Today we’d like to introduce you to Matt Hickey.
Hi Matt, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I started my woodworking business after my younger sister passed away from cancer at just 44 years old. She was the picture of health—she ate well, exercised faithfully, and didn’t smoke. Her passing made me realize how short life truly is, and it pushed me to pursue my dreams without delay.
After 32 years in the car business, where I earned a very good living, I made the decision to walk away and follow my passion. My wife and I set a goal to pay off all our debts and reduce our expenses to a manageable monthly budget that her income alone could cover, ensuring stability even if my business didn’t succeed.
Creativity has always been a part of who I am, whether through woodworking, crafts, model making, or drawing. Woodworking felt like a natural path, and I had already been doing it as a side business before leaving the automotive industry. I began with small cutting boards, then expanded into large commercial-grade butcher blocks, engraving, and eventually CNC work.
Today, many of my largest clients are realtors. I offer a closing-gift specialty: an 11×17 engraved cutting board customized on both sides to their specifications. These have become especially popular as memorable closing gifts. I’ve also supplied handmade cigar ashtrays to local cigar shops and partnered with a large dealership to provide engraved boards for customers purchasing new vehicles. In addition, I offer a wide selection of artisan boards, serving trays, cigar ashtrays, and other handcrafted pieces.
What I enjoy most is when clients trust me with full creative freedom. Much of my work is inspired by the natural movement of the wood grain unique to each species. I often say, “A woodworker can hear the tree speaking, but an artist listens,” and I truly believe that.
Now in my third year, I feel inspired and guided every day—especially by the memory of my sister, “Burpee.” I’m excited to see where this journey leads next.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It’s been really smooth and I’m thankful for that. The only hurdle was building my client base which came fast using social media but also going to local Realtor meetings and speaking to them about what I offer.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Craftworks By Hickey LLC?
Woodworking kitchen essentials and engraving.
Can you talk to us about how you think about risk?
Normal risk management when transferring from a career to a business owner.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Craftworksbyhickey.com
- Instagram: @craftworksbyhickey
- Facebook: Matt Hickey
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@craftworksbyhickey?_r=1&_t=ZT-93rcCrlptEM
