In June 1980, we opened a little storefront called NW Gallery of Fine Woodworking in Seattle’s historic Pioneer Square. It was founded by a small group of members, within the NW Guild of Fine Woodworking, who wanted to create a community venue for the sale and display of superior handcrafted woodwork. In the early years each member put in their own time renovating the gallery and working in the store. Over the years the businesses modest beginnings have grown, to now include 21 active member-owners and more than 200 non-member wood artisans, as well as a knowledgeable gallery staff. Northwest Fine Woodworking (renamed in 1996) was an anchor of the Pioneer Square gallery district at the corner of 1st and Jackson until closing the familiar shop to move into the core of downtown Seattle.

In January 2012, the gallery launched as Northwest Woodworkers’ Gallery and relocated to the west side of 1st Avenue at the intersection of Lenora, where Pike Market meets Belltown: both vibrant and soulful downtown neighborhoods. This newest location is a dramatic change from the humble beginnings of the first shop more than 30 years ago, but the cooperative maintains the same spirit and high standards established by the founding members.