From Woodworking to Quilting: How Chris Hanson Built Modern American Vintage

Have you ever wondered what it really takes to build a handmade maker business from the ground up?

In this episode of the Craft to Career Podcast, I’m chatting with Chris Hanson of Modern American Vintage, a creative business known for handmade wood quilting notions and tools.

Chris shares how his woodworking background led him into the quilting world, what it looks like to run a handmade business, and how he approaches pricing, product ideas, and customer requests. His story is such a fun reminder that creative businesses do not always follow a straight path, and sometimes the best opportunities come as you keep creating and paying attention to what your customers love.

In this episode, we will talk about:

How Chris got started with Modern American Vintage

His woodworking background and how he found his way into quilting

What his workspace and typical workday look like

Whether Modern American Vintage is full-time or a side business

How he moves from product idea to finished piece

How he sources materials and approaches pricing

His best-selling products and a few that surprised him

How he balances creative instincts with customer requests

The best and hardest parts of running a maker business

His advice for other creative entrepreneurs

What is next for Modern American Vintage

Listen to this episode if you:

Are curious about building a handmade maker business

Love beautiful quilting notions and tools

Want a behind-the-scenes look at running a creative business

Struggle with pricing your handmade products

Are wondering how to turn your skills into a business

Need encouragement as you grow your own creative career

About Chris

Chris Hanson is the maker behind Modern American Vintage, where he creates handmade wood quilting notions and tools for quilters and makers. With a background in woodworking, Chris has built a creative business that combines craftsmanship, function, and beauty for the quilting community.

Resources Mentioned

Website: Modern American Vintage
Instagram: @modern_american_vintage