For Veterans
If you wore the uniform, this shop is yours.
Free monthly shop days. A quiet place to work with your hands. And when you need a number to call, it's right here.
The mission
Why this workshop exists.
I served twenty-two years in the Air Force, and like a lot of veterans, I came back to civilian life knowing I needed to keep my hands busy. Years later, I watched a documentary called Project 22 — a film about veteran suicide that follows two riders across the country. In one scene a man invites veterans into his pottery shop. The veterans aren't there to learn pottery. They're there to talk.
That's what this workshop is for. The lathe is the conversation. The piece is the proof you can still make something. Whether you take a class, drop in for a free Veterans Day in the Shop, or just need to know that another vet is on the other end of the phone — this shop is yours.
If you're struggling right now, dial 988, press 1. You don't have to make that call alone.
The numbers behind this workshop
22
veterans a day take their own lives
22%
of veterans are diagnosed with depression
+48,000
veterans are homeless or at risk
AS REPORTED BY VA-PUBLISHED FIGURES
A monthly offering
Veterans Day in the Shop.
What it is
Once a month, the shop opens for veterans only. No charge. No experience needed. A few hours of turning, building, or talking — whatever's needed that day.
What we build
Recent months have been flag boxes for veterans' families — wooden cases that hold the folded flag presented at a service. Projects rotate based on the group.
How to attend
Send a message through the contact form. I'll reply with the next session's date and time. RSVPs are appreciated; donations to cover materials are welcome but not required.
Next session: Monthly — contact for the next date
Ask Don for the dateIf you need a call
Crisis & support resources.
Free, confidential lines and resources. You don't have to be in crisis to call. If you wore the uniform — or you love someone who did — these are for you.
VETERANS CRISIS LINE — 24/7
988, press 1
Free. Confidential. Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You don't have to be in crisis to call. If you wore the uniform — or you love someone who did — this line is for you.
VA Benefits
Health care, disability, education, and burial benefits for veterans and their families.
Visit va.gov988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
Free 24/7 support for anyone in suicidal crisis or emotional distress — veterans and civilians.
Visit 988lifeline.orgMesothelioma & Veterans
Veterans exposed to asbestos in service face higher mesothelioma risk. Claim guides and treatment resources.
Visit mesothelioma.comSupplies & tools
Where I get my supplies.
Places I buy from regularly. If you're picking up turning yourself, these are good starting points. Verify current stock before ordering.
- Cousineau Wood Products
Source for spectraply laminate.
- Big Monk Lumber Company
Quality wood and turning supplies.
- Cormark International
Laminated bottle stoppers and exotic hardwoods.
- Prokraft
Good coffee-grinder mechanisms (UK; expect shipping time).
- Vince's WoodNWonders
Sanding supplies and turning consumables.
- American Association of Woodturners (AAW)
National nonprofit. Membership, journal, classes.
- McFeely's
Threaded inserts, fasteners, Easywood Tools.
- Craft Supplies USA
Lathes, tools, and turning kits.
- Packard Woodworks
Tools, finishes, and turning blanks.
- Alumilite
Casting epoxy and pressure-pot supplies.
Reach out — you don't have to make this call alone.
Send a message about Veterans Day in the Shop, or just to talk. I read every one.
Veterans Woodworking Workshop · 118 North Grand St, Chariton, IA 50049