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

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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
MWA432 - Kate Swann Interview [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:32:41
The one and only Kate Swann of the Florida School of Woodwork joins us on this episode to talk about the School, its mission, and its programs and classes. The Florida School of Woodwork is fantastic school that brings i…
MWA431 - Andy Jack answers the 5 Questions [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 16:22
Happy New Year! Andy returns to answer the 5 Questions. Find out about his woodworking background from a young age, his big list of stumbling blocks, and the chairmakers that have influenced his work and life. Check it o…
MWA430 - Andy Jack Interview [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:05:56
Merry Christmas and Happy Hanukkah! For your Holiday listening pleasure we have an interview with the prolific chairmaker Andy Jack. Andy also teaches chairmaking in his cozy Connecticut workshop. Join us for a fantastic…
MWA429 - Michael Jury answers the 5 Questions [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 17:36
Michael Jury returns to answer the 5 Questions. We find out a safety class lead to his passion for woodworking. We also talk about old school influences and 1" chisels. Check it out!
MWA428 - Michael Jury Interview [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:01:59
Michael Jury joins us to talk about his new career as a professional woodworker. His award winning designs are mix of shaker, mid-century modern and Japanese influences. It's a fascinating conversation with a true crafts…
MWA427 - Rusty Tchernis answers the 5 Questions [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 15:39
Rusty returns to answer the 5 Questions. From building a kayak to an infill mallet, it's fun conversation highlighting Rusty's many interests. Check it out!
MWA426 - Rusty Tchernis Interview [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:18:20
Rusty Tchernis joins us to discuss his journey into chairmaking, toolmaking, and the greenest woodworking of all - Bonsai. It's a engaging and fascinating discussion. Check it out!
MWA425 - Matt Lynch answers the 5 Questions [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 24:53
Matt returns to answer the 5 Questions. Find out about the sweet seduction of a Lie-Nielsen Hand Tool Event, and Matt's obsession with bandsaws. Check it out!
MWA424 - Matt Lynch Interview [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:51:41
Matt Lynch, a recent graduate of Northwest Woodworking Studio Online Mastery Program, joins us on this episode to talk about his experience with the program. It's a fascinating conversation with a great furniture maker,…
MWA423 - Dan Faia answers the 5 Questions [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 30:03
Dan Faia returns to answer the 5 Questions. Find out about Dan's two favorite tools, and his journey from a Junior High shop class to North Bennet Street School. Check it out!