How-To
A Short History of Design
A visual guide to woodworking's enduring styles
Here’s a condensed visual overview of furniture styles that Fine Woodworking has profiled over its first 25 years, artfully illustrated by Graham Blackburn. This article highlights the most influential periods in furniture-making history, including the Mahogany Period (1702-1780), which gave rise to such names as Thomas Chippendale and the Goddards and Townsends of Newport; The Federal Period (1780-1840), with trend setters such as Duncan Phyfe; the introduction of mass production in the 19th century; and the philosophical movements spurred by the Shaker communities, and artists involved in the Arts and Crafts movement.
From Fine Woodworking #146
Fine Woodworking Recommended Products
Stanley Powerlock 16-ft. tape measure
With its smooth lock, tough case, compact size, and excellent accuracy, this Stanley tape is perfect for workshop use.
Dividers
Incredibly useful for laying out, setting equal distances, and comparing measurements, these are an essential tool for any furniture maker.
Drafting Tools
Add a hole guide to this kit, and you'll have the tools you need to work out your designs with scale drawings.
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