Love that white finish on ash, it definitely subdues the sharp contrast between the sap and heart wood, which is my biggest complaint about ash. Also those drawer lights are something else! Great job dude
Thanks, man! The finish was definitely something I was most nervous about, but it definitely evened out the dark/light tones nicely. It made me potentially consider working with Ash again...however, I think I will stick to walnut for the next few projects 😜
When you say, "Yikes" towards the end is so funny. Above and Beyond does not begin to describe your work! Uncle Keith, you're the best! Did you factor in the Inspector's Fee? Jerry wants to know!
Mr. Johnson. Your channel is one of my favorites. You are incredibly talented, down to earth, funny, and you have the best helpers too (Jerry and Lola) Thank you so much for sharing. See you on the next video!
I’ve mentioned this in some of my builds. But there are these magnetic motion sensor lights that are rechargeable. Aliexpress and TikTok shop sell them really cheap. Whenever I find them for like $1 I buy them. I’ve attached them to the underside of the counter in drawers, in my storage trailer, in my shed, in my pantry, inside tv stand, coffee bar (armoire). Basically anywhere that doesn’t have power but you would like light. Super simple, super cheap, super functional. A single charge lasts a half a year to a couple years depending on use. My pantry and kitchen utensils drawer i have to charge the most often but like I said it’s like once every 6 months.
Aww, what a great uncle! Your niece was adorable and seemed to really love the desk. I always seem to really enjoy your pieces. You do very nice work. Jerry and Lola are a bonus and the 3D version cracked me up.
Looks fantastic! Great to hear your thought process and problem-solving. On time estimates, there's a technique used in software development where tasks are estimated to take 1/2, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 13, 20 or 40 time units. Having this limited set of numbers to chose from reduces indecision, while at the same time reminding us that any high estimates will be inaccurate. If any task is estimated at 13 or more, we should probably split it into smaller tasks to better estimate them.
Loved it! Love yer kitty kats, too! I appreciated the effort that you put into the pricing of your niece's "pretend commissioned desk project," then sharing with us common folk! Also, I absolutely loved your very cute niece's reactions whilst finding her way around the desk and all of the extra things, e.g., 3d printed items! Well done, Sir!
Only recently found your channel after listening to the podcast for quite a while; really enjoy your video style. Amazing work, your attention to detail is very evident. If your niece is anything like my girls, the desk probably has nail polish on it by now but still love what you did here. Ordered that same printer today, have heard nothing but great things from those that own one.
Very nice build as always Keith! Useful information as well. Was waiting for your new video, they don't come out as often as I wish but the wait is always rewarded
Always enjoy your videos. Educational, entertaining, informative and very useful. This one is no different. However, watching your niece's reaction does make this video very special.
What an amazing desk! I would have loved a desk like that! Especially the narrow shelf and the brass accents. I love it! And love how Jerry is always there to help haha
Among my colleagues (in an electronics industry) we used to say that a "simple/familiar" project will run pi (3.14) times above estimate, while a "complex/novel" would bust it pi squared (9.86). Distressingly often that was not far from reality...
It all depends upon your market mate. In a Hollywood boutique you might ask and get 7000, same desk in my small town furniture store might sell for 300, same desk in a high street charity store is worth 70. It always amazes me how niche bespoke table makers spend more money on a slab of wood than my car is worth, then after a few says loving attention it sells for five times that. If I tried that trick locally, no matter how pretty I made it, I’d be lucky to get 200 quid.
Hofstadter's Law: Everything takes longer than you think, even when you factor in Hofstadter's Law. There's no way even those of us who don't film and edit our builds can really make our hourly rate (I nominally charge $75/hr too). The hope is that over time you make a few bucks and mostly have fun doing what you love. Thanks for the behind the scenes view. I use an Excel spreadsheet to keep track of costs, but what the final cost to the client is depends on lots of intangible factors. Very nice build. I really like the curve on the arris of the legs. And definitely the 3/16" groove is perfect. It also hides any wood movement over time.
Thanks for the thoughtful comment and insights! Yeah, when each piece you build is unique, it's virtually impossible to correctly estimate the hours required. In the back of my head, I usually figure it will take me at least 30-40% longer than anticipated.
I really enjoyed this insight. I've always found custom, one-of-a-kind jobs hard to price. I always poorly estimate time required and fair better with materials and other fixed costs. However I tend to always see the 'overages' on time the 'learned' part of the job. It's often wrestling with things that are new to me, which will be much easier next time. It's experience that will help inform the next job with similar requirements achieve a better estimate. Plus like you I enjoy going the extra mile for a customer and I can't tell you the number of times that's led to new customers bring new business my way.
I started working with ash recently, at first I thought it looked too much like pine for my taste but it was cheap. A high grit sanding and a nice hard wax finish and I was surprised how nice it actually came out.
Thank you for your line-item assessment & explanations. I don't sell my woodwork - I build so that I don't have to buy - but I do sell my jewelry work, so there's considerable overlap that applies. Thanks again! BTW, my shop cats are Bandit (18yo tabby) & Baghera (17yo black blob).
Amazing video Keith! Love the way you break down the pricing and totally agree that sometimes its worth taking the hit on some of the profit for extra time spent on doing what you enjoy. Your attention to detail is something that is unmatched! The only part I disagree with you on is your rate of $75/hr. Your quality of work is well worth over $100+/hr! Keep up the great work man
I try not to use more glue than necessary to minimize it. People often use way more glue than needed. You can also push your joint almost all the way together and wipe away any squeeze out before fully seating the joint.
Keith thanks for another great video been following for awhile now. I'm looking for furniture and cabinet CAD drawings for upcoming projects...can you recommend someone? I saw you had hired a person for the project.
Hey Keith - great work. Why did you choose to use metal straps vs. Attaching the leg / stretched assembly to the top with something like dominos on the loose setting which would add side to side stiffness and some people claim loose dominos and glue allow for adequate movement. Is it something else or do you find that movement still is a risk?
Hi Keith Great video and a nice desk. Just a question on how you calculate tools. Let’s say you are asked to build a desk, finds out that you will do it better and more efficient with a domino. You currently don’t own a domino (which I know you do) So you run to the store and buy the tool The domino is not a cheap tool. Are you trying to factor in some of the cost for the tool or will that be an expense that you see as: I will save time on future projects so it will not change the price of this project?
Thanks! If you think you can work in the price of a tool into the customer‘s budget, then it’s certainly possible, but for a small piece of furniture, that’s a big cost to add into the job. You would be better off breaking it up over multiple jobs to lessen the impact. If you are a contractor doing a huge renovation, then it’s easy to hide the cost of something like a domino.
Great build & video, Keith~! Pricing my work is my Kryptonite. How did you calculate your hourly rate? That's my hardest part since materials cost is pretty straight forward. Thanks~!!
That's another magical question. It varies for many people, but here is a formula to start with: Desired profit amount + desired salary + operating costs / number of income producing hours = your hourly rate.
@@KeithJohnsonCustomWoodworking A little bit of a brain buster, but I greatly appreciate your insight. I'll add this bit of info into my notes. Thanks much for the reply~!
Good morning 🌅, I’d like to comment and it’s disappeared. It’s probably gone into somebody else, great work, Well worth the effort and time you put into it, The thing is as well you’ve got to cover the cost of your tools and machinery, et cetera, I have made a lot of furniture over the years , but I used to put Ebony or different coloured wood into my furniture as a contrast, I am a English dude , retired living in France, keep up the great work, look forward to your next project I presume the bookcase, From France
Wow!. That's a lot of hours and expenses. I kind of knew that, but this beats it quite a bit for this seemingly simple desk ("seemingly simple" is meant in the most positive sense). Costs for all the tools, the heated and lit space you work in, are not even on the list! Great work!
Great video and great information. Like you I think the shelf should be slightly wider and I might have suggested a brass rail or half inch high back to both the desk and shelf. My daughter had a similar desk (no shelf) and was always climbing under it to pick up things that fell. Added a piece of half inch trim and solved the problem
Nothing but respect for you and your work. And if you can get those kinds of prices, I’m ecstatic for you, truly. My niece would be happy with a $10 desk from Goodwill. And so would I. LoL You and your clients are just totally different people than me and my friends/family/people I sell things to. That may be a $6000 desk in your world, but it’s a $200 one in mine at absolute most, no matter how nice it is. And that’s ok. We’re all on our own paths. :)
Beautiful piece, as always. We take for granted that a KJ woodworking video will reveal an intricate creation. The Dog definitely raised her excitement level. P.S. are you accepting new great nieces? My daughter needs ( read wants) a new dresser. Can't wait for the next one.
I think your work is superb. I must live in the wrong area. I don’t know anyone that has this kind of money to buy a custom project like this. I do love it though.
I don’t have a business yet. But that is my goal and pricing is my biggest fear. lol! I am in the middle of a project that I thought would be 5-7 hours of work and I’m already to 15. lol! Great video!
Hey Keith. Why do you use a pattern bit vs a flush trim bit? I have the two B&B compression Flush Trim bits (1/2 and 1/4 shank). The half inch FTB has 2" of cutting capacity along with top and bottom bearings, so it's always confused me. Thanks!
Hi Keith, Nice to see a new video from you again. It's a shame that we can't match the prices here in Germany. As a handicraft, you can at best generate €500 for a desk like this from us. People simply don't see the material cost of solid wood and don't respect the handwork. Many greetings from Hanover, Lower Saxony, Germany. Werner
40:34 If you love to do those things and do them on your own choice, not being requested by the customer, you can't put it on the customer. If I develop a software for a customer and give them an estimated time/price of 120 hours, and the software is finished by then, but I decide to invest another 20 hours just refactoring the code because I enjoy it I can't charge the customer these additional hours. If they ask me to do it they pay for it but I can't charge them if it's done out of my enjoyment. I can only charge the customer for what they've requested/approved, not what I enjoy doing additionally.
40 years of engineering consulting: never came close to estimating the actual amount of time that things take. A factor of 2 is traditional when estimating, but it ranges from 1.8 to over 3 - sometimes things go way wrong... Delivery dates are just as bad, often because of vendors. Real life is just that fuzzy.
Looking at ash from both ends, top, behind...lol. Just curious, do you tend to do a single project start to finish or do you have multiple projects going at once?
@@KeithJohnsonCustomWoodworking I get it. I've got one side of a two car garage, but I'm not sure my brain could handle more than one project anyway. Thanks for the engagement, advice, and inspiration. I get very excited with every new video.
Keith, this is good content. I'm not sure I'd use that model myself, mainly because I cannot and could not advertise myself as a 'professional' woodworker. My head-scratcher has always been the hourly rate. You definitely should charge $75/hr. So, I know that I could execute that desk myself, and would take much longer to do, and would probably come close but not exactly to your level of fit, finish, etc. What's my hourly rate, then? I've been told between $35 and $45 an hour, and still get looks like the air just left the room on rough quotes. My "day" job earns me about $65/hr, but is nothing close to woodworking. I guess to reframe the question, where did you start at with a labor rate just starting out, and at what points did you bump them up until you hit $75/hr?
I think it’s a different calculation for everyone based on many factors. Two of the primary ones for me being where I live (high cost of living) and overhead costs. I work in my garage and don’t have to lease a space, so overhead costs are very low. There are formulas online that will give you a better idea on how to calculate what is best for you.
Would you have been more strict with your time if this was for an external client? Or just tell them up front, oh by the way labor could end up being more than DOUBLE the estimate?? That seems like a huge variance and not something a client would appreciate from a professional.
Honestly, I’m pretty loose with time because my job is also my hobby, so the extra hours spent on details and going above and beyond gives me enjoyment and is where I learn a lot of different things.
This is a great question, and ends up burning so many craftspeople. After you give the customer a quote, you can't realistically go back on it. The maker often eats into their profit margin if they go over.
@@fletchro789 Right on. It's normal to give an estimate and then come in with a final price within 10-20%, but to have a 200% difference is indicative of poor planning, lack of expertise, or major mistakes. Again, whether that matters to you depends on your client and your desire for future clients lol
@@bs838 in the construction business that is normal. You’ll always have road projects that estimate 50million but end up costing 150million or buildings that tripled in cost.
The piece is amazing and I really appreciate the pricing breakdown. It's something I've been trying to figure out. Assume this wasn't a family member, how do you tell a client that the final price is about 40% more than the estimate?
Head to shrsl.com/4qy0c for Bambu Lab’s Black Friday page to get your Bambu Lab X1C and other size units according to your needs!
There is no amount of money in the world you could’ve charged a client that is worth that reaction. Great stuff as always mate!
It was truly priceless! 🥰
Your niece’s reaction made it all worthwhile ❤
Couldn't agree more, Chet!
Love that white finish on ash, it definitely subdues the sharp contrast between the sap and heart wood, which is my biggest complaint about ash. Also those drawer lights are something else! Great job dude
Thanks, man! The finish was definitely something I was most nervous about, but it definitely evened out the dark/light tones nicely. It made me potentially consider working with Ash again...however, I think I will stick to walnut for the next few projects 😜
When you say, "Yikes" towards the end is so funny. Above and Beyond does not begin to describe your work! Uncle Keith, you're the best! Did you factor in the Inspector's Fee? Jerry wants to know!
😂 Thanks Juliet! Dang! I need to add a line item for the Inspector 😬😹. He definitely deserves his cut.
Yes, definitely add a line for the CAT scans
Your niece is adorable and her reaction really made the whole video. Made me want to go make something for my daughter who's about the same age.
Thanks! I hope you're able to experience that same amazing feeling!
Mr. Johnson.
Your channel is one of my favorites. You are incredibly talented, down to earth, funny, and you have the best helpers too (Jerry and Lola)
Thank you so much for sharing. See you on the next video!
Thanks, man! I’m glad you’re enjoying the videos! I’m working on getting Lola trained up and Jerry might be getting his own channel soon! 😹
@KeithJohnsonCustomWoodworking
When that happens, I'll be the first one to subscribe to their channel.😀
Thanks a million!
I’ve mentioned this in some of my builds. But there are these magnetic motion sensor lights that are rechargeable. Aliexpress and TikTok shop sell them really cheap. Whenever I find them for like $1 I buy them. I’ve attached them to the underside of the counter in drawers, in my storage trailer, in my shed, in my pantry, inside tv stand, coffee bar (armoire). Basically anywhere that doesn’t have power but you would like light. Super simple, super cheap, super functional. A single charge lasts a half a year to a couple years depending on use. My pantry and kitchen utensils drawer i have to charge the most often but like I said it’s like once every 6 months.
Sounds like a great, inexpensive solution! Thanks for sharing 👍🏼
I really enjoyed seeing your niece's enthusiastic reaction to her new piece of furniture!
Thanks! I think she might be a future customer! 😅
That reaction! You win the coolest uncle award! Amazing desk, outstanding craftsmanship as usual... video was on point 🔥
I appreciate that! It truly was a priceless reaction.
I really like to see you back in process! I’m learning this hobby! I really like your videos!!
Awesome! Thank you!
Aww, what a great uncle! Your niece was adorable and seemed to really love the desk. I always seem to really enjoy your pieces. You do very nice work. Jerry and Lola are a bonus and the 3D version cracked me up.
Thanks, it was a special uncle moment! 😄
Looks fantastic! Great to hear your thought process and problem-solving.
On time estimates, there's a technique used in software development where tasks are estimated to take 1/2, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 13, 20 or 40 time units. Having this limited set of numbers to chose from reduces indecision, while at the same time reminding us that any high estimates will be inaccurate. If any task is estimated at 13 or more, we should probably split it into smaller tasks to better estimate them.
Thanks for the tips! That's a great approach.
Keith, you are MASTER, I truly enjoy the video because is educational and I get to see new products, again your are worth every penny in gold!
Wow, thatnks so much! I greatly appreciate it.
Fantastic piece and video Keith. Watching someone more experienced break down pricing like this is beneficial. Thanks for sharing!
Thanks so much! It’s something I wish I understood sooner.
Loved it! Love yer kitty kats, too!
I appreciated the effort that you put into the pricing of your niece's "pretend commissioned desk project," then sharing with us common folk!
Also, I absolutely loved your very cute niece's reactions whilst finding her way around the desk and all of the extra things, e.g., 3d printed items!
Well done, Sir!
Thanks Robert! I appreciate the feedback. And it was a an amazing uncle moment to see her reaction! 🥰
Definitely appreciate the numbers crunching and the fact that you ended up where I often do, wondering how I spent so much time.
Right on! I’m always surprised how much time is really involved.
Absolutely love those brass feet from campfire. Been using them for years and great customer service!
They really do look great, especially with walnut! And Justin is next level with his service. 🙌🏻
Only recently found your channel after listening to the podcast for quite a while; really enjoy your video style. Amazing work, your attention to detail is very evident. If your niece is anything like my girls, the desk probably has nail polish on it by now but still love what you did here. Ordered that same printer today, have heard nothing but great things from those that own one.
She's a wild one, but the desk is still holding up! 😜😂 And enjoy that printer!
Very nice build as always Keith! Useful information as well. Was waiting for your new video, they don't come out as often as I wish but the wait is always rewarded
Appreciate the support! I’m trying to make them as high quality as possible!
That shadow line on the sides perfectly matched the drawer gap. Nicely done.
I appreciate the eye for detail!
Always enjoy your videos. Educational, entertaining, informative and very useful. This one is no different. However, watching your niece's reaction does make this video very special.
Thanks so much! And seeing my niece’s reaction was priceless 😁
This is super helpful especially as someone who has struggled giving quotes. Also nice to know that going over in time isn't the end of the world
I'm glad it helps! It's a big mental hurdle to overcome!
What an amazing desk! I would have loved a desk like that! Especially the narrow shelf and the brass accents. I love it! And love how Jerry is always there to help haha
Thanks so much! Jerry is the unsung hero of every build 😹
@@KeithJohnsonCustomWoodworking I praise him haha, always love to see them both...and your work of course!
Among my colleagues (in an electronics industry) we used to say that a "simple/familiar" project will run pi (3.14) times above estimate, while a "complex/novel" would bust it pi squared (9.86). Distressingly often that was not far from reality...
Wow. Great insight into custom work in another industry. Thanks for sharing!
Your number one client. Her appreciation is payment satisfied.
Agreed! That's what it's all about!
Really cool video. I definitely appreciate your adding so much insight into building custom furniture.
Thanks! Glad you found it helpful!
Fantastic video and informative beyond any ask. Perfect timing for me, thank you Keith.
Right on! Glad you enjoyed it. Thanks! 👊🏼
nice piece and love her reaction, not sure how you can gave almost 3 weeks into the piece, but it came out nice!!
It takes what it takes! 😅
Great job, Keith! The desk looks awesome.
Cheers Rob! I appreciate it 👊🏼
It all depends upon your market mate. In a Hollywood boutique you might ask and get 7000, same desk in my small town furniture store might sell for 300, same desk in a high street charity store is worth 70. It always amazes me how niche bespoke table makers spend more money on a slab of wood than my car is worth, then after a few says loving attention it sells for five times that. If I tried that trick locally, no matter how pretty I made it, I’d be lucky to get 200 quid.
@@contessa.adella Yes, it’s all about your market and clientele.
Another great woodwork project video. Best woodworker on RUclips.
Wow, thanks! 👊🏻
Fantastic video! Your niece is one lucky girl to have an heirloom piece like that. And definitely buying that 3D printer.
Wow, thanks! And enjoy that printer...I think you're going to love it!
@ just ordered it. Can’t wait. Any thoughts on hot end sizes to have on hand if I’m planning to use PLA and ABS? .2mm, .4mm, .6mm?
@@SmallProjectCentralAwesome! 0.4mm will work for both!
That's a cool video Keith. I think alot of people have wondered how you, and others, do this. Very insightful.
Thanks! Hope it was helpful!
Pretty sweet...my daughters been bugging me for a desk. I think my skill set might all most be there. Your work is excellent as always.
Go for it! I'm sure she will love anything you build for her!
So beautiful! And she was happy! That was awesome! ❤
Thanks, she really loved it! 😁
Awesome work, something to strive for. Can I ask what the dust hose attachment you have on the G-700 is at 4:41? Would you recommend it?
Thanks! That is made by ClearVue. Unfortunately, it’s been discontinued.
Hofstadter's Law: Everything takes longer than you think, even when you factor in Hofstadter's Law. There's no way even those of us who don't film and edit our builds can really make our hourly rate (I nominally charge $75/hr too). The hope is that over time you make a few bucks and mostly have fun doing what you love.
Thanks for the behind the scenes view. I use an Excel spreadsheet to keep track of costs, but what the final cost to the client is depends on lots of intangible factors.
Very nice build. I really like the curve on the arris of the legs. And definitely the 3/16" groove is perfect. It also hides any wood movement over time.
Thanks for the thoughtful comment and insights! Yeah, when each piece you build is unique, it's virtually impossible to correctly estimate the hours required. In the back of my head, I usually figure it will take me at least 30-40% longer than anticipated.
Uncle of the year 🙌
😂 This is definitely my final campaign push!
I love ash furniture and that finish looks amazing on it. Great work!
Thanks bro! Not sure I would use Ash again unless I got a request for it, but it wasn't too bad to work with!
I really enjoyed this insight. I've always found custom, one-of-a-kind jobs hard to price. I always poorly estimate time required and fair better with materials and other fixed costs. However I tend to always see the 'overages' on time the 'learned' part of the job. It's often wrestling with things that are new to me, which will be much easier next time. It's experience that will help inform the next job with similar requirements achieve a better estimate. Plus like you I enjoy going the extra mile for a customer and I can't tell you the number of times that's led to new customers bring new business my way.
Yes! We share the same philosophy. Cheers!
I started working with ash recently, at first I thought it looked too much like pine for my taste but it was cheap. A high grit sanding and a nice hard wax finish and I was surprised how nice it actually came out.
Yeah, it can definitely look like pine if it's flat sawn. But it's hardness makes it far more durable and stronger than pine.
Thank you for your line-item assessment & explanations. I don't sell my woodwork - I build so that I don't have to buy - but I do sell my jewelry work, so there's considerable overlap that applies. Thanks again!
BTW, my shop cats are Bandit (18yo tabby) & Baghera (17yo black blob).
Thanks! It's always interesting to see how others approach pricing their work. Tell Bandit & Baghera hello 😺😺
Such a good and detailed video! You have outdone yourself again Keith!
Thanks John! I appreciate it, man!
Amazing video Keith! Love the way you break down the pricing and totally agree that sometimes its worth taking the hit on some of the profit for extra time spent on doing what you enjoy. Your attention to detail is something that is unmatched! The only part I disagree with you on is your rate of $75/hr. Your quality of work is well worth over $100+/hr! Keep up the great work man
Thanks Luke! I appreciate it, man. Hourly rate does vary based on complexity of work, so it’s normally $100+. I cut my niece a deal on this one 😜
Amazing desk Keith, been following the pain via your pod cast. Looking forward to the next video.
Thanks so much!
YES, YEHEEES, finally an Ash build. I'VE BEEN WAITING YEARS FOR THIIIS ^^
Hope it was worth the wait! 😉
Awesome content! Quick question, how do you deal with glue squeeze out? For me it’s one of the most annoying things to deal with!
I try not to use more glue than necessary to minimize it. People often use way more glue than needed. You can also push your joint almost all the way together and wipe away any squeeze out before fully seating the joint.
Keith thanks for another great video been following for awhile now. I'm looking for furniture and cabinet CAD drawings for upcoming projects...can you recommend someone? I saw you had hired a person for the project.
Thanks for following along! You can reach out to Brett Cope at Cascade Create LLC: instagram.com/cascadecreate/
Truly amazing work, Keith! Beautiful desk!!! 😃
Stay safe there with your family! 🖖😊
Thanks, appreciate it! Stay safe as well!
You're a good uncle! Her reaction was more than worth your extra efforts, I'm sure.
Couldn't agree more! Thanks!
As always, a beautiful piece Keith. 👏
Thanks Jesse!! 🙌🏻
Hey Keith - great work. Why did you choose to use metal straps vs. Attaching the leg / stretched assembly to the top with something like dominos on the loose setting which would add side to side stiffness and some people claim loose dominos and glue allow for adequate movement. Is it something else or do you find that movement still is a risk?
I like the base and top to be separate entities.
Hi Keith
Great video and a nice desk.
Just a question on how you calculate tools.
Let’s say you are asked to build a desk, finds out that you will do it better and more efficient with a domino.
You currently don’t own a domino (which I know you do)
So you run to the store and buy the tool
The domino is not a cheap tool.
Are you trying to factor in some of the cost for the tool or will that be an expense that you see as: I will save time on future projects so it will not change the price of this project?
Thanks! If you think you can work in the price of a tool into the customer‘s budget, then it’s certainly possible, but for a small piece of furniture, that’s a big cost to add into the job. You would be better off breaking it up over multiple jobs to lessen the impact. If you are a contractor doing a huge renovation, then it’s easy to hide the cost of something like a domino.
Turned out great dude! Loved seeing her reaction to it.
Thanks Bret! And thanks for all the plans help! 👊🏼🙌🏻
Aww, we loved your niece's reaction 💙💙
It was more than I could have hoped for! Priceless!! 🥰
I love how you first explain the difference between "Profit" and "Margin" just to talk about PROFIT-MARGINS in the very next sentence. Very helpful 😂
Great build & video, Keith~! Pricing my work is my Kryptonite. How did you calculate your hourly rate? That's my hardest part since materials cost is pretty straight forward. Thanks~!!
That's another magical question. It varies for many people, but here is a formula to start with: Desired profit amount + desired salary + operating costs / number of income producing hours = your hourly rate.
@@KeithJohnsonCustomWoodworking A little bit of a brain buster, but I greatly appreciate your insight. I'll add this bit of info into my notes. Thanks much for the reply~!
Great video as always keith. Real question where did you get those pants? Lol i need this for the shop and ditch my pouch
Thanks! Those are Truwerk T2s: amzn.to/40LC21r
Beautiful!! It was cute how much she loved the dog you printed.
She has a great eye for detail! 😜
Great build! Love this video
Thanks Adam! It was such a fun and rewarding project.
Always an enjoyable experience to watch your work.
Thank you sir!
Good morning 🌅, I’d like to comment and it’s disappeared. It’s probably gone into somebody else, great work,
Well worth the effort and time you put into it, The thing is as well you’ve got to cover the cost of your tools and machinery, et cetera,
I have made a lot of furniture over the years , but I used to put Ebony or different coloured wood into my furniture as a contrast,
I am a English dude , retired living in France, keep up the great work, look forward to your next project I presume the bookcase,
From France
Thanks so much! I appreciate the comment. Cheers!
Looks like works gonna wait this morning… KJ posts a video, you drop everything!
😂 I’ll give you a doctors note if you need it for your boss 😜
Yikes!!! Great video, great result at the end, Jerry's final word on the matter as insightful as ever!
😹 The little fur ball is indeed a wordsmith!
Wow!. That's a lot of hours and expenses. I kind of knew that, but this beats it quite a bit for this seemingly simple desk ("seemingly simple" is meant in the most positive sense).
Costs for all the tools, the heated and lit space you work in, are not even on the list!
Great work!
Thanks for the comment! And yes, all the tools, utilities, etc. are included in overhead which is factored into my hourly rate.
Great video and great information. Like you I think the shelf should be slightly wider and I might have suggested a brass rail or half inch high back to both the desk and shelf. My daughter had a similar desk (no shelf) and was always climbing under it to pick up things that fell. Added a piece of half inch trim and solved the problem
Yeah, I proposed the back rail many times, but she didn't want one 🤷🏼♂️
Nothing but respect for you and your work. And if you can get those kinds of prices, I’m ecstatic for you, truly.
My niece would be happy with a $10 desk from Goodwill. And so would I. LoL
You and your clients are just totally different people than me and my friends/family/people I sell things to. That may be a $6000 desk in your world, but it’s a $200 one in mine at absolute most, no matter how nice it is.
And that’s ok. We’re all on our own paths. :)
Fair enough.
Beautiful desk and as always a great video. Thanks 👍
Thanks so much for watching! 🙌🏻
Bro that's just fun. Shout out to bringing joy.
Thanks man! A very heartwarming build 🥰
read the book version of "The Martian" instead... way more details and a lot of fun.
Oh yeah, the book is phenomenal, but I thought they did a decent job bringing it to life.
Great video, good to see another truewerk fan!
Right on! I own way too many pairs of Truwerk pants 😂
Beautiful piece, as always.
We take for granted that a
KJ woodworking video will reveal an intricate creation.
The Dog definitely raised her excitement level.
P.S. are you accepting new great nieces? My daughter needs ( read wants) a new dresser.
Can't wait for the next one.
😂 Thanks Moshe! Unfortunately, niece applications are closed at the moment 😜
Great video, how many projects do you have going at one time?
It really depends on the scope of the projects and how big there are, but typically 1-2.
My friend - you’re such an inspiration for me. Thanks again for an amazing video. And see you soon :).
Thanks Fantin! It was a great weekend in TX!
@ indeed! Too short but good nevertheless :(
her excitement of the drawers is all worth it
Agreed! It was a great moment!
I think your work is superb. I must live in the wrong area. I don’t know anyone that has this kind of money to buy a custom project like this. I do love it though.
Thanks man! Yeah, different areas of the country can command hire rates for custom work.
I don’t have a business yet. But that is my goal and pricing is my biggest fear. lol! I am in the middle of a project that I thought would be 5-7 hours of work and I’m already to 15. lol! Great video!
Yeah, you gotta learn to factor in the "oh-sh**" hours. 😜
I feel responsible for at least 5 of those labor hours. It’s all the standing around and talking we do 😂
Totally worth it…cost of doing business 😂
Your Niece's response would have made all that work worth it!!! 😃
Definitely!! 😍
The hardest working shop cats around!
Jerry is the unsung hero of the shop! 😂
Hey Keith! What is that enviable jointer that you have??
Hammer A3-31 👍🏼
Hi Keith, great video as always. Would u mind sharing where do u outsource the 3d printing files. Who are u using? Thanks
I use a friend that doesn't do it full-time, but check out FIVERR or Upwork to find thousands of people that can 3D model.
Thanks for sharing your process. Very helpful.
Thanks for watching!
Who did your dimensional drawings thanks great video helps a lot
Thanks! Brett Cope at Cascade Create LLC
Hey Keith. Why do you use a pattern bit vs a flush trim bit? I have the two B&B compression Flush Trim bits (1/2 and 1/4 shank). The half inch FTB has 2" of cutting capacity along with top and bottom bearings, so it's always confused me. Thanks!
Good question. 😂. Just preference, I guess.
Very happy customer!
Indeed! It was a heartwarming moment 😁
Hi Keith,
Nice to see a new video from you again.
It's a shame that we can't match the prices here in Germany. As a handicraft, you can at best generate €500 for a desk like this from us.
People simply don't see the material cost of solid wood and don't respect the handwork.
Many greetings from Hanover, Lower Saxony, Germany.
Werner
You should target different income brackets
Thanks for the comment! Prices for handmade goods are different all over the world.
Always a great watch. Also, you're looking quite fit these days!
Thank you kindly!
40:34 If you love to do those things and do them on your own choice, not being requested by the customer, you can't put it on the customer. If I develop a software for a customer and give them an estimated time/price of 120 hours, and the software is finished by then, but I decide to invest another 20 hours just refactoring the code because I enjoy it I can't charge the customer these additional hours. If they ask me to do it they pay for it but I can't charge them if it's done out of my enjoyment. I can only charge the customer for what they've requested/approved, not what I enjoy doing additionally.
Yes, correct. I don't charge for added time/details that I decide to add.
@KeithJohnsonCustomWoodworking Ah okay, it sounded like those where part of the 100h. My bad :D
40 years of engineering consulting: never came close to estimating the actual amount of time that things take. A factor of 2 is traditional when estimating, but it ranges from 1.8 to over 3 - sometimes things go way wrong... Delivery dates are just as bad, often because of vendors. Real life is just that fuzzy.
Unless you build the same thing over and over, cost estimation is definitely variable. Sometimes you win, sometimes you lose 😂
Just starting the video and I can't wait to see that girls face when you hand her the bill!
We are still in negotiations...she's a tough nut!
Looking at ash from both ends, top, behind...lol. Just curious, do you tend to do a single project start to finish or do you have multiple projects going at once?
I try to only focus on one project at a time due to being in small shop.
@@KeithJohnsonCustomWoodworking I get it. I've got one side of a two car garage, but I'm not sure my brain could handle more than one project anyway. Thanks for the engagement, advice, and inspiration. I get very excited with every new video.
Keith, this is good content. I'm not sure I'd use that model myself, mainly because I cannot and could not advertise myself as a 'professional' woodworker. My head-scratcher has always been the hourly rate. You definitely should charge $75/hr. So, I know that I could execute that desk myself, and would take much longer to do, and would probably come close but not exactly to your level of fit, finish, etc. What's my hourly rate, then? I've been told between $35 and $45 an hour, and still get looks like the air just left the room on rough quotes. My "day" job earns me about $65/hr, but is nothing close to woodworking.
I guess to reframe the question, where did you start at with a labor rate just starting out, and at what points did you bump them up until you hit $75/hr?
I think it’s a different calculation for everyone based on many factors. Two of the primary ones for me being where I live (high cost of living) and overhead costs. I work in my garage and don’t have to lease a space, so overhead costs are very low. There are formulas online that will give you a better idea on how to calculate what is best for you.
@@KeithJohnsonCustomWoodworking I'm in an HCOL area also, but I'll dig into it. Thanks!
Ay I just bought a Bambu too! It's so easy to use it's crazy. Pretty fast too! I got the A1 though. So won't put it in my shop anytime soon.
That’s awesome! Glad it’s working for you. And yeah, the A1 needs a more sterile environment 😂
Beautiful work, Uncle Keith! ;-)
Thanks man! I appreciate it 👊🏼
Would you have been more strict with your time if this was for an external client? Or just tell them up front, oh by the way labor could end up being more than DOUBLE the estimate?? That seems like a huge variance and not something a client would appreciate from a professional.
Honestly, I’m pretty loose with time because my job is also my hobby, so the extra hours spent on details and going above and beyond gives me enjoyment and is where I learn a lot of different things.
This is a great question, and ends up burning so many craftspeople. After you give the customer a quote, you can't realistically go back on it. The maker often eats into their profit margin if they go over.
@@fletchro789 Right on. It's normal to give an estimate and then come in with a final price within 10-20%, but to have a 200% difference is indicative of poor planning, lack of expertise, or major mistakes. Again, whether that matters to you depends on your client and your desire for future clients lol
@@bs838 in the construction business that is normal. You’ll always have road projects that estimate 50million but end up costing 150million or buildings that tripled in cost.
The piece is amazing and I really appreciate the pricing breakdown. It's something I've been trying to figure out. Assume this wasn't a family member, how do you tell a client that the final price is about 40% more than the estimate?
I wouldn't. Unless they make changes or add things after they sign the estimate, I have to eat the extra hours.
@@KeithJohnsonCustomWoodworking Good point. Thanks!
Which vacuum bags do you use?
Not sure the brand, but I bought it from veneersupplies.com
I love working with ash. Currently also making a desk out of it, with bocote accents.
oh very nice! 👌