The Art of Chair-Making
What could be more basic than a simple place to sit down and take a load off one's feet? Yet few of us think of making our own chairs, leaving it to the vision and skills of others. Pierce's book might just change that for the beginning or accomplished woodworker. His charming and artistic chairs, stools, and benches, many with a distinctly Shaker quality of simplicity and elegance, are described and pictured in great detail, as are the individual plans and steps involved in making each of them. Each chair plan includes a materials list, instructions on tools needed, and a thorough guide to the process of making each of dozens of chairs and other kinds of seats from scratch. The simplicity of some of the designs are perfect for the neophyte woodworker, and the more complex and elaborate designs will be a challenge for the more skilled and experienced woodworker. "Pull up a chair and have a seat" is a warm, traditional greeting known to all cultures in some form. But Pierce is saying, "Pull up a chair out of your imagination and make it real." Using his book as a guide, you can.--Mark A. Hetts