About Robert Jones

Bob Jones has a Masters degree in Literature, works in the computer software field, and builds custom furniture and antique reproductions.  He grew up in the woods of rural Pennsylvania and developed a love of natural things.

Influences

Although experienced building in many styles, Bob is most heavily influenced by Shaker furniture.  He finds the clean lines, strong and traditional joinery, and appreciation of the wood most appealing.

Facts about Bob's woodworking style

In general, he prefers to use solid wood, grown and milled in Pennsylvania.  This includes cherry, walnut, oak, maple, and poplar -- all excellent furniture-making materials.

Uses a variety of finishes, ranging from home-made milk paint (his own recipe) to traditional oil-and-varnish mixtures to brushed polyurethane.  His preference is for finishes that enhance the natural figure and color of the wood.  Use of polyurethane is generally limited to table tops and other areas subject to abuse (moisture, alcohol, feet, heat, kids).   With that being said, he does not hesitate to use color on pieces.  Many traditional pieces were painted -- remember, 200 years ago, people saw their fair share of wood, dirt, and dim lighting.  For them, painted furniture was a pleasant break.

He does not like to build furniture tied to a specific technology.  If, for example, building a cabinet for a television, he is not inclined to build a large armoire fitted to a specific television.  Who knows how long the television will last -- will it be replaced with the same size; will it be replaced with a wall-hanging plasma screen model; or will it be replaced with a technology that doesn't exist yet?  The simple issue is this:  why build something that can last for generations if it depends on something that will be outdated in a few years?  

Where possible, Bob designs pieces that meet the immediate need based on your technology and meets the timeless needs of sound design and quality construction.