From Navy Chief to Master Craftsman: The Story Behind Knot Your Average Grain

Twenty years of Navy service teaches you a lot about precision, dedication, and honoring tradition. But it wasn't until I hung up my uniform and picked up my first piece of cherry wood that I discovered my true calling.

I'm John, founder of Knot Your Average Grain, and this is the story of how a retired Navy Chief Petty Officer found his mission in the workshop.

Two Decades of Service, A Lifetime of Values

For twenty years, I served proudly in the U.S. Navy. From my early days as a young sailor to earning my Chief's anchor, the Navy shaped not just my career, but my character. The values drilled into every sailor – honor, courage, commitment – became the foundation of everything I'd do next.

But like every military career, mine eventually came to an end. In 2021, I retired and returned home to New Hampshire's beautiful Seacoast region, ready for the next chapter.

Finding Purpose in the Workshop

Retirement can be a challenging transition for any veteran. You go from a structured environment where your mission is clear to... well, figuring out what comes next. For me, that answer came in an unexpected place: a woodworking shop.

What started as a hobby quickly became a passion. There was something deeply satisfying about taking raw hardwood – maple, walnut, cherry – and transforming it into something meaningful. The precision required reminded me of my Navy training. The attention to detail felt familiar. But most importantly, I realized I could use these skills to honor the service of others.

Why Military Recognition Matters

Every promotion, every retirement, every change of command deserves to be commemorated properly. Having been through countless ceremonies myself, I knew how much these moments meant to service members and their families. But I also knew that finding quality, personalized recognition gifts wasn't always easy.

That's when it clicked. I could combine my newfound woodworking skills with my deep understanding of military culture to create something special. Not just generic plaques or mass-produced awards, but custom-crafted pieces that truly honor service and sacrifice.

The Birth of Knot Your Average Grain

From our workshop at 100 Tri City Road in Somersworth, NH, Knot Your Average Grain was born with a simple mission: create exceptional custom woodwork that honors military service and celebrates life's important moments.

Every paddle, plaque, and custom piece that leaves our shop carries the same attention to detail I learned in the Navy. Whether it's a Chief's paddle for a promotion ceremony or a retirement plaque marking the end of a distinguished career, each piece is crafted with the respect and precision that military traditions deserve.

More Than Just Woodworking

What sets us apart isn't just the quality of our craftsmanship – though we're proud of that. It's the understanding that comes from having walked in our customers' boots (or sea boots, in my case).

When a fellow Chief orders a custom paddle, I know exactly what that promotion means. When a Coast Guard family wants a retirement plaque, I understand the emotions behind that milestone. This isn't just business for us; it's about honoring the brotherhood and sisterhood of service.

Built on Military Values

The same values that guided my Navy career guide Knot Your Average Grain today:

Honor – Every piece we create honors the service and sacrifice of our military community Commitment – We're committed to delivering exceptional quality, on time, every time Excellence – We don't just meet standards; we exceed them Integrity – Honest pricing, clear communication, and standing behind our work

Looking Forward

Today, KYAG serves military members, veterans, and first responders across the country. From our bestselling Anchor and Chief paddles to custom plaques and awards, we've had the privilege of being part of countless ceremonies and celebrations.

But the mission remains the same as it was on day one: creating meaningful, high-quality pieces that honor service and celebrate the moments that matter most.

Your Story Matters Too

Every order that comes through our shop represents someone's story – a promotion earned through hard work, a retirement marking decades of service, a transfer that opens a new chapter. We don't take that responsibility lightly.

Whether you're looking for a traditional Chief's paddle, a custom retirement plaque, or something completely unique, we're here to help you tell that story in wood.

Ready to create something meaningful? Visit us at knotyouraveragegrain.com or reach out at sales@knotyouraveragegrain.com. Let's craft something that honors your service and celebrates your story.

Fair winds and following seas,
John
Founder, Knot Your Average Grain
Retired U.S. Navy Chief Petty Officer