Name of business: Johnson Brothers Woodshop Designs
Type of business: Handmade woodworker
Location: www.johnsonbrotherswoodshop.com; sold at Central Park Evening Market
Hours: Central Park Evening Market, Thursdays from 5 pm. to 8 p.m.
Contact information: 209-648-0094
Specialty: Custom-made wooden products
History of business:
John Johnson showed his twin sons Michael and Mark Johnson countless woodworking projects over the years, most likely never considering that one day, the family would turn the talent into a business. But, when Michael and Mark’s grandfather gifted the pair with his woodworking tools five months ago, the twins and their father turned their renewed passion for woodwork into Johnson Brothers Woodshop Designs, handcrafting unique cutting boards, serving trays and more for the Turlock community.
“We try to keep everything as handmade as possible,” said Michael. “We have machinery, but keeping the business between just us three, we’re able to communicate with each other and offer a more personal experience with our products.”
The Johnson brothers and their father create artisan cutting boards and wine displays for customers who love to throw parties, and with names like “The El Cap” and “The Royal Robbins,” the boards serve as an elegant way for entertainers to impress their guests. Engraved, wooden signs, wine bottle holders and even pencil holders are just a few of the other products they offer, and the three Johnsons each offer a skill set that allows them to create each piece with careful precision, said Michael.
“Being close with each other...it’s easy for us to communicate our ideas, and especially having the whole twin telepathy thing between my brother and I, it makes it easier for me to say an idea and for him to sketch it,” he said.
Johnson Brothers also provides custom woodwork. Whether a customer wants a custom cutting board for their own home or a unique coffee table to give as a wedding gift, the woodworkers sit down with each customer to figure out the perfect design.
“If you’ve seen an idea on Pinterest or have an idea and don’t know where you can get it done, we’ll sit with you and help create whatever vision you have,” said Michael. “We like to spend more time with our customers instead of just offering a set group of products.”
He added that he and his family members can create any custom piece, as long as it’s made of wood. Custom orders can be made via email, at info@johnsonbrotherswoodshop.com.
While the business began as simply an online endeavor, with many orders coming through the business’ social media pages and its website, Johnson Brothers recently began offering their products at downtown Turlock’s Central Park Evening Market, where the family has enjoyed getting to know the community.
“The reason why we wanted to get involved with the market was to feel like part of the community,” said Michael. “Seeing the same people each week and getting people to come and shop downtown is awesome.”
