MEET THE MAKER!
Hi, I'm John!
I started learning the woodworking craft in the fall of 2019 and have loved every day that I get to be in the shop. Cut Twice Woodworks officially started in the spring of 2020 and we are currently located in Cedar Hill, TN.
I have found that making custom furniture has become a passion of mine that I never knew I had. Being a maker has opened up my world to meeting really talented individuals and fostered a true appreciation for people's interests and talents. Hearing about projects others are working on or the setup of their shop hooks me instantly.
My work has a local presence and has stretched across the country. Every item that I have either sold or given away has left an impact not only on my clients, but even on myself. I love knowing that the items I make will be in someone’s home where memories will be made either around a table or displayed proudly on a shelf.
I am originally from the Tampa Bay area, headed out to Northern California after college, and moved to Cedar Hill in early 2021. I have two kids (2 and a 4 year old boys), and when I am not in the shop I enjoy spending time with them and our 4 Great Danes and watching hockey.
And now, back to making sawdust!
Hi, I’m John Bonema—woodworker, dad, husband, chicken wrangler, and founder of Cut Twice Woodworks, based in beautiful Cedar Hill, Tennessee.
My love for woodworking started when I was a kid, learning from my grandfather. But it wasn’t until my late 20s that the spark really caught fire. Inspired by a high school friend’s craftsmanship, I bought my first table saw using credit card points (thanks, rewards programs!) and started learning the ropes—mostly from YouTube and a whole lot of trial and error.
What keeps me hooked is the transformation process: taking raw, rough lumber and turning it into something you can gather around, show off, or pass down. Every piece I make is one-of-a-kind, built with care and meant to last.
Since launching Cut Twice Woodworks in 2020, I’ve created everything from coffee bars to full bedroom sets. But in 2024, I made the intentional decision to focus on custom tables and countertops—furniture that really anchors a space. I still take on other projects when it’s the right fit, but tables are where I shine.
What sets Cut Twice apart is the experience. I believe in honest, clear communication, updates along the way, and delivering something that exceeds expectations. Whether it’s a dining table for your growing family or a bold statement piece for your business, you’ll know who built it—and exactly how it was made.
Along the way, I’ve had some really cool opportunities—like building a gift for a country music legend to give to a retiring NASCAR driver (still pinching myself about that one). And I’m proud to say our reviews speak for themselves—5 stars across the board, with a whole lot of kind words about communication and professionalism.
When I’m not in the shop, you’ll probably find me outside with my wife Amber (a Family Nurse Practitioner working toward her Emergency NP certification), our two boys (ages 4 and 6), four Great Danes, 33 chickens, and 2 ducks. Life is full, and we wouldn’t have it any other way.
If you’re curious about a custom piece, want to collaborate, or just feel like chatting about woodworking, I’d love to connect. Thanks for being here—and for supporting small, handcrafted businesses like mine.
Let’s build something awesome together.
