Jaunty

having or expressing a lively, cheerful, and self-confident manner.

Journeyman

an experienced reliable worker who as learned a trade

To be a journeyman is to be someone who is both competent and yet open to learning new things, even while performing their work or trade. To be a jaunty journeyman, then, is to simply take joy in the learning and performing of a skill or trade. It is what I consider my ethos as a “maker.”

Woodworking, blacksmithing, writing, electrical wiring, construction, plumbing, design and execution of something new – they are all aspects of who I am and what I do. I love the term “maker” because it implies a simple way of approaching life – one who makes. Makes what? Whatever seems enjoyable, or useful, or beautiful.

Whether it’s an article of furniture, a lamp, a kitchen utensil, or just a piece of art, I take pride in my work and enjoy the process of bringing something into existence with my own two hands. The idea of crafting something from nothing, of taking raw materials and morphing them into something that can be appreciated or used every day, has always had a hold of me.

I strive for quality in my work, and I am always improving my craft and skillset. I hope that anyone who purchases my handmade items experiences the same joy by owning it as I experienced making it.

-Phil Brandvold
The Jaunty Journeyman