Every human being in this world has a story to tell, and today we are going to discuss Asa Christiana’s story who was a woodworker. His story is a journey he has shared with thousands of readers, beginners, and professionals alike. Over the past two decades, Asa has built a reputation not only as a craftsman but also as a writer, editor, and mentor who makes woodworking feel approachable and exciting.
How His Journey was Started?
Asa joined Fine Woodworking magazine in 2000, a publication widely recognized as the gold standard for the craft. It didn’t take long for him to rise through the ranks, and in 2007 he was named chief editor. For seven years, he steered the magazine with a vision that balanced tradition with innovation. Under his leadership, the publication continued to provide trusted advice while also welcoming fresh projects, techniques, and voices that broadened its reach.
His time as chief editor was not just about managing content—it was about nurturing a community of passionate makers. Asa understood that readers wanted more than technical guides; they wanted inspiration and encouragement to try new things. That mindset became the hallmark of his editorial approach.
Asa Christiana’s Move to Portland
In 2015, Asa decided it was time for a change of scenery. Leaving behind rural Connecticut, he moved across the country to Portland, Oregon. The shift placed him in a city buzzing with creativity and a thriving maker culture, perfectly suited to his interests.
Rather than leaving Fine Woodworking behind, Asa embraced a new role as editor-at-large. This position allowed him greater flexibility while still keeping him connected to the magazine’s audience. Today, he continues to shape the publication by editing and photographing contributor pieces. He also oversees the Workshop Tips and Tools & Materials departments, ensuring that readers receive both practical advice and insight into the latest tools and techniques.
Here’s How He Became an Author
While much of Asa’s career has revolved around editing the work of others, he has also carved out his own space as an author. His books are designed with one purpose: to make woodworking accessible to everyone, regardless of their experience level.
In 2017, he released Build Stuff with Wood (Taunton Press), a project-based guide for beginners. The book became a gateway for countless readers who may have hesitated to start woodworking, proving that you don’t need an elaborate workshop or advanced skills to create something useful and beautiful.
Building on that success, Asa published Build More Stuff with Wood in 2022. This follow-up added more variety, introducing new tools and techniques while keeping the approachable, step-by-step style that made his first book so popular. Together, these works form a beginner-friendly roadmap that encourages readers to keep learning and experimenting with wood.
Conclusion
From his years as chief editor at Fine Woodworking to his present role as editor-at-large and author, Asa Christiana has left an undeniable mark on the woodworking world. His career is a blend of editorial excellence, creative expression, and a genuine desire to make woodworking welcoming to all. Whether through the pages of the magazine, the tips he curates, or the books he writes, Asa continues to inspire a new generation of makers to embrace the craft with confidence and creativity.
His journey reminds us that woodworking isn’t just about shaping wood—it’s about shaping experiences, skills, and communities. And through his words and guidance, Asa Christiana ensures that this timeless craft remains alive, accessible, and full of inspiration.