The following short story was passed to me by a guy at the John C. Campbell Folk School, and it is well worth reading, especially if you are a vernacular chair nerd. Published in the Christian Science Monitor in 1986 (the year I graduated high school), the short story “I’d Like to Make You a…
Read moreWhen you encounter a person who is an incredibly talented woodworker, designer and teacher, it’s natural to wonder, “Why hasn’t this person written a book and become a famous author?” I’ve met a lot of these people. I’ve attempted to get some of them to write a book. I’ve succeeded a few times and failed…
Read moreJohn Wilson, who unlocked the mysteries of Shaker oval boxes for millions of woodworkers around the world, died on Friday, Jan. 27. He was 83. Wilson of Charlotte, Michigan, began his career as an anthropology professor, but then became a home builder and professional woodworker whose main line of business was building Shaker oval boxes…
Read moreAfter much thought and analysis, John and I have decided to open a fulfillment center here in Covington, Ky., to ship our books, apparel and tools to customers and retailers. We are looking for someone to run that operation and bring care, attention and integrity to this important aspect of our business. If you are…
Read moreThis year I am returning to hand-cut mortise-and-tenon joinery for my new book “The American Peasant” (I have a whole substack going about the book). All the parts for the projects in this book are processed, joined and finished by hand (using split stock when possible). Why? Because now I can. When I left Popular…
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