Rockler is a family-owned woodworking store that offers tools, hardware, wood and know-how for DIYers. They have a network of stores across the country and an online shop.
They are well-known for their innovative tools and jigs. They also offer classes.
Founded in 1947
The Rockler empire spans 37 stores, not including affiliated outlets, in the United States, and the Jacksonville store is a major draw for residents of Florida. It offers a lumber outlet, top power tool brands and classes to boot. Notable features include the company’s “green” efforts that have resulted in the creation of its own charitable foundation. It also boasts a staff of affable and knowledgeable professionals who are happy to answer your woodworking questions.
The most important part of the story is that it’s all a part of a family-owned and operated operation with a rich history. Nordy Rockler’s legacy is alive and well through the stewardship of his daughter Ann Rockler Jackson, her children and many employees who have made it their own over the years. The company’s flagship store in the Bayou city is the epicenter of its operations and has been a favorite of local woodworkers for decades. The name of the business is actually Rocklers and is derived from the venerable family’s original incarnation as the fabled Rockler Lumber Company.
Rockler Woodworking & Hardware is a family-owned business
In 1954, Norton “Nordy” Rockler founded the Minnesota Woodworkers Supply Company in north Minneapolis. He recognized trends in woodworking and furniture making, and loved developing and selling great products.
He introduced hobbyists and DIYers to specialty items that formerly were only accessible to professionals. He laid the foundation for Rockler’s success.
Family-owned since 1954, Rockler is your go-to source for high quality & innovative woodworking tools, finishing supplies, hardware, lumber & expert advice.
Today, they have a chain of stores and a catalog that reaches more than 6 million woodworkers worldwide. And they’ve always strived to build relationships with their customers that extend far beyond simply buying products.
They’ve also implemented Reflexis’ store execution and compliance solutions, which help companies like theirs achieve operational excellence. They’re a perfect fit for their mission of helping customers make the most of their time, money and talent in the shop.
Rockler offers a variety of classes
Whether you’re a beginner or a woodworking pro, Rockler has something for you. They offer fun, in-store classes to help you learn new techniques and build your own projects.
Throughout the year, they also hold special “Make and Take” classes where you can make a project of your choice using Rockler’s tools and supplies. These classes are limited in size to ensure you get the attention and guidance you need from their instructors.
They also have a great selection of hobby kits, parts and plans for projects you might not think you can do yourself. These include things like clocks, games and toys.
Rockler also sells its own line of specialty woodworking tools and routinely introduces new jigs, hardware and workshop fixtures. These products are designed to make it easier, safer and more accurate for woodworkers to complete their projects.
Rockler is a great place to shop
Rockler isn’t the biggest store in town, but they still manage to pack a lot into their relatively small space. The company has a great selection of tools, supplies and hardware from the likes of SawStop, Festool, Jet and Powermatic, to name just a few.
They also have a smattering of woodworking classes to help you get your hands dirty. The best part? They offer a free 90-day return policy!
The company also has a great selection of quality lumber that makes shopping for wood easier than it sounds. Their Hardest to Find feature allows you to find your next project with the push of a button, and their lumber outlet is the place to stock up on specialty woods for your projects. Their website and social media also make it easy to shop from the comfort of your home. It’s no surprise that the company has earned a well-deserved reputation as the go-to source for quality woodworking products, services and information.