Holger Hoppe
Woodturner
From Computer to Lathe…….
In 2001, my wife and I bought our property in Mendocino county as a weekend retreat to get away from the pressure of our high tech, Silicon Valley jobs. I had no real plans to begin woodworking, my background being software engineering; however, living on a property filled with such incredible nature, soon had me delving more deeply into the various trees we were surrounded with. I soon began experimenting with creating some wood products, mostly cutting boards and furniture. In 2014, I took the plunge - bought my first lathe, entered the world of wood turning and have never turned back.
My focus has evolved and is now on the whole life cycle of producing wood products. From taking down the tree (only when there is a reason it cannot be sustained), to digging up the roots, to processing the wood and finally turning it into finished pieces. Click here to get more information about the process I use this life cycle approach. My speciality has become mastering the challenges of the Madrone wood - not an easy task. Click here to get more information specific to the production of Madrone.
Testimonials
“When I got the idea in my head I wanted to buy a turned wood bowl, I looked at what seemed like hundreds...on Etsy, of course. There was no doubt MendoMadrone bowls were in a class by themselves. It is so cool to own a wood bowl made from a rare wood that is so hard to work with. True craft shines through on Mendo's bowls. I feel like I am holding history in my hands. Mendo is a great shop, don't hesitate to get one of these treasures!”
“Amazing quality and craftmanship. It's a special piece and I wouldn't hesitate to buy from this seller again. Product shipped/arrived quickly and it looks even nicer than shown in the great pictures. Thank you!”
“I returned to buy another fruit bowl. Having one encouraged me to get another. Besides, I left favorites behind. The seller reminded me after the purchase he had offered me a prior discount and refunded the money. It arrived quickly and beautifully wrapped. I will return in fall for gifts.”
