Building a Solo Woodworking Business | Zac Matheou of Lycan Design

In this episode of Yours For The Making, Robin Johnson sits down with Zac Matheou, the one-man powerhouse behind Lycan Design, best known for his precision-made plywood cabinetry and no-nonsense approach to craftsmanship, pricing, and creative entrepreneurship. Zac shares the raw and honest story of building a thriving woodworking business solo - without a laptop, without outsourcing, and without ever compromising on quality. From hand-drawn joinery plans to managing workshop growth and tackling tool brand snobbery, this conversation goes deep on what it really takes to make a living as a modern British maker. You’ll learn: 🔨 Why Zac chose craftsmanship over scalability 📐 How he designs and builds kitchens without CAD or CNC 💰 The truth about pricing bespoke work 🪵 Why plywood remains his material of choice 🧰 His thoughts on tool brands, spraying, and finishes 🌍 How makers can be more sustainable — and profitable 🎓 The urgent need to preserve traditional joinery skills This episode is essential viewing for: Furniture makers & independent joiners, Workshop owners & woodworkers, Creative entrepreneurs & side hustlers, Fans of modern British craftsmanship, Anyone building a purpose-led, design-focused business CHAPTERS: Key Moments: 0:00 - Introduction to Makers and Craftsmanship 0:54 - Meet Robin Johnson and Zac Matheou 1:19 - Zac's Plywood Expertise 2:09 - 11 Years of Working with Plywood 3:03 - Challenges of Running a One-Man Business 6:30 - Zac's Family Background in Furniture 9:02 - Career Journey in Special Effects 10:33 - Workshop Evolution 11:36 - Challenges of Workshop Transitions 13:07 - Lessons Learned in Craftsmanship 15:08 - Attention to Detail in Woodworking 22:38 - Relationships with Architects and Designers 24:38 - Social Media Trends in Woodworking 32:33 - Tools and Technology in Craftsmanship 38:30 - Design and Manufacturing Process 41:42 - Plywood Supply Challenges 48:09 - Waste Reduction and Material Optimisation 54:27 - Apprenticeships and Trade Skills 1:08:37 - Spray Finishing Techniques 1:16:45 - Pricing and Value in Custom Furniture 1:22:37 - Advice for Aspiring Craftsmen 1:28:25 - Future Plans and Business Goals for Lycan Design #CabinetMaker #PlywoodDesign #JoineryUK #WoodworkingPodcast #YoursForTheMaking #HandmadeFurniture #BespokeJoinery