This is my first blog, so I thought I would start by describing the creative process I have been going through recently to design and build my own signature styles of furniture. 

I begin by taking an interesting piece of wood that is lying around my shop (sometimes it’s been there for years.) When the time is right, I just ask it what it wants to be.

Then I listen.

Before long I am playing with  ideas, making sketches, and putting different kinds of wood together to see what the effects will be.

One of the aspects I pay most attention to is the grain and pattern of the wood. I love creating a design that truly shows off the intrinsic beauty of the wood–especially if it comes from an old tree and has lots of character.

After the ideas take form in my head (and sometimes on paper), I start measuring, cutting and building. Seeing something take form under my hands is an extremely satisfying process–especially if the piece turns out well!

Once I have the piece together, I sand it finely so that the surface is completely smooth. Then I put on a simple coating–often tung oil–to further bring out the beauty of the wood. (Depending on how the piece will be used, I may add various kinds of protective coatings, too.)

The hall table below is an example of this process. It’s made from maple that is at least 100 years old.