I've been a woodworker for most of my life. This site features the things I build in my free time, especially Scandinavian woodcarvings, 17th Century style carved boxes, and authentic handmade wooden chairs in the Shaker and Windsor tradition. My wife, Barb, is also a woodworker and she makes beautiful pens on her lathe. Our website got part of its name, Black SwampWindsors, from the area where we spent our early years. Thanks for visiting.
Carving a Chair Crest
My chairs are solidly built, one at a time in my shop, with attention to details. I build them like they were made over 200 years ago. I learned how to do this from the best chairmakers.
Philadelphia High Back Windsor Chair
I often include various styles of woodcarving into my furniture. This website provides examples so you can contact me, via email, if you see something you like.
spokeshaves
I regularly use many hand tools when I build chairs and other furniture. Using hand tools is an important part of the tradition of craftsmanship evident in period furniture pieces. I utilize traditional construction methods, as much as possible, so that my furniture can be an authentic reproductions right down to the tool marks and finish.
I love to teach about woodworking and woodcarving and I often wear period costumes, as an artisan, at historic sites. Over the years those sites have included Eastern North Dakota, Northwestern Ohio, Northeastern Indiana, and in Upstate New York. My wife, Barb, often accompanies me at those events. Maybe we'll see you at one of them.
