Boyd Allen CF ’13

Before I started at NBSS, I studied journalism in college and worked for a book publisher, teaching myself graphic design. I did that for a long time but it became increasingly unfulfilling.

I went to grad school, waited tables for a few years and traveled across the country three times. I lived in Napa/Sonoma, Seattle, New York, Minneapolis and, finally, Chicago. I even worked on a ranch in Colorado for a summer.

In 2007, I started a small furniture restoration/rescue business but when the economy crashed I went back to waiting tables. I had been working with or thinking about furniture, but didn’t see it as a viable option. Finally, I found the inspiration and nerve to pursue this constant thread in my life. New England is arguably the birthplace of craft in America and continues to have a vibrant community of craftspeople.

When I wasn’t in school, I was usually working. I had a job waiting tables, but also took furniture commissions (refinishing and repairing). I also helped a friend back in Chicago design packaging for her natural skin care line. I love to camp, hike, take road trips, and spending time with my dog.

Learning a craft takes time, so relish small successes. The large ones come in time.

In 2007, I started a small furniture restoration/rescue business but when the economy crashed I went back to waiting tables. I had been working with or thinking about furniture, but didn’t see it as a viable option. Finally, I found the inspiration and nerve to pursue this constant thread in my life.