In this paper I look at a wide range of different woodworking practices in contemporary everyday life, situating musical instrument making within this milieu. In particular, I explore the influence of George Nakashima, probably the most celebrated of all woodworkers. His approach and philosophy has significantly influenced the ways that amateurs approach woodwork in their everyday lives. Along with Nakashima, I also discuss a number of seminal modern luthiers and their influence on instrument making. In all cases, the relationship between woodworker and the material of wood is extremely important, echoing some of Antoine Hennion's concepts regarding taste and objects in everyday life.