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Much of the poor construction in the furniture world
today is due either to a lack of understanding of the
nature of wood, or a lack of will to work it correctly.
Wood is a material that has some restrictions on how
it should be used. It is generally thought that things
were made much better hundreds of years ago, but the
truth is that there was just as much poorly made furniture
back then, we just don’t have examples of them
because they did not last! Hence, the importance of
studying, understanding, and applying the methods of
construction that have worked over the years, and withstood
the relentless test of time. There also have been many
new innovations in machines, and materials such as glues
and finishes that can improve on old world techniques.
Having the wisdom to know when and how to use what is
the difference between making an heirloom or a "tag
sale" special.
Designing around the properties of wood is largely
twofold; one allows for its free expansion and construction,
and the other uses joinery that allows for the strength
of glue surfaces. This is the main purpose of mortise
and tenons, dovetails, box joints, frame and panel,
tongue and grooves, etc. These are examples of the kinds
of construction details that I use. As a three-legged
stool with one bad leg is worthless, so the best design
and materials, with poor construction, works to make
a worthless piece of furniture that will not last over
time. |
