Meet Joel Kilby of Colorado Rustics in Morrison

Today we’d like to introduce you to Joel Kilby.

Joel, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
Some of my earliest memories from when I was a little kid, 3 or 4 years old, are of my great grandfather’s woodshop at his home in Virginia. I can still picture the little fluffy looking piles of sawdust on the floor, the perfectly curled wisps of white oak shed from his planer and the smell of tacky wood glue. He was a craftsman. There are still some of his creations in use today by various family members (and myself). He passed away when I was still pretty young, so my memory of his craft is fleeting.

But I like to think those early impressions left their mark. Perhaps that’s why, when I made the first few cuts on the dining table my wife requested, I felt like I was on to something. I could say Colorado Rustics started with the curiosity of a little dude exploring Granddaddy Gorham’s shop 40 years ago. I came back to those first fascinations out of necessity (we needed a bigger table) and creativity that needed a release (I work full-time in software. Building something tangible is a beautiful thing).

We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Since Colorado Rustics is a side job for me, the biggest struggle I have is finding time and space to build. I make everything in my single car garage with basic DIY tools. I tried my hand at full-time retail space, but because I create one-off pieces, I have a hard time keeping inventory. I’d much rather work one on one with a client to build something to suit their need.

So, as you know, we’re impressed with Colorado Rustics – tell our readers more, for example what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
I work with a variety of wood and unique reclaimed materials. The pieces I build have their own one-off quality, so I try to always bring forward the characteristics and patina of different species of wood. I specialize in commissioned pieces, including barn doors, tables, and benches. I also build an assortment of modern plant stands and shelves for a houseplant store in Denver called Green Lady Gardens.

So, what’s next? Any big plans?
No big changes planned, other than continuing to practice and dial in my skills and techniques. And of course, I would love to work with more people on custom projects.

Pricing:

• Modern style plant stands are $40 – $75.00 depending on size and style
• Sliding barndoors start at $350
• Rustic benches vary based on wood and style. Usually around $100 – $200

Contact Info:

• Website: http://www.coloradorustics.com
• Phone: 719-695-8778
• Email: info@coloradorustics.com
• Instagram: instagram.com/coloradorustics

Image Credit:
Joel Kilby, Colorado Rustics.

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