Article Summary: Melton partnered with Kaiut Yoga in Boulder to design and build custom wooden yoga props for their studio. Crafted in our workshop from beetle kill pine, the new blocks, wedges, and balance boards were created to meet Kaiut Yoga’s design preferences ahead of a January training intensive led remotely by Francisco Kaiut, founder of the Kaiut Yoga method. The project supported sustainable material use, local collaboration, and hands-on training for our carpenters as part of our work as a certified B Corp.
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Why Custom Yoga Props
Kaiut Yoga is a Boulder-based studio rooted in a therapeutic approach to yoga that prioritizes joint health, accessibility, and long-term mobility. As the studio prepared for an upcoming January training intensive led by Francisco Kaiut, founder of the Kaiut Yoga method, the team began exploring new yoga props that aligned with their preferences for material, weight, and form.
Rather than sourcing mass-produced options, Kaiut Yoga partnered with us to create custom wooden yoga blocks and balance-based supports designed to meet their specifications. The request centered on producing props that feel stable, grounded, and intentional within the practice, while reflecting the studio’s teaching environment and values.
Building in Our Workshop
We designed and built the custom yoga props in our workshop, with our carpentry team leading each stage of the process. Each piece was milled, shaped, and finished by hand, with careful attention to dimensions, surface feel, and overall balance.
In addition to traditional rectangular yoga blocks, we also made wooden wedges and balance boards used within Kaiut Yoga’s practice. Each piece was created to support specific movements and positions as defined by the studio.
This work also served as a hands-on training opportunity for our carpenters. Producing precision props required new tooling setups, refined milling techniques, and finishing processes that differ from typical residential construction work. By incorporating training into real client projects, we build skills through meaningful work while continuing to invest in craftsmanship and long-term growth across our team.
Why Beetle Kill Pine
Rocky Mountain National Park
© Greg Tally / CC-BY-SA-3.0
The yoga blocks, wedges, and balance boards were crafted from beetle kill pine, a material sourced from forests impacted by pine beetle infestation. Using beetle kill pine helps give purpose to trees that would otherwise be left unused and supports broader forest management efforts.
As a certified B Corp, we prioritize material choices that reflect environmental responsibility. Beetle kill pine offers natural variation, warmth, and durability, making it well suited for functional studio props while supporting our sustainability efforts.
A Local Collaboration
This project reflects the value of local collaboration built on shared priorities. It brought together a Boulder-based yoga studio and our local design-build team, connected through shared values, craft, and community.
We are grateful to partner with Kaiut Yoga on work that supports learning, sustainability, and people through purpose-driven projects.
FAQ
What is Kaiut Yoga?
Kaiut Yoga is a yoga studio in Boulder that offers classes and trainings grounded in the Kaiut Yoga method, a therapeutic approach focused on mobility and joint health.
What is a B Corp, and why does it matter in construction and remodeling?
A certified B Corp is a business that meets verified standards for social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency. In the building industry, this often includes responsible material choices, team wellbeing, and community impact.
What is beetle kill pine, and why is it used in woodworking?
Beetle kill pine is wood sourced from trees impacted by pine beetle infestation. It is often used in woodworking because it can be repurposed into durable products while supporting responsible material use.
Is beetle kill pine considered a sustainable building material?
Beetle kill pine is often considered a more sustainable material choice because it gives purpose to wood that might otherwise go unused. Sustainability can depend on sourcing and how the wood is processed and transported.
Are wooden yoga blocks better than foam blocks?
Some people prefer wooden yoga blocks because they tend to feel sturdy and consistent in weight and shape. Foam blocks can feel lighter and softer. The best choice depends on the practice and personal preference.
Can a design-build company also do custom woodworking projects?
Yes! Some design-build companies have workshop teams that build custom pieces, prototypes, or small run projects. This can include items like cabinets, built ins, or specialized objects made to specific dimensions and material preferences.
Do you work with local businesses in Boulder on custom projects?
Yes! We partner with local businesses and organizations when a project aligns with shared values and clear functional needs, including custom builds produced in our workshop.