In 1987, I attended a workshop that inspired me beyond belief. Since I recognized long ago that I have more going for me as an imitator, I decided there was no one better to learn from than Sam Maloof, who was  the workshop’s presenter.  That started me on a path that has led to making many pieces based on his designs. At first, pedestal tables;  later came music stands and, eventually, THE rocking chair, his signature piece. Made from walnut, all of the parts came from the same log.

    In 2001, John Pobicki asked: “Can anyone tell me where I can get plans for a Sam Maloof style rocker or something similar?” He’s not the first or the last to raise this question. In 1995, Harvey Gold wrote: “Can anyone help find detailed drawings of Sam Maloof’s rockers?” I venture to say that over the years, woodworkers have been asking this question many, many times. In response to John’s question, Doug Stowe cogently wrote: “Check out his book – Sam Maloof, Worker in Wood. I don’t recall that he gives dimensional drawings and I’m not sure how a person could create such a beautiful thing from plans or even make plans for that matter. Sculptural objects don’t lend themselves to plans the way other projects would.”

    It took me a couple of years to make my first chair because I had to answer questions not found in Maloof’s writings or in those articles written about him and his works.   Many chairs later and the joy is still there.   I want to thank Sam Maloof for his great inspiration both personally and through his publications.  Copying works of the masters can indeed give great pleasure.