Country Furniture by Aldren A. Watson

Country Furniture by Aldren A. Watson

A practical guide to fashioning traditional country furniture by hand, using the techniques of old-time craftsmen.

With his informative commentary and over one hundred meticulous illustrations, Aldren A. Watson offers an introduction to the tradition of country woodworking in Country Furniture. Sample workshop designs, practical advice on tools and equipment, and an overview of reliable woodworking methods all lend to our understanding of a fascinating, time-tested craft. From the sawmill to the workbench, Watson carefully illustrates the step-by-step process of furniture design, carefully delineating the fine details and instructing us on how best to accommodate our desired designs. In addition to his detailed practical information, Watson offers insight into the captivating history of country furniture and provides us with interesting anecdotes about the furniture makers themselves.

Part how-to, part history, part reference (an excellent visual glossary is included), Country Furniture offers a unique explanation of sought-after, time-tested woodworking techniques―from perfecting a dovetail joint to carving, finishing, and assembling a Windsor chair. 309 black-and-white illustrations

Aldren A. Watson (1917-2013) was an illustrator and designer as well as woodworker. He had written and illustrated many magazine articles and books, including The Blacksmith and Country Furniture, published by Norton. He lived and painted in Vermont and New Hampshire until his death in 2013.