The Barrel Blog

Meet Mike Evans, Master Barrel Maker at Evans Family Barrels
Mike Evans is the Lead Barrel Master at Evans Family Barrels, a family-run cooperage known for crafting handmade oak barrels with precision and passion. With a background in tech, CNC machining, and a past life as a private pilot and aerial photographer, Mike brings expert craftsmanship and creative flair to every barrel he builds. A proud father, grandfather, and lifelong builder, Mike combines traditional methods with modern tools to produce custom barrels for aging whiskey, wine, and spirits that stand the test of time.

Build your own Adirondack barrel footrest using these instructions, which detail the materials, measurements, and steps for assembling it from repurposed barrel staves. 

The lifecycle of a barrel is a fascinating journey from creation to repurposing. It begins with the cooperage process, where oak staves are crafted into barrels for aging spirits like wine and whiskey. After its prime use in aging, the barrel is retired and brought to Evans Family Barrels for a second life. We carefully disassemble the barrels, revealing the rich, unique wood that’s then upcycled into custom furniture and rustic decor. Each piece—whether it’s a barrel table, wine rack, or planter—tells a story and adds charm to your home. This process promotes sustainability by reducing waste and giving materials a second chance. In the end, the barrel’s lifecycle completes, offering eco-friendly, one-of-a-kind pieces that add history and character to your space.

Repurposing old wine and whiskey barrels into unique, rustic furniture and decor is an eco-friendly trend that combines sustainability with style. By upcycling these barrels, we reduce waste, lower carbon footprints, and reuse durable materials, giving them a second life as custom-made tables, planters, and even wall art. Handcrafted by local artisans, these one-of-a-kind pieces bring a distinct, vintage charm to any space. Whether you’re outfitting your home or patio, choosing repurposed barrel furniture and decor supports sustainability and adds personality to your space. It's a win for both your home and the planet!

How to help conserve water during droughts and upcycle oak barrels into rain barrels to collect water.