Hi, I’m Jeff Otterbein —
founder and chief sawdust sweeper here at Coquina Woodworks in Bradenton,
Florida.

I’ve always loved working
with my hands. Whether building an HO-scale model train town in my New Jersey
basement or devising an elaborate sprinkler system (some might say too
elaborate) to keep our thirsty Florida gardens happy, I thoroughly enjoy
precision work and seeing a project come together. There’s something special
about taking raw materials and turning them into something useful and beautiful
that keeps me coming back for more.

Recently, I started
experimenting with colored epoxy resin. I was curious about the endless
combinations of color, texture, and finish it offered, especially paired with
rich wood grain. It didn’t take long before I was completely hooked. As the
resin flows into a mold and settles, it catches the light like the coastlines
and waterways I’ve loved my whole life — from summers in New England to long
days on the Gulf Coast. That’s where the name Coquina comes from, a
natural limestone made of shells and coral that’s part of Florida’s history.

These days, I spend my
time crafting custom boards, trays, chess boards, coasters, and other pieces
meant to be used, admired, and enjoyed. Good food and good company deserve good
tools — and nothing sets the table better than something handmade with care.

I approach every project
with careful attention to detail, from selecting the right piece of wood to
mixing resin colors and refining the finish. I believe quality isn’t something
you rush — it comes from taking your time, working with good materials, and
respecting the process. Every cut, pour, and polish matters to me, because I
want each piece to feel solid, thoughtfully made, and built to be part of
everyday moments for years to come.

Thanks for stopping by —
take a look around the shop, and feel free to reach out if you have a custom
idea in mind. I’m always up for a new project.

Jeff