About Us
At Smokey Mtn Woodworks, we specialize in handcrafted chainsaw carvings and custom wood creations designed to bring character, craftsmanship, and natural beauty to any space. From wildlife carvings and rustic décor to personalized pieces and one-of-a-kind commissions, every project is carefully crafted with attention to detail and a passion for woodworking. Our goal is to create unique, high-quality pieces that customers can enjoy for years to come.
Our Story
Smokey Mtn Woodworks began during the uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic when we both found ourselves unexpectedly without work. What started as a way to stay busy and make ends meet quickly became a passion. With a chainsaw, a few logs, and a willingness to learn, we discovered a love for transforming raw wood into unique works of art.
Over the years, that passion has grown. Built on hard work, creativity, and faith, each carving is handcrafted with care and reflects our appreciation for the beauty of nature and the opportunity to create something lasting from it. Today, we're proud to share our work with customers across the country and continue turning simple pieces of wood into one-of-a-kind treasures.
His Creation. Our Craft.
Meet The Artists
Russell Cotter
Russell is the artist, carver, and chief creator of sawdust at Smokey Mtn Woodworks. He has a knack for seeing potential in a pile of wood and turning it into something people can't stop talking about. Fueled by coffee, creativity, and the occasional bad dad joke, he's always working on the next unique piece.
Laura Cotter
Laura is the painter, photographer, website designer, marketer, and professional "make it look pretty" person at Smokey Mtn Woodworks. She adds the finishing touches that bring each carving to life and handles most of the behind-the-scenes work that keeps the business moving.
She would probably be carving too, except for one minor detail: she managed to blow up a chainsaw. As a result, Russell has kindly (and permanently) restricted her chainsaw privileges. These days, she sticks to paint, creativity, and leaving the explosions to someone else.