Made True: Paper and Pipes
- MT Trim Co
- Apr 29
- 3 min read
Updated: May 1
At MT Trim Co, craftsmanship isn’t just in the work — it's in the story. Our Made True series shares the stories of woodworkers who turn raw material into art — those whose craftsmanship comes from passion, precision and stubborn creativity.
Meet JJ Galipeau from Paper and Pipes: the East Nashville craftsman who proves that with a good pipe, a little bourbon and a lot of grit, anything is possible.
Operating out of a cozy 12’ x 20’ shop in East Nashville, Paper and Pipes is a one-man operation focused on furniture and custom woodworks. The shop may be small, but it’s smartly designed — moveable tools, a built-out lumber loft and a constant hum of creative energy. While most current projects are for individuals and homeowners, there’s a clear vision for future growth into commercial and retail spaces.
Where It All Began
Like many great stories, this one started with a question — and a pipe. Ten years ago, with a pipe in hand, JJ thought, "How hard could it be to make one of these?" The answer: hard enough to spark a decade-long passion. His first, slightly "ugly but proud" pipe led to a small side hustle with his wife designing prints, giving birth to the name Paper and Pipes — a name he’s kept as a nod to humble beginnings.
Words of Wisdom for Aspiring Woodworkers
His advice? Don’t wait. Start now. Start small. Whether you're switching careers or just dabbling, use your free time wisely and allow your skills and business to grow naturally.
Favorite Builds (and Sentimental Wins)
Among the many projects completed, a hall tree built from his great-grandfather's old bed stands out. Crafted for his mother, it was a project full of meaning, history and—let's be honest—a lot of brownie points. Love you, Ma.
Quality and Client Experience
From the start, communication is key. JJ’s the type to ask plenty of questions up front (no assumptions allowed) and believes in using tools like SketchUp to help clients visualize the final product. It’s all about keeping clients informed and happy — because surprises are for birthdays, not custom builds. The thing he loves the most: “The challenge of something new, and the look on a customer's face when I can bring their idea to life.”
Tools of the Trade
A compact shop requires smart organization. Nearly every one of JJ’s tools is mobile, flexing to fit each project’s needs. Like many of us carpenters, his tools come to the job site. Some favorite tools of the trade include a PEC 4-inch square for precise layouts, a vintage 1940s Stanley Bailey No.4 Planer and a rip saw once wielded by his blacksmith great-grandfather. Talk about legacy craftsmanship!
Lessons Learned: Challenges and Pricing
Woodworking isn’t without its challenges. A plywood dining table taught him that seemingly simple materials can be deceptively tricky, but overcoming those struggles made the final piece even more satisfying.
Pricing? That's a work of art, too. Using a thoughtful formula shared by his mentor, he strikes a balance between fair pricing and making a sustainable living.
Sustainability, Safety and Shop Culture
Sustainability plays a big role. Reclaimed lumber is used wherever possible, reducing waste and adding stories to every project. Safety is serious business, too! Even as a one-man operation, he treats himself like an employee, keeping protective gear and emergency supplies within easy reach.
Beyond the Build
When he’s not planing wood or sketching designs, he's dreaming bigger: becoming East Nashville’s go-to custom furniture shop, offering apprenticeships, and continuing to connect with the community through his work.
Rapid-Fire Favorites
Favorite woods? Cherry and (sometimes reluctantly) plywood.
Favorite finishes? General Finishes High Performance Flat (three coats) and Rubio Monocoat for its simplicity.
Favorite way to unwind? A pipe and a glass of bourbon.
Parting Wisdom
His favorite piece of business advice? “If you're just starting out—you’re already ahead of 99% of people.”
His advice to his younger self? “What are you waiting for? Seriously, get going!”
At MT Trim Co, we’re proud to spotlight craftsmen like JJ from Paper and Pipes, who remind us that the best work is often born from the smallest spaces, the wildest ideas and a relentless passion for the craft. Cheers to many more builds (and pipes) ahead! And, JJ — just as you bring your clients’ visions to life, we know you will lead Paper and Pipes to become East Nashville’s go-to furniture and design shop!
Keep building, and thank you for being part of the Made True community!
Want to be featured or know someone who should be spotlighted in our Made True series? Let us know.
