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If I Were A Carpenter
The story behind the song
This folk song, written by Tim Hardin, explores a man's romantic insecurity as he wonders if his love would still be returned if he were a simple carpenter. He imagines asking his beloved if she would follow him, carrying the pots he made, or if she would still love him if he worked his hands in wood. It's a tender reflection on whether love transcends social status and worldly possessions. Hardin's recording appeared on his 1967 album Tim Hardin 2, and he performed it at Woodstock in 1969. At its heart, it's a song about seeking reassurance that genuine affection can withstand any circumstance.
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If I Were A Carpenter
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If I Were A Carpenter
by Tim Hardin
Chords in this song · guitar
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Lyrics and compositions © their respective songwriters and publishers. Free for personal practice.
About If I Were A Carpenter Chords by Tim Hardin
Learn how to play If I Were A Carpenter by Tim Hardin with free guitar chords, lyrics, and interactive chord diagrams. Search for “If I Were A Carpenter chords”, “If I Were A Carpenter guitar chords”, or “Tim Hardin If I Were A Carpenter chords” and you will find this page — transpose to any key, tap chords for diagrams, and use auto-scroll while you play. Perfect for beginners looking for easy If I Were A Carpenter chords and for experienced players who want accurate If I Were A Carpenter lyrics and chords in one place. Common chords in this song include A, D, C, G, E.
FAQ — If I Were A Carpenter by Tim Hardin
How do I play "If I Were A Carpenter" by Tim Hardin on guitar?
Open the free chords for "If I Were A Carpenter" by Tim Hardin on Free Chord Book. Tap any chord to see its diagram, use transpose to change the key, and turn on auto-scroll to play hands-free.
Are the chords for "If I Were A Carpenter" by Tim Hardin free?
Yes. The chords for "If I Were A Carpenter" by Tim Hardin are 100% free on Free Chord Book — no sign-up required.
Can I transpose "If I Were A Carpenter" to a different key?
Yes. Use the transpose buttons on the song page to shift "If I Were A Carpenter" up or down by half-steps so it matches your vocal range or capo position.
Can I see chord diagrams for "If I Were A Carpenter"?
Yes. Tap any chord in "If I Were A Carpenter" to instantly see an interactive guitar chord diagram with alternate fingerings.
Is "If I Were A Carpenter" easy to play on guitar?
Many players learn "If I Were A Carpenter" by Tim Hardin with our free chords. Use transpose and chord diagrams to simplify tricky shapes, and browse related songs by Tim Hardin below.
What key is "If I Were A Carpenter" in?
The chords for "If I Were A Carpenter" show the original chord names (including A, D, C, G, E). Use transpose to move the song into any key that fits your voice or capo.