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.
Highlights from Our 65th Anniversary Dealer Convention
By / November 9, 2024 November 9, 2024
Kountry Kraft recently held its 65th Anniversary Dealer Convention to celebrate the company’s journey to becoming a leader in custom cabinetry. This milestone event brought together industry experts, partners, and visionaries for two days full of education, collaboration, and inspiration. Here are a few of the most memorable moments.
Keynote Speaker Greg Rohl: The Corporateneur Plan
One highlight from the 65th Anniversary Dealer Convention was a keynote presentation by Greg Rohl, co-author of The Corporateneur Plan: Your Roadmap from Mid-Career Professional to Entrepreneur. Drawing on insights from his decades of experience, Rohl offered advice for professionals looking to transition into the role of entrepreneur. His emphasis on strategic leadership, relationship-building, and innovation—all key lessons in his book—resonated deeply with attendees, making this session one of the most impactful moments of the celebration.
Hands-On Learning Sessions
Throughout the 65th Anniversary Dealer Convention, attendees had the chance to engage in hands-on learning through a series of interactive kiosks. These sessions, led by experts from Sherwin Williams, Hafele, and Blum, covered topics such as stain finishing, color matching, and installation techniques. One particularly exciting demonstration was Blum’s AgeExplorer® suit, which simulates the physical challenges of aging. By experiencing the limitations of the suit, designers gained new insight into how to create kitchens that better accommodate all ages.
Industry Challenges Addressed in Panel Discussions
The 65th Anniversary Dealer Convention also featured a discussion panel moderated by Kountry Kraft’s Roger Yiengst. The panel—comprised of industry leaders Jeff Boico (Kitchen & Bath Designs), Janice Page CKBD (PK Surroundings), Jeff Eichenseer (Conestoga), and Julie Vicente (Eastern Lebanon County School District)—addressed challenges the kitchen and bath industry currently faces, such as labor shortages and the closure of sawmills. This open discussion encouraged collaborative solutions and provided practical guidance for industry professionals to navigate these pressing issues.
Perfect Six Marketing: Leveraging Social Media for Dealers
Dealers who attended the 65th Anniversary Dealer Convention leveled up their marketing strategy during Perfect Six Marketing (P6M)’s session, which provided effective strategies for organic social media growth using P6M’s signature Power Hour principles. Attendees left with actionable insights taken directly from P6M’s college-accredited Social Media Mastery course.
Reflecting on Our 65th Anniversary Dealer Convention
As the 65th Anniversary Dealer Convention came to a close, Kountry Kraft reflected on the strong partnerships and innovations that have defined the company over the years. With a focus on both honoring the past and looking forward toward the future, the event reaffirmed the company’s commitment to craftsmanship, quality, and customer service. This wasn’t just a celebration—it was a testament to Kountry Kraft’s enduring legacy and its bright future ahead.
Inspirational Designs that Honor Your Pets
By / May 5, 2024 May 7, 2024When remodeling, designing a space to suit your family’s specific needs is the most important consideration. And as a beloved member of the family, you should think about your pet’s needs too! Here are a few ways you can incorporate designs that honor your pets (and make life easier) into your home.
Designed by Kountry Kraft
Laundry Room Designs that Honor Your Pets
This laundry room in Wernersville, PA doubles as a doggie day spa with a built-in pet wash station and plenty of cabinetry to store grooming supplies. Gone are the days of wrangling a wriggling mass of fur into a too-small sink or the hated bathtub. The spacious, walk-in design allows your pooch to step right in for a hassle-free rinse! Make sure to opt for a tile floor to easily mop up wet paw prints, and consider hanging some hooks for wet towels. As far as designs that honor your pets go, you can’t beat the adorable dog motif wallpaper that puts the finishing touch on this pup inspired laundry room.
Designed by The Cabinet Company
Kitchen Designs that Honor Your Pets
Whether you’re team dog or team cat, say goodbye to cluttered feeding areas with bowls scattered across the floor. Instead, incorporate a custom built-in feeding station that seamlessly blends into the kitchen cabinetry. Not only will this help keep your kitchen looking nice and pretty, but the elevated bowls also promote better posture and digestion for your furry friends. It’s a win-win! Finish off the feeding station with pull-out drawers underneath the bowls for convenient food and treat storage.
Custom Designs that Honor Your Pets
Like we mentioned in the beginning, designing a space to suit your family’s specific needs is the biggest concern. Let us know your ideas for designs that honor your pets and we’ll show you how we can bring them to life! Contact one of our design experts today to get started.
White and Gray Kitchen in Orange County CA
By / July 3, 2023 July 3, 2023This white and gray kitchen in Orange County, CA is the stunning result of a full remodel by Le Gourmet Kitchen and Bruce Colucci, CKD. Check out how they transformed this 1950s kitchen with a new floor plan and custom inset cabinetry by Kountry Kraft.
Tackling the Layout
The first major step of this Orange County, CA kitchen remodel was tackling the outdated, closed off floor plan. As shown in the “before” photo, the original kitchen used to be much smaller and separate from the dining and living rooms. The removal of several walls completely changed all of these spaces, creating a “great room” for the homeowners to entertain in.
Plus, the kitchen doesn’t just feel larger; it actually is! Opening up the floor plan allowed Le Gourmet Kitchen to expand the size of the kitchen and include the beautiful island that sits front and center in the design.
Designing Custom Cabinetry
While the layout change was certainly transformative, it’s impossible to understate the impact of the custom white and gray inset cabinets by Kountry Kraft. The white perimeter cabinets emphasize the kitchen’s newfound openness while the gray island cabinets play spectacularly off of the stainless steel appliances and chrome fixtures. Not to mention, the inset style brings a touch of timeless elegance to the otherwise modern design.
Committing to Quality
Le Gourmet Kitchen knows that it’s never a good idea to skimp on quality to save a buck upfront because it’ll end up costing more down the road. That’s why they’re committed to only working with trusted, reliable brands. Kountry Kraft is proud to be Le Gourmet Kitchen’s preferred cabinet partner for the last 30 years and to stand alongside their other trusted brands—Sub Zero, Wolf, and Cove; Create Good Sinks; and Vent-A-Hood.
Love this White and Gray Orange County Kitchen?
Create your own version with custom inset cabinets by Kountry Kraft! Contact one of our design experts today to learn how we can tailor them to your exact space. Follow Kountry Kraft on Instagram and like our Facebook page for more kitchen remodel inspiration!
Full-Time Sales and Marketing
By / May 22, 2023 May 22, 2023
Job Overview:
We are seeking a highly motivated, detail-oriented, and professional individual to join our team in a full-time Sales and Marketing Administrative Support role. This key position will bridge the communication gap between our sales and marketing staff, our client/dealer network, and our marketing partners.
Key Responsibilities:
Act as a critical communication link, maintaining direct contact with clients, dealers, employees, and marketing/advertising vendors on a daily basis.
Support the sales and marketing activities in a wide array of tasks, ensuring smooth operations and efficient workflow.
Aid in the development and execution of marketing strategies, campaigns, and initiatives.
Facilitate seamless coordination between departments to meet company objectives and client expectations.
What We Offer:
As a part of Kountry Kraft, you’ll be immersed in an environment that values and promotes teamwork, creativity, and professional growth. You’ll have a direct hand in shaping our client experiences and contributing to the ongoing success of our respected brand.
Qualifications:
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Strong organizational skills and the ability to multitask effectively.
Experience in sales or marketing administrative roles is preferred but not required.
Proficiency in MS Office suite and familiarity with CRM tools.
If you are passionate about design, have a knack for coordination, and thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced environment, this is the perfect opportunity to grow your career. Join us and play a pivotal role in maintaining the high-quality service that Kountry Kraft is known for.
Kountry Kraft is more than just a company, it is a legacy. A legacy built on the hard work and dedication of its employees who come from all walks of life. Kountry Kraft is an equal opportunity employer. Apply today for the Full-Time Sales and Marketing to become a part of the Kountry Kraft legacy.
Join Us for a Special Mother’s Day Weekend with Kountry Kraft Cabinetry at the Harrisburg Showcase Home 🏠
By / April 20, 2023 July 3, 2023Kountry Kraft Cabinetry is excited to invite you to explore the home of your dreams this Mother’s Day Weekend at the 2023 Showcase Home in Harrisburg, PA!
Join us from May 11-14, 11am-6pm daily, for a FREE, unforgettable experience featuring the stunning Kountry Kraft cabinetry designs by Tyler Hurst, a 3rd generation member of the Kountry Kraft family. The Showcase Home benefits the HBA Scholarship Fund to support the next generation of builders.
📍 Location: 2782 Patton Road, Harrisburg, PA 17112
Tyler has designed the kitchen, laundry, and master bath of this million-dollar showhouse, and he and Magali will be there to personally guide you through these spaces. Discover impressive organization and beauty in every detail of the custom cabinetry by Kountry Kraft.
Featured Products in the kitchen design:
- Blum Hinge Hardware
- Hafele cabinet interior organization
- Restoration Hardware Lambeth Knurled Pulls in Lacquered Burnished Brass.
- Café Smart 4 door French Refrigerator
- Café 36” Smart Dual Fuel Commercial Style Range with 6 Burners
- Café Professional Series Convection Wall Oven
- Café Dishwasher
This family-friendly event, brought to you by Mid Penn Bank, offers the chance to explore the luxurious 2023 Showcase Home, crafted by Roland Builder. But that’s not all! You’ll also have the opportunity to connect with local vendors and service providers who make these dream homes a reality. Attendance is free, but we encourage a voluntary donation to the HBA Scholarship Fund to support the next generation of builders.
After the tour, indulge in some light refreshments and shop unique gift items from local vendors, just in time for Mother’s Day! Plus, don’t miss the opportunity to purchase the stunning furnishings and décor displayed throughout the home.
We look forward to seeing you at the Harrisburg Showcase Home and sharing the extraordinary Kountry Kraft Cabinetry experience with you and your loved ones this Mother’s Day weekend.
How To Find A Custom Kitchen Designer
By / July 15, 2022 June 28, 2022
Custom kitchen cabinets are an important part of any home improvement project. They’re also a great way to add value to your home while improving its functionality. Finding a designer that understands the nuances and complexities of designing custom cabinetry is paramount to a successful design. This blog will assist you on how to find a custom kitchen designer.
Start with a Budget
Before you start shopping for custom kitchen cabinets, make sure you have a budget in mind. You’ll need to consider things like materials, labor costs, design options, and more. When speaking to design firms this will help you eliminate those outside your budget.
Do Some Research
If you’re looking for a designer who specializes in custom cabinetry, there are several ways to find them. Check out our Find a Dealer page to see if there is an authorized Kountry Kraft designer near you. If there is no designer in your area listed on our website, check with local trade organizations such as the National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA). Look for a designer-certified CMKBD assuring they have completed the appropriate training to design your project. The American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) also has members skilled in this area. These groups often list members by location. Next, search online using terms like “kitchen cabinet designers” or “cabinet maker.” Finally, ask friends and family for recommendations.
Design by Stonington Cabinetry & Designs; Photography by Chris Veith
Hire a Professional
You’ll need to hire a professional to design your new kitchen. This includes choosing materials, designing the layout, and installing the cabinets. It’s also important to consider the size of your space when selecting a designer. Smaller spaces require more attention to detail than larger rooms, as every inch counts. Good luck with your search and if you need inspiration, download our brochure!
Custom Home Office Cabinets
By / November 28, 2018 March 15, 2023A home office is vital to managing your mail, personal finances, books and more. With custom office cabinets from Kountry Kraft we can create an environment specifically for the way you work.
Custom Home Office Cabinets
Design by Sawhorse Designs
An office space doesn’t have to mean its an entire room. Incorporating a desk into an empty space can work just as well. Shown above is a custom desk featuring our TW10 door design with beaded inset cabinets. Kountry Kraft can also create the cabinetry to match the surrounding area to provide a seamless and cohesive design.
Design by Pam Whittemore of Drum Hill Designs, LLC
Ombre painted cabinets were crafted for a child’s bedroom to create a functional work space. These custom office cabinets provide ample storage with open shelving and pull out drawers. The child can utilize this space as a craft area, homework spot or reading spot. This design allows for endless options the child can take advantage of throughout their lifetime.
Design by Kountry Kraft, Inc.
This office includes everything you could want in an office. From custom office cabinets, filing storage, bookshelves, custom desk and more. With the abundance of storage, it creates a clutter free work environment. The cherry wood cabinets and leather chair bring the whole room together creating a welcoming and comfortable space.
Design by Kountry Kraft, Inc.
True customization can be found in the amazing finishing details hidden behind the doors and drawers. Featured above is a drawer located in an office space customized to include file storage for better organization.
Design by Marina Rubina, Architect Photography by Todd Mason, Halkin Photography
Bookshelf Storage
Built into these walls is a vertical library with bookcase bench cabinets on each landing. This unique design allows for easy accessibility to every bookcase located along the walls. The benches create a fun place for your children to unwind and read a book. This open library is a great way for guests to get a sneak peek into your interest by viewing what you like to read.
A home office should not only be a place to work but a place to relax as well. So, sit back and relax with custom office cabinets that allow everything to be kept in place. If you can dream it, Kountry Kraft can build it. Visit our website to see other custom home offices that Kountry Kraft has crafted! Or check out our Houzz page to see some of our recently completed designs.
#HomeOfficeCabinets #KountryKraft #CustomCabinetry #CustomHomeOffice
Choosing Cabinet Hardware for Custom Cabinetry
By / October 17, 2018 February 22, 2023Custom cabinetry in any space isn’t complete without the perfect hardware. Selecting the right cabinet hardware can be tricky, as there are lots of other components that may affect the finish and style you choose. Here are a few tips you should know to make the selection process easier and to ensure you choose the right hardware for your space.
Choosing your Hardware Finish
The hardware you choose should coincide with your kitchen appliances, cabinetry color and design style. Featured above is a vignette with a Kountry Kraft door style, hardware, flooring, backsplash and more. Creating a vignette allows you to visually see the design and better understand your creation.
Designed by Thomas R. Kelly of the TRK Design Company
Starting with hardware color, you should choose a finish that matches your appliances and cabinetry. If your kitchen features white cabinetry then go for bold hardware that will stand out. Shown above is a U-shaped kitchen featuring custom painted white cabinetry. The silver hardware brings life into the cabinetry and creates a pop of color that matches the appliances and countertops.
Designed by Thomas R. Kelly of the TRK Design Company
Featured above is the same kitchen as previously shown, but the island cabinetry is finished in a different color than the perimeter. The island is finished in Benjamin Moore Shadow Gray. Because of the contrast between the island and perimeter cabinets, a focal point is created. However, the same hardware is used on the island as well as the rest of the cabinetry in this kitchen. The versatility of the hardware creates cohesiveness throughout the whole kitchen design.
Choosing your Hardware Style
Designed by Integrated Kitchens LLC
Deciding on whether to use knobs, pulls or latches is more of a preference than a general rule. You should focus on what feels more comfortable rather than what looks the best. Functionality over fashion. Featured above is Alpine White custom finish cabinetry with glass cabinet doors, tall cabinets and drawers. The glass cabinet doors feature silver knobs while the cabinets and drawers feature silver pulls. Utilizing both options in your kitchen is pleasing to the eye.
Designing your dream kitchen and having everything fall into place is the best feeling. Kountry Kraft offers hardware from Top Knobs, Cliffside Industries and many more. Explore all your options until you find the perfect combination. Whether you’re designing a kitchen from scratch or simply changing out your old hardware, explore the unlimited capabilities that Kountry Kraft has to offer.
Visit our Instagram to view some close-up shots featuring different cabinet hardware. Or check out Houzz to see our recently completed designs.
#CustomHardware #KountryKraft #CustomCabinetry #CabinetryHardware
Kountry Kraft Keeping up with the Current Kitchen Trends
By / August 22, 2018 October 29, 2018Each year there is always current kitchen trends on the rise. Whether it’s old styles that are becoming popular again or introducing new styles altogether. Kountry Kraft offers endless options to keep up with the current kitchen trends.
Current Kitchen Trends
Designed by Stonington Cabinetry & Designs
Effective storage solution cabinetry is one kitchen trend that Kountry Kraft has crafted an abundance of times. By incorporating this design into your kitchen, it can create an organized look by keeping storage items concealed.
Designed by TRK Design Company
Another kitchen trend is incorporating single level multi personal kitchen islands. By adding under counter appliances to your kitchen island you allow for more storage and space to add more cabinetry around your kitchen.
Designed by Stonington Cabinetry & Designs
Open shelving is becoming a huge trend in kitchen design this year. By adding open shelves, it can be visually pleasing and creates a unique aesthetic in your kitchen.
Designed by Stonington Cabinetry & Designs
Navy blue is becoming a trending color for kitchen cabinets in 2018. By incorporating a decorative backsplash against the navy-blue cabinets, it can create a contrast that is aesthetically pleasing to the eye.
Designed by Stonington Cabinetry & Designs
And lastly, gray is the new go-to neutral shade. Warm shades of gray offer neutrality to a kitchen while also adding a splash of color unlike the color white. Gray is also flexible in terms of matching appliances and accessories to the color. Incorporating gray into your kitchen will portray a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Kountry Kraft is always looking out for the latest kitchen trends and using their fine craftsmanship to bring them to life. Visit Kountry Kraft’s Devon Showroom to speak to a design professional about incorporating the current kitchen trends into your kitchen.