Craftsman, wood

What does a woodcraftsman do? – Tasks and work environment

A woodcraftsman works with shaping, manufacturing, and sometimes restoring wooden objects. Tasks can include creating furniture, utility items, and art pieces, as well as detailed carpentry for interior design or custom orders. The work often takes place in small workshops or studios, where machines and hand tools are used to process different types of wood. The work environment is characterized by both creative freedom and demands for precision and accuracy, as the material is living and requires understanding of its properties. Many woodcraftsmen also have customer contact to discuss design, material choices, and delivery times.

Salary development over time

The profession of woodcraftsman has shown some variation in salary over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 34,382 SEK per month, which decreased slightly to 34 662 SEK in 2023. In 2024, a clear decline has been noted, with a current average salary of 30 900 SEK per month. This represents a reduction of about 10.8% compared to the previous year. This trend can partly be explained by changes in demand for craft trades, increased competition from industrial products, and some uncertainty in the job market for artisans. Despite this, there remains a continued interest in craftsmanship skills and unique wood products, which could positively influence salary development in the longer term.

Woodcraftsman, wood salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 30 900 SEK/month
• Lowest/Highest salary: Data not available
• Hourly wage: 186 SEK/hour
• Gender differences: Data not available
• Regional differences: Data not available

Education and qualifications

To work as a woodcraftsman, a craft education focused on woodworking or applied arts is usually required. Many choose vocational colleges or folk high schools within the field, and it is common to combine formal education with practical training or apprenticeships. The industry values both technical skill and artistic sense, while experience in personal creation is a significant asset.

• Formal education: Vocational college or folk high school, typically 1–3 years
• Practical training: Apprenticeship or on-the-job training recommended
• Courses: Specialized courses in wood techniques, furniture carpentry, or design
• Prerequisites: Interest in craftsmanship, form, and material knowledge
• Self-study: Personal creation and further education online are common

Common benefits and compensations

Common benefits for woodcraftsmen include flexible working hours, opportunities for personal creation, and access to workshops or studios. Some employers also offer wellness allowances, work clothing, and insurance. For self-employed, benefits may vary depending on assignments and collaborations.

Competition and challenges

The competition within the profession of woodcraftsman is significant, especially as craft products often compete with industrially produced goods. Finding a stable customer base and reaching the market requires entrepreneurship and marketing skills. Challenges also include staying updated on new techniques and materials, as well as adapting to changing consumer behaviors. For many, it’s a balance between artistic freedom and creating products in demand. Limited permanent positions mean many work as freelancers or combine multiple assignments.

Tips for aspiring woodcraftsmen

To succeed as a woodcraftsman, it’s good to be both creative and persistent, as the profession demands solid craftsmanship skills and patience to develop your abilities. A strong interest in materials and form is essential, and it’s recommended to experiment early with different techniques and woods. Being precise and detail-oriented helps produce high-quality products, while the ability to communicate and collaborate with customers facilitates custom orders. Curiosity and willingness to learn new methods help find your niche. Finally, flexibility and adaptability are important, especially for those who want to combine different work forms or start their own business.

Key facts about Woodcraftsman, wood

• Average salary: 30 900 SEK/month
• Hourly wage: 186 SEK
• Education level: Vocational college or folk high school, 1–3 years
• Work form: Self-employed or small workshops
• Available jobs: 341 within the profession

Career paths and future prospects

After a few years of experience, a woodcraftsman can develop into more specialized roles, such as furniture maker, instrument maker, or instructor in courses. There are also opportunities to work with restoring older wooden objects or to start a studio for custom orders and exhibitions. Forecasts from the Employment Service show that demand for craft skills remains relatively stable, but competition for permanent positions remains high. With 341 available jobs in the profession, those combining craftsmanship with entrepreneurship and marketing skills have good opportunities.

Frequently asked questions about Woodcraftsman, wood

• What does a woodcraftsman earn?
  - The average salary is 30 900 SEK per month.
• How to become a woodcraftsman?
  - The most common route is through vocational college or folk high school with a focus on woodworking, often combined with practical training.
• What is the hourly wage for a woodcraftsman?
  - The average hourly wage is 186 SEK.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - There are no available data on regional salary differences for the profession.
• What are the most common workplaces?
  - Most work in their own workshops, small companies, or as self-employed.
• What are the future prospects?
  - The labor market is relatively stable, with 341 available jobs within the profession.
• What is required to succeed in the profession?
  - A combination of craftsmanship skills, creativity, and the ability to reach customers is essential.