Sue French

When I was a kid, I secretly longed to learn how to build my own house. The realization that this wasn’t on the agenda in my elementary school came as a grave disappointment. It wasn’t until I was out of college, never having encountered House Building on the course list, that I turned my attention back to this desire and went to trade school. I received an Associate of Arts degree in Carpentry from Hennepin Technical College in Eden Prairie, Minnesota and, finally, the knowledge that I was looking for. Since then, I’ve created an unexpected and interesting career centered around building.

Over the past 24 years I’ve been a house framing and finish carpenter, a research and applied wood scientist, and a teacher of building for women through Women in Transitional Housing. But through it all I’ve spent the majority of my time as a cabinet and furniture maker. Today I own and operate a small shop/studio outside of Duluth called Square Peg Workshop where I build kitchen and bathroom cabinets, furniture and little buildings. You can find me at squarepegfurniture@gmail.com and on Instagram at Square Peg Workshop.

I believe everyone who has the ambition should have the opportunity to learn to build something for themselves. I believe people of all genders and backgrounds should be involved in the building arts and that kids should have exposure to these skills as part of a more comprehensive education. I’m excited to be able to pass on my love of the building arts in a safe, supportive, and good humored environment!