5 questions with a creator - Meet Jonas from Woodcraft by Jonas Als

"Don’t hold back, don’t waste your time, and believe in yourself. Most people hate other people that succeeded at things they didn’t accomplish themselves."

Meet Jonas Als - Boon creator from Woodcraft by Jonas Als.

What started as a passion for the outdoors and working with his hands, turned into a career making handmade woodcrafts for Michelin restaurants and private customers all over the world.

As a “greenwoodworker,” Jonas is on a mission to give people a deeper understanding and consciousness about what it means to work with your hands, without the use of power tools. He spreads this mission through his products, lectures, physical events, and virtual workshops on Boon.

Read on to hear a bit more about Jonas’ story and his words of inspiration for fellow creators.

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1. Tell us the story behind your business. How and why did you get into woodcrafting?

I’ve always loved nature and have been working with my hands for as long as I remember, as a kid, teenager and adult.

When I was 20 years old I became a father to twins and one year later I became a full-time, single father. So while I took care of the kids at day, I carved a lot during the evenings.

Until one day my friends and family suggested that I should take a few steps further and start my own company. Well, that was a good idea, because now I make handmade woodcrafts for Michelin restaurants and private customers full-time.

2. Who's your personal role model or hero? Can you tell us a bit about why you admire them?

I think one of my two most important role models is my uncle Bjarne Als at Bering House of Flowers in Copenhagen, for his 100% dedication, perseverance and how he kept pushing on through over 30 years of hard work.

The second is Jögge Sundqvist, one of the most inspiring and skilled Swedish woodworkers of the 'Traditional Scandinavian Slöjd’ style.

3. Do you have a personal motto or manifesto that you live your life by? Or a favorite quote?

Maybe a bit of Jögge Sundqvist "Continuous creativity” which I find very important for getting better at what you do. Out of your comfort zone, into the unknown!

4. Can you share a fun or quirky fact about yourself that not a lot of people know - or maybe wouldn't expect? :-)

I listen to a lot of 180+ bpm dutch hardcore, grindcore metal and classical music. That’s a big part of my everyday. Well, and then we have 4 kids at home, ouch! :D 

5. If you could go back in time, what advice would you give to yourself as a young creator? Any advice for other creators who are just getting started?

Don’t hold back, don’t waste your time and believe in yourself. Most people hate other people that succeeded at things they didn’t accomplish themselves. 

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To learn more about Jonas and his beautiful and unique products, check out his website and Instagram.

Interested in learning more about the principles behind woodworking? Check out Jonas’ events on Boon.tv.

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