about patchwork studio
meet patch rodgers
Patch grew up in Franklin, Massachusetts and, after graduating from Virginia Tech, moved west to the mountains of Truckee, CA with his pup Dax. Patch is a hands-on craftsman with an engineer’s mind and an artist’s touch. Drawn to woodworking for its perfect blend of complexity, functionality, and creativity, he thrives on the challenge of mastering new techniques—especially the precision of Japanese joinery. With a background in aerospace engineering and a knack for CAD design, Patch starts each piece digitally, but the real magic happens in the workshop, where his designs evolve with the grain of the wood. For him, every project is an opportunity to push his skills, problem-solve in real time, and create something both beautiful and built to last.
meet dax,
branch manager
As the official Shop Good Boy and unofficial manager of "Bring Your Toy to Work Day", which seems to be every day, Dax ensures the team maintains a healthy work-life balance by getting daily walks and healthy (bacon is healthy!) treats. His main job during working hours is to pick up rogue wood scraps and chew them into even smaller wood scraps. When it is quitting time, he is sure to herd his dad toward the door. He has only been caught sleeping on the job once or twice daily and is employee of the day, everyday.
digital design
The designs start in CAD, using an engineering background to meticulously plan each piece with precision and efficiency. Patch maps out intricate joinery, structural integrity, and aesthetics before ever touching a piece of wood. While he embraces traditional hand-tool techniques, he also incorporates CNC machining for select elements, allowing him to execute complex cuts, repeatable patterns, and fine details with accuracy. This blend of digital design and hands-on craftsmanship gives him the freedom to push creative boundaries, refining each project as it comes to life in the workshop.
the problem solving
is never done
Designing in CAD lays the foundation, but the real craft begins in the workshop. Each piece of wood has its own grain, density, and movement, requiring Patch to adapt as he builds. He factors in wood expansion, strength, and joinery, balancing precision with the organic nature of the material. Letting the wood guide the final form, he blends engineering with instinct, ensuring each piece is both durable and beautiful.
attention to detail
True craftsmanship lies in the final touches. Patch treats finish work as an art form that brings out the character of each piece. From meticulous sanding that follows the grain to selecting natural finishes, every decision is deliberate. He works through multiple grits by hand to ensure surfaces are smooth and intentional, edges are clean, and every transition is seamless. Whether it’s a satin oil rub that enhances the natural warmth of the wood or a durable hard wax finish built for everyday use, Patch prioritizes both beauty and longevity.
the final product
Each finished piece is a blend of structure and soul, carefully engineered, artistically crafted, and undeniably beautiful. Designed to elevate your space and built to last for generations.
In Japanese, they call it "art with purpose" or 生きがい "Ikigai".
