Esther Forbyn LLC

09/11/2026

Scene Report: Megan, Evian, Cameron, and I all went to Japan to study carpentry Somakosha School and we want to tell you all about it! Come hang.

09/06/2026

Since I got back from Japan I've spent all of my extra time helping Life with Wood cut a sick traditional Japanese style timber frame. Its big, complex, insane, and so rad. I know how lucky I am to be part of this build. I'm sharpening my skills and learning new ones with great people. Cameron is a smart and generous teacher and a bizerker builder. On some other timeline I'm following him into battle. In this world I get to help him cut and raise this frame. What a gift!

Meg Goldstein has been with us every step of the way. Her spirit, hard work, and wild skills have sparked my feral imagination with visions of all that we might build together. I'm beyond stoked to have a sister in the trades to scheme and build with. We are hatching plans. Look out! No, seriously keep your eye on us because we will invite you to come work with us soon.

This project has been an incredible learning experience so far! I am refuled with enthusiasm and unyeilding ambition. We will raise this frame, then another, and another...

Every day is a new adventure. Thank you Cameron and Megan!

08/17/2026

I got to visit a traditional dye artisan who let me dye my saw and chisel rolls this lovely rust red. The dye is called Bangara as it originally came from Bangal India and was mined during the Edo period in this region. I told our host how I admired her traditional wooden soled shoes and she insisted on giving them to me which led to a cheerful sandal swap. I'm now clacking my way home in these cute wooden shoes. See you soon PDX! I miss you already Japan!

08/17/2026

08/08/2026

06/14/2026

I built this timberframe with windfall Doug Fir that came down in a big ice storm in Portland, Oregon, a few years ago. After getting it milled locally, I cut the joinery with my client. I learned a lot on this little project by watching Liz, a fine woodworker, apply furniture-making skills to each detail of this building. I'm happy with how it's turned out! It's weathering well and has settled into the landscape harmoniously.

I've spent most of the last year leading a team and not doing much physical building myself. It's a different skill set that's equally rewarding and challenging. I genuinely like my crew and learn skills and life lessons daily.

I still have more buildings in me! For now, I'm working on my leadership and organizing abilities. I'm also spending time in my woodshop, getting better with hand tools and finer skills. I'm more ambitious and confident than ever. Every day is a new adventure!

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