Meet Justin Miller | Furniture/Resin artist woodworker

We had the good fortune of connecting with Justin Miller and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Justin, do you have a favorite quote or affirmation?
“Think of the solution, not the problem” It’s a fairly simple quote, but has gotten me though many situations. I feel that when problems arise, we have the tendency to let it stop us in our tracks… that we get focused on one thing. In reality, you start thinking there is a branch of solutions behind it, that can open up your ideas beyond your own perspective. You’d be amazed how the solutions can teach you of all new arsenal of skills.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
This dream started when I decided to build a coffee table with a river flowing through it for my living room. It turned out amazing and soon become a conversation starter with my friends and family. They were so impressed they wanted similar coffee tables but with their own designs. I was building my fifth table when I realized I would love to continue this endeaver, I was terrified of the aspect of getting a business going. Instead, I pushed through the fear and started doing my homework. I called people with experience and advise. Soon I came across SDBC Minnesota website and made the call. The gals I worked with stuck with me since the first step to the last, as long as I stood there with the motivation and desire to see this though. Here I am year later hanging on but not giving up, it does get better every month slowly. I have enjoyed thinking outside the box with each creation I make. I want to stand out and be a unique difference than the other artists out there. My peak in my creations was my pinecone chess table I built. It was a fun project with careful planning and had to choose my steps carefully. When I posted it for sale it sold immediately along with 40,000+ views on the post itself. It was an amazing feeling and a goal I could knock of my list. For people out there that want to start a business do your homework. It will build your confidence with a better understanding of the pro and cons. Do not be afraid to be different and unique, this world could use it. Find the persistence to keep going and you will succeed. I failed multiple times and learned from it through and kept telling myself I will prevail.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Usually when my friends and family that come to our little town in Midwest Minnesota. We usually have nature gatherings and just hang outside when the weather permits. We will hang out at Del Clarke Lake just outside of Canby. Living on the farm, friends and family will just come out and enjoy the big yard we have and just socialize.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
All my appreciation would go to my mom, friends and mentors that have taught me in many forms of trade, skills, art, etc. Have to thank the Southwest Minnesota Small Business Development Center for giving me the courage and helping advice to get the Knotty Carver on its feet and going. My wife Mel for inspiring me and supporting me through this endeavor.

Website: https://theknottycarverllc.wixsite.com/website

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JustinTheKnottyCarver