I have been working on the north side of Chicago lately and I've been wanting to visit Old Master Crafters. This morning, I finally took the time to do so.

I thought others might like to hear about this experience. I met John and a few of the employees and got a quick tour.

It was a bit of sensory overload because there is no showroom, just a production building and a small office. There were tools and wood everywhere. John showed me stacks of wood, staves, glass, carbon (and a lot of saw dust).

I came away with an amazing sense of his concern for quality. I saw stacks of wood that I think most people would not hesitate to use, but for one reason or another (too porous, too close to a check, swirling grain, etc.), John won't ship.

The wuality of the wood OMC has makes the stuff in the local lumber yards look like

I picked up 6 bamboo backings to take home with me (sitting in O'Hare as I write this).

(Note: I didn't get a discount or any sort of request to post this. I just think it's good to reassure anyone who's worrying about ordering.)
-Brett

Good story Brett. Thanks.
Al (Als Decals)

I visited them for the first time back in 2005 and came away with the same experience. It's a heck of an operation with exceptional attention to detail.

thanks fort sharing

Good story,do they have a website or ph# to be contacted at. thank you Terry

OMC doesn't have a web site.But you can call john at (847) 623-6948. I've been visiting him & his dad before him since 1989. A great place to visit & you always feel welcome.
Bob T.

Nice place to visit AND a ton of wood. I was joking that God forbit it ever burned down, it would burn for a year!
-Brett