Some projects mark a turning point.
Hillary — FlightDeck™ Beer Sampler
From Prototype to Product
This project started with Hillary wanting a custom beer flight board—but it quickly turned into something much more intentional and refined.
What started as a custom beer flight board quickly became something I couldn’t ignore. There was something about the balance of form and function—the way the glasses sat perfectly in their recesses, the way the engraved lettering brought personality to the piece, and the way it naturally pulled people together around it.
That first build taught me more than just CNC technique. It showed me how a simple idea, when done right, can evolve into something repeatable, something meaningful, and something worth refining. Every cut, every adjustment, and every small decision contributed to what FlightDeck™ would become.
As I continued building, I began refining the layout, improving spacing, experimenting with different hardwoods, and dialing in the feel of the finished piece. The goal was never just to make another board—it was to create something that felt intentional in your hands. Something that looked just as good sitting on a table as it did in use.
Designed for Real Use
A custom beer flight board isn’t just about holding glasses—it’s about how it’s used. The spacing between each pour matters. The depth of each recess matters. Even the weight of the board plays a role in how it feels when it’s picked up, passed around, or set down in the middle of a conversation.
Every FlightDeck™ is built with that in mind.
The carved pockets are sized for stability without being tight. The layout encourages a natural flow from one tasting to the next. And the materials are chosen not just for appearance, but for durability—so the piece holds up whether it’s used occasionally or becomes a regular part of gatherings.
Built to Be Personalized
One of the things that made the original custom beer flight board stand out was the personalization. “Dave’s FLIGHT DECK” wasn’t just text—it made the piece his.
That same idea carries forward in every build.
Whether it’s a name, a date, a location, or something more detailed like a logo or artwork, engraving transforms the board from a functional object into something personal. It becomes a gift that isn’t easily replaced, and a piece that holds meaning beyond its use.
A Foundation for What Came Next
This project didn’t just result in a single custom beer flight board—it laid the groundwork for everything that followed. It directly led to the development of the FlightDeck™ line, and eventually to the LibationStation™, expanding beyond beer into wine, whiskey, and more.
But no matter how the designs evolve, they all trace back to this build.
A simple idea. A reason to create. And a reminder that some of the best pieces come from taking a chance on something new.
Build Details
- Material: Maple, engraved and CNC-carved, fitted for six 5oz mason jar tasting glasses with chalkboard labeling panels.
(Newer FlightDeck™ models may include additional features such as integrated chalk holders.)
If you’re thinking about a gift with a story behind it, I’d love to hear what you’re imagining.
Built for More Than Just Beer
This custom beer flight board was designed for more than just sampling—it’s a centerpiece for gatherings, a conversation starter, and a way to turn a simple pour into an experience. What started as a custom beer flight board has also evolved into the LibationStation™, a more flexible serving piece designed for wine, whiskey, and other tastings. Whether it’s beer, spirits, or something in between, these pieces are built to bring people together.