Every craft has its champions, for whom people dedicate their lives to not only mastering the skill but also sharing it with others. In the world of woodworking, one such figure is Asa Christiana. He is known for his years of service at Fine Woodworking magazine, his approachable teaching style, and his bestselling books. His journey highlights how passion, when paired with dedication, can inspire a global community of makers. So, let’s come and find out the Asa Christiana’s stories twists and turns.
The Starting Years of Asa Christiana
Asa’s connection with woodworking on a professional level began in 2000, when he joined Fine Woodworking, a magazine revered among wood enthusiasts. Over the next several years, his keen eye for detail and talent for clear, engaging storytelling earned him respect and trust. By 2007, he was leading the publication as its chief editor.
The role of chief editor is a demanding one, requiring both technical expertise and editorial vision. Asa brought both to the table. From 2007 to 2014, he shaped the magazine’s direction, ensuring it stayed true to its roots while also addressing the needs of a changing audience. His leadership kept Fine Woodworking at the forefront of the craft, serving as a guiding light for both hobbyists and professionals who relied on its content.
His Move Across the Country
After stepping down as chief editor, Asa embarked on a new adventure in 2015. Leaving rural Connecticut, where Fine Woodworking was based, he relocated to Portland, Oregon. This shift was more than just geographical—it represented a fresh perspective and a new way of working. Portland, with its vibrant community of makers and creative energy, was a natural fit for his passion.
Although Asa no longer led the magazine, he continued to be a vital contributor as editor-at-large. In this role, he wears multiple hats: editing articles written by others, photographing projects, and overseeing sections like Workshop Tips and Tools & Materials. These contributions ensure that Fine Woodworking continues to be a trusted resource for practical advice and creative inspiration.
Asa Christiana Made Woodworking Accessible Through Books
Asa’s career is not limited to magazines. His authorship has opened doors for countless beginners who might otherwise have been too intimidated to start woodworking. In 2017, he published Build Stuff with Wood, a beginner-friendly book that broke down the craft into simple, step-by-step projects. With approachable language and realistic guidance, the book reassured readers that they didn’t need advanced tools or years of experience to make something worthwhile.
Encouraged by the success of that book, Asa followed it up with Build More Stuff with Wood in 2022. This second book built upon the first, introducing new skills, tools, and project ideas. Together, the two books form a practical guide for anyone who wants to transition from curiosity to confidence in woodworking.
Why Asa’s Work Stands Out?
Many people can teach woodworking, but not everyone can make it engaging for the beginner who is just holding a saw for the first time. Asa excels in this space. His style is down-to-earth, conversational, and encouraging. Rather than overwhelming his audience with jargon, he breaks down processes into manageable steps.
For him, woodworking is not about perfection—it’s about progress, creativity, and the joy of building something tangible. His ability to demystify the craft and make it fun has turned him into more than an editor or author—he’s a mentor to readers who may never meet him but feel guided by his words.