About
Hockey Stick Builds was created by Glenn, an aerospace and electrical engineer who started building furniture from hockey sticks in 2003. What began as a single bench project grew into over 20 years of designing, building, and documenting hockey stick furniture and clocks.
The philosophy is simple: no plywood, no pine, no cheating. Every project uses hockey sticks and pucks as the primary building materials — not as decoration on conventional furniture, but as the actual structure. This constraint is what makes each piece genuinely unique.
The detailed build guides, 3D SketchUp models, and plans on this site are designed to help anyone build their own hockey stick creations, from simple desk clocks to complex nightstands with working drawers.
The Engineering Approach
Glenn's engineering background shows in every project: precise measurements (down to 1/32″), 3D models created in SketchUp before building, detailed materials lists, and step-by-step documentation with photos at every stage. The goal is to make these builds reproducible — not just showcase pieces.
Get Involved
Have questions about a build? Want to share your own hockey stick project? Looking for a custom build?
- Send a message through the contact form
- Browse the Etsy Store for available items
- Check out the Building Guide to get started
Frequently Asked Questions
Where did you get so many sticks?
Years of collecting when playing in college. Collecting these days still takes a while but I'm able to get a decent amount. In general, it is more challenging. Check local rinks, thrift stores, garage sales, or ask players directly. Broken sticks work fine — you'll be cutting them down anyway!
What about composite shafts?
I'm building more with composite shafts since they are far more ubiquitous. Check out some tips and tricks to building with them at the Building Guide. Given they are hollow and you can't use standard woodworking tools, the design and construction differs considerably from wood.
How strong/safe are these pieces of furniture?
You can stand on the coffee table and nightstand. I haven't known anyone to stand on the chair, but it'll hold. It's had many a good sit. Everything is very strong. When you build something and have people test it, they always test in ways you didn't expect. This is a good thing. Don't be surprised if people are very wary of sitting in the chair at first... there's just something about chairs where people don't like being guinea pigs.
How long did it take you to build X?
The answer is all over. It depends on what X is and how many of X I've built before, which is why the individual pages don't list any expected duration to build. I can build a couple wall clocks or puck clocks in an evening since I've built a lot. The chair and coffee table take about 2-3 days while the nightstand takes closer to 4-5 days. I've only built one nightstand.
Do you do custom builds?
I have done and enjoy doing custom items. Please send me an email and I'd be happy to discuss the possibilities with you! You can also check the Etsy Store for available items.
What tools do I need to get started?
At minimum: a mitre saw, drill/driver, clamps, tape measure, and safety gear (glasses, ear protection, dust mask). A circular saw is needed for larger projects. See the Building Guide for details.
What's the best beginner project?
The Coffee Table is the best place to start — everything is at right angles and any errors are fairly recoverable. If you're low on sticks, the Desk Clock (1 stick, 2-3 hours) is easy and fun. The Bench (14 sticks, 4-6 hours) is another great first project.
Do you sell finished products?
Yes — check the Etsy Store for available items, or contact us for custom builds.