Made in Vermont. Grown in Vermont.

SUSTAINABLE MATERIALS 

At Vermont Peppermill, we're passionate about crafting with Vermont's own trees. We embrace both native beauties like maple, cherry, and ash, as well as tackle invaders like buckthorn and black locust. By choosing local timber, we slash our carbon footprint and keep our process sustainable, steering clear of long hauls from places like Pennsylvania or Michigan. Plus, we help protect our forests from the risk of spreading diseases and pests that come with distant transport. It's all about keeping it local and eco-friendly!

By sourcing materials locally, not only do we boost the local economy, but we also tread lightly on the planet. Most of our wood comes from trees naturally felled by wind storms or those cut down to protect homes and buildings. Plus, we gather from our own lush forest in Monkton, VT. This approach means we're at the mercy of nature—whatever falls our way is what we use. We've got a great network of folks in our community who call us when they're chopping down a tree. Whatever the species, we embrace it and get creative!

It's a shame that many Vermont wood manufacturers use lumber from outside the state but still label their products as made in Vermont. Sure, exotic woods like mahogany, purple heart, or Pennsylvania cherry are beautiful, but they don't capture the true spirit of Vermont. We find it more authentic to celebrate the trees in our back yards.

Sometimes we get creative and use materials that aren't from Vermont. We love turning scrap and reclaimed wood from other projects into something new and exciting. Sure, we occasionally burn scraps, but we also like transforming them into useful and beautiful products. 

SUSTAINABLE CRAFTSMANSHIP

In our craft, we often encounter logs that are crooked, bent, twisted, or just plain quirky. While some woodworkers might overlook these imperfections, we embrace them, turning these unique features into stunning designs and decorations. The natural beauty of these quirks shines through in our work, showcasing the charm of the wood. It’s taken years of honing our skills to transform ordinary wood into extraordinary pieces, but every twist and bend tells a story worth sharing.

Our craftsmanship thrives on the skill of our hands, the most vital tools in our workshop. Each piece is a story written with handheld tools and a designer's keen eye. A tour of our shop would be quick, as we prefer handheld tools to heavy machinery. We are craftsmen, not machinists. Our products capture the essence of their creators and the forests they come from. Join us on this journey and experience the art of handmade woodwork.

We're in this business because we love working with lathes and carving wood. Perfecting our craft is crucial for our growth. With each new skill we master, our designs and finished products become even more sophisticated. We're incredibly grateful to turn this passion into a career and want to extend a heartfelt thank you to every one of our customers!