What does it really take to survive and grow in the modern joinery trade? In this episode of Yours for the Making, Robin Johnson sits down with Damen Foord, founder of D Foord Joinery, to talk about the highs, lows and lessons of life as a traditional joiner.

Damen shares his journey from a tough apprenticeship into running his own joinery business, the constant struggle to balance craft with cost, and why he believes traditional skills are being lost in a world dominated by mass-produced furniture. Together, Robin and Damen unpack the realities of managing staff, training apprentices, finding clients, and staying profitable through economic downturns.

This episode shines a light on the value of skilled craftsmanship, the risks of going it alone, and the future of joinery in Britain. Whether you’re a maker, apprentice, or simply curious about the craft behind bespoke furniture, you’ll get an unfiltered look at what it means to dedicate your life to wood.

Key Topics Covered:

• Damen Foord’s journey from apprenticeship to founding D Foord Joinery
• Robin Johnson on rebuilding after shutting down his first business
• Why traditional skills matter in modern joinery
• The real cost of bespoke furniture vs mass-produced alternatives
• Apprenticeships, staff challenges, and training the next generation
• The impact of COVID and economic downturns on the trade
• Plans to use YouTube and social media to showcase craftsmanship
• How passion and dedication keep small businesses alive

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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 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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Key Moments:

00:00 – Introduction: Robin Johnson and Damen Foord on confidence and business

06:45 – Robin on shutting down his first business and rebuilding stronger

12:30 – Damen’s traditional joinery training and lessons from mentors

20:15 – Why doing things right matters more than shortcuts

27:40 – Starting D Foord Joinery in 2018 and early challenges

35:10 – The reality of bespoke joinery costs vs mass production

44:25 – Apprenticeships, training, and finding the right staff

54:40 – COVID, economic downturns, and adapting as a small business

01:05:30 – The role of YouTube in showcasing traditional joinery

01:13:20 – Robin and Damen on collaboration and supporting the trade

01:22:15 – Final advice for aspiring joiners and reflections on the future