In this episode of Yours For The Making, host Robin Johnson sits down with the self-proclaimed “ply guy” - Zac Matheou, founder of Lycan Design, and a master craftsman known for his impeccable plywood cabinetry and honest takes on life as a solo maker.

Zach shares the story of his winding path into the world of bespoke joinery - from helping his dad in a pine furniture factory to a special effects career and eventually founding his own workshop. With over 11 years of hands-on experience, Zach opens up about everything from the realities of running a business alone, the beauty of hand-drawn designs, tool brand snobbery, pricing struggles, sustainability, and why he’s still not quite sure how he got here.

If you're a cabinetmaker, independent designer, joiner, or creative entrepreneur — especially one trying to balance quality craftsmanship with business growth — this is a masterclass in real-world making.

In this episode, you will learn:

• Why Zac left special effects to build kitchens from scratch
• How he built Lycan Design as a one-man, family-first business
• What it’s really like being a solo maker in a social media world
• The challenges of pricing bespoke work fairly
• Why he refuses to compromise on quality - even at his own expense
• His thoughts on plywood trends, tool snobbery, and the IKEA effect
• The future of British joinery and the skills gap crisis
• How sustainability and simplicity drive his entire process

This episode is a must-listen for:

Woodworkers and furniture makers, independent craftspeople and designers, creative entrepreneurs, Architecture and design studio collaborators, fans of high-quality joinery and British craftsmanship and anyone building a values-led, purpose-driven making business

Key Moments: 

0:00 - Introduction to Makers and Craftsmanship

0:54 - Meet Robin Johnson and Zac Matheou

1:19 - Zac's Plywood Expertise

2:09 - 11 Years of Working with Plywood

3:03 - Challenges of Running a One-Man Business

6:30 - Zac's Family Background in Furniture

9:02 - Career Journey in Special Effects

10:33 - Workshop Evolution

11:36 - Challenges of Workshop Transitions

13:07 - Lessons Learned in Craftsmanship

15:08 - Attention to Detail in Woodworking

22:38 - Relationships with Architects and Designers

24:38 - Social Media Trends in Woodworking

32:33 - Tools and Technology in Craftsmanship

38:30 - Design and Manufacturing Process

41:42 - Plywood Supply Challenges

48:09 - Waste Reduction and Material Optimisation

54:27 - Apprenticeships and Trade Skills

1:08:37 - Spray Finishing Techniques

1:16:45 - Pricing and Value in Custom Furniture

1:22:37 - Advice for Aspiring Craftsmen

1:28:25 - Future Plans and Business Goals for Lycan Design

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Yours for the Making with Robin Johnson is the podcast that celebrates creativity, craftsmanship, and the art of making. Hosted by Robin Johnson - founder of Johnson Bespoke and BBC presenter on shows such as The Travelling Auctioneers, The Restorers, Woodland Workshop this podcast dives into the stories of makers from all walks of life. From woodworkers, metal fabricators, and chefs to artists, designers, and hobbyists, each episode offers real conversations with the people behind the things we love.

Whether you're a hands-on creative, aspiring artisan, or simply curious about how things are made, this podcast offers inspiration, insight, and practical wisdom. Expect behind-the-scenes stories, lessons in process and passion, and a celebration of the maker movement in all its forms. 

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