When Norton Rockler started the Minnesota Woodworkers Supply Company in 1954 in north Minneapolis, he hoped to become a woodworker’s go-to resource for everything they needed to complete their projects.
Since then, Rockler has grown to become an industry-leading woodworking and hardware source with a nationwide chain of stores and international reach through their catalogs and websites. But the core of the company has remained unchanged.
Woodworking Classes
Throughout the year, Rockler wood hosts classes in its stores that teach beginners how to build unique gifts and ornaments for their families and friends. They’re also a great way to learn how to use a variety of woodworking tools and hardware.
The company’s small group classes, called Make and Takes, are a way to get more people interested in woodworking. They are limited to three to six participants, and they focus on a specific project or subject.
These classes are taught by expert Rockler woodworking instructors who help people make one-of-a-kind handmade pieces. The goal is to empower beginners and hobbyists to take projects into their own hands, according to Joe Kester, VP of retail at the Minnesota-based company.
They have a variety of classes, including woodworking basics for beginners, as well as specialty topics like Japanese woodworking, modern marquetry and furniture design. They also offer premium classes that include explainers and videos for common woodworking tools.
Woodworking Supplies
If you’re a woodworker who’s looking for the latest and greatest products to help you with your next project, then you’ve come to the right place. Rockler wood has an extensive assortment of high-end woodworking tools, finishing supplies and hardware to meet all your needs.
Their selection also includes a variety of unique wood materials, like dowel rods and inlays. Besides that, they carry an impressive selection of jigs and a wide array of power tools.
Their website offers a live chat option to talk with an expert consultant who can offer advice and guidance on your next purchase. Additionally, they also have a satisfaction guarantee for any item that is returned within 90 days of your purchase date. This is a great way to ensure you’re getting a product that fits your needs without risking a purchase you won’t get back. Lastly, their website is well designed and easy to navigate. The site also offers a number of handy tips and recommendations that you can use in your own projects.
Woodworking Plans
Rockler wood has an extensive selection of furniture plans that will help you build a whole new set of bedroom cabinets, desks or bookcases. If you’re looking for something a little more outdoor, they have plans for a variety of patio furniture projects like Adirondack chairs and benches.
The company also has a selection of high-quality wood and tools to help you create some pretty awesome items. The site also offers a large number of free project plans that can be downloaded instantly.
For woodworkers who want to try their hand at more complicated projects, the company also has a large number of woodworking jigs that make it easier to complete common tasks such as cutting miter cuts or milling joinery. Their jigs are also available with built-in features like a universal T-track that makes them even more versatile. Lastly, they have a number of other tools and hardware that can be helpful in your woodworking adventures.
Woodworking Hardware
Rockler wood offers a wide selection of tools, wood and finishing products for woodworkers. Their catalog features a variety of power tools like saws, sanders and drills.
They also have an extensive hand tool collection of chisels, clamps and more. They carry top brands like Stanley, Makita and Bosch.
Their website offers a live chat feature, which is very useful for tracking ordered items and talking with online consultants who specialize in the woodworking industry. They also offer a satisfaction guarantee for customers who purchase their products.
The family-owned company has been in business for more than 50 years and serves the woodworking community with the best quality tools, lumber, finishing supplies and more. They recently earned two Pro Tool Innovation Awards for their Deluxe Panel Clamps and their Clamping Hose Holders.
Their stores are spread across over 25 states. Not only do they have their own stores, but they also have a network of over 60 partner store locations.