The Basics of Plain & Simple
For more than 30 years, Jerry Meister has devoted his career to public education, teaching special education students in middle and high schools throughout southern New Jersey. His classroom values were grounded in care, individuality, and creativity—pillars that also define his second passion: woodworking.
Nearly as long as he’s been teaching, Jerry has created custom wood pieces under the name Plain&Simple Woodworks. From handcrafted tables and frames to Adirondack chairs, bike racks, and surfboard fins, his work blends artistic vision with meticulous craftsmanship.
About Jerry
Jerry’s woodworking journey began with a handmade skateboard that sparked Plain&Simple Skateboards and led to mastering wood lamination and exotic hardwoods under his grandfather’s guidance. Those early decks evolved into full-size table projects, and further into the variety of original furniture he designs and builds today.
An avid stand-up paddleboard surfer, Jerry has taught SUP for nearly 15 years, earned ESA honors, and now builds custom paddleboards—each stamped “901”– with a backstory that he loves to share.
“All of my students are one of a kind,” Jerry says—just like the unique pieces he creates.
