Source for Good Plans – Chest of Drawers
I am looking for a source of plans for woodworking projects in general and a chest of drawers in particular. Although I am a very competent woodworker, I have never purchased plans before (I just design things myself). I am wondering whether there is a good source of high-quality plans for woodworking projects. I’m thinking of something like the Taunton Press, only specializing in plans. I have some old catalogs of plans and have searched on the internet, but so much of the stuff out there seems like junk. I’m looking for something with the quality of FWW magazine. I like furniture with clean, simple lines (e.g. Shaker and Mission styles). I would appreciate any tips or recommendations people can offer me.
I should mention that I already know about the Taunton book, Chests of Drawers, by Bill Hylton. I was thinking of buying it until I read some really negative reviews of it on Amazon.com.
Replies
Why do you want plans, if you have the skills and experience to design and build youself? I went down to my local quality wood furniture store and browed until I found some very nice Amish pieces (by http://www.Borkholder.com) and I modeled my chest of drawers after theirs, but the design/layout was tailored to my exact specifications. Also, I improved on their construction techniques by not using screws and plugs to attach the top to the sides, but rather, tapered, sliding dovetails. As a beginner with only 3 or 4 completed projects under my belt, I found doing the design myself in comparison with building from plans, much more rewarding. I'll be posting pics of the finished product in a few more weeks. Good luck! Erik
I have found what I consider to be gems, they contain anything from chairs, carved stools secretary desks, side tables, candle stands, highboys, chests of drawers, etc. They contain measured drawings and some instruction, and tips for assembly.
1. "Heirloom Furniture" By Franklin Gottshall
2. "Fine Furniture for the Amateur Cabinetmaker" By A.W. Marlow (Lots of pictures and detailed instructions.
3. There is a multitude of books by DOVER PRESS. These have measured drawings, a breif history, and procedure.
Check out some of these and I'll bet that you find what your looking for and a whole lot more.
Good Luck, Erick
There are several excellent books offering measured drawings of Shaker furniture, although somewhat pricey. Probably won't find in local bookstore because they don't turn over very often. Might first check local library to see before you buy.
I adapted drawings from Thos. Moser's book "Measure Shop Drawings for American Furniture" (I think that's the name) to build a 7 drawer shaker style chest. I thought these drawings were very easy to follow and it's a solid chest.
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