Furniture Making, Social Media and Growing a Bespoke Workshop: George Curl on Building Aspects Bespoke

George Curl, founder of Aspects Bespoke, joins Robin Johnson to share the realities of building a successful bespoke furniture and cabinet making business. From painting and decorating jobs and handyman work to running a specialist workshop creating high end fitted furniture, George explains how practical experience, social media marketing, strong client relationships and continuous learning have shaped his journey.George discusses the challenges of pricing bespoke projects, training apprentices, finding reliable staff, and balancing creative ambition with commercial reality. He also reveals why Instagram has become one of the most powerful tools for attracting clients, building trust and showcasing craftsmanship.For furniture makers, cabinet makers, woodworkers, joiners, tradespeople and creative business owners, this conversation offers an honest look at what it takes to grow a workshop, build a reputation and create work that stands out.Key Topics CoveredBuilding a bespoke furniture business from scratchMoving from general construction into cabinet makingThe importance of having a dedicated workshopGrowing a team and training apprenticesPricing bespoke furniture and custom joinery projectsWhy social media matters for furniture makersUsing Instagram to attract ideal clientsBuilding relationships with interior designersLearning new skills including veneering and specialist techniquesManaging mistakes, setbacks and project challengesThe value of Google reviews and local searchCreating a reputation for high quality craftsmanshipBusiness growth in the furniture making industryEnjoying the show?Leave a review, follow us, and share the episode with a fellow maker. New episodes every week with artists, designers, craftsmen and creators from around the world.Yours for the Making with Robin Johnson is the podcast that celebrates creativity, craftsmanship, and the art of making. Hosted by Robin Johnson — founder of Johnson Bespoke and BBC presenter on The Travelling Auctioneers, The Restorers, Woodland Workshop — this podcast dives into the stories of makers from all walks of life. From woodworkers, metal fabricators, and chefs to artists, designers, and hobbyists, each episode offers real conversations with the people behind the things we love.Whether you're a hands-on creative, aspiring artisan, or simply curious about how things are made, this podcast offers inspiration, insight, and practical wisdom. Expect behind-the-scenes stories, lessons in process and passion, and a celebration of the maker movement in all its forms.Subscribe now and follow Yours for the Making wherever you listen to your favourite podcasts.Key Moments:00:00 George Curl's journey into furniture making02:43 Learning through construction, carpentry and refurbishment08:20 Taking the leap into a dedicated workshop10:45 Building a team and hiring apprentices13:24 Finding a niche through unique bespoke projects19:08 The challenge of pricing custom furniture24:18 Educating clients on quality and craftsmanship34:22 Why workshops and showrooms help win projects35:35 How Instagram attracts the right clients38:08 Building strong supplier relationships40:10 Learning veneering and specialist skills42:12 Training staff through real projects52:26 Advice to an 18 year old entrepreneur55:01 Can a furniture business survive without social media?57:18 Marketing traditional craftsmanship in a digital world01:02:07 Future plans and business growth