I started as a cabinet maker in 1994 and the growth of my family led me to toymaking. It is very helpful to have a testing laboratory in my home.

When creating my designs there are several things that I try to accomplish.

• The first is aesthetic. Though my train engine is no exact replica, the features it includes create a characiture of an engine. My toys must look nice and fun so that they attract kids to play with them. They are made of quality hardwoods with a nice finish so that they are attractive to adults as well.
• My designs must be rugged. These wood toys are intended to be family heirlooms and must withstand a lot of loving play which likely will include drops and tosses.
• My toys must be safe. Small parts can become a choking hazard; broken toys can result in splinters or cuts. These toys are well designed and strongly built.

As you can see, I have a helper working with me in the workshop. Cory loves to help making toys and is especially good at testing new designs.

Her tastes in toys is directly reflected in what I make. She loves to take things apart and put them back together again.