Established in 2008 by David Sheridan, we use traditional woodworking techniques and a dash of artistry to create custom furniture and cabinetry for both businesses and homeowners throughout Greater Victoria. You may have already seen our work; our commercial clients include Sidney’s Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea, the Victoria Golf Club, and Trail Appliances (locally and on the mainland). Our work is also frequently featured in Boulevard Magazine, Spruce, and Modern Home Victoria.
We design commissioned pieces specifically for your project, with your style in mind. David works together with a small team of talented artisans, supported in the day-to-day logistics by his wife, Ros. He is hands-on for every project, right from the first concept drawings through to installation and final touches. From complete house renovations with bespoke built-ins and chef-worthy kitchens, to a single piece of free-standing furniture, we can transform your home with handcrafted pieces built to last generations.
David Sheridan – Owner
I founded Splinters Millworks to serve Vancouver Island with my 30+ years of experience manufacturing the finest quality cabinetry, furniture, and custom millwork for both residential and commercial applications. From contemporary minimalist to intricate traditional designs, I always build from the same foundations: quality, traditional woodworking techniques, and my passion for creating pieces as unique as our clients.
My career started in the UK, where I finished my Advance Apprenticeships Certificate in Shopfitting and Cabinet Making with the London Institute City & Guilds Trade College. Early on, I specialized in prototype building, and worked as a foreman for several major companies within the industry before starting up on my own in 1998.
My passion for backpacking brought me to Vancouver Island in the early 90s, and I always vowed to return permanently. True to my word, I settled here 10 years later, bringing my wife and eldest daughter. Today, I work with a small team of skilled craftsmen in our workshop in Sidney. Whether you’re running your own project, working with a contractor, or have a designer in place, we’re happy to help bring your dreams to life.
Ros Sheridan – Logistics
I’ve always been behind the scenes supporting David with the day-to-day aspects of running the company. Whether you’re starting from scratch or have a clear vision for your project, we can help you hone your ideas into a beautiful, functional design.
Along with my background in business administration within the construction industry, I also have a Diploma in Interior Design, which means I understand the process of producing fine millwork from design to finish. In keeping with our aim to keep the company small and personal, my involvement allows David to do what he enjoys most, which is working with wood.
Our Team
In the 1980s, Dave was lucky enough to receive a rare apprenticeship opportunity with a traditional “old school” firm that still built everything by hand. Like most industries, automation and mass production has taken some of the finesse out of the trade. We aim to pass on traditional skills to the next generation of cabinet makers in Greater Victoria, who will take their passion for fine quality woodworking with them into the future.
As part of our commitment to investing heavily in training new talent, we’re proud to participate in Industry Training Authority programs at local schools. We provide work experience opportunities for local high schools and full Red Seal apprenticeships.
Mike Barrodale
Mike first contacted Splinters for work experience in the summer of 2012. With the support of Parkland School, we were able to start his apprenticeship part-time while still in school. He then went on to graduate high school with his Level 1 Cabinet Making completed. Finishing his Red Seal apprenticeship with Splinters in 2016, Mike takes great pleasure in the creative aspect of making custom cabinetry.
Tyler Tremblay
In the summer of 2011, Tyler joined us part-time and graduated high school with his Level 2 red seal under his belt. Completing his apprenticeship with Splinters in 2016, Tyler’s favourite aspect of the trade is watching the transformation of shipment of raw lumber and turning it into something spectacular.
Yoshi Konomoto
After completing his Red Seal with one of Victoria’s top joinery companies, Yoshi’s picked up the “Splinters’ approach” in no time and is an asset to our team with his precise approach to his work.
Addison MacDonald
Addy joined us in 2019 and is currently in the third year of his Red Seal apprenticeship. Addy learns fast and gets plenty of opportunities to experience all processes and aspects of the trade. Addy is set to complete his formal training in 2023; however, everyone at Splinters continues to learn and grow. Learning new skills never stops!