggestions to the customer about the layout of the job or types of millwork? In other words are you doing any design work, logistical planing for them, or helping them understand different colors or wood species etc. just to get the bid done? If the customer needs help with a cabinet layout because thy don’t have a drawing and don’t know what they want then for you that’s design time you can charge for. Your estimate then becomes part of the design process because their budget is going to have to match the design your doing. Do they want a 10k cabinet? Or a 2k cabinet? On the other hand if your doing 12 bids in a day you must already have a pretty efficient system for estimating so in your case might be best to consider that time spent out of overhead cost adjustments. Thanks for the share!

[@UpFlip]

Thanks for sharing, Max. How long have you been in the woodworking business?

[@miloauker8706]

I am just a bit younger than this fellow. And I got rid of all my employees over the last 10 years. They are a big responsibility. You have to be with them every single day. They do not run themselves. Then you have payroll tasks, additional insurances. Then there is the drama of dealing with their personal issues. Missing work. Crappy work, damaged equipment, etc. etc. etc. My life is so much simpler and enjoyable without employees.

[@brianmiller1580]

Ditto I couldn't agree more

[@donkeyjoe4782]

Sounds like you're upset about your humans being human. I run myself at my job and my manager stays out of my hair.

[@glenben92]

@@donkeyjoe4782 have you ever dealt with humans? We can be quite a pain in the ass 😅

[@chaddoyle6911]

I feel like there might be a lot of people out there not doing exactly the same thing but are maybe in a similar position in their life. And I have thoughts about how we see things continuing outside of the person. Does he have children that want to learn his craft, or does he have apprentice(s) so to speak. How do we not lose the value of his knowledge and skill?

[@UpFlip]

We appreciate the feedback, Chad. He does have family to keep the business going but this is a great question. Do you think once an idea is out in the public people learn from it and duplicate it even if they don't realize?

[@germcrazyshokoff3623]

Usually business-based shows hosted by someone who clearly knows nothing about business or money annoy the crap out of me but, for some reason, I am not so bothered here. But when he thought that truck was $7500 and was shocked that saw blades & other costs of doing business would be worked into a job’s cost, I had to laugh out loud.

[@Natural-Causes]

Lol I’m sure the people waiting a year, year and a half out are thrilled to hear him say he works a 10 our work week

[@Celtic-Acid]

🍋 next vid "starting a $300k/month lemonade stand"...

[@LuisCasstle]

From someone who inherited a lemon orchard. 🤣

[@richjohn11]

I would love to be an apprentice of this man even at my age of 61. I would leave the UK and fly stateside no problem.

[@UpFlip]

That would be supper cool richjohn11. 😀Are you currently in the woodworking industry?

[@richjohn11]

@@UpFlip Sadly, no I was in the office environment which although paid me a wage I felt as if I was missing out deep down. I always liked working with my hands and liked seeing the finished product or repaired article, whether in wood or any other material. Thanks for your reply by the way...love the channel

[@MrDizzle715]

Step 1 to successful woodworking business: be a third generation woodworker growing up learning all about woodworking from a young age.

[@reachthroughreality]

A tip my step dad taught me for estimating cost of materials: your cost X 3 AT LEAST. That way you can mess it up and fix it, then the customer can break it and you can still fix it, and the universe can conspire against you, and you still are okay. Then when the job's done you can cut them a break, or just not charging extra for that kinda thing brings repeat customers and good word of mouth.

[@nigelknight1435]

Every job can be estimated you just need to break it down into enough elements of time & materials

[@SanderOpdam]

I’d love to hear what these people do and the systems they have put in place for when they get sick.

[@josiahutah3712]

I've had this same thought. I guess you could just lengthen your lead time. But that doesn't help with revenue. Maybe that's an advantage of having employees. They can do the physical labor while you do the other tasks until recovery.

[@acoustictreatmentservices9926]

I am a lot like Daniel except I take on too many different trades. One day I am in the house designing a studio and estimating it. Another day I am hanging doors, other day I am babysitting drywallers, other days I am babysitting electrical, other days I am up and down a ladder for 12 hours installing insulation and fabric on a ceiling. Daniel understands not having employees. For me it never made sense and I lost it all after only 2 years of having 3 trucks and 4 guys working for me. Past 4-5 years I have been solo

[@UpFlip]

How has being solo been?

[@westbrookrestorationsllcca6527]

Daniel Here. Id recommend looking at your business "system" and engineer it carefully keeping in mind where you would honestly like to go in the future. There is no past failure because you're learning from them. Same with me, Ive lost a lot in the past along the way but Ive learned and applied it. Ive been at it a while and it does get better!

[@acoustictreatmentservices9926]

@@UpFlip it’s been really good for me because I now work for myself and not to keep others busy. I also make only a little less money than when I was at my peak in 2014 - 2016. During that time I built recording studios anywhere from companies like Snapchat and Tune In, to guys like Kendrick Lamar and Ari Levine. My work is very niche and exclusive (like Daniels). You can see on my KZbin. I occasionally will hire labor for a day or so because of injuries or simply hanging a 350lb “soundproof” door or something that needs and extra hand or two. It is hard to get people to show up and do things right these days unfortunately

[@acoustictreatmentservices9926]

@@westbrookrestorationsllcca6527 thanks for that! It is refreshing to see another guy in a similar business. I am probably still one of the youngest guys designing and building recording studios (I am 31 and started when I was 20) so believe when I say I made a lot of mistakes. I was a dumb kid and gave my labor away. I could of been retired by now. You can see some of my work on this KZbin channel that I am replying on. I will try to do more videos. It has been good for me so that I can also show clients what is involved in this trade.

[@theRolling2010]

I'm so sorry to heard about your last experience...what was the problem?

[@martinmartin6117]

Great Video

[@UpFlip]

Thanks for the visit Martin Martin. Have you checked out our latest video?

[@jimfeaster4837]

Very little states this Will work ! Contractors laws Prohibit this must Have 3 years expierence alone before you can apply For this !

[@chrisreynolds2410]

I literally have in my contracts…. - Nothing is to be assumed into the contract unless a task is specifically written in this contract it’s not a task that will be completed.

[@andre1987eph]

You build those skills over decades.

[@UpFlip]

It definitely too time Andre. Thanks for watching. Is this the first video you've seen on the channel?

[@jimhagler3716]

I thought that was a panel saw in his truck and it occurs to me it could still be used as a glass rack maybe??

[@shane4013]

He’s a smart man business wise

[@UpFlip]

He is!

[@westbrookrestorationsllcca6527]

Im not sure Im that smart Shane. Ive made many many of mistakes in retrospect. Maybe just a little more wise from the road traveled.

[@keepitreal829]

I like that he charges for estimates.

[@UpFlip]

Yes, he's charging for access to all of his knowledge :)

[@keepitreal829]

I'd love to have his clients, open checkbook little tough to bring in 30k a month Working by yourself. I have 37 years started at 16 on my own unless he's doing flips .but 186.50 per hr on t&m highly unlikely when there's other shops around I am sure .

[@phillipemmons3714]

@@keepitreal829 I'm saying the same thing. I've been at it 40 years now. Some jobs are ok, but nowhere near the amount of money he's talking. There's not a chance of having multi millionaire clients like that where I live...which is probably for the best.

[@WW-lm5ji]

Ok I could see how some of the videos could be useful to someone opening those businesses.

[@UpFlip]

Yes, we interview a variety of businesses to help others. Is there a specific industry you'd like to see? :)

[@WW-lm5ji]

I would like to see a video on starting and operating a hardware store, and separate one on an importing business.

[@cdeboer11]

Great info but could be half the length without all the B roll clips

[@keithsargent6963]

Nobody starts out at 30k per month, you must grow into that level of business.