Meet Jeff Egan | Handmade custom furniture maker

We had the good fortune of connecting with Jeff Egan and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jeff, why did you pursue a creative career?
I spent 10+ years on the road working for a Zipline construction company, eventually designing, building and running a one of a kind Zipline in Old Tucson. In 2020 COVID-19 caused Old Tucson to close indefinitely, leading to the closure of Outlaw Zipline. After relocating the Zipline to Tombstone and handing over ownership I was left with a hole. I began working with a good friend,Manuel Parra, and soon discovered we had a very similar passion to create. This led to the start of Terrazas Tables. From a young age we both enjoyed creating. With the explosion of diy videos on YouTube it was easier than ever before to learn how to do any number of things. After stumbling across a few videos of makers using colored epoxy with various species of hardwood to create beautiful tables and home goods, we were hooked. The idea of taking something that would eventually become ash in someones fireplace and turning it into a custom piece of furniture a family will be able to enjoy for generations made the initial start up costs seem unimportant. Being able to take an idea you or your client has and bring that to life, this is why we create. A love for the challenge of creation.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Terrazas Tables is a new venture. Manuel and myself have been at it for about 2 years now and the company is in constant motion. We soon discovered the costs associated with creating custom furniture were not small and if we wanted to succeed we would need to pay attention to the details. Most of our furniture is made using mesquite which is local to our area. After visiting a few local sawmills in pursuit of slabs of mesquite, we realized this is another aspect of the process that would be best handled in house. We then purchased our own sawmill and contacted local arborist to explain what we were after. These tree removal professionals were more than happy to help since it meant they wouldn’t have to dispose of the wood themselves. They were also happy to know that instead of these trees becoming garbage they would now be given a second life. We create with care and use materials that would have otherwise ended up as garbage. Our furniture is made to the highest standards and designed to last. We work directly with our clients and allow them to be a major part of the design of their own furniture. We feel this is what makes Terrazas Tables different. We encourage our clients to be a part of the creative process. Assuring they will love the products we provide.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Tucson is such a beautiful place. The culture is as diverse as anywhere and the wildlife is something to behold. From the saguaros at Saguaro National Park. To the pines on Mount Lemmon. These to areas would be on the itinerary. I love the energy of 4th avenue. The street fair is always an amazing time. The history of Tombstone makes it a must see.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Along with my business partner, Manuel Parra, I feel none of this would be possible without my wife Kristine. When we first got together I wasn’t in the best place in my life. I was living a lifestyle that was centered around drinking and drugs. She brought me back to church and back to Jesus. Kristine has always fully supported my desire to create, even when it meant quitting my job to run a Zipline. She understands that my passion is something that I wouldn’t be able to live happily without and always has ideas for a few diys around the house to keep the creative juices flowing.

Instagram: @terrazas_tables

Facebook: @terrazastables