Lumberlust Designs Interview - High-end, Live-edge and River Tables - Episode 20

In this episode of "Resin Mastery" it features an in-depth interview with Ryan Walsh of Lumberlust Designs. Ryan, a craftsman specializing in live-edge woodworking, river tables, and resin art, shares his journey from a photography background to becoming a full-time artisan. He describes his initial attraction to the organic forms of live-edge wood, contrasting it with the uniformity of mass-produced furniture. Ryan explains how resin, initially used for filling voids and stabilizing wood, became integral to his creative process, especially as new deep-pour resin products emerged.

Ryan emphasizes the importance of adapting to market changes, particularly in light of rising material costs and shifting client demographics. Ryan details his approach to marketing, leveraging social media platforms like YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok to showcase his work and attract commissions. He also addresses the realities of running a custom woodworking business, including pricing and quality that map to his reputation. He talkes about the strategies he uses to keep his workflow steady, such as building inventory during slower periods and using content creation to generate future orders.

He discusses the technical challenges faced in Phoenix’s hot climate, such as managing exothermic reactions and overheating during resin pours, and how his techniques and finishing processes have evolved through experimentation with various resin brands and methods before landing on a consistent quality brand, iCoat epoxy.

The conversation concludes with practical advice for aspiring resin and woodworking artists. Ryan stresses the importance of setting up a suitable workspace—prioritizing climate control and air filtration. He lists essential equipment such as jigsaws, sanders, HEPA vacuums, and air scrubbers, and recommends starting with small projects to minimize risk and material waste. Safety is highlighted, particularly regarding dust and fume management.

Ryan also shares insights on pricing custom pieces, explaining how costs are calculated based on materials, labor, and overhead, and occasionally involving clients in the material selection process to streamline pricing and tax considerations. Listener questions are addressed, including techniques for eliminating bubbles in resin pours, demonstrating Ryan’s expertise and willingness to share hard-earned knowledge with the community.

Ryan Walsh - Lumberlust Designs

https://www.lumberlust-designs.com/

https://icoatepoxy.com

tel: +1 602-258-1114

https://www.facebook.com/iCoatProducts/

Instagram @icoat.epoxy

https://icoatepoxy.com/ai-agent/

Podcast management by www.globalcreativegroup.com