For over four decades, Gary Katz worked as a licensed general contractor in California, specializing in finish carpentry across a wide range of residential and commercial projects—from tract homes to high-end custom builds, office spaces to hospitals and schools. Now based in Southern Oregon, Gary continues to contribute to the trade as a teacher, writer, and craftsman.
About Gary
A longtime educator, Gary has trained thousands of carpenters on everything from foundational skills to advanced joinery and design. He was a mainstay at national trade shows, known for his hands-on workshops and clear, practical instruction. In 2003, he founded the Katz Roadshow—the first and only peer-to-peer, on-the-road education program for carpenters and architects, held at lumberyards across the country.
Gary’s writing career began in 1991 with Fine Homebuilding and soon expanded to The Journal of Light Construction, Fine Woodworking, Tools of the Trade, and more. His books include:
The Doorhanger’s Handbook (Taunton)
Trim Made Simple (Taunton)
Finish Carpentry: Efficient Techniques for Custom Interiors (JLC/Craftsman)
His acclaimed Mastering Finish Carpentry DVD series became a staple of trade education, culminating in a two-disc set on door hanging released in 2010.
In 2008, Gary launched THISisCarpentry.com, a one-of-a-kind online magazine built by and for carpenters, featuring in-depth, illustrated articles on tools, techniques, and trade wisdom.
Today, Gary shares finish carpentry insights on YouTube and Instagram, and continues to shape the field through his writing.
His fourth book, American Mantelpieces: A Carpenter’s Journey Through Architectural Styles, will be published in summer 2026.
