Reclaimed Rocker – Part 1
The first step is choosing the five boards that will make up the seat.
More on Maloof-Style Rocking Chairs
![end grain rocker](https://images.finewoodworking.com/app/uploads/2016/09/06003332/rocker-part-2.jpg)
Reclaimed Rocker – Part 2
Sam Maloof on Building Chairs
How Sam Maloor Makes a Rocker
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“Too often we design things and take all the credit for what we do, and if we have any kind of success we become very smug and conceited about it. I think that all one has to do is look at a beautiful flower or a tree and realize that what we do is very insignificant. We are only the instruments that make these beautiful objects.” – Sam Maloof
I’ve been drawn to Sam Maloof’s designs ever since I started woodworking. He found inspiration in nature and made countless beautiful forms out of wood. His rocker is one of my favorites.
For this project, I referenced an article by Sam Maloof way back in Fine Woodworking issue #42, “How I Make a Rocker”, as well as the book and dvd set “Build a Sculptured Rocker with Charles Brock”. Charles was kind enough to give our Editor, Asa, a copy of his book when they met at a woodworking themed Martha Stewart Show in New York. The book and dvd had helpful information, but is separated between the two. For me it was a bit tricky to reference back and forth as I worked. I ended up taking a few notes from the dvd and printing out Maloof’s article as well as a whole bunch of reference photos of Maloof’s work.
I decided to make two rockers at the same time, and all was going well with that plan as I made multiple parts. And then I started sculpting the first seat. It was just too much fun. I couldn’t stop sculpting and ended up continuing on with one chair from there.
Both chairs will be made from reclaimed American Chestnut. I used a few 2″ thick 1860 roof rafters from a dismantled barn, and a 3″ thick floor joist from a 1790 home. Follow along to watch the chairs take shape.
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