I guarantee that anyone else faced with this piece would have refinished it. Your ability to keep the history and character preserved even though it had extensive damage is amazing to me. Thank you so much for sharing your incredible skills with us Tom.
Your closing comments about the historical integrity of furniture was great to hear. Thank you for your dedication to preserving the everyday furniture of people who valued and used them many years ago.
It seems like on TH-cam the trend is to make videos of people finding old furniture, sand it within an inch of it's life, then paint it or not sand and just slap chalk paint on it. I have always loved the look of natural wood on a piece. It is lovely to see this piece of history returning to health. Great work! I'll bet the customer was happy. btw, those chickens are so adorable!
I have to admit that when I first saw this one, I was sure you'd have to do a lot more sanding than you actually did. I just wasn't seeing how this one could really come out looking nice without doing all that. Once again though, Tom, you've shown me that you can preserve the antiquity of furniture without refinishing it all. I'm amazed at how nice this looked in the end. You've managed to keep the look of it's age while making it a piece that is still functional and presentable. That's invaluable.
The finish you achieved on this antique chest of drawers still holds reminders of much of what has happened to it in it's long life. You have preserved both it’s beauty and memory. Such excellent work!
I'd give anything to see the customers face when they see what a beautiful piece this is compared to what it was. Your skill and knowledge just blows us away. Nice job.
The Bob Ross of furniture repair and restoration! I have been watching for years now. And have learned so much. Can’t appreciate this channel enough. Thank you for sharing your wisdom and talent
Another great care restoration, preserving the family's history with this piece. I'm near 80, so I can appreciate the history each person/family can have towards their furniture. I have had a lot with some of mine. and I miss the ones that got lost over time and years . I can still remember a closet chest of drawers we had when i was a child, its long gone but it still evokes fond memories. Funny how we can relate to pieces of wood from our past. and you sir. exemplify how to keep that memory intact thru your skill thanks for sharing it all with us. ECF.
You never cease to inspire me. Not only because your work is so beautiful, but because of your patient attitude of "well, let's try this and see how she goes." It really helps to know that a real expert and artist like you, are just "trying stuff out" (or course with a wealth of experience) and that if it doesn't quite work out, you just keep at it. I try to apply your calm,patient approach to everything I do now.
I mentioned to my son today that I have watched so many restoration videos, that he and I can tackle an old dresser that has been in the family for a long time, and bring it back to its former beauty. That’s ideal that we move off the armchair and into the action! Thanks for all your instruction. Blessings! from Canada 🇨🇦
I think any of us can read books and watch videos to gradually gain the skills needed for such a sensitive restoration, but you have many years of experience and there is no quick way to acquire the benefits that brings to your work. In my opinion you work is craftsmanship of the highest standard.
Keeping a piece of history preserved is a great feeling. I love to see you bring things back to life. Kentucky is always watching. I learn from each of your videos.
I am so happy, to see another antique piece of furniture with its aged and beautiful patina, saved from chalk paint - without exaggeration almost every sense in my body feels it.
So well done Tom. Your determination to preserve the character of the piece rather than trying to make it look like new, resulted in a beautiful finish. I am sure the owner will be delighted with it for many years to come. Thanks for sharing.
Thanks Tom for another great video. It’s wonderful how you demonstrated the method in preserving the patina on the piece. I’ve been doing my own restoration projects like this for years. I don’t know if it’s the case over in your neck of the woods that people want antiques to look like new rather than antique. Here in Australia, it seems to be the norm. When restoring a piece for someone else, I usually deter my client from any heavy restoration unless it’s absolutely necessary. Not only that but keeping the patina on the piece generally makes it more valuable.
Thanks Alex! I agree. Most people come to me and say "I want this refinished" and I say "no you don't!" Nicely of course and then explain to them that "Grandma's Dresser" still has to look like "Grandma's Dresser" when I'm done.
Hahaha, yes. I have the same conversations with my clients too! Thank you for showing the world how it should be done. If I had the technological know-how, I would too.
I think there should be another category for work like this. Fine art is conserved. I think this beautiful work that maintains the integrity of the piece is also conservation. Sometimes "restoring" is thought to mean to "making something look new." I do not want my antiques to look new. I love that they tell a story! But I want them to be maintained and cared for. Thank you for showing us how that can be achieved.
I agree - the term restoration is used so loosely that it’s meaning is imprecise. I’d love a new term that celebrates the history while repairing the “ugly”.
I'm always impressed by the care you take with every detail; it really speaks of not only your great experience but also understanding of your materials.
Such a considerate gentle preservation/restoration. Just master craftsmanship of the highest calibre. Thanks again Tom for sharing your considerable knowledge and talent. When it comes to antique furniture I can see why your clients trust you with their precious heirlooms. Hope you and your family are keeping well. All the best as usual from across the pond. Kate x
I'm originally from Duxbury, MA. I'm now 76. As a boy I worked summers abroad the Mayflower II as a guide. Your incredible work transports me back to my roots and the love and respect I still embrace for all things old and historic. Thank you Tom!
It looks pretty good… 😂 I love that you give as much TLC to a simple family heirloom as you would a very expensive piece. What a gentleman restorer you are, Tom…
It's such a pleasure to watch you bring a piece of furniture back to life. Your love for your craft is apparent. I could only wish to live close enough to your shop to be able to bring in a piece to be treated with such care.
This, this is one of the many things I love about your work. The respect and understanding of just how and why your clients want you to do what you do. Such a loving touch to produce a beautiful job of preserving the history for the family. 👍
As a novice wood worker in my retirement I enjoy watching and gleaning from your years of skills and love of what you do. Thank you for sharing what you do. ☑️
I used Krud Kutter to clean up the cabinets in my kitchen. They are Yellow Pine and they have gone very orange over the years. As a disabled person, tasks like that are time consuming and difficult so I find the best products that do most of the work for me. Tom introduced me to the Krud Kutter cleaners and I have been grateful ever since. My friends are older and they too now use it. I told Tom he should go fo a sponsorship with them! I even wrote the company on his behalf. Thanks again Tom!
Beautiful, Tom. Simply beautiful! Watching and learning from you I have developed a great appreciation for restoring rather than strip down and refinish.
I scratched my head on those escutcheon troughs: those handles were loose for so long that the escutcheons traveled in an orbit for years (decades). Going with putty repair was an eye opener for me: your precision is amazing in terms of color, fill, and later finish. I learn something every time I watch one of your videos.
That is a nice piece coming out of the 1st Industrial Revolution period. So hard with a modern standardized designs that they made drawers to fit the order of clothing size in the past. It is a tribute to the maker who would never think what he made is still in use almost 200 years later.
Your sensitivety to this Empire chest is a testament to your character.. You do the repairs but keep the existing character of the piece. I see the problem we have in America today is that they no longer teach "Shop." in our public achools and America is a country that in our day was founded by mostly European immegrants who pocessed skills like yours often learned by their father who learned and apprenticed with his father. You do not see that much in America today The immegrants coming in no longer have these types of skills They are often some type of professional. I am now 86 and have lived my life steeped in the Arts and the brilliant craftsmen I grew up with are few and far between today... But i lived in and out of Montreal for over 30 years where large neighborhoods are filled with various European craftsmen. No shortage of them there I watch a man from Estonia on You Tube who has your skills and I am so happy craftsmen such as yourself still exist in America. Not just furniture repair and restoration, but Painters, Brick Layers, Finish Caroenters etc etc Love your channel and look forward to your next project...Bravo on this jewel....
Thank you Nancy! I'm so glad you appreciate what I'm trying to do. I suspect the trades people and crafts persons are still out there. They were saying the same thing back in the 70's when I started in business! Probably when my Dad started in business in the 30's! But we did come from a line of woodworkers, although no formal training...
Another beautiful, sensitive restoration. Many restorers would have sanded away 200 years of character, it was good to see that you carried out minimal sanding preserving the character and leaving the age of the piece. By inserting a simple pin on the rear plate on the handle you did what should have been done by the original maker, a simple fix that will stop future wear. Always a pleasure watching you work.
Superb! You saw and preserved the beauty of this piece. So easy for a restorer to do a run-of-the-mill revamp which, in this case, would have been a great injustice. Thanks for sharing your wealth of knowledge.
Thank you for explaining your rationale for not sanding the piece. It was very touching to me, and I will look at antiques differently now. It looks lovely.
You do such stellar-caliber craftsmanship on heirloom pieces;the families must be thrilled to have their beloved furnishings made ready to be used, cherished and admired for the next 200 years.
Very well done job restoring the chest of drawers. Your videos are always insightful and filled with great demonstrations of techniques and practices. Thank you.
Hi Tom. I am glad to have found your channel. In 1973 I moved to West Buxton. Marriage didn't survive, but I continued repairing, and refinishing til 2 years ago. Thanks for the paper bag tip. A winner.
@@johnsonrestoration Oh, I'm long gone from Maine. Pa, Oregon, NM. Have you any interest in old hardware? I have some stuff I've carried around the past 50 years? Locksets,old screws, etc. I'm moving to a small place within the next year. Don't want to send to Goodwill. Please ignore me if this is intrusive.
Good job Tom! I love that you are using the metric system in your videos these days. You do have an international audience. People from around the world are learning from you. Happy Springtime!
Stunning finish Tom - you are perfectly correct about not sanding the top right back - all that history would be lost. It looks fabulous again and should last another 200 years, thanks to your care and attention. Thanks for sharing your skills with us. Take care 🙂
I have an explanation for the knob scouring, i have seen it on some of our older furniture, when the knob gets loose, people tend to rotate the knob and hold the nut in the back, so cutting into the wood at the front, in fact we have a very similar piece with the same damage and similar knobs in one of our bathrooms, great save though without affecting the overall look of the piece. I was taught the same trick with paper/card sheets from my late father.
Another favorite! Your careful approach and getting it right instead of ‘perfect’ is very instructive. Love the paper bag which almost burnishes the finish. My favorite tool which I have never seen before is the spring loaded nail punch!
15:10 - the belief in the miraculous powers of screws is amazing. How on Earth did the 'repairer' think they were going to hold the block and the foot with the whole weight of the chest with a few mm of purchase into the block? FWIW, I've always heard the taller drawer at the top being called a bonnet drawer, and the whole chest with that type of construction sometimes called a ''bonnet chest". Whether they ever did hold bonnets or hats... no idea!
Removing the signs of use, it's history, it's long life, would remove its character. It is diminished. And, if I were ignored or brushed aside, discounted as knowing nothing, I would feel sad. So, there it stands showing its long life beautifully. A victory for everything and everyone elderly. Thank you, Mr Johnson. As always your finished work is beautiful.
@@johnsonrestoration I bought the plans for 3 turn of the 20th century tables first, then my 'design' skills made the rest. With the help of a couple woodworking magazines.
My father would go to auctions when I was little and pick up pieces of antique furniture. I'm sure I took it for granted, but when I watch videos like this. I'm reminded of the antique pieces with which I was surrounded growing up. I'm glad you really care about this furniture and it's history. Besides, who wants to do all that sanding?!
Another great video rescuing an antique from the dumpster. The top on this piece looked hopeless before the transformation. More inspiration and guidance to us. Thanks for what you do.
wow ! So happy to see you back. Perhaps it’s been me that hasn’t been here. I admire the love and respect you and your team demonstrate on the furniture you restore. Again thank you one and all. shalom
The quiet relaxed opener is Tom's trademark and much appreciated. No flashing lights, explosions, rock music or demands to like and subscribe. Thank you!
I love the way you repaired the leg properly after so many people in this furniture's past tried the quick and dirty fix. Your channel helps me appreciate even more all my Empire pieces.
Its great to watch someone that knows what they are doing do just enough, rather than hooking up an electric sander to make every piece of wood look like it was just milled. The defects are what makes old furniture so great, as well as people.
I think this is one of my favorite things you have done. I loved how you fixed the handle circles. And i agree with you it needed to stay as close to original as possible. Can't wait to see what you have next. And i love the intro with all the wild life. You have such a beautiful place to live and work.
what a perfect procedure of restoration for this piece. i love when the age shows. its so wonderful your customer requested this gentle touch. i am always happy when a customer asks me for this type of restoration. cheers!
This is my first time watching one of your videos. I was enthralled! The care taken, the time, tour willingness to not go rushing in and sanding till its a shadow of what it was- I was blown away! I honestly never considered the "spot repair" approach, and I love it.Thank you for sharing your skill.
Nice work. I have to agree that too many pieces like this one get destroyed by palm sanders and a bucket of paint. Thankfully there are still true craftsmen like yourself out there to save the day.
You've breathed new life into this lovely, honest piece. Looks very elegant. That foot block looked like as though it had been attached by VERY large borers.
Whenever I find a new video on a Friday I have to restrain myself from watching it immediatley. Instead, I save it for Sunday, so I can fully enjoy the comfort it brings.
I would love to hear the stories that chest could tell! Being very sentimental I am glad the family wanted to preserve that bit of history. It looks beautiful.
I love the attention to detail you have...and the wealth of knowledge. Anyone who does this work as a hobby would be grateful to take classes from you!
I spent a couple of decades doing carpentry work and am not retired. I have had such a good time watching your videos, learning and then slowly applying what I’ve learned towards restoring and repairing a few of our antiques. Thanks so much for all you have offered here.
I guarantee that anyone else faced with this piece would have refinished it. Your ability to keep the history and character preserved even though it had extensive damage is amazing to me. Thank you so much for sharing your incredible skills with us Tom.
Thank you! I was lucky that it worked out so well
Yep, it looked like someone had used it to cut fire wood on.
As always excellent job
You’re the king of restoration!❤
You removed the bad stuff, but left all the character that a 200 year old piece should have. Beautiful work.👍
Thanks 👍 Yes, I felt it was successful!
I agree that the history of this piece of furniture needed to be preserved. What a beautiful job Tom did on it!
Best rub it with a slightly damp single layer cloth and a rubber sanding block. Easy peezy.
Mr. Johnson, your skill is amazing and your love for these old pieces is obvious. And you always seem so calm and unhurried.
Thanks! Yes, no reason to rush! I always say the fastest way to get something done is to take your time
Your closing comments about the historical integrity of furniture was great to hear. Thank you for your dedication to preserving the everyday furniture of people who valued and used them many years ago.
It seems like on TH-cam the trend is to make videos of people finding old furniture, sand it within an inch of it's life, then paint it or not sand and just slap chalk paint on it. I have always loved the look of natural wood on a piece. It is lovely to see this piece of history returning to health. Great work! I'll bet the customer was happy. btw, those chickens are so adorable!
Thanks Marilyn! I could not agree more!
Ahhh, but now I’m seeing them buy the painted ones, stripping them back to wood and restoring them. lol
I have to admit that when I first saw this one, I was sure you'd have to do a lot more sanding than you actually did. I just wasn't seeing how this one could really come out looking nice without doing all that. Once again though, Tom, you've shown me that you can preserve the antiquity of furniture without refinishing it all. I'm amazed at how nice this looked in the end. You've managed to keep the look of it's age while making it a piece that is still functional and presentable. That's invaluable.
Thank you Wallace! I figured why not try - I could always sand it down if it didn’t work. I lucked out
The finish you achieved on this antique chest of drawers still holds reminders of much of what has happened to it in it's long life. You have preserved both it’s beauty and memory. Such excellent work!
I love the fact that you kept the piece's history intact. As others have said, anyone else would have refinished it.
Thanks! I'm glad people agree
I'd give anything to see the customers face when they see what a beautiful piece this is compared to what it was. Your skill and knowledge just blows us away. Nice job.
For real! I often think that I would so love to see how the customer responds to these miracles that Tom performs.
Thanks! A lot of people have suggested that. Just too difficult to pull off
Thanks! I appreciate it!
This man is a national treasure.
Thank you! That is very nice!
My goodness, Tom. It is such a joy to watch the meticulousness of your work.
Thank you!
The Bob Ross of furniture repair and restoration! I have been watching for years now. And have learned so much. Can’t appreciate this channel enough. Thank you for sharing your wisdom and talent
I can't think of two more opposite personalities than Bob Ross and Tom Johnson
You're welcome! I appreciate it!
Interesting! But of course, no one is saying I personally am like Bob Ross, but that our videos have the same effect. Thanks!
The difference in hairdos alone is enough to get me laughing....just teasing Tom. 😁👍
Amazing result, with respect for the originality of this piece. That family must be very happy getting it back with all of its history conserved.
Thanks! They are!
Preserving the evidence of hand planing the top and drawer fronts was a very nice touch.
Thank you! I love that shot of the top with the plane marks
Another great care restoration, preserving the family's history with this piece. I'm near 80, so I can appreciate the history each person/family can have towards their furniture. I have had a lot with some of mine. and I miss the ones that got lost over time and years . I can still remember a closet chest of drawers we had when i was a child, its long gone but it still evokes fond memories. Funny how we can relate to pieces of wood from our past. and you sir. exemplify how to keep that memory intact thru your skill thanks for sharing it all with us. ECF.
Thanks Ellis! I too use the same chest of drawers I've had for 60 years! One of these days I will restore it
You never cease to inspire me. Not only because your work is so beautiful, but because of your patient attitude of "well, let's try this and see how she goes." It really helps to know that a real expert and artist like you, are just "trying stuff out" (or course with a wealth of experience) and that if it doesn't quite work out, you just keep at it. I try to apply your calm,patient approach to everything I do now.
Thanks! I like to say the fastest way to get something done is to take your time
Thank you! And welcome to the channel
Yes, the 'feel of the years' is so important, and satisfying. The owners will be delighted.
Thanks, Tom!
Couldn't agree more! Thanks!
I mentioned to my son today that I have watched so many restoration videos, that he and I can tackle an old dresser that has been in the family for a long time, and bring it back to its former beauty. That’s ideal that we move off the armchair and into the action! Thanks for all your instruction. Blessings! from Canada 🇨🇦
That is great! Good luck with it!
Well done, Tom. You succeeded and it was wonderful to see its history.
Thank you Liz!
@@johnsonrestoration You are quite welcome!
Just looks superb! The perfect blend of ‘no ugly’ and timeworn patina. Who wouldn’t want to use that chest!
Thanks! That's nice
What a treasure! And I’m not just talking about the chest of drawers. Tom Johnson’s repair skills are also a treasure!
Thank you! That's so nice!
I think any of us can read books and watch videos to gradually gain the skills needed for such a sensitive restoration, but you have many years of experience and there is no quick way to acquire the benefits that brings to your work. In my opinion you work is craftsmanship of the highest standard.
Thanks David! You are very kind and so correct. I often have to tell people, quit watching and get into the workshop!
And that's how it's done! The finish is beautiful and all the character is still there. Great job, Mr. Johnson!
Thank you!
Gorgeous piece. I appreciate how you preserved its character while refreshing it for use over the next hundred years.
Thank you!
Keeping a piece of history preserved is a great feeling. I love to see you bring things back to life. Kentucky is always watching. I learn from each of your videos.
Thank you! I appreciate it!
I am so happy, to see another antique piece of furniture with its aged and beautiful patina, saved from chalk paint - without exaggeration almost every sense in my body feels it.
That's great! Thank you
So well done Tom. Your determination to preserve the character of the piece rather than trying to make it look like new, resulted in a beautiful finish. I am sure the owner will be delighted with it for many years to come. Thanks for sharing.
You're welcome!
At first, I was glued to your restoration…but in the long run, I took a shine to it.😉 Great job!😀
That got me laughing! Thanks!
Thanks Tom for another great video. It’s wonderful how you demonstrated the method in preserving the patina on the piece. I’ve been doing my own restoration projects like this for years. I don’t know if it’s the case over in your neck of the woods that people want antiques to look like new rather than antique. Here in Australia, it seems to be the norm. When restoring a piece for someone else, I usually deter my client from any heavy restoration unless it’s absolutely necessary. Not only that but keeping the patina on the piece generally makes it more valuable.
Thanks Alex! I agree. Most people come to me and say "I want this refinished" and I say "no you don't!" Nicely of course and then explain to them that "Grandma's Dresser" still has to look like "Grandma's Dresser" when I'm done.
Hahaha, yes. I have the same conversations with my clients too! Thank you for showing the world how it should be done. If I had the technological know-how, I would too.
This channel is one of the best things on the internet.
Thank you! That's nice
I think there should be another category for work like this. Fine art is conserved. I think this beautiful work that maintains the integrity of the piece is also conservation. Sometimes "restoring" is thought to mean to "making something look new." I do not want my antiques to look new. I love that they tell a story! But I want them to be maintained and cared for. Thank you for showing us how that can be achieved.
I agree - the term restoration is used so loosely that it’s meaning is imprecise. I’d love a new term that celebrates the history while repairing the “ugly”.
Thanks Laura! I like that! I also like "sympathetic restoration"
I'm always impressed by the care you take with every detail; it really speaks of not only your great experience but also understanding of your materials.
Thank you! That's nice
Such a considerate gentle preservation/restoration. Just master craftsmanship of the highest calibre. Thanks again Tom for sharing your considerable knowledge and talent. When it comes to antique furniture I can see why your clients trust you with their precious heirlooms. Hope you and your family are keeping well. All the best as usual from across the pond. Kate x
Thank you!
I'm originally from Duxbury, MA. I'm now 76. As a boy I worked summers abroad the Mayflower II as a guide. Your incredible work transports me back to my roots and the love and respect I still embrace for all things old and historic. Thank you Tom!
You're welcome Rick! I could never get over how small that ship is!
It looks pretty good… 😂
I love that you give as much TLC to a simple family heirloom as you would a very expensive piece. What a gentleman restorer you are, Tom…
Thank you! That's nice. Yes, I try to treat every piece the same
It's such a pleasure to watch you bring a piece of furniture back to life. Your love for your craft is apparent. I could only wish to live close enough to your shop to be able to bring in a piece to be treated with such care.
Thanks!
This, this is one of the many things I love about your work. The respect and understanding of just how and why your clients want you to do what you do. Such a loving touch to produce a beautiful job of preserving the history for the family. 👍
Wow, thank you! I appreciate it!
As a novice wood worker in my retirement I enjoy watching and gleaning from your years of skills and love of what you do. Thank you for sharing what you do. ☑️
You're welcome! Enjoy your retirement!
Love your videos, great inspiration to us all with your commitment to the historical aspect of the pieces you work on.
Thank you very much!
I used Krud Kutter to clean up the cabinets in my kitchen. They are Yellow Pine and they have gone very orange over the years. As a disabled person, tasks like that are time consuming and difficult so I find the best products that do most of the work for me. Tom introduced me to the Krud Kutter cleaners and I have been grateful ever since. My friends are older and they too now use it. I told Tom he should go fo a sponsorship with them! I even wrote the company on his behalf. Thanks again Tom!
Thank you! I would definitely do a sponsorship with them
Thomas: what a wonderful restoration. The piece itself was a treasure and you made it shine even more. A great family heirloom. Carol from California
Thank you Carol!
Beautiful, Tom. Simply beautiful! Watching and learning from you I have developed a great appreciation for restoring rather than strip down and refinish.
That’s great! Thanks
I scratched my head on those escutcheon troughs: those handles were loose for so long that the escutcheons traveled in an orbit for years (decades). Going with putty repair was an eye opener for me: your precision is amazing in terms of color, fill, and later finish. I learn something every time I watch one of your videos.
Thanks! And I learn something new every time I'm making a video! It works both ways
I learn so much from your videos Tom. Thanks so much for showing how to restore and preserve these venerable objects for the next generations.
You're so welcome!
Wonderful piece. I love you attitude toward preservation of the finish and texture.
Thank you! I love the texture!
That is a nice piece coming out of the 1st Industrial Revolution period. So hard with a modern standardized designs that they made drawers to fit the order of clothing size in the past. It is a tribute to the maker who would never think what he made is still in use almost 200 years later.
Thanks! I often wonder what the makers would think if they knew! They'd probably say "isn't it about time you got a new chest of drawers?"
Very true.
A wonderful restoration, thanks for posting it.
You’re welcome!
Your sensitivety to this Empire chest is a testament to your character.. You do the repairs but keep the existing character of the piece. I see the problem we have in America today is that they no longer teach "Shop." in our public achools and America is a country that in our day was founded by mostly European immegrants who pocessed skills like yours often learned by their father who learned and apprenticed with his father. You do not see that much in America today The immegrants coming in no longer have these types of skills They are often some type of professional. I am now 86 and have lived my life steeped in the Arts and the brilliant craftsmen I grew up with are few and far between today... But i lived in and out of Montreal for over 30 years where large neighborhoods are filled with various European craftsmen. No shortage of them there I watch a man from Estonia on You Tube who has your skills and I am so happy craftsmen such as yourself still exist in America. Not just furniture repair and restoration, but Painters, Brick Layers, Finish Caroenters etc etc Love your channel and look forward to your next project...Bravo on this jewel....
Thank you Nancy! I'm so glad you appreciate what I'm trying to do. I suspect the trades people and crafts persons are still out there. They were saying the same thing back in the 70's when I started in business! Probably when my Dad started in business in the 30's! But we did come from a line of woodworkers, although no formal training...
Another beautiful, sensitive restoration. Many restorers would have sanded away 200 years of character, it was good to see that you carried out minimal sanding preserving the character and leaving the age of the piece. By inserting a simple pin on the rear plate on the handle you did what should have been done by the original maker, a simple fix that will stop future wear.
Always a pleasure watching you work.
Thank you! Yes, I think this worked out well
Superb! You saw and preserved the beauty of this piece. So easy for a restorer to do a run-of-the-mill revamp which, in this case, would have been a great injustice. Thanks for sharing your wealth of knowledge.
Thank you very much!
Thank you for explaining your rationale for not sanding the piece. It was very touching to me, and I will look at antiques differently now. It looks lovely.
You're welcome! That makes me happy!
There is so much zen in the way this master conducts himself. I am sure he has many Japanese fans.
Thanks! I wish that was true! I can actually look that up in the TH-cam analytics
Beautiful job. Thank you for preserving history, instead of wiping it out.
You're welcome! I'm glad so many people get that
Wonderful job of bringing the dresser back to life without taking the 'life' out of it, Thomas Johnson. I so love to watch your videos!
Thanks! I like that!
Wowza! What a beautiful restoration!!! You never fail to surprise! Just beautiful.
Thank you Deette!
You do such stellar-caliber craftsmanship on heirloom pieces;the families must be thrilled to have their beloved furnishings made ready to be used, cherished and admired for the next 200 years.
Thank you! Yes, they are happy
Well done! Those aren't scars, they're character marks or memories. Love the chickens again.
Yes! Well said
Very well done job restoring the chest of drawers. Your videos are always insightful and filled with great demonstrations of techniques and practices. Thank you.
You're welcome! I appreciate it!
Hi Tom. I am glad to have found your channel. In 1973 I moved to West Buxton. Marriage didn't survive, but I continued repairing, and refinishing til 2 years ago. Thanks for the paper bag tip. A winner.
Thanks! Stop by the shop sometime! I'm on Flaggy Meadow.
@@johnsonrestoration Oh, I'm long gone from Maine. Pa, Oregon, NM. Have you any interest in old hardware? I have some stuff I've carried around the past 50 years? Locksets,old screws, etc. I'm moving to a small place within the next year. Don't want to send to Goodwill. Please ignore me if this is intrusive.
Good job Tom! I love that you are using the metric system in your videos these days. You do have an international audience. People from around the world are learning from you.
Happy Springtime!
Thanks! I'm trying to learn!
What a beautiful, sensitive restoration, improving a well worn family heirloom, reviving its grace and value fit for pride of place once again.
Thank you Alistair!
Stunning finish Tom - you are perfectly correct about not sanding the top right back - all that history would be lost. It looks fabulous again and should last another 200 years, thanks to your care and attention. Thanks for sharing your skills with us. Take care 🙂
You're welcome!
I have an explanation for the knob scouring, i have seen it on some of our older furniture, when the knob gets loose, people tend to rotate the knob and hold the nut in the back, so cutting into the wood at the front, in fact we have a very similar piece with the same damage and similar knobs in one of our bathrooms, great save though without affecting the overall look of the piece. I was taught the same trick with paper/card sheets from my late father.
Thanks! Yes, but it was still difficult to see how that happened so deeply!
Another favorite! Your careful approach and getting it right instead of ‘perfect’ is very instructive. Love the paper bag which almost burnishes the finish. My favorite tool which I have never seen before is the spring loaded nail punch!
Thank you, I'm glad you liked the paper bag trick! I got that nail set at Rocklers
Comme d’habitude Tom une remarquable restauration sans en faire trop et en laissant ce meuble dans son jus. Bravo.
He did it his way...
(Sorry - bad joke triggered by the 'comme d'habitude')
Merci! J'aime ça!
I get it!
@@johnsonrestoration Then you are part of a small minority of musically erudite people, Tom.
Happy Easter to you and family!
15:10 - the belief in the miraculous powers of screws is amazing. How on Earth did the 'repairer' think they were going to hold the block and the foot with the whole weight of the chest with a few mm of purchase into the block?
FWIW, I've always heard the taller drawer at the top being called a bonnet drawer, and the whole chest with that type of construction sometimes called a ''bonnet chest". Whether they ever did hold bonnets or hats... no idea!
Thanks! At least the screws are a step up from huge nails! That’s interesting about the drawers.
@@johnsonrestoration Easier to spot and remove, I guess...
Removing the signs of use, it's history, it's long life, would remove its character. It is diminished. And, if I were ignored or brushed aside, discounted as knowing nothing, I would feel sad. So, there it stands showing its long life beautifully.
A victory for everything and everyone elderly. Thank you, Mr Johnson. As always your finished work is beautiful.
Thank you! Well said!
Thomas, you did just the right thing. Every scratch and dent can tell a story.
Thanks Peter! I try hard to do that! Especially when it's a sentimental piece...
I found furniture making very philosophical during the years I took to make my living room. (9 pieces)
Wow! I think that's more furniture than I've built!
@@johnsonrestoration I bought the plans for 3 turn of the 20th century tables first, then my 'design' skills made the rest. With the help of a couple woodworking magazines.
Perfect compromise between historical patina, appearance and functionality. Beautiful work as always.
Thank you so much 😀
My father would go to auctions when I was little and pick up pieces of antique furniture. I'm sure I took it for granted, but when I watch videos like this. I'm reminded of the antique pieces with which I was surrounded growing up. I'm glad you really care about this furniture and it's history. Besides, who wants to do all that sanding?!
Thanks Camille! I'm glad you have those memories - I hope you still have some of the furniture!
Another great video rescuing an antique from the dumpster. The top on this piece looked hopeless before the transformation. More inspiration and guidance to us. Thanks for what you do.
You're welcome!
I love that you repaired it and kept the character in this piece.
Thanks! Yes, it worked out well
wow !
So happy to see you back. Perhaps it’s been me that hasn’t been here.
I admire the love and respect you and your team demonstrate on the furniture you restore.
Again thank you one and all. shalom
Thank you Mercedes! Yes, I've been posting every 2 weeks - you must have missed some
You have once again demonstrated that less is more. I continue to be impressed by the results you achieve with minimal intervention.
Thanks! That's my goal!
Great job!
Now…200 years from now? Is that even possible. Your amazing craftsman in every aspect of your trade. Thank you Sir.
You're welcome! I appreciate it
Beautifulĺy done! Thank God you preserved 200 years with your delicate restauration. Greetings from Germany.
Thank you! I appreciate it! Hello to Germany!
Thank you so much for another fascinating restoration video. My day is always improved when see a new TJA video has been uploaded.
You're welcome!
You gave him back his childhood dresser in better condition but with the character still there! Great job!
Tha
Thanks!
Tom, I think you performed a miracle on this piece. Just beautiful!
Thank you!
The quiet relaxed opener is Tom's trademark and much appreciated. No flashing lights, explosions, rock music or demands to like and subscribe. Thank you!
You're welcome!
You really do love that old wood. It is a joy to watch you rescuing the furniture and the history.
Thank you!
Your client will love this job. It is clearly an antique with flaws and imperfections, but so beautiful now.
Thank you!
I didn't really warm up to this piece in the beginning but I do love it now, a lot. Stunning work as usual! Have a great weekend.
Thanks Marc. That happens to me all the time!
I love the way you repaired the leg properly after so many people in this furniture's past tried the quick and dirty fix. Your channel helps me appreciate even more all my Empire pieces.
Thanks! I like Empire too
Thomas, you are an artist.
Thank you!
The in situ shots at the end are always a winner! Thanks for including them, it’s always nice to see where they live when outside of your workshop.
Thanks! They're all taken in our home!
Tom excellent!! We are all lucky to be able to watch your videos. Your knowledge and workmanship only comes from years of experience and age. Thanks.
You're welcome!
Beautiful save! I concur with you on the top and not sanding too much. The years of wear add character.
Yes! It came out great. Thanks!
Its great to watch someone that knows what they are doing do just enough, rather than hooking up an electric sander to make every piece of wood look like it was just milled. The defects are what makes old furniture so great, as well as people.
Thank you! I'm glad so many get that
I think this is one of my favorite things you have done. I loved how you fixed the handle circles. And i agree with you it needed to stay as close to original as possible. Can't wait to see what you have next. And i love the intro with all the wild life. You have such a beautiful place to live and work.
Thank you! We are very fortunate
Invaluable resource here. I finally learned the difference between shellac and varnish. I love watching these videos!
Thanks! It is an interesting subject.
what a perfect procedure of restoration for this piece. i love when the age shows. its so wonderful your customer requested this gentle touch. i am always happy when a customer asks me for this type of restoration. cheers!
Thank you Trena! I appreciate that coming from you! I saw your video about upcoming life changes.
From one expert to another! Trena and Tom....cant go wrong there. 🌞
This is my first time watching one of your videos. I was enthralled! The care taken, the time, tour willingness to not go rushing in and sanding till its a shadow of what it was- I was blown away!
I honestly never considered the "spot repair" approach, and I love it.Thank you for sharing your skill.
You’re very welcome!
Nice work. I have to agree that too many pieces like this one get destroyed by palm sanders and a bucket of paint. Thankfully there are still true craftsmen like yourself out there to save the day.
Thank you! That's nice
I like the way, at the beginning of your videos, you give your viewers the bird.
That's a good one!
You've breathed new life into this lovely, honest piece. Looks very elegant. That foot block looked like as though it had been attached by VERY large borers.
Thanks! I like the expression "honest piece". I like any object that's not pretending to be something else.
Whenever I find a new video on a Friday I have to restrain myself from watching it immediatley. Instead, I save it for Sunday, so I can fully enjoy the comfort it brings.
Love that! Thanks!
I would love to hear the stories that chest could tell! Being very sentimental I am glad the family wanted to preserve that bit of history. It looks beautiful.
Thanks! Yes, I was so happy to do it for them
I love the attention to detail you have...and the wealth of knowledge. Anyone who does this work as a hobby would be grateful to take classes from you!
Thank you very much! Well they have the videos!
Mr. Thomas, I so enjoy watching a master at work, thank you.
You are very welcome!
I spent a couple of decades doing carpentry work and am not retired. I have had such a good time watching your videos, learning and then slowly applying what I’ve learned towards restoring and repairing a few of our antiques. Thanks so much for all you have offered here.
You are so welcome! That makes me happy