From Woodworking to Quilting: How Chris Hanson Built Modern American Vintage

From Woodworking to Quilting: How Chris Hanson Built Modern American Vintage

Author: Elizabeth Chappell May 1, 2026 Duration: 45:48

Chris of Modern American Vintage shares how he built a handmade maker business creating wood quilting notions, plus advice for craft entrepreneurs.

Ever wondered what it takes to build a handmade maker business from the ground up? In this episode, Chris of Modern American Vintage pulls back the curtain on how he turned woodworking into a thriving small business serving the quilting community.

Chris shares the unexpected path that led him into quilting, what his daily process looks like, how he prices his work, and the surprises that have come with running a creative business. If you're a maker thinking about turning your craft into a career, this conversation is for you.

In this episode:

  • How Chris got started with Modern American Vintage and his woodworking background
  • A look inside his workspace and what a typical day really involves
  • The story of how a woodworker found his way into the quilting world
  • Whether Modern American Vintage is full-time or a side business
  • His process from idea to finished product
  • How he sources materials and approaches pricing
  • Best sellers and the products that surprised him
  • Balancing creative instincts with customer requests
  • The best parts of running a maker business, and the parts that are harder than expected
  • Practical advice for starting a creative business
  • What's next for Modern American Vintage

Connect with Chris:


Elizabeth Chappell hosts Craft to Career, a space for makers who feel that persistent pull to build something more from their creative work. It’s for the person at their kitchen table, surrounded by their craft, wondering how to bridge the gap between a passionate hobby and a sustainable livelihood. Each episode tackles the real, often unglamorous, questions that arise when you decide to take that leap. You’ll hear practical conversations about defining your niche, setting prices that respect your time, and navigating the complexities of marketing without losing your authentic voice. The focus extends beyond just sales, exploring how to structure your days, maintain creative energy, and build a community around your work, particularly through platforms like Instagram. This podcast operates on the belief that success is a personal definition, not a one-size-fits-all destination. It’s about translating the skill in your hands into a viable, fulfilling path, offering both tactical advice and the necessary encouragement for the journey. Tune in for honest discussions that replace vague inspiration with actionable steps, all aimed at helping you answer that foundational question for yourself.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

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