AI-powered woodwork anyone?
AI might seem like anathema to some when it comes to woodworking, but not to Canadian 18 year old Evan Sklar. Deferring university studies, Evan has gone out on a limb to devote himself to developing his new online platform called MakerMind.
A woodworker since the age of 10, Evan has built large social media following and raised a significant amount of money for a children’s hospital. So what can his new venture offer? He explains: “MakerMind is an AI-powered platform built specifically for woodworkers, DIYers, and makers. I created MakerMind around a simple idea: building should feel more approachable. Whether you’re figuring out what to build, working with the tools you already own, or trying to turn an idea into a clear plan, MakerMind is designed to make that process easier.” To find out a little more, we asked Evan a few questions about his own woodworking:
What do you like making?
I enjoy bringing my ideas to life, especially when they connect woodworking and my other interests or passions. Rather than limiting myself to one kind of project, I like creating things I’m genuinely passionate about. That has included 3D printed cars, a poker table since my friends and I like to play, and even a boat as I've always enjoyed being on the water! The variety keeps making things exciting because every project presents a different challenge and gives me an opportunity to learn something new.
What’s your design style?
I don’t follow an exact set of design rules because every piece is different. My approach depends on the idea I have, the materials I’m working with, and what the finished piece will ultimately be used for. I like allowing each project to develop its own style rather than trying to make everything fit one particular look.
Where did you learn your skills?
My interest in woodworking began when I was very young, spending time in my grandfather’s workshop, he was a hobby woodworker. He taught me to use hand tools before moving on to power tools, which gave me a strong foundation. As I got older, I continued teaching myself through videos, research, advice from other woodworkers, and lots of practical experience. Much of what I know has come from challenging myself with increasingly difficult projects and learning throughout the process.
How would you describe your level of expertise?
I would describe myself as an experienced woodworker, especially considering my age. I’ve been building seriously for eight years and have completed some technically challenging projects. At the same time, woodworking is a field with so much to explore, so I’m always learning, developing new skills, and finding ways to improve. I don’t think I will ever be finished learning.
You deferred university to start your business – what were you going to study?
I was planning to study media and communications at Western University. I decided to defer my studies so I could give MakerMind and Evan's Workshop my full attention and see how far I could take the opportunity. University remains an option for me, but right now I’m focused on building the platform and learning through the experience of launching and running a business.
Can you tell us about the AI component of your platform and what you are offering?
MakerMind uses AI to personalize the building experience around each individual maker. When someone joins, the platform learns about the tools they own, their skill level, interests, and preferred system of measurement. It can then recommend suitable projects, adapt existing plans to their workshop and experience, and provide guidance when they have questions during a build.
Users can also describe something they want to make through the “Build Your Own Idea” feature, and MakerMind will help turn that idea into a guided project. An important note is that every plan in MakerMind’s verified project library is personally written by me, not generated by AI. AI generates a plan only when someone intentionally uses the “Build Your Own Idea” feature. The purpose of AI within MakerMind is not to replace craftsmanship, knowledge, or creativity. It is there to remove some of the uncertainty that prevents people from starting and help them spend more time building with their hands.
What’s your vision for MakerMind?
My long term vision is to use MakerMind to introduce as many people as possible, both young and old, to woodworking, DIY, and making. I want to make creating something with your hands accessible to everyone, regardless of their experience, interests, or how many tools they own. I hope MakerMind can give complete beginners the confidence to start their first project while continuing to support them as their abilities grow. Ultimately, I want it to become a place where anyone can discover what they are capable of building and experience the satisfaction that comes from turning an idea into something real.
Photos: Evan Sklar
Learn more about Evan Sklar's MakerMind platform at www.getmakermind.com