I just happened upon this gem because my friends have Magnolia Network and I was pet sitting. I really hope it becomes a hit. It is really wonderful! I'm hooked already and I can't wait to see more. His philosophy on life and caring for and saving of beautiful historic woodwork along with his love of the woods is just a way of thinking we're losing in our modern world. It's a bit of a documentary style. I really love it and feel like everyone should be watching it. I learned history and the show made me laugh and smile too because The Craftsman is a character and has a great sense of humor. Please watch and share. You will be happy you did! 💗😁👍🏻
15 Reviews
Great new show
gjhurrell25 April 2022
Escape to a Different World
bnard-1370220 March 2022
I loved being able to escape into the world of woodworking by hand, small town living and community while watching this show. Pepper in Eric's ability to have fun and laugh, you feel like you're a part of the community- the history, the scenery and the people. I especially enjoyed watching the woodworking portions, as someone who has done a very small amount of woodworking myself. Watching Eric explain the nuances of his craft while working is my favorite. I could watch those portions all day long.
Best show on TV!
mpzzxyd5 May 2022
A most positive family viewing experience for ages 8 to 108! This one showcases not only the Craftsman's amazing skill but the simple yet profound wisdom that he's developed along the way. It proves the paradox that to truly keep something we must be willing to give it away. What he's created from his life and his willingness to share it with us is the true masterpiece! Thank you to all involved in bringing this gem to life!
What a great feel good show!
brendonclarkeftc18 March 2022
A show to reflect on
samuelialtman18 March 2022
This journey thought the story of a man and craft give you a lot to ponder. The show gives you a real appreciation for someone who has spent a lifetime honing their craft. You will pick up life lessons and get to know a loving family who gives so much back to their local community. This is a great show and I cant wait for the next episode!
Captures the heart of Redwood Country's bold, creative spirit
bryantimmins18 March 2022
Having lived in California's north coast communities, I have a deep sense of memory where the hands-on craftsman energy is concerned, having worked with all sorts of builders, artists, loggers... This show features a family that carries on the hands-on traditions of mostly forgotten skills in creating and restoring using techniques that are the soul of a simpler time, a time devoid of hurrying and relying on complex outsider technologies. It is inspiring, humorous, and warm-hearted, and for those of us who long for a time without all this technological nonsense and superficial cookie-cutter materialism, The Craftsman is a much-needed reprieve and reminder that we don't need to race forward into an abyss of mundane disconnection from the planet Earth.
Another creative view into home sweet home
fullifephoto2 April 2022
Growing up in Humboldt county had been a gift and this show is a wonderful expression of that gift. Both sides of my family have been in this country for hundreds of years and I love this show for its glimpse into one of the most beautiful arts and piece of American history our country holds...the Victorian home. Thank you Eric and family for your dedication to this art and thank you so much for sharing through this wonderful show! All yes!
Disappointed
jdman-963556 April 2022
Warning: Spoilers
Mr. Hollenbeck is a very interesting person. The trouble with the program is that he doesn't really show any of his expertise. He worked on a window frame and a call box out of a mansion, but really did show any of his workmanship. I hope he shows us some of his ha ds on expertise in the future.
Amazing Heartfelt Series
rkingsma28 April 2022
Eric is a beautiful old soul that truly loves his work and the spirit of what he does.
A master craftsman that has a heart for nature and the amazing redwood trees he so adores.
Don't miss this feel good masterpiece.
So so good.
A master craftsman that has a heart for nature and the amazing redwood trees he so adores.
Don't miss this feel good masterpiece.
So so good.
Wrong title for the show?
jmariani-5979928 July 2022
Mr. Hollenbeck is a lovely man who is clearly a success as a craftsman. Problem is, we don't get to see a lot of that being done. We see a bit here and there, projects completed by others as he wanders around checking things out, but mostly what we get is to hear a lot of his personal philosophy about "life". That's fine but maybe they should change the title of the show to "The Philosopher". No insult intended, but this is not a show during which one gets to see a lot going on during the process of taking something from dilapidated to refurbished, or from nothing to something. Maybe I don't get the focus of the show, or maybe they don't really know what the focus is?
Preserve the past as a way to live a richer future.
librau222 April 2022
The Craftsman is a unicorn reality show. It invokes tranquility and a sense of purpose; an antidote to a frantic, electronic world. Eric Hollenbeck is a treasure and Eureka and its architecture are his costars. His fascinating tidbits of Humboldt County history are gems; his philosophy is inspiring and thought provoking.
Eric has mastered the Carson Mansion's woodwork repairs and additions for over 30 years. Hopefully, by training others to carry on his legacy, he will inspire younger generations to carry on these traditions. It looks like there will be only two seasons but I am grateful for each episode.
Eric has mastered the Carson Mansion's woodwork repairs and additions for over 30 years. Hopefully, by training others to carry on his legacy, he will inspire younger generations to carry on these traditions. It looks like there will be only two seasons but I am grateful for each episode.
A must watch.
stuart-meagher16 May 2022
As a fix it rather then replace it guy, love this!
Mikegray6919 May 2023
Respect to Eric, thank you for your service in Vietnam. That was not easy, and I am sorry you had to endure the horrors that you did. I know this is late, but Welcome Home!
This show is wonderful, it makes you feel good, it is informative, it is just very special!
I wish there were more shows like this!
I record all my shows and watch them later. I don't rush through watching The Craftsmen, I save them and watch them when I can savor them, they are that good!
I can't wait to drive from Maine to Eureka to see Eric's stomping grounds!
Best show on television! Chip and Joanna you have to keep this one!
This show is wonderful, it makes you feel good, it is informative, it is just very special!
I wish there were more shows like this!
I record all my shows and watch them later. I don't rush through watching The Craftsmen, I save them and watch them when I can savor them, they are that good!
I can't wait to drive from Maine to Eureka to see Eric's stomping grounds!
Best show on television! Chip and Joanna you have to keep this one!
A woodworking show that gives a sense of peace.
ascandiman7 May 2023
This show is like no other. It is educational, relaxing and funny. I love the old tools he uses. It is refreshing to see how he works with the old tools in his old shop. He does not use the newest high end tools to do his craft. He explains what the tool does and why he is using it. He also throws in some history. What make it so peaceful, is the way he speaks. He is knowledgeable, profound at times, calming and humorous. I feel both inspired and relaxed at the end of each episode. I cannot watch just one. I hope he does this for years to come. If he does, I will watch and enjoy every episode.
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