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, the hands and heart behind Cut Twice Woodworks, located right here in Cedar Hill, TN.
My journey into woodworking started with my grandfather, who introduced me to the craft when I was just a child. However, it wasn’t until my late 20s that I truly picked up the interest, inspired by a high school friend who was making some incredible pieces. In the fall of 2019, I bought my first table saw using credit card points, and with a little help from YouTube, I quickly learned the basics.
What drives my passion for woodworking is the transformation process—seeing dirty, unprocessed lumber and visualizing its potential as a finished piece. There’s something incredibly special about using my own hands to create a tangible product that’s truly one-of-a-kind. I'm driven by the desire to provide something unique, a piece that you can't get anywhere else.
Since starting Cut Twice Woodworks in 2020, I've crafted a variety of pieces, but in 2024, I've strategically decided to focus on tables and countertops. That doesn’t mean I won’t take on other custom furniture projects, but it has to be the right fit for both the client and me.
My goal is to provide superior customer service, starting with open communication throughout the design process. Clients can be as involved as they want, from the smallest details to the choice of materials and beyond. I offer regular updates, personal delivery, and ongoing support. When you pay for custom furniture, the experience should match the price tag.
During my time in Middle TN, I've had some pretty cool experiences. I was honored to build a retirement gift for a major country music star to give to his friend retiring from NASCAR.
I am proud to have a 5-star rating across client testimonials. The common theme in all reviews is the positive experience with communication and professionalism, which is something I take great pride in.
When I'm not in the shop, I love watching hockey—I'm a huge Tampa Bay Lightning fan—playing with our Great Danes, and spending time with my family. My wife, Amber, is finishing up her Nurse Practitioner Program at Vanderbilt, and we have two young boys, ages 3 and 4, who keep us busy and bring us a lot of joy.
If you're in the market for a custom piece of furniture, have any questions, or just want to say hi, I'd love to hear from you! Follow our page to keep up with our journey and see more of what we create.
Thanks for being here, and I look forward to connecting with you!
