If you hire this pro, you’re covered by a money-back guarantee. Learn more
If you hire this pro, you’re covered by a money-back guarantee. Learn more
About
Forrest Kelly is here to get your home project complete with care and quality. Fully Insured. Over 8 years specializing in decorative wall accents, trim/production carpentry, painting, staining, and handyman home repairs.
“I love helping homeowners understand their projects better and get their jobs done professionally. Communication and quality is priority to make sure you are happy.”
Overview
Hired 154 times
Serves Chicago, IL
Background checked
1 employee
10 years in business
Business hours
SunClosedMon8:00 am - 7:00 pm
Payment methods
This pro accepts payments via Cash, Check, PayPal, Venmo, and Zelle.
Top Pro status
Top Pros are among the highest-rated, most popular professionals on Thumbtack.
2025
Services offered
Areas needing carpentry help
Services needed
Application of finishes
Minor repairs
Replacement of portions of existing structure
Complete renovation of existing structure
Property type
Residential
Projects and media
Projects and media
Reviews
Customers rated this pro highly for professionalism, work quality, and responsiveness.
Great 4.8
97 reviews
5
94%
4
1%
3
1%
2
1%
1
3%
Your trust means everything to us. Learn about our review guidelines.
Read reviews that mention:
Claire R.
1 month ago
•
Hired on Thumbtack
Forrest was a fantastic carpenter to work with. We felt as though he really understood our vision from his first consultation. He was great about talking us through his process, and exceeded our expectations!
He matched our mantle perfectly when building two custom shelves, mounted the wood veneer hub sheets, and mounted our tv.
Details: Wainscoting (less common) • Plaster • I'm flexible • Yes, I need help designing the molding or trim • As recommended by carpenter • 0 - 40 ft • I would like it stained
Trim or Molding Installation
Michelle L.
May 9, 2026
•
Hired on Thumbtack
Could not recommend Forrest enough. He is so kind and knowledgeable about what he does. The measurements I gave him for the topper on our ikea shoe cabinet were too tight (our wall has subtle curves), so I asked him to cut a new piece vs try to make the old piece work and it has made our shoe cabinet look SO custom. He chose the perfect type of wood to fit our home. We get sooo many compliments on it. Hire him!!
Details: Cabinets, shelves, or bookcases • New custom building or construction • Residential
General Carpentry
Elizabeth F.
3 weeks ago
•
Hired on Thumbtack
Responded immediately- assessed the work and provided a fair estimate. Started timely and completed on time. Outstanding work ethic and quality of work is evident!
Details: Baseboards • Wood • Yes, I will provide the molding or trim • This is just an installation job - no design needed • As recommended by carpenter • I would like it painted
Trim or Molding Installation
Nancy G.
Dec 22, 2025
•
Hired on Thumbtack
Forrest did a fantastic job in our place. His quality of work is exceptional. Working with him was easy, he was very responsive and kept us informed of his progress. He is trustworthy, he worked in our place while we were out of town. We had a vision for our divider wall and he gave us exactly what we had in mind. Forrest is exactly the carpenter we were looking for.
Details: Cabinets, shelves, or bookcases • New custom building or construction • Residential
Kelly Contracting's reply
Hi Nancy thank you for the review. I had a blast working on this project for you and your husband Bob. Custom carpentry projects are my favorite and getting to work with walnut hardwood is a real
treat. You were great clients to work for in your communication and trust. Be in touch for future projects.
-Forrest
General Carpentry
Peter D.
May 5, 2026
•
Hired on Thumbtack
Absolutely in love with the wainscoting. Everything came out clean, well-aligned, and really elevated the space. Showed up on time, communicated well, and kept things professional start to finish. Would definitely recommend.
Details: Wainscoting (less common) • Drywall • No, I will need the carpenter to provide the molding or trim • Yes, I need help designing the molding or trim • As recommended by carpenter • 0 - 40 ft • I do not need it painted or stained
Trim or Molding Installation
Credentials
Background Check
Forrest Kelly
FAQs
What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
Initial phone call or text to go over project details and determine wether or not an in person estimate is necessary. Often times I can send a quote over the phone. Most quotes I send are via pdf text or e mail along with my insurance.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
Multiple years apprenticing with journeymen and master carpenters on construction team. Multiple years working on a professional painting crew.
How did you get started doing this type of work?
I grew up learning from my father doing all of the remodels and upgrades on my childhood home in Evanston IL. I then moved on to work along side master carpenters and painters in many project contexts as an assistant. I eventually branched off and created my own business.
