Introduction
From the selection of logs to the rubbing down of the finish, I handcraft each chair that leaves my shop.
I work the wood while it is still green and soft, enabling me to work almost completely with hand tools. Parts are hand split (not sawn) from the log, carefully shaved and steam bent before being fit and assembled.
The final product reflects 250 years of craftsmen exploring and building on the Windsor technology and aesthetics.
As did my predecessors, I use a variety of woods in each chair. Wood is chosen for its unique characteristics; maple for crisp turnings, oak for strong bends and light flexible spindles and white pine for carvable, comfortable seats.
All of the joints are hand fit with bone dry tenons that swell in their mortises forming a perfect joint that will survive seasonal movement for generations. A lustrous milk paint finish unifies the design.
"Light, strong and comfortable, each chair will grow more beautiful with the deep patina that comes from a lifetime of enjoyment."
Read about Gerry in the Daily Press Article, Completely By Hand, May 11, 2007 (5 MB)
Watch Gerry make Windsor Chairs in the Daily Press Video (50 MB)
