When I started selling Shopsmith products in 1986, most of the buyers were in their 30’s and 40’s. Almost all of them were husbands, homeowners, and well educated. There were dentists, firefighters, orthopedic surgeons, policemen, service men, engineers, and more.Very few were women, unfortunately.

30 years later, we have seen a big increase in women woodworkers (Hoorah! My wife and two daughters are both skilled with the Shopsmith tools), but the biggest change that I have seen: most Shopsmith buyers now are retired, or close to retiring.

   In my shop with my grandson, Russell. We were making him a sword…10 years later, he still has it…no longer played with, now hanging on a wall, but still prized. My favorite projects are those I made for, or with, someone else…wife, kids, in-laws, grandkids, hopefully someday great grandkids.

And as I think about it, it makes sense. So many men I talked with over the years truly wanted to own a Shopsmith, but family obligations took precedence.

Now, the kids are through college, the house is paid for, and most importantly, they have the time, and money, to fulfill their dreams.                               

If you have always dreamed of making furniture, turning bowls, making things for the kids and grandkids, teaching woodworking to kids or grandkids (or just hanging out together making sawdust and memories), finishing DIY projects, getting out of your spouses hair, earning some extra income, etc. contact me.

If you are ready for a Shopsmith, contact me at shopsmithdoug@gmail.com. Good advice, honest opinions, and discounts.