My college woodworking instructor, John Wesley Williams, used to tell me to make my furniture idiot proof because I am building a reputation as well as a piece of furniture. As a furniture builder I don’t know how my customer will use my product. A good example is a hutch with a door hung at chest height. I don’t know if the future owner will open these doors with a downward force causing a racking strain on the door. So a good fitting, full-sized tenon joint is necessary and not just a stub tenon. A person leaning back in a chair while the chair rests on the back two legs is another good example. Although the chair is designed to sit on all four legs you don’t know how the new owner will utilize the chair your spent hours building. So think of how to idiot proof your creations and build a positive reputation – one that will last as long as your furniture! Thanks, John, for the lesson learned. Now, if only I can get my students to understand!
Enjoy your shop time!
Jerill
Jerill, good post. Common sense is always a good attribute to have as well as thinking ahead, not only in woodworking but in anything you do or are building. It also comes into practice with safety. safety in the shop, home, and at work. Oh yeah, work and the woodshop can be one in the same! Just for all you viewers out there, Jerill builds some of the finest furniture you will find, so tell him what you want and he will build it it.
Jerill…build furniture, and they will come!…Best, Frank
Thanks, Frank. I hope to get up to Woodcraft soon and buy some more tools! Jerill
Contact me when you know you are coming and we can hook up sir!