How would you describe your style?  I attempt well proportioned contemporary design built with traditional methods and materials.

Do you remember the first thing you made? Definitely forts.

Before I started making I… Before embarking on my own work professionally, I worked turning for local furniture makers. Before that, construction.

If I weren’t a maker I’d be... Ideally, independently wealthy. Realistically, a turning subcontractor.

Favorite quote or words to live by: I try to constantly remind myself to pay attention. To best appreciate the moment, whatever it may be.

If I could run away I’d go… To the West Canada Lake Wilderness in the Adirondacks.

If you could collaborate with one person dead or alive who would it be? I’d have to say Christian Burchard. The movement and fluidity in his work have always captured my imagination.

What would be on your maker’s soundtrack? I’ve recently taken to working in silence. So mostly shop noise and me talking to myself.

If you could learn a new skill what would it be? I’d love to become a good welder.

What is your perfect day? My perfect day as a maker is when everything goes effortlessly. When doing without thinking comes easily.

What would your last meal be? I’d order takeout from The Cask and Rasher. Pretzel breadsticks and a breakfast skillet.

What is the most challenging project you have worked on? Why? The Budding Low Table. I design to a concept, not what I have a process to create. Executing this piece proved a great challenge.

If money was not a factor how would you live your life? Probably fairly minimally. I’d spend more time exploring and a lot more time in the woods.

Best piece of advice you have ever received? Find something that you love to do and then figure out a way to get paid to do it.

Where did you grow up? I was born, raised, and still live in the Hudson Valley.

Favorite time of day? I find very early morning to be most peaceful part of the day.

Favorite holiday? The 4th of July. Generally good weather, good food, and fireworks.

Favorite thing to cook? Egg sandwiches of all varieties.

If you could have a superpower, what would it be? Hindsight in real time.

What are you most thankful for? My life in general. My wife and I have our health and have the good fortune of doing work we enjoy.

To see more of Andrew’s work visit, www.andrewfinniganwoodturning.com or Instagram @andrewfinniganworks