Meet John Furniss (aka The Blind Woodsman)

John Furniss is an artistic woodworker in the Pacific Northwest. He has been fully blind since the age of 16 and learned woodworking at a school for the blind in his early 20’s. His teacher was also blind and was able to share adaptive techniques with him specifically for woodworkers without sight. John relies heavily on visualization and his sense of touch during his process. For his pieces, he creates a “blueprint” in his mind. He is drawn to exotic hardwoods and contrasting colors. John knows what it’s like to face extreme challenge and come out stronger on the other side. His perseverance shows others there are no real limits in life except those that we create.