Meet our Owners
Husband and wife team Spencer and Melody Ratliff had envisioned opening a shared shop since 2015, and in the spring of 2020, their dream became a reality. With seven years of experience running his woodworking business, Spencer saw firsthand the challenges of the industry. Inspired to make a change, he began by inviting a few close woodworking friends to collaborate in his 3,000-square-foot shop. That successful trial run motivated him to expand his vision into something larger.
Today, Spencer operates both his furniture business, Old North Designs, and Able Trade. His daily use of the shop keeps him closely involved with its equipment, ensuring everything is maintained to professional standards.
With a background in business administration and property management, Melody handles the business side, from leases to invoicing.
The Ratliffs' passion for community is at the heart of Able Trade, driving them forward through challenges. Together, they built Able Trade to foster community, support makers, and prove that working together is always worth the effort.
what is able trade?
Able Trade is a community of artists, makers, builders, and collaborators who believe in sharing over ownership.
Much of our culture celebrates independence and competition, but we believe in something different. At Able Trade, talented woodworkers, metalworkers, artists, and entrepreneurs set up shop together—celebrating each other’s wins while still chasing their own.
Instead of working alone in isolation, we value connection—the daily nods in the hallway, shared ideas, and helping hands that spark better work.
As a membership-based wood and metal shop, Able Trade supports industrial entrepreneurs with the tools, space, knowledge, and community needed to create and grow. Members gain access to fully equipped wood and metal shops for a monthly fee, along with classes, workshops, gallery nights, and events that welcome all skill levels and creative interests.
In the press…
We are proud to be mentioned in the following publications
2019 article about the beginnings of a shared wood shop
2020 article about the opening of Able Trade
2020 Article about the opening of Able Trade
2023 article about Able Trade owner Spencer Ratliff
Article in Knoxville Voyager 2023
Live video interview of Able Trade owners
2025 article about Able Trade growth & celebrates 5 years!
2025 Nashville Voyager Article
2025 Woodshop News Article with Able Trade and owner Spencer Ratliff on the cover of the November issue
Where to find us
Our address is 203 W. Jackson Ave. Knoxville, TN 37902. Our main entrance is located at the far LEFT end of the Jackson terminal building, set back slightly from the street. If you see the colorful stairs coming down from the Gay St. viaduct you will see our door. We are by appointment only for tours so please contact us before popping by so we so we can make sure someone is available to show you around.
