Curiosity leads woodworker to popular niche: crafting cases for vintage music fans
John Grant of Lynward Woodworks sands a custom case for vintage audio equipment.
John Grant found himself on the other side of sobriety and searching for hobbies. As he was looking for hobbies to occupy his time, he found he could combine his love for music with woodworking to create vintage audio storage cabinets. “We bootstrapped the entire business by flipping items found at yard sales,” he said. “I was able to take that money and use it to buy the woodworking equipment I needed.”
Starting with smaller projects like cutting boards and charcuterie boards, he honed his woodworking skills, learning the basics and experimenting with epoxy. “Being an avid music fan, I wanted to incorporate my passion into my work,” Grant said. “It all began with a small record player that I placed in a wooden box and shared on Instagram.”
It’s important to seek guidance from groups like Startup Alleghenies. Utilize the resources available to you and avoid trying to do everything alone.
Lynward Woodworks creates custom wood cases for vintage audio equipment. With a focus on vintage HIFI cabinets and wood cases, turntable plinths and modular stackable storage solutions. “Our innovative designs have captured the attention of eager music enthusiasts,” Grant said.
“People started asking if I made plinths, and I had no idea what that was. Curiosity led me to create retro-looking boxes for vintage turntables,” he explained. “The response was positive, and I began selling them. With my background in sales management, I recognized an opportunity to turn this into a business.”
One-of-a-kind pieces are hand-crafted by the team at Lynward.
Thanks to Startup Alleghenies, clarity and a focused plan forward
Startup Alleghenies played a vital role in Lynward Woodworks’ success. “I regularly communicate with my coach Blake Fleegle, who not only listens to my ideas but also guides me in understanding what I need to do,” Grant acknowledged. “Through his support, I gained clarity and developed a focused plan to drive this business forward.”
“Utilize the resources available to you and avoid trying to do everything alone,” Grant advised. “It’s important to seek guidance from groups like Startup Alleghenies and attend workshops to leverage the knowledge and expertise of others.”
People started asking if I made plinths, and I had no idea what that was. Curiosity led me to create retro-looking boxes for vintage turntables.
Grant believed in his idea’s potential for success from the beginning, largely due to the positive feedback and high demand he received. “I knew immediately that it would be successful, especially considering the limited competition in the market,” he emphasized.
“John has a unique product, and there are very few people in the country that do what he does,” Fleegle said. “Helping John to take advantage of that niche and capitalize on it has been exciting—and I can’t wait to see how success will follow his passion.”
His love for music combined with a woodworking hobby has created a successful niche business for the Grant family.
Fueling passion with brand recognition
Recognition is Grant’s driving force. “Having worked in management, recognition for the work I do means more to me than just the financial aspect,” he said. “When people share pictures, speak highly of the products and appreciate the quality, it serves as validation and fuels my passion.”
Lynward officially launched in December 2022 and is already building a team. “When bringing people on board, I prioritized fair compensation and encouraged them to contribute their ideas,” Grant shared. “By fostering an inclusive environment where everyone learns together, the business continues to grow.”
Grant stands as a testament to the power of passion and determination. Starting as a small woodworking hobby, he has now grown it into a successful business, producing a high-quality, custom product.
Startup Alleghenies helps startup and emerging small businesses succeed by providing free coaching to entrepreneurs in Bedford, Blair, Cambria, Fulton, Huntingdon and Somerset counties. To access personal, one-on-one support from a coach in your county, including guidance, resources, tools and networking opportunities, sign up at startupalleghenies.com.
