Andrew Szeto: Skateboarder, Storyteller, Maker Extraordinaire

For Andrew Szeto, creativity has always been about pushing boundaries—whether it's perfecting a skateboard trick, capturing the perfect shot through a camera lens, or turning discarded skateboards into stunning woodworking projects. Based in Ottawa, Andrew's journey is one of evolution, where his love for skateboarding and storytelling seamlessly intersected with woodworking.

“Skateboarding is one of the hardest things to do,” Andrew reflects. “It’s all about failure—you’re going to try a trick 999 times before making it once! Fortunately, woodworking is slightly easier, but it still demands persistence.” This tenacity has not only shaped his approach to design but also fuels his passion for creating unique, recycled pieces that celebrate both function and fun.

Andrew's artistic ethos is deeply tied to his roots in skateboarding culture and his global travels as a photographer and videographer. Whether he’s crafting furniture, designing innovative projects like a recycled skateboard kayak, or connecting with his community at his partner Amber's store, Andrew is driven by a desire to share stories and create with intention.

Above: Building the lamp of his dreams (with the help of High Performance Epoxy)

Can you share a bit about your journey? How did skateboarding, photography, videography, and woodworking all come together in your life?

Sooo I am a skateboarder, I've always loved it and as I got older and my knees started to not work as well, I had to pivot to being behind the lens and shooting skateboarding. Knowing that skateboards are this resource that often times ends up in the landfill, I always knew I wanted to recycle the boards and build neat things! After signing up at the local Ottawa City Woodshop and finding some amazing mentors there, things took off and I haven't looked back ever since!  

Skateboarding is such a vibrant culture. How does it influence your approach to design and creativity?

It really is the best! It's one of the hardest things to do, soo always pursuing a challenge is actually what influences me the most. Design and creativity side of things come from wanting to put my spin on amazing designs and telling fun stories along the way :) 

Above: Some completed projects from earlier this year.

You’ve traveled extensively for photography and videography. How have your travels shaped your perspective as a maker?

Well meeting folks from around the world and Canada, has really given me perspective on challenges and life in many parts of the world. Understanding those perspectives and hopefully being able to relate, is a big deal! Hoping to connect more with folks and building things that touch folks around the world.  

From learning new tricks on a skateboard to mastering woodworking techniques, what parallels do you see between these disciplines?

It's all about failure! You're going to try a trick 999 times before making it once! Fortunately it's slightly easier in woodworking, but it's not without its challenges! Gotta stay persistent and not lose the light at the end of the tunnel haha. 

Your YouTube channel offers inspiring 'how-to' tutorials. What motivates you to share your knowledge with others?

Oooh so I am actually pushing away from how-to's. Sharing information is awesome! Youtube is kinda rad for that, but also pushing further on the entertainment and comedic fronts and I really just want to have fun and have viewers have fun too!  

What’s your favorite project you’ve worked on using recycled skateboards, and why does it stand out to you?

The kayak I finished (with a ton of Total Boat's help), was awesome because I was able to take the kayak to a skate spot that was only accessible by water and skate it! It was like a weird full circle moment!  

Check out our blog on his kayak build

Check out the full build video on his YouTube

What challenges have you faced working with recycled materials like skateboards, and how have you overcome them?

It takes a ton of time! Like it's easily double what a normal woodworking project would take, in preparation of skateboards, to filling in gaps that are left between skateboards. It's a huge pain in the ass, but I love it all the same haha. It's what I know and where I come from haha.

As a creative, what role do TotalBoat products play in bringing your ideas to life? Do you have a favorite product?

Oh man, well adhesives are key! TB has helped me glue boards together, fill in gaps, finish most of my products! Y'all are seriously the best and help me, almost every step of the way! 

Watch Andrew's full video on this bat build here!

What advice would you give to someone looking to combine their passions into a cohesive creative outlet, as you’ve done?

FRIGGIN DO IT! bring something new to the world! tell a cool story! we need more of it!  

Community seems like a big part of your work, whether it's skateboarding or woodworking. How do you stay connected to your community?

Well I own a store now haha. It's my partner Amber's dream and it's been amazing! I work Saturday's and it's never not busy (knocking on wood). We're mega grateful for that and seeing all the incredible people come thru! Internationally, instagram and youtube are great ways to stay connected! 

Check out Andrew and Amber's store here!

Looking ahead, do you have any dream projects or new creative ventures you’re excited to pursue?

Ohhh soo many! Grinding on furniture now, and got a few tricks up my sleeves.... hint: there may be more BOATS in my future haha.

Check out his canoe build here

For those just discovering your work, what message or takeaway do you hope they gain from following your journey?

Try silly things, life's short. Make a mark! Big Love!