From Farm to Cabinet Makers: Kountry Kraft Success Story
By / May 20, 2025 May 20, 2025Introduction: A Journey to Inspire
When Elvin Hurst Sr. stepped onto the Titans of the Trades podcast, he shared a story that began with a single table saw and grew into Kountry Kraft, a cornerstone of cabinet makers in Newmanstown, Pennsylvania. His journey from a dairy farm to leading a 96,000-square-foot facility with over 100 craftsmen is a beacon for aspiring woodworkers and entrepreneurs. Elvin’s insights reveal how passion, perseverance, and a commitment to quality can transform a humble start into a 65-year legacy. For anyone dreaming of starting a woodworking business or seeking cabinet manufacturing tips, his story is a powerful reminder that with hard work and vision, you can build something enduring.
Listen to the Podcast Episode
The Roots of Kountry Kraft: A Story of Grit and Vision
Building a Team That Lasts
One of the biggest challenges for any cabinet maker is hiring and retaining skilled employees. Elvin Sr.’s approach was straightforward yet effective. He hired locally, often recruiting farmers who shared his strong work ethic. New employees were paired with seasoned craftsmen in an apprenticeship-style training model, ensuring skills were passed down meticulously. To foster loyalty, Kountry Kraft implemented profit-sharing, bonuses, and a community-driven workplace culture. His wife Helen was by his side, working on the books, in the shop, and shaped the company by advising Elvin along the way/
“Build a workplace people enjoy,” Elvin advised on the podcast. This philosophy has helped Kountry Kraft maintain a dedicated workforce, even in today’s competitive job market. For aspiring woodworkers, this underscores the importance of investing in people—whether through training, fair compensation, or a positive work environment. A strong team is the backbone of any successful woodworking business. Learn more about their team’s dedication to quality on the Kountry Kraft About page.
Navigating the Transition to the Next Generation
Passing a family business to the next generation is a hurdle many entrepreneurs face. For Elvin Sr., stepping back was challenging, but he had prepared his children, Elvin Hurst Jr. and Dolores Hurst-Funk, for leadership. Growing up in the business, they learned the trade, absorbed Kountry Kraft’s core values—quality, integrity, and service—and developed the skills to lead. Elvin’s advice to business owners is clear: ensure successors understand operations, finances, and customer expectations; instill unwavering values; and let go at the right time to allow the next generation to shine.
This transition has been a cornerstone of Kountry Kraft’s longevity. Now celebrating its 65th anniversary in 2024, the company continues to thrive under second-generation leadership, with an eye toward the third. For those researching woodworking success stories, Kountry Kraft’s seamless generational handover is a model of strategic planning and trust.
Adapting to Change: Staying Ahead in Cabinet Manufacturing
Kountry Kraft’s ability to evolve has been key to its enduring success. From adopting automation to streamline production to introducing modern door styles like leather embedded panels, the company has stayed ahead of industry trends. Elvin Sr. emphasized the importance of continuous training to keep employees skilled in new techniques and technologies. This adaptability ensures Kountry Kraft remains competitive in a market where custom kitchen cabinet makers near me are in high demand.
For aspiring woodworkers, Elvin’s story highlights the need to balance tradition with innovation. While craftsmanship remains at Kountry Kraft’s core, embracing new tools and design trends has expanded its reach. The company’s KCMA certification for environmental stewardship also reflects a commitment to sustainability, appealing to eco-conscious consumers searching for responsible cabinet makers. Check out their innovative designs on the Kountry Kraft Projects page.
A Legacy Built to Last
Elvin Hurst Sr.’s journey from a dairy farm to founding Kountry Kraft is a powerful woodworking success story. His emphasis on quality, community, and adaptability offers valuable cabinet manufacturing tips for entrepreneurs. Whether you’re wondering how to start a woodworking business or seeking inspiration from industry leaders, Kountry Kraft’s 65-year legacy proves that strong values and strategic vision can create a thriving enterprise.
Take a moment to explore Kountry Kraft’s exceptional craftsmanship on their Projects page, where you’ll find inspiring examples of custom kitchens, bathrooms, and more.
Listen Again or Share the Podcast
Dive deeper into Elvin Sr.’s insights on the Titans of the Trades podcast:
- Core Matters: The Secret to Building a Lasting Business – Kountry Kraft
- Apple Podcasts: From Farm to Family Business – 65 Years of Growth
- Spotify: Titans of the Trades with Elvin Hurst Sr.
Subscribe, share, and leave a review to support impactful discussions like this one. For more about Kountry Kraft, visit kountrykraft.com.
Frequently Asked Questions About Running a Successful Cabinet Manufacturing Business
How do you hire skilled employees for a cabinet manufacturing business?
Elvin Sr. recommends hiring locally, particularly individuals with a strong work ethic, like farmers. Pair new hires with experienced craftsmen for hands-on training, fostering skill development and loyalty.
What’s the key to retaining talent in woodworking?
Create a workplace people enjoy through profit-sharing, bonuses, and a sense of community. Valuing employees ensures long-term retention.
How do you prepare for transitioning a family business?
Ensure successors understand operations, finances, and customer expectations. Instill core values and step back at the right time to let them lead.
What values should guide a cabinet manufacturing business?
Quality, integrity, and service are non-negotiable, according to Elvin Sr. These principles build trust and sustain customer loyalty.
How can a woodworking business stay competitive?
Adopt automation, stay updated on design trends, and train employees continuously to balance craftsmanship with innovation.
What role does community play in a successful cabinet business?
A strong sense of community among employees fosters engagement and loyalty, creating a positive work environment that drives success.
How do you start a woodworking business from scratch?
Begin with a clear vision, leverage local networks for initial clients, and prioritize quality to build a reputation, as Elvin did with Kountry Kraft.
What’s the biggest challenge in cabinet manufacturing today?
Elvin Sr. notes that adapting to market changes while maintaining quality is critical. Staying ahead requires investment in technology and training.
Let Elvin Hurst Sr.’s remarkable journey with Kountry Kraft ignite your passion for woodworking and entrepreneurship. Be inspired by their legacy of craftsmanship by exploring stunning designs on the Kountry Kraft Kitchens Projects portfolio. If you’re eager to join a team dedicated to quality and innovation, consider applying for a role at Kountry Kraft—visit the employment page to start your journey with a leading cabinet maker today.
Ideas for a Small Kitchen Remodel Near Me — Big Style for Small Spaces
By / May 6, 2025 May 6, 2025If you’re searching for “ideas for a small kitchen remodel near me,” you’re likely hoping for inspiration that maximizes space without sacrificing style. When square footage is limited, creativity becomes your most valuable asset. You need ideas that make every inch of your kitchen work smarter, look better, and feel more open. And that’s exactly what our design experts delivered. Keep reading to discover our best ideas for a small kitchen remodel.
Start with a Light & Bright Foundation
Color plays a powerful role in shaping perception. Lighter hues such as soft whites, pale grays, or warm taupes reflect more light and visually expand the space. Consider pairing neutral cabinetry with a matching backsplash and light-toned flooring to create a cohesive, airy feel. High-gloss finishes or glass accents can further amplify the effect, bouncing natural light around the room and making it feel open and inviting.
Choose a Curved Island for Softer Flow
Traditional islands often introduce sharp corners that disrupt the flow in compact kitchens. A curved island offers a more fluid design, easing navigation and enhancing ergonomics. Even a small-radius curve on one side can soften the look and improve functionality. To maximize utility, include closed storage within the island—deep drawers or cabinet compartments can tuck away cookware, small appliances, or pantry items, keeping your counters blissfully clear.
Disguise Storage
One of the smartest solutions in a small kitchen remodel is disguised storage, offering smart solutions like toe-kick drawers, pull-out spice racks, and panel-front appliances to keep essentials hidden yet accessible. Deep drawers, pull-out organizers, and appliance garages reduce visual clutter and preserve clean lines. Hidden compartments in islands or beneath countertops add functionality without compromising style, making even the smallest kitchen feel more spacious, efficient, and effortlessly streamlined.
Eliminate Upper Cabinets if Layout Allows
For those who can manage it, removing upper cabinetry can dramatically open up a small kitchen. If your lower cabinets and island provide enough storage, consider opting for open shelving, a minimalist backsplash, or wall-mounted lighting in their place. This approach lightens the visual load and makes the ceiling appear higher, which instantly enhances the sense of space. Keep shelves styled with essentials or decor to prevent them from becoming chaotic.
Plan for Clutter-Free Counters
A thoughtful small kitchen remodel anticipates daily use. Think beyond the initial look and design with maintenance and tidiness in mind. Integrate built-in trash and recycling bins. Choose under-cabinet lighting to brighten work zones without taking up space. Include dividers, tiered shelves, and drawer inserts to keep every item in its place. When your kitchen is designed to support a clutter-free lifestyle, it’s easier to keep it looking clean and functional every day.
Conclusion
If you’re inspired to start your own renovation, a quick search for a small kitchen remodel near me can connect you with one of our award-winning designers who understand how to tailor ideas to your exact space and style. Find a Kountry Kraft dealer near me to get started.