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What is Arts and Crafts Style


All the furniture that we build is constructed to last for generations to come. This can't be said for many of the furniture that is mass produced today. Some of which looks very beautiful, but won't stand up to the test of time. What is really the difference? Part of the beauty of Arts and Crafts style is directly related to the construction. Hand crafted construction, exposed joinery and emphasis on the structural details are indicative of this style and is what gives it a reputation for longevity.
   

The following images demonstrate one difference between mass produced construction and our construction. The drawer on the left was made by a well known kitchen cabinet manufacturer. The drawer is made from pressboad, with a hardwood drawer front all of which was attached with glue and staples. Unfortunately after the drawer fell apart recently we had to rebuild it. The image on the right shows the drawer rebuilt with hardwood throughout and dovetail joinery which gives the drawer stability.

   

butt joint that has been stapled and glued

dove tail joint with some glue
Dovetails are interlocking joints that fit together like a puzzle. They create a very strong and stable connection and are great for drawers. Dove tail joints can be exposed to show thier beauty.
Mortise and Tenon joints consist of two peices the mortise and the tenon. the mortise has a recess cut into it. The tenon has a protrusion that fits perfectly the recess in the mortise. These peices are sometimes glued and in many of the joinery that Michael makes, another hole is drilled through both peices and then a dowel is inserted to further strengthen the joint. This dowel is sometimes call a peg and as well as acting as a strengthener, it is also a decorative embellishment.

 

  
 
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MW Furniture Design, P.O. Box 283, Flint Hill, VA 22627 Phone: 540.336.1922, Fax: 267-821-6983
Email: design@michaelwolniewicz.com

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