Meet Colby Lancaster | Woodworker and Owner of Green Man’s Craft

We had the good fortune of connecting with Colby Lancaster and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Colby, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
I pursued an artistic career because I’ve always been drawn to the hands-on, creative process of bringing ideas to life. There’s something incredibly fulfilling about working with materials like wood, shaping them, and watching a project come together, piece by piece. I love the challenge and satisfaction of crafting something functional and beautiful, like a cutting board, and seeing it transform through the process. The moment when everything clicks and I see the work take shape is pure magic—it’s a mix of skill, intuition, and passion, and it’s what keeps me constantly inspired to keep creating.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My art is deeply rooted in the love of craftsmanship and functionality. I specialize in woodworking, creating unique, hand-crafted cutting boards and custom wood pieces that blend beauty with practicality. What sets me apart is my commitment to quality and detail—every piece is carefully designed, shaped, and finished to ensure it’s not only visually stunning but also built to last. I take great pride in the process, from selecting the wood to perfecting each cut, knowing that what I create will become a part of someone’s daily life.

I’m most excited about how my work has evolved over time. When I started, it was about learning the basics and experimenting, but now it’s about pushing the boundaries of what can be done with wood—whether that’s through intricate designs or innovative techniques. The fact that people connect with what I make and incorporate it into their homes is incredibly fulfilling.

Getting to where I am today wasn’t easy. There were many obstacles, whether it was learning the technical side of the craft, navigating the challenges of building a brand, or figuring out how to get my work out to a wider audience. At times, it felt like progress was slow, and there were plenty of moments where I doubted myself. But I kept going—by staying patient, continuing to learn, and seeking support from others who believed in my vision. Overcoming those challenges taught me the importance of resilience, adaptability, and never being afraid to ask for help or advice.

The biggest lesson I’ve learned is the value of persistence. Success isn’t an overnight thing, and every setback is an opportunity to learn and grow. The journey is ongoing, and I’m excited about where it will take me next.

What I want the world to know about my brand is that it’s built on passion, hard work, and a commitment to creating something special. I pour my heart into every piece, and I’m proud of the stories those pieces help tell in people’s homes. It’s more than just art to me; it’s about creating lasting, meaningful connections through craftsmanship.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend were visiting Eureka Springs for a week, I’d be excited to show them the charm and uniqueness of this town. It’s got that perfect balance of quirky, scenic, and historical, with so much to do! Here’s a little itinerary for the ultimate trip:

Day 1: Explore Historic Downtown
– We’d kick things off by strolling through the vibrant downtown area. The shops here are a mix of artsy boutiques, antique stores, and cool galleries. I’d make sure we stop by The Basin Park Hotel and check out its unique history.
– For lunch, we’d grab a bite at Local Flavor Cafe—amazing sandwiches, fresh salads, and a cozy atmosphere. Afterward, we’d wander around, taking in the Victorian architecture and maybe pop into a few galleries.
– In the evening, dinner at The Crescent Hotel would be a must. Not only does it have a great view, but the historic hotel itself is a must-see (plus, it’s famously haunted!).

Day 2: Nature and Adventure
– For some outdoor fun, we’d head over to Thorncrown Chapel, a beautiful glass chapel nestled in the woods. It’s such a peaceful place to take in the beauty of nature.
– For dinner, we’d hit up Mei Lei for ramen and sushi.

Day 3: Historical and Cultural Exploration
– On this day, we’d dive into Eureka Springs’ rich history. A visit to The Eureka Springs & North Arkansas Railway for a scenic train ride would be fun, especially with the mountain views.
– Afterward, we’d grab dinner at Ermilio’s Italian Home Cooking—the food is so authentic, and the atmosphere is perfect.

Day 4: Art and Relaxation
– We’d spend the day visiting some of the amazing art galleries and studios in town.
– Afterward, we could grab lunch at Mud Street Cafe, a charming spot that has great muffins and coffee.
– We would cap off the day with dinner at Pecker’s for chicken tenders and cornbread.

Day 5: Off the Beaten Path
– We’d take a scenic drive out to The Great Passion Play for a tour and learn about this unique religious drama.
– For dinner, we’d check out The Angler’s Grill for catfish tacos.

Day 6: Fun and Unique Spots
– We’d spend the day doing some fun, quirky activities like a ghost tour (Eureka Springs has a rich history of hauntings!).
– Lunch would be at So Good, which offers delicious, healthy food.

Day 7: Wrap-up and Relax
– Last day will be a chill day BBQ on my deck.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I want to take a moment to thank my wife, Lex, for her unwavering support and dedication in helping bring my creation to life online. Her guidance, expertise, and hard work have been instrumental in translating my vision into something tangible on the web. I couldn’t have done it without her, and I’m beyond grateful for everything she’s contributed to making this all come together.

Website: https://greenmanscraft.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/greenmanscraft/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/greenmanscraft/