Rick Liegl, a prominent Connecticut-based woodworker, is a returning presenter at TradesUp, following his engaging session from last year. With a deep passion for woodworking and a penchant for antique hand tools, Rick crafts unique and enduring pieces that reflect his dedication to the craft.

Specializing in the art of mortise and tenon joinery, Rick skillfully constructs chairs and benches, showcasing the timeless techniques that have stood the test of time. His craftsmanship extends beyond furniture, as he intricately carves hand-hewn spoons and bowls using locally sourced trees.
Rick's presentations at TradesUp are a testament to his commitment to preserving traditional woodworking methods. Attendees can expect to witness his carving expertise, gain insights into his fascinating collection of tools, and have their questions answered. Through his demonstrations, Rick underscores the enduring quality of crafts created through these age-old techniques, emphasizing their potential to last for generations to come.

Dive into the art of landscaping with our expert presenters, guiding attendees through the secrets of planting fall bulbs for vibrant sprint blooms. Discover the cutting-edge equipment used by landscape professionals, unveiling the science behind picture-perfect gardens. Hailing from northwest CT, Yardscapes stands tall as the region’s award-winning landscape company, uniquely accredited in the state. With a legacy dating back to 1990, we are your trusted partners in full-service design, construction, and maintenance for both residential and commercial spaces. Unearth the beauty beneath every landscape.

Kent Quilters is a community quilt group which formed in the fall of 2014 at the Kent Memorial Library. Local women came together and created a log-cabin quilt to raise money for the library. We had so much fun with that project that we have continued, working with a different local non-profit organization every year.

Meet Daniel Rochford, your TradesUp Presenter, hailing from the picturesque town of Sharon, CT. As the owner of the renowned general contracting company, Old North Contracting, Daniel brings a lifelong passion for preserving timeless design aesthetics and authentic building materials to the forefront of their craft.

With a profound commitment to the art of craftsmanship, Daniel stands out as a true artisan in their field. Their “Carpentry by Hand” TradesUp experience promises to be enlightening and enriching. Attendees will have the opportunity to delve into the intricate world of hand-coping moldings, explore the nuances of wood species matching, and even try their hand at the refined skill of glass cutting, adding a touch of elegance and functionality to their own projects.

With an unwavering commitment to tradition and dedication to excellence, Daniel Rochford perfectly embodies TradesUp's mission, values, and vision. Come along on a journey led by Daniel, where you'll experience firsthand our shared dedication to creativity, precision, and the enduring principles that lie at the heart of TradesUp's mission.

Meet Eric Clinger, a returning presenter for 2023 TradesUp. Eric's journey through the world of craftsmanship and preservation began with a B.A. in Anthropology from the University of Pennsylvania in 1978. He first delved into furniture building and restoration in Philadelphia, setting the stage for a remarkable career in preserving history.

Jeremy Makins is a seasoned presenter returning to this year's TradesUp event, ready to bring back the excitement surrounding all things tile! With a commitment to quality and a passion for home improvement, Jeremy is the driving force behind J SIX Home Services.

As the owner of J SIX Home Services, Jeremy is proud to lead a locally owned and fully licensed Home Improvement Contractor based in the state of Connecticut. With a focus on small to medium-sized projects, their expertise spans a wide range of home improvements. Their dedication to excellence is evident in their EPA Lead-Safe Certified Firm status and comprehensive insurance coverage.

Jeremy's journey to entrepreneurship began after a successful career in sales, customer service, marketing, and management. A Midwest native turned New Haven resident for over a decade, he shares a 100-year-old home in the Westville neighborhood with his wife, a talented designer and realtor, and their five energetic boys.

Don't miss the chance to join Jeremy at TradesUp, where you can dive into the world of tile installation and cutting while experiencing his enthusiasm and knowledge for home improvement.

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