About the Artists Series–Chestnut Forge and Furniture
Locally Designed and Crafted
We are lucky enough at Mountain Merch to not only carry an incredible selection of Asheville themed apparel but we also have an incredible selection of talented artisans and craftsman that round out our shop with their locally made goods and gifts. We are very proud of the talented individuals and companies that have chosen to partner with us locally and we wanted to be sure and share a bit about their stories with you.
We were introduced to Craig of Chestnut Forge and Furniture from our dear friends Joe and Lisa (McDinan) of Sanctuary Brewing Company, he was commissioned by them to create their tables, concrete bar top and other great fixtures that have a blend of hand forged steel and wood. Joe and Lisa have been dear friends of ours and we happened to independently choose to open our businesses at just about the same time, so we have been able to learn and share a good bit with one another. They are committed to craft brews and rescues and have a great space, great beer (coming soon), music and community events that are focused on positivity and giving back in the areas of animal rescue and responsible living. Back to Craig.
Craig is a retired Firefighter from South Florida who moved to Western North Carolina with his wife, Debbi 3 years ago. They built their farm and forge shop on a beautiful piece of property in Rutherfordton. Craig is a mentor, he has shadowed a few young folks who worked hard at crafting their skills, attending classes at Isothermal Technical and are continuing to grow in their skill level. Craig is somewhat of a savant in his own right. When we met him and were asking him to build us a few signs and a table that would hold some of our locally themed tee shirts, and locally made goods and a rack to hang NCline t-shirts, hoodies and apparel on we gave him quite a bit of creative freedom, as we just weren’t sure how to make it look great and be pieces of utility.
For this piece we said, we want sort of a tiered picnic table – check out the detail – and the A for Asheville!
Asheville “A” Frame Shelf
Since the fixtures our discussions with Craig have continued to be as fluid as the steel being melted and formed. We love working with him because he and his team brainstorm with us on what we think locals and visitors to Asheville might like to take home with them. So far, he has made bottle openers in the state of North Carolina, decorative leaves, candle-holders and coasters.
Locally Designed and Crafted
We have also worked together locally on some custom projects including this nifty collaboration between Ashevillain and Wicked Weed! Working with Craig and his team, the possibilities are endless. Whether you are looking for a piece for in your home, a local gift, something unique for your business, or a reminder of how amazing Asheville is please let us know (just visit our Contact Us page or come see us in person at our store in Biltmore Village!) we would be happy to start the conversation with you.