I'm watching this whilst my wife watches Strictly Come Dancing on the TV. Thank gawd for all these generous craftsmen who generously post their videos. This channel is brilliant! Right now it's the only barrier to gibbering insanity!
I cannot see how anyone can give Tom a thumbs down. He is the absolute best on UA-cam for furniture restoration. He also is an amazing videographer and narrator of his work. Thanks Tom for all your efforts.
I discovered your UTube channel about a year ago. You remind me of my Dad with your methodical and meticulous approach to your restorations. Dad would always tell me that if I was going to do something, do it right the first time. He was ahead of his time. In the early 1950's, he wanted to build a house for our family. He had no extensive formal education having to leave school after the 8th grade to support the family; but, he was a reader! Popular Mechanics and Popular Science were his go-to material. He built that house with cutting edge additions such as Circuit Breaker panels and copper plumbing. It was made of concrete block and stands today. He taught me woodworking, plumbing, engine repair electrical, whatever. I really enjoy watching your restorations. Keep up the outstanding videos and lessons to those aspire to being restorers.
An absolute delight watching you perform your magic Tom. Such care and consideration to every piece you conserve is pure joy to watch. Thank you so much Tom.
Magic Tom. Was a much-loved character on kid’s TV growing up near Montreal in the 60’s. Thanks for the memories! Also kudos to this Magic Tom and all the transformations we see step by step. If only we could match his work !
Who knew "🍒 cherry " could look so stunning? The grains on the drawer fronts are to die for! Love this piece and the details that you restored so beautifully. Thanks for this today, Tom
You have respect for wood and patience for details to recover the beauty dimmed by time and circumstance. I enjoy seeing the grain and color revealed-it looks like a mini miracle. 🤩
Not only is this a Masterpiece of skilled restoration, Tom... but it is a quietly stunning piece of furniture design and use of the grain. Your in-situ photos are lovely, and dear Ella is as sweet as ever. The birds are always the cherries on top! TEN STARS ... Barry
The skill and patience that you gave to the detail of the repairs are remarkable both in technique and final result. Your finishing processes allow the beautiful grain to lend its WOW once again to the finished piece. Another beautiful creation of the artist's eye and the craftsman's hand! Thanks!
I find your videos so rewarding. I learn a little tidbit every time and all those tidbits really start to accumulate. I specifically like it when you change your mind like deciding to redo the tape and then move to the corner. It seems trivial, but that sort of inner monologue decisions are where the real knowledge can come from. Basically any time you make a choice to not use a specific material, product, or technique and you say why that's when my ears perk up to listen closely. It's just as valuable if not more valuable to me than when you talk about the thing you end up choosing. Anyway, thank you for this trove of knowledge as well as just a soothing experience.
Where would we be with out UA-cam?. Learning at the dinner table behind our laptops ( me in Beijing China) and thinking about the ways it is done by a professional furniture restaurateur who is explaining us that it is a 150 grid gold sand paper and handing furniture like no mover can ever do with out braking it. Incredible things happen on the internet. Thomas Johnson , thank you for all the beautiful weekends specially in dark times like this.
@@DaleDix We must be roughly the same age then. I respectfully disagree. The same kind of human nonsense has been going on for centuries, it's just that now we can find out about it so much more quickly. I've found all kinds of positive communities and things to learn/be involved in/make that I never would have found without the web. My life is definitely the richer for it.
Hey Tom, I so much appreciate you answering my comments. My last comment you said you consider your work more of a trade than an art. Watching you refinish this project has more than not convinced me that you are an ARTIST at your Trade. The care of detail that you put into grain matching, stain matching, shape and look, and EVERYTHING else you do convinces me you are an artist at your trade. I learn so much watching you and appreciate your attention to detail. However, I do not think anyone could replicate what you do. All the best, Ben Scott
The missing lower pieces and especially the way you fixed that half knob was so enlightening. Thank you Master Tom for the continues education you give to us !!!
@@janetdupree6353 I believe I have watched all of Master Toms videos and still every time there's something new in them... thanks for the recommendation Janet
I come back to this channel from time to time. I think i ve seen all the episodes but i like to rewatch them as well. This is a dying trade in this era of electronics and virtual living ! Love the man, the knowledge, the patience and the slow rate. Thank you Sir for sharing your passion.
Your commitment to slowing down, paying attention to detail, and doing it right make your videos a necessity for anyone under the age of 50, in any field!
@@debkeyworth8429 it's called "Can Tom find a match" or something very close to that. If you click on his name next to where it says "subscribe" above it takes you to his page on the channel and its the second video down. Hope this helps, I'm a bit of a techno-ignoramus so I don't know how to provide an actual link 😂
I love watching you work. So much of what you do is similar to what I have done in my 50 yrs of woodworking. Some of your tools are even the same. Think carefully about how to structure your retirement. I had to downside and that caused me to loose my shop. I miss it a lot. Thanks again, you are a true master.
Another great repair/restoration. one of the things that impressed me was how well the double sided tape held under the pressure of being rasped, filed and sanded. it always impresses me how well all of your tape "hinges" hold up, and under protection during glue ups between pieces of wood etc. I keep waiting to hear "uh oh" but never seem to hear that . once again Tom great job on the chest. and above al in video setups it would all be for naught, if we could not see up close the camera work that gives us the insight to what is going on well done. and thanks for sharing.
You're welcome! I appreciate you viewing and commenting all these years. And yes, I have even double-sticked pieces together and turned them on the lathe!
I love your channel and only think I would change is at the end to show the beginning compared to the end result. It’s been to long since I saw what it looked like when you received it. You are amazing and patient!!
Yuppers,Anne. I kind of need the before and afters, not just a long shot, but also of the biggest repair spots. Most people thinkrestoration is just a"little sanding then slap on a coat of varnish". He shows us nothing could be further from the truth. Lots of work
I love your work and videos so much, thanks to you I was able to fix some scratches on my brand new couch, and NOBODY has been able to find the spots I fixed, I mixed different stains and everything, thank you so so much! 😊
I've seen other restoration in other channels but they don't come near to the real restoratios that you graciously show us. Your style is beyond compare. Ella looks beautiful next to this piece. 😍
What a beautiful chest. Sorry about the dowels not being stained first. That was my fault. I tried to warn you but evidently I didn't yell at my TV loudly enough for you to hear me.
I just wanted to let you know how things are going since I completed my five dining room chairs. I am trying my best to be as calm and patient as you when working on my projects. Not at the level of doing a video just yet due to language issues but doing better. My husband is no longer wearing ear plugs anyways. I'm trying the " I'll let that sit over night to dry" technique as that seems to work for you. I have decided possibly my issue is I don't start a project with a cup of coffee. Maybe tomorrow I'll do that and add a bit of "Bailey's" for luck. If that doesn't work I might be relegated to getting a black dog to hang out with. On the plus side I did have success repairing three pieces of veneer on an old china cabinet door I found needing a home just to see if I could do it. It needs to dry overnight about four days before I attempt to match the stain. Making progress!!!
Hey Sammy Jo**† I need that fast cup in the morning too. Due to tremors, making it was getting to be Too difficult. Look up JAVY coffee essence. Now I just run the water through pot and add 2teaspoons and TaDum!! Coffee, so I can do some serious video watching. It's foolproof and tasty. ! Keep watching!!😊😊😊
What a transformation you are the master just curious how many hours in that piece my guess is 100 , thank you so much I learn a bunch every time I watch !!
I’m watching on my iPad. At 36:17 I wanted to pause the video, then drew my hand back in horror, as I honestly thought I’d left my fingerprints in the varnish 😂 Good job as usual, Tom. I’m in awe, as always.
Beautiful job. By the way, showing the finished furniture in a home setting, rather than simply in the workshop, really shows them off in the best possible way.
The grain on the drawers specifically is absolutely beautiful. Lovely piece of furniture. I’ve learnt so much about wood etc. watching your videos. Particularly just how much veneer was used, how the construction may have been far better and more solid than modern stuff, but the inside wood was actually anything but nice! A bit like wearing a ratty old house dress under a fur coat!!! Antiques cost thousands in the UK, but I think you pay for the workmanship rather than the materials. Hugs to Ella.
"the inside wood was actually anything but nice" Horses for courses. The inside structure provides strength - it has to be straight grained and joined solidly. The outside veneer provides beauty - the curlier the better. And since the veneer covers the outside and that's all anyone sees... who cares what the inside looks like! If you want to see really 'nasty' wood, look at the backs of 18th century and earlier pieces: since their only function was to add a little bit of structural strength and to keep dust out, they'd never be seen and they didn't need joining as they would be nailed on... pretty much anything would do! "you pay for the workmanship rather than the materials." You pay for both - wood of good constructional quality was quite expensive as rough lumber, but only a fraction of the cost of showy veneers or exotic species.
That bookmatched veneer!!! ::swoon:: I love that some of it's history is still evident. I recently scored a1930s mahogany sewing cabinet and have restored it to use with what I've learned from you. (it didn't need anywhere near the work this chest did!) At some point someone traced off a sewing pattern with a dressmaker's wheel on top of the cabinet. I probably could have sanded out those marks, but chose to leave them since they show that it was a working cabinet, not just a display piece. I can't thank you enough for sharing your art with us!
Well done - both on the restoration (we need more recycle and re-use!) and on leaving the marks: they are part of the history and totally relevant to the original use!
As someone who really enjoys your videos for the excellent, quality work you do, I have to say, please drop the click-baity thumbnails. Your tribe will follow you without them, and in my opinion they cheapen your videos. Such gimmicky phrases like "Wait...what?" risk putting your videos in the same category as any other woodworking or restoration channel, and you are definitely not just any woodworker. Forget the algorithm and just keep doing what you do best and we'll keep tuning in!
Thanks! You are right and that would be my preference. But keep in mind that we make these videos to be seen, and the "clickbait" thumbnails have doubled my viewership. Go figure
@@johnsonrestoration well, I suppose it is a small price to pay for the sake of sharing what is undoubtably some of the best restoration woodworking on UA-cam. Thanks for being honest and keep up the great work - you are a treasure!
I love the practical perfectionist you are. There is a wealth of knowledge and experience in your head and your “clever hands”. Thank you so much for sharing!
Thank you so much for this video. My coffee got completely cold while I watched it, the video was so entrancing. You show such respect for these old pieces.
.....I just cannot get over the transformation. It's the drawer fronts. The wood is so beautiful and the patches on the case so carefully blended in they're unnoticeable. Another beauty restored!
Beauty of the wood grain shows up at the end. I watch most of your videos twice and learn a ton. Love the wild life snippets and ALWAYS love seeing Ella lounging about. Thanks Tom!
I love watching your videos, I rescued an antique sideboard from going in the dumpster, it was missing 2 knobs and 1 was badly broken exactly like the ones you have on this piece , I was lucky enough to find 5 knobs identical at our local restore, expect being a 1/4 inch smaller, the sideboard has 2 slim drawers likely for sliverware in the center removed those 4 knobs put the smaller knobs there and it looks like it was always like that. The biggest issue was a drawer in the bottom was stuck my Hubby thinking he was helping forced the drawer out breaking the wooden runner, he wanted to put in modern metal runners, I spent an hour with painters tape and glue putting the runner back together, then I repaired the drawer where the back had separated, after watching your videos with me he understands why I was so fussy with fixing it, I also found a label indicating that it was made in June of 1880
Great project and your knob/string discovery has solved a problem I have! I have an 18th century primitive candle stand with a stripped wooden height adjustment peg that now works, and I didn't have to damage or alter it in any way, so thank you! What a great job you did on that dresser, stunning!
Tom, your body of work speaks volumes for your experience and the result is stunning. I have often wondered what t would have been like to pursue restoration as my career instead of my side hustle and retirement…. I learn something new every time. This time it was the multipart knob…I’ve never seen one like that!
I have several wooden sculptures, wood is so magical. The face I have known the longest is a statue that survived losing most of what my family owned three times. Between relationships and fire, this statue is a family member. She looks to the ground before her with a peaceful lash decorated view of what is ahead instead of what is behind. I saw that face in this video!! 36:58 The face shows so well in this shot, I was shocked into sharing this story. Thanks again, Tom.
Pretty good is an understatement. I went back to the original video to see the before and after side by side, and you REALLY made the wood grain pop and shine through on the drawers. I'm officially jealous of the owner. Incredible job as always!
Watching you is my place to go for stress therapy but purely from a business point of view, how do you even charge for doing this! I cannot imagine the value you put on this level of work. It's art of the highest standards. Top respect 🙏🙏
Thanks, Tom for another wonderful video. I especially enjoyed watching you through the trouble of adding and shaping that piece at the bottom of the dresser, and noting a vacuum would probably knock it off😖--these were built in the time of brooms. Your work is so helpful with my own small restorations.
You are a master !! It turned out beautiful. Can I suggest that you take a before and after photo to share at the end. Your dog looks like a sweetheart 💕. Mahalo for sharing your talent and walking us through the process.
Mr. Johnson, you need to do a Q and A! You could talk about: how you learned the trade (directly from your father?), how your father started in the business / how he learned his master skills, what aspects of the job you enjoy the most and least (e.g. veneer repair, sanding, etc), your favourite piece of furniture you’ve worked on or own, favourite style (Empire, Victorian, Mission, etc), oldest or most valuable piece you’ve worked on, do you ever make your own pieces? Why/how did you decide to start posting your work to UA-cam, do you manage your own camera work and editing (it’s a lot of work!) Do you have a family member interested in taking over the business when you’re ready to retire have you ever taken on an apprentice, etc. I started picking up old broken wood furniture about six years ago and began researching how to repair / refinish with each piece. Your videos are the best on the internet! I’ve learned so much, thank you for taking the time to share your knowledge! Ps, The first few videos I watched I thought you were saying “Gourmet” in your intro 😊
Thank you! That's a pretty tall order! It would involve too much talking! And photos that we don't have. But I might try to do something. I'm so happy when people have learned a few things from these videos, and gained enough confidence to give it a try. Good luck with all your projects!
Aside from the skillful job of restoration I have to compliment your use of sharp tools in your restoration. The care that a craftsman takes in his tools are often reflected in the quality of his work. Some time ago I was watching another restorer slog through a piece of wood with a dull hand plane. I cringed as the individual said, "Man, This plane is really dull!" Thank you for sharing your work.
The individual might also say something like, “I worked hard on that piece!” Not realizing that they worked hard due to inefficiency. It’s very productive to work hard efficiently. But I see people every day in my work place working hard inefficiency. They are always the ones telling everybody how hard they work.
@@mercoid I follow this channel because Tom has the skills and know how to rescue splinters into restored furniture. In surgery it is assumed that the scalpels will be sharp, But it is the skill of the surgeon that we respect.
I spent my entire working life doing everything in a rush and it's wonderful to see a true craftsman working in a such a refreshingly different way - with such care, skill and patience. A joy to watch and such a pleasure to see the beauty of the wood revealed.
I'm watching this whilst my wife watches Strictly Come Dancing on the TV. Thank gawd for all these generous craftsmen who generously post their videos. This channel is brilliant! Right now it's the only barrier to gibbering insanity!
Thank you! I love this comment!
I cannot see how anyone can give Tom a thumbs down. He is the absolute best on UA-cam for furniture restoration. He also is an amazing videographer and narrator of his work. Thanks Tom for all your efforts.
Wow, thanks! I appreciate it! I think the thumbs down are bots
thanks for the calm in this stormy world we live in
You're welcome!
I discovered your UTube channel about a year ago. You remind me of my Dad with your methodical and meticulous approach to your restorations. Dad would always tell me that if I was going to do something, do it right the first time. He was ahead of his time. In the early 1950's, he wanted to build a house for our family. He had no extensive
formal education having to leave school after the 8th grade to support the family; but, he was a reader! Popular Mechanics and Popular Science were his go-to material. He built that house with cutting edge additions such as Circuit Breaker panels and copper plumbing. It was made of concrete block and stands today. He taught me woodworking, plumbing, engine repair electrical, whatever. I really enjoy watching your restorations. Keep up the outstanding videos and lessons to those aspire to being restorers.
Thanks! Those are incredible memories! I love that the house still stands!
An absolute delight watching you perform your magic Tom. Such care and consideration to every piece you conserve is pure joy to watch. Thank you so much Tom.
You're welcome! I appreciate it!
"Pretty good"? It looks absolutely beautiful like all your restorations. Watching you work is a real pleasure. Thanks.
Magic Tom. Was a much-loved character on kid’s TV growing up near Montreal in the 60’s. Thanks for the memories! Also kudos to this Magic Tom and all the transformations we see step by step. If only we could match his work !
Who knew "🍒 cherry " could look so stunning? The grains on the drawer fronts are to die for! Love this piece and the details that you restored so
beautifully. Thanks for this today, Tom
Thanks Marte! I really like this piece too
You have respect for wood and patience for details to recover the beauty dimmed by time and circumstance. I enjoy seeing the grain and color revealed-it looks like a mini miracle. 🤩
Awesome, thank you!
Not only is this a Masterpiece of skilled restoration, Tom... but it is a quietly stunning piece of furniture design and use of the grain. Your in-situ photos are lovely, and dear Ella is as sweet as ever. The birds are always the cherries on top! TEN STARS ... Barry
Thanks Barry!
I love these longer format videos Tom. Great episode.
Thanks! Yes, longer is better!
The skill and patience that you gave to the detail of the repairs are remarkable both in technique and final result. Your finishing processes allow the beautiful grain to lend its WOW once again to the finished piece. Another beautiful creation of the artist's eye and the craftsman's hand!
Thanks!
You're welcome! I appreciate it!
@@johnsonrestoration n,k m. M my t mmmno,
I find your videos so rewarding. I learn a little tidbit every time and all those tidbits really start to accumulate. I specifically like it when you change your mind like deciding to redo the tape and then move to the corner. It seems trivial, but that sort of inner monologue decisions are where the real knowledge can come from. Basically any time you make a choice to not use a specific material, product, or technique and you say why that's when my ears perk up to listen closely. It's just as valuable if not more valuable to me than when you talk about the thing you end up choosing. Anyway, thank you for this trove of knowledge as well as just a soothing experience.
Thank you! I appreciate it! A lot of those decisions are made intuitively and when people ask why, often I can't tell them
Where would we be with out UA-cam?. Learning at the dinner table behind our laptops ( me in Beijing China) and thinking about the ways it is done by a professional furniture restaurateur who is explaining us that it is a 150 grid gold sand paper and handing furniture like no mover can ever do with out braking it. Incredible things happen on the internet. Thomas Johnson , thank you for all the beautiful weekends specially in dark times like this.
The Web was invented when I was in university. The world was a better place before that.
@@DaleDix We must be roughly the same age then. I respectfully disagree. The same kind of human nonsense has been going on for centuries, it's just that now we can find out about it so much more quickly. I've found all kinds of positive communities and things to learn/be involved in/make that I never would have found without the web. My life is definitely the richer for it.
Thank you! I agree, the whole youtube thing is amazing! Overall the internet is a good thing, the present questions about it will work out.
Thanks! Go back and read some newspapers from the 19th century. They make our internet look like grade school taunts
Yes! The good far outweighs the bad
I am always amazed at the way you pull disaster back from the precipice to restore it to beauty and usefulness.
Thanks!
I'm always impressed how you take craftsmanship to an art form, Master Johnson. Excellent results!
Thank you!
For sure !
You're right, Tom! It looks pretty good. Every time I see your dog, she makes me smile. Thanks again for taking your time to teach us your knowledge.
Isn't she sweet?! I just love her.
@@quackaddict2203 Yes! She's....
Thanks! Ella should have her own channel! It would be her sleeping - her main "activity"
Me too! She has so many fans!
Hey Tom,
I so much appreciate you answering my comments. My last comment you said you consider your work more of a trade than an art. Watching you refinish this project has more than not convinced me that you are an ARTIST at your Trade. The care of detail that you put into grain matching, stain matching, shape and look, and EVERYTHING else you do convinces me you are an artist at your trade. I learn so much watching you and appreciate your attention to detail. However, I do not think anyone could replicate what you do.
All the best,
Ben Scott
I agree. It wouldn't look quite the same if Tom didn't work on it. "Artist at your trade". Never thought of it like that. Great observation
Here here! This art historian heartily agrees!
Thank you Ben, that's really nice. I agree with Kelsey
Yes, I like it too. Thanks!
Thank you! Too kind
Love the devotion to timber integrity and the beauty of the piece. No shortcuts process is everything
Thank you!
I will never restore furniture, however, I can't stop watching you do it... So much talent and patience.
Thank you! I like that
The missing lower pieces and especially the way you fixed that half knob was so enlightening. Thank you Master Tom for the continues education you give to us !!!
If you have not watched the repair Tom did on the leg of a cabriolet chair, I encourage you to watch the work that went in to that miracle.
@@janetdupree6353 I believe I have watched all of Master Toms videos and still every time there's something new in them... thanks for the recommendation Janet
You're welcome! I appreciate it!
Thank you! That's nice
I come back to this channel from time to time. I think i ve seen all the episodes but i like to rewatch them as well. This is a dying trade in this era of electronics and virtual living ! Love the man, the knowledge, the patience and the slow rate. Thank you Sir for sharing your passion.
You're so welcome Patrick!
Dear Mr.. Johnson thank you for another masterpiece!
Thank you! My pleasure!
Superb craftsmanship, Tom.
Thanks!
From firewood to show piece.
Looks amazing.
Thanks! One person's firewood...
Wow!, shaping that wood knob repair. I am impressed. What an artist.
Thank you!
Attaching knobs using string theory. Marvelous job Mr. Johnson.
Or, per 52:34, "Silly String Theory".
That's good! Thanks!
Yes! I like it!
Your commitment to slowing down, paying attention to detail, and doing it right make your videos a necessity for anyone under the age of 50, in any field!
Thank you! I am very fortunate to be in a position of slowing down. It turns out that's the fastest way to get something done correctly!
Yippee! I’ve been waiting for this part 2. It’s been a real cliff hanger. Beautiful work!
I can’t find the first video. Would you be able to post a link or tell me the title of the video ? Thanks
@@debkeyworth8429 it's called "Can Tom find a match" or something very close to that. If you click on his name next to where it says "subscribe" above it takes you to his page on the channel and its the second video down. Hope this helps, I'm a bit of a techno-ignoramus so I don't know how to provide an actual link 😂
@@judebrown4103 thanks so much !
@@debkeyworth8429 you're welcome, hope you found it because it was sooo absorbing!
Glad you enjoyed it!
What a treat to see your Friday videos. I always learn so much. Thanks for sharing.
You're welcome!
I love watching you work. So much of what you do is similar to what I have done in my 50 yrs of woodworking. Some of your tools are even the same. Think carefully about how to structure your retirement. I had to downside and that caused me to loose my shop. I miss it a lot. Thanks again, you are a true master.
You're welcome Paul! This is a big part of my retirement - and yes, I'm wondering what will happen someday when we move
@@johnsonrestoration Move wisely. I'd be careful to not disturb the ability to be around art.
Who'd have thought quite such a beautiful piece of furniture was hiding away there in plain sight? As ever Tom, I'm in awe...
Thank you!
Another great repair/restoration. one of the things that impressed me was how well the double sided tape held under the pressure of being rasped, filed and sanded. it always impresses me how well all of your tape "hinges" hold up, and under protection during glue ups between pieces of wood etc. I keep waiting to hear "uh oh" but never seem to hear that . once again Tom great job on the chest. and above al in video setups it would all be for naught, if we could not see up close the camera work that gives us the insight to what is going on well done. and thanks for sharing.
You're welcome! I appreciate you viewing and commenting all these years. And yes, I have even double-sticked pieces together and turned them on the lathe!
Was worth the wait, awesome finish👏👍
Thanks!
I love your channel and only think I would change is at the end to show the beginning compared to the end result. It’s been to long since I saw what it looked like when you received it. You are amazing and patient!!
Thanks! You are right! We need to do that
Yuppers,Anne. I kind of need the before and afters, not just a long shot, but also of the biggest repair spots. Most people thinkrestoration is just a"little sanding then slap on a coat of varnish". He shows us nothing could be further from the truth. Lots of work
Firewood into furniture.You are a magician.👌👍
Thank you!
I love your work and videos so much, thanks to you I was able to fix some scratches on my brand new couch, and NOBODY has been able to find the spots I fixed, I mixed different stains and everything, thank you so so much! 😊
You're welcome! That is great!
I've seen other restoration in other channels but they don't come near to the real restoratios that you graciously show us. Your style is beyond compare. Ella looks beautiful next to this piece. 😍
Thank you! I appreciate that
What a beautiful chest. Sorry about the dowels not being stained first. That was my fault. I tried to warn you but evidently I didn't yell at my TV loudly enough for you to hear me.
Thanks! No, I heard you!
A MASTERFUL Restoration. Restoring Tradition, One Piece at a Time. Thanks Tom.
Thank you! That's nice
I just wanted to let you know how things are going since I completed my five dining room chairs. I am trying my best to be as calm and patient as you when working on my projects. Not at the level of doing a video just yet due to language issues but doing better. My husband is no longer wearing ear plugs anyways. I'm trying the " I'll let that sit over night to dry" technique as that seems to work for you. I have decided possibly my issue is I don't start a project with a cup of coffee. Maybe tomorrow I'll do that and add a bit of "Bailey's" for luck. If that doesn't work I might be relegated to getting a black dog to hang out with. On the plus side I did have success repairing three pieces of veneer on an old china cabinet door I found needing a home just to see if I could do it. It needs to dry overnight about four days before I attempt to match the stain. Making progress!!!
Prior to coffee it's always a good idea to observe nature. Doing so is a reminder that everything comes from nature. Don't forget the Bailey's. 😃
Qqaaaaaaàaq
Thanks! As long as you're making progress, that's all that counts. It sounds like you're doing a good job!
Definitely! Thanks!
Hey Sammy Jo**† I need that fast cup in the morning too. Due to tremors, making it was getting to be Too difficult. Look up JAVY coffee essence. Now I just run the water through pot and add 2teaspoons and TaDum!! Coffee, so I can do some serious video watching. It's foolproof and tasty. ! Keep watching!!😊😊😊
Patience and artistry combined. Well done Tom a pleasure to watch!
Thank you!
Wonderful before and after Tom. I would be remiss not mention the excellent videography as well.
Thanks! That's what I love doing!
I love the chisel work. You are a joy to watch. I never get tired of them
Thank you!
New England Series; just finished watching "Acorns to Arabella" before lunch....Thanks, as always Tom....rr, Normandy, Fra.
Thanks! I should check that out
The Thomas Johnson magic touch. Such a beautiful result of a labor of love.
Thank you!
Looks amazing could not believe the difference when you cleaned it the dirt and wax just came of nicely leaving a beautiful finish 😀👍
Thanks! 👍
I will be forever amazed at the strength of hide glue. It seems stronger than the wood by leaps and bounds.
You rock Tom~
Thanks! Yes, it is!
Whomever built that piece originally had some like you in mind for future fun Tom... Great job!
Thanks!
Thomas Johnson you are a artist. I'm sure you have heard that a lot. Your detailed work just amazes me. The finished products are ALWAYS beautiful!!❤
Wow, thank you!
What a transformation you are the master just curious how many hours in that piece my guess is 100 , thank you so much I learn a bunch every time I watch !!
Thanks! I should have stated that, I had about 30 hours
Those photos inside the house really drive the point home... literally!!! It shows the final result so much clearer.
Thanks! True! That's why I love to do that. Sometimes the pieces are too big though
I’m watching on my iPad. At 36:17 I wanted to pause the video, then drew my hand back in horror, as I honestly thought I’d left my fingerprints in the varnish 😂 Good job as usual, Tom. I’m in awe, as always.
Well, that's what you get with all that wacky-zucky talk of metaverse... 😁
Thanks! That's funny! yes, I guess the metaverse is here!
Definitely! Kind of cool really
Beautiful job. By the way, showing the finished furniture in a home setting, rather than simply in the workshop, really shows them off in the best possible way.
Thanks! Yes, a pain, but worth it!
The grain on the drawers specifically is absolutely beautiful. Lovely piece of furniture.
I’ve learnt so much about wood etc. watching your videos. Particularly just how much veneer was used, how the construction may have been far better and more solid than modern stuff, but the inside wood was actually anything but nice! A bit like wearing a ratty old house dress under a fur coat!!!
Antiques cost thousands in the UK, but I think you pay for the workmanship rather than the materials.
Hugs to Ella.
"the inside wood was actually anything but nice"
Horses for courses. The inside structure provides strength - it has to be straight grained and joined solidly. The outside veneer provides beauty - the curlier the better. And since the veneer covers the outside and that's all anyone sees... who cares what the inside looks like!
If you want to see really 'nasty' wood, look at the backs of 18th century and earlier pieces: since their only function was to add a little bit of structural strength and to keep dust out, they'd never be seen and they didn't need joining as they would be nailed on... pretty much anything would do!
"you pay for the workmanship rather than the materials."
You pay for both - wood of good constructional quality was quite expensive as rough lumber, but only a fraction of the cost of showy veneers or exotic species.
Thanks! Yes, insides are interesting! I like dlevi67's response
Thanks! Good answer! Now I have to look up "horses for courses"!
Oh! Hugs delivered!
Beautiful restoration 👍👍👍. Thanks for sharing.
You're welcome!
51:30 “Locks are nothing but trouble.” Especially since we’re not trying to keep spices and tea away from the servants anymore.
Or indeed have servants at all!
🤣
Thanks! But we still have people that lose the keys!
Yes, whatever happened to having servants?
@@johnsonrestoration Servants would have done all the sanding for you.
That bookmatched veneer!!! ::swoon:: I love that some of it's history is still evident. I recently scored a1930s mahogany sewing cabinet and have restored it to use with what I've learned from you. (it didn't need anywhere near the work this chest did!) At some point someone traced off a sewing pattern with a dressmaker's wheel on top of the cabinet. I probably could have sanded out those marks, but chose to leave them since they show that it was a working cabinet, not just a display piece. I can't thank you enough for sharing your art with us!
You're welcome! And I love that you left the wheel marks! They're perfect for a sewing cabinet. I would have done the same
Well done - both on the restoration (we need more recycle and re-use!) and on leaving the marks: they are part of the history and totally relevant to the original use!
As someone who really enjoys your videos for the excellent, quality work you do, I have to say, please drop the click-baity thumbnails. Your tribe will follow you without them, and in my opinion they cheapen your videos. Such gimmicky phrases like "Wait...what?" risk putting your videos in the same category as any other woodworking or restoration channel, and you are definitely not just any woodworker. Forget the algorithm and just keep doing what you do best and we'll keep tuning in!
Thanks! You are right and that would be my preference. But keep in mind that we make these videos to be seen, and the "clickbait" thumbnails have doubled my viewership. Go figure
@@johnsonrestoration well, I suppose it is a small price to pay for the sake of sharing what is undoubtably some of the best restoration woodworking on UA-cam. Thanks for being honest and keep up the great work - you are a treasure!
I love the practical perfectionist you are. There is a wealth of knowledge and experience in your head and your “clever hands”. Thank you so much for sharing!
Thank you! I love the term "practical perfectionist"! I'm going to use that
Tom (with close-up and pointing): "Theres the big veneer patch I put in".
Me (squinting): "Uh! Where? I don't see it.".
Thanks! That's great!
Isn't it wonderful just to get to watch a craftsman at work it puts life into perspective!
Thanks! Isn't wonderful that people actually watch!
"I really liked what I saw the alcohol doing"
My thoughts after my fourth beer.
Exactly! Thanks!
Thank you so much for this video. My coffee got completely cold while I watched it, the video was so entrancing. You show such respect for these old pieces.
Thank you! I drink a lot of cold coffee!
.....I just cannot get over the transformation. It's the drawer fronts. The wood is so beautiful and the patches on the case so carefully blended in they're unnoticeable. Another beauty restored!
Thank you! That's nice!
I love how things turn out refreshed but not refinished. Fantastic job!
Thanks! Always my goal!
Antique repair with strings attached by the patron saint of all wannabe master restorers, hats off sir, that is one truly amazing transformation.
Thank you!
I love the intro with the birdies, so cute! brilliant video as always.
Thank you!
Another great job! Thanks, Tom. -Phil
You're welcome!
So many techniques. Only experience can get you to this level. Thanks for sharing what you’ve learned over many years.
You're welcome!
Another beautiful piece of old furniture restored to its former beauty! Well done Mr. Johnson!
Thank you!
Beauty of the wood grain shows up at the end. I watch most of your videos twice and learn a ton. Love the wild life snippets and ALWAYS love seeing Ella lounging about. Thanks Tom!
You're welcome!
I love the grain of the cherry wood! It's absolutely beautiful!
Yes! me too. Thanks!
I love watching your videos, I rescued an antique sideboard from going in the dumpster, it was missing 2 knobs and 1 was badly broken exactly like the ones you have on this piece , I was lucky enough to find 5 knobs identical at our local restore, expect being a 1/4 inch smaller, the sideboard has 2 slim drawers likely for sliverware in the center removed those 4 knobs put the smaller knobs there and it looks like it was always like that. The biggest issue was a drawer in the bottom was stuck my Hubby thinking he was helping forced the drawer out breaking the wooden runner, he wanted to put in modern metal runners, I spent an hour with painters tape and glue putting the runner back together, then I repaired the drawer where the back had separated, after watching your videos with me he understands why I was so fussy with fixing it, I also found a label indicating that it was made in June of 1880
Wow! Thanks Linda! I am so happy you were able to save that sideboard. But especially that you stopped the metal drawer runners from being installed!
Just excellent work. You continue to amaze, Mr. Johnson!
Thank you!
It's gorgeous! You did a beautiful job. SO MUCH WORK!!!!
Thanks! But I love it!
Great project and your knob/string discovery has solved a problem I have! I have an 18th century primitive candle stand with a stripped wooden height adjustment peg that now works, and I didn't have to damage or alter it in any way, so thank you!
What a great job you did on that dresser, stunning!
Thanks! Yes, the string thing seems funny but it's a good technique, not damaging anything
Tom, your body of work speaks volumes for your experience and the result is stunning. I have often wondered what t would have been like to pursue restoration as my career instead of my side hustle and retirement…. I learn something new every time. This time it was the multipart knob…I’ve never seen one like that!
Thanks! Yes, I've been very lucky, following in my Dad;s footsteps made this very doable - I never thought I couldn't have a viable business
Extraordinary. I’m very impressed by the amount of effort you put in not to leave signs of your work, while doing a thorough restoration.
Thanks! Yes, that's important to me
A real labour of love. Your dog knows how to put the beautiful piece in the limelight.
Thank you! She does!
I have several wooden sculptures, wood is so magical. The face I have known the longest is a statue that survived losing most of what my family owned three times. Between relationships and fire, this statue is a family member. She looks to the ground before her with a peaceful lash decorated view of what is ahead instead of what is behind. I saw that face in this video!! 36:58 The face shows so well in this shot, I was shocked into sharing this story. Thanks again, Tom.
Wow, thanks! I have seen a lot of faces in figured woods, especially book-matched like these, but I can't see the face here! I''l keep looking
Such attention to detail - you are highly skilled. Yes, it looks pretty good, and some.
Thank you very much!
Pretty good is an understatement. I went back to the original video to see the before and after side by side, and you REALLY made the wood grain pop and shine through on the drawers. I'm officially jealous of the owner. Incredible job as always!
Wow, thanks!
Nice work Tom. I like your technique for repairing the broken pull. Scott
Thanks Scott! People have asked why not a new knob? I actually just loved the challenge of repairing the original. It worked out great
I love the opening and closing shots of animals and nature....Looks so amazing....
Thanks! (I love them too!)
Watching you is my place to go for stress therapy but purely from a business point of view, how do you even charge for doing this! I cannot imagine the value you put on this level of work. It's art of the highest standards. Top respect 🙏🙏
Thank you! I am very fortunate that I live in an affluent area and customers who value their possessions and appreciate my work
I am so happy when I see one of these almost hour long videos! It's just such a pleasure to see you work so hard!
Thank you!
Really a joy watching this come back to life
Yes, it was! Thanks!
Thanks, Tom for another wonderful video. I especially enjoyed watching you through the trouble of adding and shaping that piece at the bottom of the dresser, and noting a vacuum would probably knock it off😖--these were built in the time of brooms. Your work is so helpful with my own small restorations.
That's good to hear. I'm happiest when someone can use my ideas (which I of course got from someone else!)
You are a master !!
It turned out beautiful.
Can I suggest that you take a before and after photo to share at the end.
Your dog looks like a sweetheart 💕.
Mahalo for sharing your talent and walking us through the process.
Thanks! I thought we did, sometimes my editor forgets!
Looks pretty good to me too, Tom. Beautiful work.
Thank you!
That looks really good! Congratulations Tom!
Thanks so much!
Your videos are always a lesson in patience above all else. Thanks very much Tom.
You're welcome!
Tom you are a true craftsman.
What a labour of love.
Beautiful dresser.
Thank you!
Well, I'm not too keen on his shorts.
@@PaulSaether
Why are you looking at his legs?
Just kidding 😉
Thomas: the restoration turned out gorgeous. Just beautiful. Carol from California
Thanks Carol!
Mr. Johnson, you need to do a Q and A! You could talk about:
how you learned the trade (directly from your father?),
how your father started in the business / how he learned his master skills,
what aspects of the job you enjoy the most and least (e.g. veneer repair, sanding, etc),
your favourite piece of furniture you’ve worked on or own,
favourite style (Empire, Victorian, Mission, etc),
oldest or most valuable piece you’ve worked on,
do you ever make your own pieces?
Why/how did you decide to start posting your work to UA-cam, do you manage your own camera work and editing (it’s a lot of work!)
Do you have a family member interested in taking over the business when you’re ready to retire
have you ever taken on an apprentice, etc.
I started picking up old broken wood furniture about six years ago and began researching how to repair / refinish with each piece. Your videos are the best on the internet! I’ve learned so much, thank you for taking the time to share your knowledge!
Ps, The first few videos I watched I thought you were saying “Gourmet” in your intro 😊
Thank you! That's a pretty tall order! It would involve too much talking! And photos that we don't have. But I might try to do something. I'm so happy when people have learned a few things from these videos, and gained enough confidence to give it a try. Good luck with all your projects!
Saved another! Bless you. Such patience and skills!
Thank you!
Aside from the skillful job of restoration I have to compliment your use of sharp tools in your restoration. The care that a craftsman takes in his tools are often reflected in the quality of his work.
Some time ago I was watching another restorer slog through a piece of wood with a dull hand plane. I cringed as the individual said, "Man, This plane is really dull!"
Thank you for sharing your work.
The individual might also say something like, “I worked hard on that piece!” Not realizing that they worked hard due to inefficiency. It’s very productive to work hard efficiently. But I see people every day in my work place working hard inefficiency. They are always the ones telling everybody how hard they work.
@@mercoid I follow this channel because Tom has the skills and know how to rescue splinters into restored furniture. In surgery it is assumed that the scalpels will be sharp, But it is the skill of the surgeon that we respect.
You're welcome! Having one's work shown on close up video is a great motivator to keep them sharp!
This is so true! It is hard for everyone though to stop and sharpen. But it's the fastest way to get the job done correctly!
I spent my entire working life doing everything in a rush and it's wonderful to see a true craftsman working in a such a refreshingly different way - with such care, skill and patience. A joy to watch and such a pleasure to see the beauty of the wood revealed.
Thanks! I know exactly what you mean! Some people have written and said you know you could do this a lot faster! They don't get it
@@johnsonrestoration It's a wonderful channel. Thank you for sharing your expertise with us. I love watching your videos here in the UK.
Thank you for breathing new life into that old girl. What an absolutely beautiful set of drawers. I'm also loving the longer videos!
You are so welcome!
Outstanding job on these tops and cabinets Tom. Very nice finishes. Such great skill and care. Love it!
Thanks!
Lovely as usual! Enjoyed immensely~!
So glad! Thanks!