Kerf Case makes precision-crafted wooden phone cases, turning locally sourced and sometimes reclaimed wood into protective covers for Apple, Samsung and Google devices. Founded by Ben Saks in 2013 after he built an iPhone 5 case in Carnegie Mellon University’s wood shop, the company now designs, machines and finishes its made-to-order cases in Elkhart, Indiana. Each case is individually shaped by its wood grain, with the company’s KerfCare program offering lifetime repairs.
H. Gerstner & SonsDayton’s H. Gerstner & Sons has made wooden tool chests and cases since 1906, pairing carefully fitted hardwood construction with storage designed to protect precision tools for generations. Still family-owned and operating from its Dayton location since 1913, the company is the last American manufacturer of wooden tool chests from the early 20th century. Alongside its signature USA-made chests, Gerstner now handles custom presentation pieces and restoration work while preserving the family’s original “a place for everything” design principle.DAYTON, OH
Kent Custom CasesFounded in 2006 by Brian Kent in his garage, Kent Custom Cases builds handmade, custom road and flight cases for touring professionals and the music industry. The Buffalo manufacturer has grown to process thousands of orders annually while keeping craftsmen involved in constructing each case to the customer’s specifications. Its ATA-300-approved cases are made for equipment that has to withstand frequent travel, from guitar vaults to specialized TV cases.BUFFALO, NY
Milestone Cube CompanyBorn from a family need 23 years ago, Milestone Cube Company handcrafts solid Pennsylvania cherrywood cubes for corporate, military and personal recognition, including engraved coin and planter cubes. Cumberland makers Peter and Terry bring furniture-making and more than 18 years of woodworking experience to a business that has grown from its original Alzheimer’s-care purpose into an international operation serving more than 5,000 customers worldwide. Peter is a proud veteran and a pioneer in using laser technology for wood turning, while the company says it uses sustainable wood and practices in its products.CUMBERLAND, MD
Canterbury Woods CreationsAfter leaving a 12-year technology career, founder Francis Twomey turned an oak bed made for his new upstate New York home into Canterbury Woods Creations, a woodworking studio making handmade furniture and custom commissions. Working primarily with domestic hardwoods, Twomey builds one-of-a-kind pieces around a client’s dimensions, space, and ideas rather than producing for quantity. The family’s J&J Twomey Collection adds handmade boards and trays crafted by his parents, with a tree planted and a portion of proceeds donated to the American Heart Association for each board or tray sold.VESTAL, NY