“In using tools, people become something larger than themselves. The tool joins intention and material, bringing the human fully into the world.”
— Richard Sennett, The Craftsman
Handwerks—from the German for “the work of the hands”—is a collection of stories told by people who shape the world through skill, care, and craft. In this growing collection, tradespeople from diverse fields share what they do, how they learned, and why their work matters.
These are stories of woodworkers, mechanics, stonemasons, weavers, timber framers, and historic preservationists—people whose tools are an extension of their thoughts, whose materials shape their ideas, and whose work leaves something lasting behind.
We created Handwerks to help young people explore meaningful paths through skilled trades—paths that are rich with purpose, grounded in practice, and vital to both local communities and the larger world.
New voices are added regularly—check back often.
Building & Land
Mechanical & Automotive
Historic Preservation
Alternative Energy
Woodworking
Arts & Crafts
Story Preservation Initiative is deeply grateful to the foundations, businesses, and individuals who provided early-stage funding for the development of SPI’s Handwerks project.
