MWA594 - Alf Sharp

MWA594 - Alf Sharp

Author: Mark Hicks, Sean Wisniewski, Kyle Barton, & Brian Obst February 17, 2026 Duration: 58:16

We are delighted to have Alf Sharp as our guest. Alf specializes in crafting museum-quality custom furniture inspired by 18th- and 19th-century American and European designs.  He is a Cartouche Award winner from The Society of American Period Furniture Makers. So join us for a fascinating look into the career of master furniture maker. 

Alf Sharp

Sutherland Welles Finishes - Use code "MWA25" for 10% off your first order

Lathe Tenoning Tool - Anthony Tools

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Hosts' Contact Info:

Kyle Barton

Sean Wisniewski

Brian Obst

Jeff Wyatt


Grab a cold one and pull up a stool in the shop. MWA Podcast-Woodworking Conversations is where hosts Mark Hicks, Sean Wisniewski, Kyle Barton, and Brian Obst gather to talk shop in the most genuine sense. The heart of this podcast lies in its long-form, meandering interviews with a wide range of woodworkers, from dedicated hobbyists whose projects fill their homes to internationally recognized professionals whose work defines the craft. These aren't quick tips, but full conversations that dig into philosophy, mistakes, creative processes, and the personal stories behind the work. Each episode also weaves in relevant news from the woodworking world, discussing new tools, techniques, and community events that matter to practitioners. True to its workshop roots, every session concludes with a fortnightly beer recommendation, offering a fitting end to the discussion. No matter your preferred method-hand tools, power tools, or a blend of both-this podcast feels like joining a thoughtful conversation among friends who share a deep passion for making things with wood. It’s a regular dose of camaraderie and insight for anyone who finds solace and challenge at the workbench.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 605

MWA Podcast - Woodworking Conversations
Podcast Episodes
MWA511 - Jon Grant & 5 Questions; Plus WWing News [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 44:07
On this episode of the MWA podcast Jon returns to answer the 5 Questions. Jon shares his favorite tools, finishing process, etc. and the stories behind them - providing a deep look into the craftsmanship and tradition of…
MWA510 - Jon Grant Interview [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:26:08
On this episode of the MWA podcast we welcome the outstanding Australian chairmaker Jon Grant to the show. John shares insights of his woodworking journey, Australian timbers, and his experiences teaching at his studio,…
MWA509 - Brian Brazil & 5 Question - Again [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 26:05
Brian returns to answer the 5 Questions, again (okay, we have changed a few of them since last time). First, we'll catch up on the latest woodworking news, including an ingenious folding treadle lathe. Then, brace yourse…
MWA508 - Brian Brazil; Back in the Saddle [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 51:47
Brian Brazil returns. On this episode Brian discusses that what started as a simple task of building a water bottle holder kickstarted his love for woodworking. From Japanese woodworking techniques to 3D printing, Brian…
MWA507 - Laura Kisimoto & 5 Questions [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 18:23
Lauta returns to answer the 5 Questions. Find out about her favorite scraper, her new interest in molding leather, and her preferred finish. It's a fun and entertaining conversion. Check it out!Laura Kishimoto@kishimotod…
MWA506 - Laura Kishimoto Interview [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:22:30
The fantastic artist & furniture designer Laura Kishimoto joins us as our guest on this episode. Laura shares her background of discovering woodworking through her college design courses, and then finding her niche combi…
MWA505 - Ted Galante & 5 Questions [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 12:07
Ted returns to answer the 5 Questions. From pencils, laser cutters, to dining tables, Ted shares his joys and advice on design. and the craft. Check it out!Ted Galante@tedgalante on Instagramgalantearchitecture.comMWA Po…
MWA504 - Ted Galante Interview [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:26:54
Ted Galante as our guest on this episode . Ted is an accomplished architect, furniture designer & woodworker. We talk about his fascinating new line of chairs in his Urban Fabric Series. We also discuss design, architect…
MWA503 - Mike Fifer & 5 Questions [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 35:46
Mike returns to answer the 5 Questions. Find out about Mike's 32 favorite tools, an upcoming white whale build, and his 3 tips for fellow woodworkers. We also talk about finishing too. Check it out!Mike Fifer@verowoodwor…
MWA502 - Mike Fifer Interview [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 56:56
Mike Fifer joins us as our guest. From boats, to chairs, to carving, Mike is a very accomplished and talented woodworker. We discuss his latest projects, some of the classes he has taken, and his passion for Windsor Chai…