The
Process
The
life of every Windsor chair begins in the form of a tree log.
Straight-grained logs are cut into appropriate lengths and split into quarters called billets. From these billets I split thin pieces that will be used for spindles, bows, arms, and crests once they are steamed and bent.
Straight-grained logs are cut into appropriate lengths and split into quarters called billets. From these billets I split thin pieces that will be used for spindles, bows, arms, and crests once they are steamed and bent.
Splitting wood, known as riving, is a particular way of resizing lumber without cutting the wood's natural grains. This helps maintain the structural integrity of the wood so that it may be steamed and bent, and improves the overall life of the finished chair.
To shape a spindle I first use a drawknife and then a spokeshave
(pictured at right). Billets for the turnings (legs,stretchers,
arm stumps) are made of Maple. I turn each billet on a lathe (left)
to shape out the turning according to a master pattern. Turning each piece
by hand ensures the subtle variations in the finished chair that delight
the eye.
The deeply saddled seat of a Windsor chair is carved from a piece of pine two inches thick. I first use a gutter adz (above), then a scorp (below), a compass plane and finally a travisher. Further shaping and the forming of the "pommel" are done with a drawknife (below), compass plane and travisher, creating one of the most comfortable seats in the history of chair making.
When
all the pieces are in shape and dry, it's time to "leg it up."
This is done by drilling a tapered hole all the way through the seat and gluing and wedging each leg into place.
Once set, it is nearly impossible to get a leg out of a Windsor chair. In fact, sitting in the chair actually tightens it up. Weight applied by use only makes the chair stronger.
What you get as a result of this process is a chair that will bend and flex as you lean back in it. Strong yet supple, it is a perfect blend of beauty, strength, and comfort.
©2004 Larry Williams
