Design During this process one or more sketches will be drawn and shared with the client for feedback. It is always a joy to have the client involved in the process because they too can experience the slow emergence of a well-designed piece that will be just right to meet their needs. When the design is complete the final piece will be appreciated in three stages: First, the initial impressions from a distance (“looks interesting, nice overall shape...”), then impressions from a closer look (“nice color, texture, surfaces...”), and finally, impressions based on close-up appreciation (“look at this! - the fine detail, carving, inlay, or joinery”). I am indebted to Jere Osgood for pointing out this important progression of interest that must take place if a piece of furniture is to have lasting value.
Workmanship Good workmanship results when the process of construction is just as important as the end result. The process of construction begins with careful selection of quality materials and items such as wood, knobs, hinges, locks, escutcheons, etc. as required. When these materials are utilized by a good craftsman with the right tools in a well laid out shop and constructed with time-proven joinery the final piece will surely pass the test of time. Only when I am satisfied that the piece is indeed “good” do I sign and date it.
Reflection Finally, I believe it is important to have enough ‘margin’ in the work and in life that there is time to reflect on what one is doing, how well it is being done, and what is required to do it even better. In times of reflection I readily acknowledge that I work best when I have the mindset of an apprentice rather than that of a master. As an apprentice, I am open to and more possibilities and willing to learn from other woodworkers, thus improving and extending my own abilities. In his book Living The Sabbath Norman Wirzba notes that “The apprentice becomes a master not by bending the world to his or her own will, but by submitting to, learning to work within, and developing an affection for the rich possibilities latent within the craft. Of course, one’s apprenticeship never comes to and end because there is always more to reality than was first thought.” My work is already of very high quality, but there is much I can learn from many fine woodworkers whose abilities exceed my own. Learning is is part of the joy of woodworking.
