Jim McNutt says he started the family business, Woodstream Hardwoods, in 1975 with simple hand tools, a love of wood and a desire to master woodworking.
Jim calls himself younger and dumber but true to his favorite quote, “Never give up.” He never gave up. Instead, he imitated older craftsmen who took him under their wing while adding classes at Arrowmont School in Gatlinburg to learn furniture design. He read trade journals and magazines about woodworking and the hardwood lumber and flooring industry.
Jim’s skills and knowledge have evolved into a business that will celebrate its 50th anniversary in 2025, but now at the helm of his son, Nicholas McNutt, who has bought the business. He is following in his dad’s legacy with a love of the hardwood industry.
His dad describes his son as “an excellent craftsman with quite an artistic flair.”
This family business has the advantage of being built on trust and shared values as Jim and Nick were influenced by Nick’s grandfather, Allen McNutt, and great grandfather, Arthur Fields. Both were homebuilders, teaching Jim and Nick to cherish the American forests that supply the logs for their sawmill which in turn allow them to create amazing wooden treasures.
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- Nick and Jim McNutt
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- Table created by McNutts
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- Wood cut at business sawmill
The McNutts prioritize building relationships and trust with their community. They have a personal touch in their interactions, which can create a strong bond with customers, suppliers and employees.
Since 2019, they have offered free woodworking classes. The next two classes are on Saturday, April 20, 1 and 2 p.m. At 1 p.m. Table Building participants will learn basic instructions on tools and finishing. Then at 2, participants will learn Installing Accent Walls & Shiplap Boards.
Email for more details. More free classes in June!
Woodstream Hardwoods is located at 3636 Division St NW Knoxville.
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