Lucas LePrey

What kind of maker are you? 

I am a woodworker/furniture designer and boatbuilder

What inspired you to start making?

The love and satisfaction of using my hands to create something. To bring an idea from my head to a physical object.

Where are you based out of?

A wonderful shop in downtown Salt Lake City, Ut. I also have had the opportunity to work in wonderful canoe shop that I like to call my second home in Ely, MN

What do you do for work currently?

Mostly commissioned woodworking jobs. I also work at a great restaurant here in SLC called Eva.

What is the most engaging part of building for you? What do you enjoy most? What do you enjoy least?

Problem solving. I think one of the most engaging things when building is how you approach and overcome problems in a way that not only fulfills its purpose but is aesthetically pleasing. Deadlines would be my least favorite, these projects have to cross some finish line and it seems that is always just a little too soon.

When do you feel most inspired?

I feel most inspired on a Monday morning with the week laid out ahead of me and an exciting project on my bench. I'm also very inspired by the people I work around. In our shop we have some of the most talented and wonderful humans I know, and seeing their progress and journeys is always an inspiration to push myself.

Where do you want to take your building and designing skills? What do you hope to learn and do with your career?

I would love to keep learning about wooden boat building. Looking at furniture making from a boat builders (or vice-versa) point of view has really opened my eyes and helped me to look at building in a different way. I'm repairing an early 1900 B.N Morris canoe right now that I can't wait to get back to. Wooden canoes were my first love, next I would love to make a small wooden sailboat.

What are some of the biggest challenges you face as a custom builder and designer?

The line you have to dance between making something you are inspired by, making something the client wants, and the budget for the project.

What are some pieces that you’ve made that you are the most proud of? 

That would definitely be the 17.5 foot guide style wood/canvas canoe I made learning under my mother-in-law in Ely Minnesota. I loved learning everything from the history of these boats to tedious things like re clenching every one of the thousands of brass tacks.

What is your favorite tool/instrument/toy right now?

It's not a fancy one, but my card scraper. I have a dedicated area to sharpen it and I find myself using it for everything now.

Favorite design style: (This can include interior design, photography, painting, architecture, anything!)

Since I'm living in the world of interior design remodeling my kitchen right now I'll go with that. It’s amazing what people can do with a blank interior space and how they can transform it. 

What skill do you most want to learn?

How to be as good of a business person as I am a woodworker. 

Favorite thing to listen to while you work:

Books on tape/Audible. I just finished the classic "The Count of Monte Cristo'' . It was well worth the 54 hours. Otherwise I like to listen to podcasts. The guys at "Reply All" would be my favorite podcast. 

Favorite outfit/footwear to wear to work:

Dansko clogs and short shorts. 

Favorite post-work activity to unwind:

Playing in our wonderful Wasatch Mountains. Climbing, Biking, Skiing.

Favorite food: Tacos from our local "Facil" food truck paired with a beer from Fisher Brewery.

Favorite band: It's a little embarrassing to admit but I have been to a lot of Billie Eillish lately. 

Favorite place you’ve traveled: For the pure wilderness it is, I would pick Sarek National Park way up in northern Sweden. My Wife and family did a seven day backpacking trip there and it is wonderful country. Otherwise I would have to say our beautiful southern desert here in UT.

Place you want to travel to most and why: Spain. Mostly for the food and wine. 

If you could collaborate with one maker/artist (living or dead) who would it be? 

Well I honestly don't really have a favorite or anyone that comes to mind. I would however love to learn from or work with anyone experienced in traditional Japanese woodworking. I find the history, tools, jointery, and style so interesting and skillfully done.

Where can people contact you and find out more about you? 

I'm bad at posting but I would just follow my instagram (@lepreydesigns) if interested