From campus ministry to crafting wood: Jared Thomas’ restful hobby
Treasure Hardwick, News and Feature Editor
Photos by Abigail Seiler
For Jared Thomas, woodworking is more than just a hobby. It’s a creative outlet, a family legacy and a meaningful way to rest from the busyness of life. As Vice President for Campus Ministry and Student Engagement, Thomas spends a lot of his time working at North Greenville University with students. But, when he steps away, he often heads to his basement workshop to create something from wood.
Thomas explained that woodworking is a broad form of art. It can include anything from small bowls to large dining room tables, cabinetry or even architectural pieces. While he has built larger pieces such as furniture, his current focus is wood turning, which is a process that allows him to complete projects in just a few hours.
Wood turning involves placing a piece of wood on a lathe, a machine that spins the wood while the artist carefully carves it using chisels. As the wood rotates, the shape gradually forms. The process requires spatial awareness and constant adjustments because every piece of wood is different.
Rather than following a strict blueprint, Thomas often lets the wood guide the outcome. Grain patterns, knots and natural features in the wood influence the final design. While he does create identical pieces for his commissioned work, many of his projects develop organically as he works.
Thomas’ connection to woodworking began early in his life. Both sides of his family were involved in working with wood. One grandfather operated a sawmill, and another crafted grandfather clocks.
Growing up surrounded by tools, Thomas developed his skills through observation and hands-on experience. He does not have formal training. He described his learning process as largely trial and error. Some of the tools he still uses today belonged to his grandparents and even his great-grandfather, adding a sense of nostalgia and legacy to the craft.
Although he primarily woodworks alone, Thomas occasionally shares the experience with others. His children sometimes join him in the shop. He also has taught woodworking lessons to students in his community. These informal classes usually involve weekly meetings and assignments designed to help learners develop skills over time.
Thomas currently works out of a workshop in the small, unfinished basement of his house. Because of the limited space, he focuses on smaller items such as bowls, jewelry boxes and cutting boards. Despite the size constraints, the workshop provides a place for him to unwind.
Woodworking has taught him patience and provided him with a sense of rest.
“I can’t remember where I encountered this quote, but it says, ‘The sabbath for the thinking man is working with hands,’” he said. “So, for me, a great way to rest is to be able to create with my hands. There is some good worship times in cutting a piece of wood because it is beautiful and God created it, and now I am using it to create and carry out the creative order.”
Right now, Thomas is preparing inventory for an upcoming fair, where he will display and sell some of his work. He also frequently gives pieces away as gifts, especially around holidays.
He will be selling his work at the Tigerville Church fair April 11 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
