A Legacy of Craftsmanship at Gerstner & Sons
April is National Woodworking Month, a time to celebrate the rich tradition and enduring craft of woodworking. Established in 1987 by the Woodworkers Guild of America, this month-long observance honors the artistry and skill involved in transforming wood into functional and decorative pieces. Woodworking has deep roots, tracing back to ancient civilizations like Egypt, where artisans crafted furniture and boats, and has evolved through centuries, influencing cultures worldwide. ​
At Gerstner & Sons, woodworking isn’t just a craft—it’s our heritage. Founded in 1906 by Harry Gerstner, a journeyman patternmaker, our company began with a single, meticulously designed tool chest. Harry’s commitment to quality quickly garnered attention, leading him to establish H. Gerstner & Sons. The name was chosen not only to honor his father, Herman Gerstner, who introduced him to woodworking, but also to reflect his aspiration of building a family business. ​
From our inception, we’ve been dedicated to producing wooden chests and cases that exemplify excellence. Our designs have always prioritized functionality and durability, ensuring that craftsmen have reliable storage for their precision tools. This commitment has positioned Gerstner & Sons as a leader in the woodworking industry, with our chests becoming cherished heirlooms passed down through generations. ​
National Woodworking Month is particularly significant to us, as it aligns with our mission to uphold and celebrate the art of woodworking. It’s a time to reflect on the timeless appeal of handcrafted wood products and the meticulous craftsmanship that goes into each piece. We take pride in our role within this tradition, continually striving to innovate while honoring the techniques and values established by our founder over a century ago.​
As we observe National Woodworking Month, we invite you to explore the beauty and utility of finely crafted woodwork. Whether you’re a seasoned woodworker or an admirer of the craft, this month offers an opportunity to appreciate the skill, dedication, and artistry that define woodworking—a legacy that Gerstner & Sons is proud to be part of.
 10 Ways to Celebrate National Woodworking Month
- Start a New Woodworking Project
Whether it’s building a chest from one of our DIY Kits, a bookshelf, or another project—April is the perfect time to start something new. Consider a project that can become an heirloom, just like a Gerstner chest.
- Restore or Refinish an Old Piece
Bring new life to a beloved piece of wooden furniture or an old Gerstner chest. Stripping, sanding, and refinishing is a rewarding way to connect with the craft. Gerstner restoration supplies have all the hard to find parts you need to restore your Gerstner to its original glory.
- Share Your Workshop Setup
Post a photo of your woodworking space and tag @gerstnerusa—show off your tools, organization, and your favorite Gerstner products in action.
- Teach a Friend or Family Member
Pass the tradition on. Invite someone to your workshop and show them the basics of woodworking. Even simple projects can spark a lifelong passion. - Visit a Woodworking Show or Museum
Check out local woodworking events, tool swap meets, or visit museums with exhibits on craftsmanship and industrial history.
- Submit Your Work to Gerstner
Send photos and stories of your Gerstner gear in use—we’ve been looking for great stories to share from the Gerstner community. Email your story to Ge******@*********SA.com so we can share it!
- Support American Craftsmanship
Buy from local artisans, independent toolmakers, or heritage brands (like us!) that keep the tradition of fine woodworking alive.
- Watch a Woodworking Documentary or Series
From vintage tool restorations to modern furniture-making, there’s a lot of inspiration on YouTube, PBS, and streaming platforms.
- Organize Your Tools
Spring cleaning meets craftsmanship—reorganize your shop or reline your Gerstner drawers to keep everything in top shape.
- Reflect on Your Craftsmanship Journey
Write a blog post, journal entry, or social media story about what woodworking means to you. Share your progress and lessons learned.
Share Your Gerstner Legacy
As we celebrate National Woodworking Month, we’d love to see how Gerstner chests, workbenches, and collectors’ cases are being used and loved in workshops, garages, studios, and homes across the country. If you’re a proud Gerstner owner, send us your photos and stories—we’ll be sharing our favorites on our social media channels throughout the month!
Submit your photos by tagging us on Instagram or Facebook, or email them to Ge******@*********SA.com. Let’s honor the craftsmanship and community that make Gerstner & Sons more than just a name—it’s a tradition.
