Replies

1. 
   Lataxe | Dec 22, 2009 11:32am | #1

   Jim,

   The search of the "Techniques" page (tab at the top of this webpage) using "Shaker" as the search term provides a list of many, many pieces from past FWW "how to make" articles. You may find some useful stuff in there for your specific project.

   Could you mention why you need the construction techniques to be historically accurate? Are you making reproductions for a museum or similar; or do you just want to emulate the Shaker way of doing things because......?

   Lataxe

1. 
   jimhibbs | Dec 22, 2009 02:58pm | #2

   Laxate Thanks for the reply. I am seeking the information because I want to enter the piece in a contest that will have a couple curators on the judging panel. I think it is important that I not only showcase my skills but recreate the furniture I submit as accurately as possible. I am doing this to bring some creditability and recognition to myself as I am starting my woodworking business. Thanks again. Jim

1. 
   Lataxe | Dec 22, 2009 03:45pm | #3

   Jim,

   These Becksvoort articles seem to be about Shaker style and construction techniques rather than just "how to make this Shaker-like thing".

   https://www.finewoodworking.com/SkillsAndTechniques/SkillsAndTechniquesPDF.aspx?id=2545

   https://www.finewoodworking.com/SkillsAndTechniques/SkillsAndTechniquesPDF.aspx?id=30017

   https://www.finewoodworking.com/SkillsAndTechniques/SkillsAndTechniquesPDF.aspx?id=32522

   Lataxe

2. 
   JohnWW | Dec 22, 2009 06:12pm | #4

   There is no standard of Shaker design or construction.

   Shaker furniture was made by hundreds of woodworkers, in over a dozen communities, some hundreds of miles apart, over a period spanning two centuries.

   Some pieces were designed and built well, some poorly, and more than a few were quite eccentric. At least some were not well designed to accommodate wood movement.

   Unless you are trying to do exact reproductions, just apply the standard design and construction techniques for solid wood furniture and you will end up with sturdy well made furniture.

3. 
   alanplanesaw | Dec 22, 2009 08:52pm | #5

   Jim,

   I have to agree with John White's comments regarding Shaker construction. Google on Shaker books, check ebay, your library, wherever. Shaker furniture is well documented. And, like most things in life, there is no one answer. Design varied mostly from Shaker community to Shaker community, but also somewhat within each community. And, it all depends on what time period (1700s, 1800s, 1900s) you are talking about.

   The more you read about the Shakers, their beliefs, the lifestyles, etc., the better you understand what and how they made things.

   Alan - planesaw

1. 
   bob_barnett | Dec 23, 2009 07:25am | #7

   I agree with what you are saying. We recently made a trip to the Pleasant Hill Shaker Community in Pleasant Hill Kentucky. I wanted to go to see the furniture there. I came back with an appreciation of the whole life style of the people. I am not in the ticket line to sign up for the religion, but once you understand the religion you get a better understanding of the furniture.

   They have a great selection of books in the gift store. Many of the titles I had not seen advertized before.

   It was one of the most relaxing places I have ever been. I highly recommend a trip there be added to you bucket list. http://www.shakervillageky.org

1. 
   DonStephan | Dec 24, 2009 09:06pm | #8

   Second for John white's
   Second for John white's comments. But if you want some measured drawings, you might look at "The Book of Shaker Furniture" by John Kassay and a book by Eijner(?). But keep in mind that the same piece made at two different communities likely will be different, and sewing tables made by the same person at the same community for two different women would likely have been different. Also, no one knows the exact dimensions of hidden tenons such as apron-table leg joint. I'm starting to read the various Shaker furniture books in our public library and it's a real education.

4. 
   WillGeorge | Dec 22, 2009 09:35pm | #6

   I know little about Shaker design but maybe a place to start?

   http://www.shakerworkshops.com/sdesign1.htm

   EDIT: I forgot to mention that Taunton has a book

   In the Shaker Style.