Why software engineers like woodworking (2021)
Many software engineers are drawn to woodworking and other hands-on crafts as a counterbalance to abstract, endlessly changing code: physical projects are tangible, finite, and require careful planning because there’s no easy “undo.” Commenters highlight parallels in problem-solving, tool-building, and workflow optimization, but also stress key differences such as irreversibility, safety risks, cost, and the need for space and equipment. Others question whether programmers are uniquely inclined to woodworking at all, arguing that the appeal is simply the human satisfaction of making real, useful objects.
Tangible, Finite Work vs. Endless Software
- Many value woodworking because results are physical, visible, and finished: a box, table, drawer, or cornice that’s truly “done,” unlike software’s ongoing maintenance.
- Clear start/end states (like lawn mowing or growing food) provide strong satisfaction, contrasted with “selling air” and constant change in software.
Risk, Irreversibility, and Learning from Mistakes
- Woodworking errors can cost material, time, or even fingers; this raises the stakes compared to cheap, reversible software mistakes.
- Lack of “undo” forces careful planning and skill at fixing or disguising mistakes; some say the top skill of expert woodworkers is repair.
- Others enjoy that you don’t always have to start over: you adapt plans, accept “character” and imperfections, and repurpose scrap.
Planning, Abstractions, and Parallels to Coding
- Parallels drawn: jigs ~ functions, stops ~ constants, order-of-operations ~ architecture, workflow optimization in both.
- Some plan projects in CAD/SketchUp like software design; others intentionally avoid measurements to escape numeric/engineering mindsets.
- A minority argues woodworking is the opposite of programming, because trial-and-error is limited and implementation, not planning, is the hard part.
Tools, Cost, Environment, and Space
- Woodworking is seen as tool- and space-heavy: table saws, planers, dust collection, and expensive lumber; shop cleanliness and alignment issues can be frustrating.
- Responses note you can start small with hand tools, carving knives, or micro-hobbies (e.g., balsa gliders), but project scope is then limited.
Automation and CNC
- Some reject CNC as “too computer-like,” wanting woodworking as a digital escape.
- Others love CNC as a fusion of coding, robotics, and making, especially for accuracy, repetitive work, and complex carvings.
- For one-off, custom, or large green-timber work, several argue hand methods can be faster and more satisfying.
Careers, Income, and Professional vs. Hobby
- A few discuss leaving or partially leaving software for woodworking; income often comes from consulting, rentals, or carpentry while trying to build a furniture business.
- Margins are described as tight; high-end or design-forward pieces (e.g., dining tables) can work better, akin to selling art.
Other Physical / Craft Hobbies
- Many mention related interests: metalworking, model engineering, ceramics, baking, sewing/embroidery, carving, photography, gardening, and mechanical keyboards.
- Common thread: engaging senses, standing and moving, shorter or clearer feedback loops, and “resting the mind by working with the hands.”
Skepticism About the Premise
- Several question whether software engineers truly like woodworking more than the general population; no data is presented.
- Some view “X is like Y for programmers” as generic pattern-seeing that could apply to many hobbies.
- Conclusion in the thread is mixed: high enthusiasm for woodworking, but unclear whether the connection to software is special or just another human love of making things.