Growing Up in a Cabinet Shop
This is my first blog post—so thanks for tagging along while I find my rhythm.
I’m Jesse Raber, and I grew up on an Amish farm in southern Indiana. Before I was born, my dad opened a cabinet shop, which means I pretty much grew up in one. Farming wasn’t really my thing, but woodworking grabbed me early and never let go.
Early Days in the Shop
Some of my earliest memories are trying to build cabinets just like my dad—using whatever scraps I could find. I spent hours experimenting, learning, and, honestly, making a mess. I loved every minute of it.
Scrap-Wood Villages
Behind the shop, my brother and I built entire little villages out of leftovers. They weren’t always pretty, but we were proud of what we created. At the end of the day, seeing something we made with our hands gave us a real sense of accomplishment.
What Those Years Taught Me
Those early days taught me more than how to use tools. They sparked a lifelong curiosity about how to make things better, faster, and simpler. That mindset followed me into adulthood and eventually led me to computers—even though, growing up Amish, I didn’t touch one until I was 17. From that point on, I was hooked.
First Software, First Steps
The first program I learned was KCD—cabinet design software I used almost daily for about two years. When we decided to start CNC machining parts at my dad’s shop, I dug into the details and realized the startup costs with KCD’s setup were higher than I expected. That sent me searching for alternatives and led me to Mozaik Software, which completely changed my outlook on cabinet manufacturing.
Moving from Table Saws to CNC
If your shop is used to cutting parts by hand, getting into CNC can feel overwhelming. It definitely did for me. Looking back, a lot of the issues I ran into could have been avoided if I’d been better informed. That’s a big reason I’m starting this blog: to help other shops move into CNC with fewer headaches and avoid some of the pitfalls I hit along the way.
What’s Coming Next
I’ll be sharing reviews, comparisons, and practical tips on various topics, including:
- Design & CAD/CAM Software:
Mozaik Software, KCD, SketchUp, and CAD tools like Vectric Aspire, VCarve Pro, and Fusion 360. - CNC Machines:
Hands-on impressions with pros and cons from different machines I’ve used. Some include ShopSabre, New CNC, AES, SCM, & Homag - Workflow & Productivity Gear:
Stream Deck, 3D mouse, keyboards/mice, plus webcams and microphones I’ve tested—what’s worth it and what isn’t. - Documentation & Training Tools:
Snagit and Scribe for step‑by‑step guides, and video tools like Camtasia and Clipchamp for how‑to and promo videos.
I’ll keep this first one short. If any of that sounds helpful—or if you’re a shop owner thinking about CNC—stick around. I’m excited to share what I’ve learned and make the path a little smoother for you.
Thanks for reading. More to come soon.