David Mac Laren – The Original Journeyman

A journeyman: A worker, skilled in a given building trade or craft. Successfully completing an official apprenticeship qualification, and working under a master craftsman. One who has been on a journey.

Well, this journeyman has come so far. After taking an unconventional path into woodworking, David Mac Laren, Artistic Director and founder of Bungendore Wood Works Gallery, is now a fully established master of his craft. We caught up with him to hear his story and find out how using Carbitool products every day has helped him to grow his business.

His path into woodworking

A young buck, and aspiring playwright, in late 60s New York, Mac Laren stumbled across a gallery that would unknowingly change his life. ‘Impression in Wood’ in Manhattan. Leaving the theatre behind, he joined the crew at Impressions. Starting from scratch, learning to sand and shape in the basement of the gallery. This is where his passion for woodworking began. Eventually expanding from smaller projects to designing furniture and kitchens on the Lower East Side.

Armed with his new network, experience and skills, he left the U.S in 1977 settling in Australia, near Bungendore in Southern NSW. He was ready to build a gallery!

The Wood Works Gallery

Built in 1914, the Bungendore General Store, was the first home of the Wood Works Gallery, which was completed in 1994. Mac Laren was tasked with sourcing all the timbers for the project. This included Jarrah posts and beams (which arrived wet and green and he had to stabilise with water-based waxes) Tasmanian Oak for the floors and Flooded Gum exterior cladding. It was a big task but one that he loved as he got to work and collaborate with others.

Collaborations became the core of his business…

Alongside running the Wood Works Gallery, Mac Laren turned to collaboration after his workshop burned down. Through the tough times, he realised the power and strength that came from collaborative projects and decided to continue down this path in his career. He now almost exclusively works with younger makers on the amazing projects that come out of his new workshop. “I find these collaborations very gratifying. And it is a good way to communicate my knowledge and experience” Mac Laren says.

So, tell us about your tools…

“All my tools are pretty basic – but they serve me well” he chuckles. His workshop is brimming with tools. From the 3000mm jointer, 500mm thicknesser and 300mm table saw to the tilting arbour spindle moulder, drill presses and table routers. (Phew!) But which ones are his faves? “I like Carbitool cutters because there is a wide range and a good selection, and my supplier, Fitch Tools and Sharpening, displays a great range on their walls.”

Want to grow your business with Carbitool’s wide range of timber tools? Browse our full range. Or, contact us at sales@carbitool.com.au for further information.

To learn more about David’s fascinating story and view his outstanding portfolio of woodworking projects visit his website.