Behind the Scenes - Grovemade Journal

Behind the Scenes

Peek behind the scenes at Grovemade to learn more about everything we do, from our manufacturing processes to our business philosophy.

BEHIND THE SCENES

Grovemade has a new home, a permanent place to pursue our blend of design and manufacturing. Over the course of 13 months, we found a space, bought it, built it out, got permitting, and moved all of our stuff three miles north, from our old space in the Central Eastside Industrial district to our new neighborhood in North Portland.

BEHIND THE SCENES

Design Inspires What You Do

We believe that design inspires your work, life, and play. We believe that when you surround yourself with people and objects that matter, it subtly yet powerfully inspires you to do better in all things.

BEHIND THE SCENES

Making the Wireless Charging Pad

We start by machining the cork, creating a precise pocket for all the electronics and leaving a thin layer on top to allow the charge to transfer efficiently.

BEHIND THE SCENES

Making The Wood Speaker

Using thick slabs of either western walnut or eastern hard rock maple, each speaker is made of two halves that are first CNC machined on one side, then flipped and machined again to complete a rough version of the outer form...

BEHIND THE SCENES

Grovemade is located in a former auto-shop in Southeast Portland, Oregon. Inside, bare bulbs hang from exposed rafters, and the poured cement floors are pocked and scratched after decades of use...

BEHIND THE SCENES

Making The iPhone Case

While minimalist in scope and profile, our cases require numerous technical steps to take them from start to finish. Follow along for a step-by-step look at what goes into making each and every wood iPhone case...

BEHIND THE SCENES

Why You Should Hire a High School Intern

Sean Kelly is the lead product designer at Grovemade, but he also makes time in his busy schedule to lead our student internship program. Below, he talks about why it's worth the extra energy...

BEHIND THE SCENES

Why We Don’t Make Cases for Android

“When will Grovemade make a wood case for my Android phone?” It’s a question we’re asked often, and it’s a good one. After all, Android devices are the most popular in the world...

BEHIND THE SCENES

An Outsider's Take On Grovemade

We recently invited our friend Thomas McCracken to our workshop to talk to a few employees and give us his observations on the Grovemade company culture...

BEHIND THE SCENES

Don't Get Comfortable

Co-founder and CEO Ken Tomita explores our adventures in running a small business and the journey to understand the meaning of it all...

BEHIND THE SCENES

Why We Apply Our Oil Finish by Hand

We finish all but one of our wood-based products by hand with a mix of plant-based oils and waxes. The process is simple, but time consuming...

BEHIND THE SCENES

The Origins Of Grovemade

As makers and small business owners, Ken and Joe shared a common bond. In their late twenties, they were just as happy to talk about potential projects as they were to finish current ones...

Design Inspires What You Do

We at Grovemade believe the tools you immerse yourself in reflect who you are and the meaning behind your work.

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