Daily Inspiration: Meet Trevor Rogers

Today we’d like to introduce you to Trevor Rogers.

Hi Trevor, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today.
I started creating things out of wood when I was around 13 years old. My great-grandfather was a woodworker who made furniture and many other things from wood. One the the things he enjoyed was hand-carving animals. Due to his age, he could no longer do his passion. I inherited a few carving chisels and not long after I got into woodturning. When I was 14, I owned my own custom wood pen business (Colorado custom pens).

I didn’t start it expecting it to be a career. I just made so many things I just didn’t have room for more and wanted to sell to businesses. I did that for around 1-2 years. When I was 16, I first used a chainsaw for cutting wood into pieces, and I used them to make bowls on my lathe. At first, I hated it, I had the hardest time figuring out how to start and keep the chainsaw running. After a few long years of learning, I started to get the hang of it. Around 18 years old, I decided I wanted to try and carve something with my chainsaw.

My technique was lacking at first, but I had lots of fun attempting to carve things. It took a couple of years before I was even able to carve my first bear. At first, I carved trees, mushrooms, and pumpkins. I get such a satisfied feeling when I create something new that is pleasing to the eye and imagination. Dedication and not being afraid of failure have helped me get to where I am today. When I make a mistake, I let it light a fire under me, and that fire doesn’t let me quit until I get it done right.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It has not been easy to get where I am today. I wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for the support of the people around me (family friends and other artists).

Marketing, learning, and having the space to grow have always been the biggest struggles. To this day, I still struggle with them, but life is always about perseverance.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I specialize in chainsaw carving. I am most known for my owls, turtles, and bent pine trees with roots. Style changes from carver to carver, so it is hard to compare work.

However, I think the detail I use in every carving does set me apart from the commonly seen carvings. Often land owners will have me come out to carve an in-ground tree stump. I take a lot of pride in my on-site carvings and enjoy getting to see the carving’s final home.

What was your favorite childhood memory?
Being born in Colorado fishing and hanging out out outdoors have always been my favorite memories.

Contact Info:

• Website: Www.TGRwoodworks.com
• Instagram: @trevor.r18