Meet the Crew Behind the Craft
Sawdust Studios is powered by a small, passionate team of makers, teachers, and builders who believe learning is better when it’s hands-on, approachable, and shared.
What we're here to build
We’re here to remove the barriers that keep people from making. Through shared tools, expert guidance, and a welcoming community, Sawdust Studios helps people build skills, confidence, and connection—one project at a time.
Founder
Cruz Chavez
Cruz brings more than 15 years of construction and woodworking experience to Sawdust Studios, but his most valuable skill is the ability to make complex craftsmanship approachable for everyone.
After running his own successful construction company, Cruz recognized that his greatest satisfaction came not from completing projects himself, but from helping others discover what they were capable of building.
His approach to teaching combines technical precision with encouraging patience, creating an environment where beginners feel capable and experienced makers feel challenged.
When not in the shop, Cruz can be found working on his self-built home, designing new workshop concepts, or introducing his kids to the joy of making.
"There's this moment when someone sees their finished project and can't believe they made it themselves. That moment of realization—that's what Sawdust Studios is built to create"
Co-Owner
Zach Gramke
Joined Ownership in 2025
Zach's story with woodworking began in middle school under the guidance of a shop teacher everyone called "Edge." What started as classroom projects evolved into an enormous armoire he built in high school – a piece that still stands in his parents' home today. Though life took him toward a fulfilling 10-year elementary teaching career at Ridgeway Elementary here in Columbia, Zach never completely set down his tools, crafting shelves for his classroom and furniture for the home he shared with his wife Maddie and their daughters, Emersyn and Blair.
In early 2021, life took an unexpected turn when Maddie was diagnosed with breast cancer. As she bravely battled through treatments, Zach made the difficult decision to step away from teaching – both from burnout and with a newfound determination to pursue long-held dreams after witnessing Maddie's courage. Sawdust Studios was on his radar, a place where he could finally dive deeper into his passion for woodworking.
But life had other plans. In June 2022, Maddie was diagnosed with stage 4 metastatic breast cancer. Zach's decision to leave teaching now meant something entirely different – it gave him the precious gift of spending every day with Maddie and their daughters during her final eight months. After Maddie passed on January 21, 2023, Zach did the only thing possible – he put one foot in front of the other.
One year later, in January 2024, those steps led him to Sawdust Studios, where he joined our Apprenticeship program. With his future uncertain, Zach found something unexpected happening within our walls. Among the tools, the sawdust, and the community of makers, he began rediscovering himself.
"I loved being in the shop and could never get enough time there," Zach shares.
"I started thinking about starting my own woodworking business, and the thought excited me so much. But as I kept dreaming and making plans, I kept thinking about how much I loved being at Sawdust."
Where Making Happens 24/7
Our Space
Step into our 7,000-square-foot woodworking workshop and you'll immediately notice the difference. This isn't just another maker space—it's a carefully designed environment where craftsmanship meets accessibility.
Professional-grade equipment, carefully maintained and thoughtfully organized. Every tool has its place, and everything is ready for your next project.
Our warehouse is stacked with lumber but if you're ever looking for something specific, members receive free lumber delivery from Cardwell Hardwoods.
Our members enjoy 24/7 access to the shop because we know creativity doesn't follow business hours. Whether you're an early bird or a night owl, the space is yours to use.
Think of it as a gym membership, but for woodworking. The same accessibility, the same convenience, but with the capability of a professional woodshop at your fingertips.
Beyond The Shop
Building goes beyond the workshop—find us every Saturday at Columbia’s Farmers Market, connecting with our community in person.
