Walnut Bench

This bench design originated in the 1909 book "Mission Furniture How To Make It" by H. H. Windsor. The furniture therein was designed for hobbyists to build, and the designs are a little clunky. This bench has some odd lines, with an almost medieval look to, but it has character that called to me. I made my own design adjustments along the way. Made from walnut, and finished with blonde shellac and wax. It features wedged through tenons on the lower stretcher, and pegged lap joints for the top two stretchers. It is very sturdy, and the walnut has mellowed nicely since it was first built to a nice amber milk-chocolate tone.

photos by Marcus Mader