About Matt
Matt fitting a lock on a fall-front desk
For several decades Matt has continued to grow as a master craftsman. Matt grew up in Perquimans County, North Carolina (northeastern NC) and from an early age his father, master craftsman Ben Hobbs, passed on his skills, work ethic, and passion for traditional American furniture.
After studying engineering, Matt spent two years as a Graduate Fellow at the premier collection of American decorative arts, Winterthur Museum, studying that collection and getting to know the culture and craftsmen that created the masterpieces within. His thesis research there focused on the complexity of the economy in rural northeastern NC, justifying the vibrant and sophisticated furniture trade the region enjoyed, particularly that of Thomas White in Perquimans.
After studying engineering, Matt spent two years as a Graduate Fellow at the premier collection of American decorative arts, Winterthur Museum, studying that collection and getting to know the culture and craftsmen that created the masterpieces within. His thesis research there focused on the complexity of the economy in rural northeastern NC, justifying the vibrant and sophisticated furniture trade the region enjoyed, particularly that of Thomas White in Perquimans.
Matt with brother Calvin and dad, Ben
Matt launched his own shop in 1999 alongside of his father where he had the great joy of collaborating on many projects and teaching in Ben's furniture-making classes. Matt maintains a full shop in Raleigh NC.
