By: Jasen Mata
Everyone has a different way of unwinding. For Jacksonville local John Lemis, that outlet is woodworking.
Lemis started building in his garage around 2018 or 2019, when he found himself with extra time on his hands. He needed something new to focus on and always wanted to build something, so woodworking seemed like a good place to start. Though as time went on, the hobby got deeper and became more personal.
One of his first major projects was building a farmhouse-style dining table for his wife. The project wasn’t just about putting together pieces of wood — it was about creating something meaningful. The dining table was a symbol of his hard work that he and his family get to enjoy every meal.
That experience changed his perspective. Woodworking became a space where he could slow down and focus — especially during times when other parts of life felt unpredictable.
“There’s a lot in life you can’t control,” Lemis said. “But in here, I can control this.”
He jokingly refers to his time in the shop as “sawdust therapy.” The repetitive measuring, cutting, sanding, and finishing requires patience — something he says woodworking has taught him over the years.
In a trade like this, rushing isn’t an option. “If you try to rush it,” he said, “the wood will tell on you.”
Today, Lemis continues building tables and other pieces in his garage workshop. For him, the reward isn’t just in the finished product — it’s in the process. He hopes the pieces he builds will be used for years, maybe even generations.
What started as a way to fill time has turned into something bigger than his boredom — a reminder that sometimes slowing down and building something with your hands can bring a sense of control and purpose.