Restoring an early 18th c. Drop-leaf Dining Table - Thomas Johnson Antique Furniture Restoration
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- čas přidán 4. 03. 2021
- Be sure to see part two of this restoration here:
• Finishing an early 18t...
Tom Johnson of Thomas Johnson Antique Furniture Restoration in Gorham, Maine works to restore this dining table of antique origins. Tom has been restoring furniture professionally since 1979. Visit our website at www.thomasjohnsonrestoration.com, or write us at thomasjohnsonrestoration@gmail.com. And for those on the west coast looking for custom framing, be sure to check out Tom's daughter's shop, www.emcollier.com (@emcollierframes on Instagram). - Jak na to + styl
Never understood why use a plug when you can just use a dowel. Now I get it. Always a good day when I learn something new.
Also, use straight plugs and not tapered plugs for this application to obtain long-grain grip to full depth. Tapered are good for filling holes for cosmetic purposes but not for screw strength. I love this show.
@@thomasnichols7788 your not the only one I always feel like I owe him something for what he has taught me
That was an excellent explanation and demonstration.
@@edcrego396 Being picky, but your or you'r? Otherwise agree wholehearted with your comment.
@@evanpenny348 Being even pickier, you'r or you're? 😉
(another 'debtor' and grammar pedant)
Old dogs, sunshine and blankets. Man, I know this going to be an enjoyable ride!
I had not seen the dog in a while and was getting worried.
Thanks! For me too!
Thanks! I'm going to make an effort to include her more often
Getting that table down was more nerve wracking than any Hollywood produced movie I've seen in years!
Yes! I was surprised my editor left that in!
I had to rest after watching that happen.
@@johnsonrestoration As a short person I've had to use this method also. I don't think that you have to walk barefoot on your kitchen countertops though.
@@johnsonrestoration You should treat yourself to a motorcycle lift with a chunk of thick plywood on top.
Tom you need an apprentice I reckon to help with those terrifying moments!!
It just brightens my whole day when one of these videos pops up, and even more so when it's a good length (said the actress to the bishop).
Thanks! I'll have to think about that one!
I remember those kinds of quotes from my father's "The Saint" books by Leslie Charteris.
@@johnsonrestoration Did she say that too?
One of the many things I enjoy and find refreshing about watching your work is that you understand what you don't and can't know about the history of the piece, and how you adapt your restoration to that. Thanks.
You're welcome! I appreciate that!
I really enjoyed learning about dowels and plugs that was a nice little bonus in this one, thank you Mr. Johnson.
Yes it was one of those things you know, but don't realise you know ........................
Very welcome!
Yeah, that's a good way to put it. So many times you do some little thing and someone says "how did you know to do that?" and you're "I have no idea"
@@kevinshort3943 right? After he explained this it made sense. I thought plugs were used primarily for grain matching when filling holes, not that the strength was different. Yet, when I think about it, it makes perfect sense.
@@13daniel1974
In other words, you knew it, but didn't realise you knew it.... :)
There is nothing I'd rather do late on a Friday night to watch a new Tom Johnson restoration! I am always in awe of the skill and craftsmanship that you display, Tom. Thank you for sharing your process so thoroughly. The table looks amazing so far -- I'm sure that the finish will really make a difference.
Wow, thanks!
I appreciate the time you take to show the difference between dowels and plugs and the innovative ways to move some of these heavy pieces by yourself. We don’t always have someone around to help.
Thanks! Although that last move was quite awkward!
In 100 years, when this table again needs repairs, someone will say "whoever repaired this before did it right!"
That is my dream! Thanks!
Nice to see the managing director supervising the work.
looked like she was ready for a lunch break, at the end
Oh yeah! She keeps track of the spilled hide glue!
Always!
Nothing like seeing an older man work smart and take his time. Everything has wheels and is easy to move and covered in padding. Good to see this as a younger guy and maybe learn a thing or two
Old too soon....smart too late
Thanks! We've got to admit though that I wasn't looking too good there getting that table down. I was surprised my editor left it in!
I like that!
@Dave Bryant my son has had 11 back surgeries. First one was age 20 , he’s 34 now . I felt so bad when I read your comment . It’s true tho. He lifted too much when he shouldn’t have ... then did it again. I hope you are doing ok Dave. My thoughts are with you . We know what a life with back issues is like .
These videos go beyond woodworking education; there’s something therapeutic about them. I live in Portland and am looking forward to buying a frame from your daughter. Thanks!
You're welcome! Yes! definitely look her up!
Looking forward to every installment of your show has been a staple of mine for a year now.
Thank you! That's great!
Noooooooooo! You finally did it! You brought the 70s back in full technicolor with “To Be Continued...” Reminds me of that episode of Dallas and Who Shot JR!!!
Yes! I've got to recreate that. And if something goes really wrong I can always bring it back from the dead
He brought the'70s back bigtime with that "Reefer Madness" era poster. I had to stop the vid and go look it up on Google Images.
I am absolutely no expert in woodworking or repairing wood stuff. But I dabble when I have to. And my dabbling has improved immensely after I started watching your videos. And the little tutorial about plugs and dowels was gold 👏🏼 Such interesting things to learn. And as far as I can see from other comments, nobody is bothered that the videos are long. Quite the opposite. My husband laughs at me, because every time I fix something and he wonders how I know little clever things I always say “Thomas Johnson, Antique furniture, Gorham, Maine.” So he also knows who you are now. Looking so forward to part 2.
That's wonderful! Thanks! I think we all absorb the things we see and read, it's bringing that information out when you need it that's tricky!
I appreciate the gentile reminder to everyone. Protecting the shop mascot from harmful chemicals by having Ella go into the office for that segment of the project... Very thoughtful!
Thanks! Yes, she can sneak in when you least expect it!
The shortest 44 minute video I've ever watched on youtube! And the cliffhanger: "wait, there's a part two? Is it up on youtube yet?" Drat--I will just have to wait for the staining, always my favorite part. Your videos are so enjoyable to watch, for me and so many others. And great to see your lovely senior dog have a featured role in this video--she very much wanted your attention--and for your extra care to make sure your shop floor is safe for her to walk on (the "lick their feet" remark took me a few seconds to process). This episode was a master class for wood refinishers, and amateurs as well.
44 minutes?!?!? I didn’t even realize!
@@Brassmask I know. I was so wrapped up in the video I didn't realize either at first. Now I am eagerly awaiting part 2, as I thought I would just continue watching!
Thank you! That's great! I have to admit, the time goes by quickly. The only thing I can think of is that we are constantly changing angles and shots. generally speaking, we limit shots to 3 seconds
I love that! Thanks!
I love the care that you take with these old pieces. Your videos are filled with new information for me, and I really like that. Thanks!
You're welcome! Glad you like them!
Oh my gosh, Tom... I forgot the best part of your video, and I can't believe I did it... Dear Ella!!! I am delighted to see her. She is a delightful puppy. All Labs are, but she is special. So glad I remembered this, Tom. ...Barry
Thanks! I'm going to include her more often
@@johnsonrestoration I appreciate the valuable time you take to reply, Tom. ...Barry
I ❤️ furniture archeology 😊👍🏼
Me too! Thanks!
Lets just say my plug set was the best purchase I ever made. I agree whole heartedly and just in time I was feeling the tremors of withdrawal!. No videos from Tom in while. Sooooo glad this one came along to ease my qualms. Thanks again for another learning curve. I reached out to help you withthat table when you were trying to get it back on the floor upright!. Whew!. Thanks again Tom.
I was making plugs at the disc sander last week and found myself wishing I'd made the investment!
You're welcome! I definitely could have used the help! I've been publishing the videos on a regular basis - check your subscriptions
Ahhhh! making plugs! Sounds difficult
Thanks for the tutorial on dowel versus plugs, made a lot of sense. Table is going to look great! Too bad about the burn Mark, I suspect you will try and hide as best you can....
Thanks! have to wait for part 2!
@@johnsonrestoration I restored an old lawyer's bookcase of my gr-grandfathers that had ink spilled all over the top. Nothing I could do about it, so just left it as part of history.
Another great video Tom!
Not only educational, but your camera work, editing and pace of your videos makes for a really nice viewing experience. Did I lay it on too thick?
Thanks for producing these!!
You're welcome! No, never too much! I appreciate it!
This is a cliff-hanger, Tom... not good for an impatient old man. The energy you generate is medicinal, and always appreciated. ...Barry
Thank you! You've got to have something to live for!
@@johnsonrestoration I live for every vid you put up. Now, when I do work on my stuff, I say, what would Thomas Johnson do... though not up to totally tearing a piece apart yet.
Nice first name ;-)
Great job sir, you made me sweat when i saw you fighting to put that table on the floor, thanks for sharing your knowledge with us, keep safe.
Me too. It also made me realise the amount of editing work that Tom has to do in order to put all the angles of filming together and choosing which one to use. Either that, or the cameraman (camerawoman?) is a real sadist!
@@dlevi67 He's his own cameraman (go look at the shop tour video for how he lines up the shots), but not his own editor (I think he gave their name in a comment reply on a recent-ish video, but I forget).
Thanks! That didn't look good!
That was so awkward. I was surprised my editor left it in there!
Yes, correct
Also appreciated the demo of dowels vs. plugs.
Thanks!
I honestly think this is the Best video I have seen from Tom period!
Wow! Thank you!
"Drilling into tops is never fun..." You spelled "terrifying" wrong! You can add "Archeologist and Furniture Wrangler" to your credentials. Can't wait for part 2. Nice work, as usual!
Thanks! I'd be glad to!
"I don't want to mention any names." I will. Ella! Sweet Ella!
I always wondered what his wife's name was. 😁
My girl! Thanks!
No, her name is "Lucky"
@@johnsonrestoration - LOL!!!
I'm actualy at work right now. But stopped, put my feet up on the desk and watched the master do his magic! Thanks Tom! Can't wait for part 2!
Thanks! Me too! You must be the boss....
The demonstration of the difference between dowels and plugs revealed a lot about the depth of your woodworking knowledge. Thank you.
You're welcome!
It always makes me feel a little bit better as a DIYer when you get 3 days into a project and say, "I didn't notice this before." LOL. Thanks again for sharing your knowledge and expertise. Such a great channel. One of the few channels I can say that I have seen every single episode since the beginning.
That's amazing! Thank you!
Well, that table needed LOTS of structural help, Great work as always. My neighbor came over asking for some putty to patch screw holes for a strike plate relocation, I sent him back with a couple of plugs and a forsner bit after the end grain/face grain lecture!
Ooo - can I be you neighbour? I'll have all the forstner bits I can take 😁
Ah, you want them back? OK, never mind. (But you are very generous all the same)
That is great! Thanks!
We have a neighbor like that! When ever you want to do anything - always talk to Pete first, he has the exact tool (or piece of equipment) you need. He sawed up a walnut log - I'm going to use that wood for a table
@@johnsonrestoration I have always tried to be of service to my neighbors, firstly, because it's the right thing to do, and secondly because once befriended they are more tolerant of "shop Noise"!
@@johnsonrestoration Will you make a video on the table from Pete's log? It would be really nice to see you build as opposed to repair something!
Hi Thomas, that is an great looking table. Can’t wait for part two.
Thanks! Coming soon!
Good explanation on the use of plugs, that's stored away in my memory bank. Great video as usual.
Thank you!
Your video illustrated why a door frame I repaired recently had started to fail on the hinges. I've already ordered one. Thanks for all the videos, I've learnt a lot from you.
Tom, this is some of the best informational entertainment one can find on the web. Plugs v dowels? Had used both, but without the in-depth knowledge you imparted. Will see furniture and the world differently because of you. Bravo!
Thank you! That's nice
Looking excellent so far Tom. Thats a great tip for the screw holes. Looking forward to part two.
Thanks!
I have been watching your videos for a long time now but I think I learned more today than usual. Thanks again for sharing Tom and looking forward to part 2.
You're welcome! Great to hear!
Thank you for not having music on your videos. I just enjoy the sounds of you working.
Thanks! me too! I want people to realize this is a shop!
Great lesson on why dowels don’t hold screws well Tom. I like how you took the time to slice open the screw hole to show what’s happening on the inside. Well done! Scott
Thanks Scott! Rewatching I wish I had done a better job, but everyone seems to understand and appreciate it
Wow! One hell of a lot of work Young Thomas! Great all the same! Look forward to Part 2! (Hope you and all your family are keeping well!)
Thank you Sir! Yes, we're doing fine - I hope the same for you!
Nooooo... I can't wait for part II. This one is pretty interesting. I especially liked the explanation between using a plug or a dowel. I would have just used a dowel thinking I just need to give the screw something to bite, but the explanation really made me understand why a plug is better in this instance.
Thanks! I'm glad everyone liked that
Laying down a history of yourself. Bravo!
Thanks!
Thanks again for these videos. As an on and off again home refinisher, repairer of 50 years, I ALWAYS learn something new!
Thanks! (me too!)
"Pretty good" work. And I had never thought of the grain difference between a plug and a dowel.
Thanks! Yes, it can make a difference
Just noticed the packaging… you have good taste in single malt Scotch! Laphroaig!
Don't forget to go online and apply for your square foot of peat bog at the distillery!!
@@thomasnichols7788 I guess by now I "own" somewhere in the region of an acre… Just kidding. BTW Too bad they changed the points system into something incomprehensible. Too much of a hassle.
@@bertv1205 Interesting. Must be a US programme; here in the UK you just buy the whisky. Maybe they are afraid that people from 'down South' will actually go to Scotland to collect... 😄
The best! I can't wait to go to Scotland!
Definitely!
What a wonderful surprise! A gloomy rainy day in Louisiana, but I find your new posting, grab myself a cup of coffee, settle in, and then proceed to enjoy your company! Thank you!
You're welcome! Sounds great!
Had a crap day and was wound up -then saw that Tom had posted a video. Man - your videos should be certified as relaxation therapy. Great video -waiting for part2 and today seems Sooo much better.
Thanks! That is so great!
Q.What to buy the woodworker in your life. A. Clamps - No such thing as too many.
Yes! I think I should ask for those for Christmas.
It's all about the clamps!
When I saw that this was a forty-four minute video, I thought 'Oh no - I will lose interest' since I have a short attention span when it come to DIY videos. I should have known better. Forty-four minutes just flew by and I wanted it to continue to completion. I guess my attention span is selective. Great enjoyable work. Your partner isn't the only one drooling waiting for part 2.
Thanks! That's great. I'm the same way - I'm glad my videos are different. I find a big difference between watching on my desk top, and watching on TV. I can last a lot longer when it's on the TV
It is fascinating to watch you dismantle and repair the leaves, table top and old hinge screw holes. Glad to see you are so safety conscious with heavy rubber gloves and breathing protection from nasty chemicals, and that the shop quality inspector was put outside and the shop floor was mopped to remove acid crystals etc. for canine tootsies. I look forward very much to chapter two of the elegant table's rebirth.
Thanks! I'm glad you appreciated all that
I like the longer format, multi part episodes. Thank you. When I havr a hole that absolutely cannot go any deeper than I want, I make a drill stop out of a dowel or some other scrap. I cut it to length and drill thru with what ever bit Im using and let it bump up into the chuck. Ive had a bit grab in the last 64th and suck thru when using the marker tape method and it makes for a bad day.
And for a second bad day when explaining to the owner...
Thanks! Good tip. You're going to be sweating bullets no matter what!
Oh yeah! Luckily on a top like this, it's been drilled and nailed through so many times it's not as nerve racking as a new top!
Tom, I appreciate you taking the time to make these videos for us. I wish I had met you or someone like you in my younger days to mentor me. This video covered a lot of issues that you run into when repairing antique furniture, it was one of your best. I hope that you have a young apprentice that will carry on with your wealth of knowledge. By the way, did you make the knife that you carry on your belt? Thanks again Tom and God Bless.
Thanks! I appreciate it! Well, my videos are doing a good job of passing it on. I usually carry a knife that my daughter made, currently has a sheath problem I've got to repair. The knife you see now was made by H. Roselli in Italy
I was interrupted and sent my msg early. This is my part 2 I guess, Tom. There is an elegance in the simplicity of many very old pieces. I also find the mix of "exquisite" in the parts which show, and the somewhate "crude" in some places unseen, to be delightful. If you can say... what would a piece like this one be worth in an antique shop today? Always impeccable, your work, Tom. ...Barry
Sadly brown furniture is worth just a fraction of what it was in the 80-90’s. Some real bargains out there.
@@bill90405 Thank you... Barry
Thanks! I honestly have no idea what the value would be. William Schleicher is correct
Yes, thanks! sadly, it's true. I wish I was buying furniture instead of needing to get rid of it!
I’m 64 years old and you have taught me SO much. Your tips aren’t just useful for furniture but also for house interior wood work. Thank you so much for the continuing education.
You're welcome!
I could not believe that was 45 minutes ... it went by much too quick !
Amazing work !
That's great! Thanks!
Why this guy doesn’t have half-a-million subscribers is beyond me
Maybe its about his settings in CZcams and the ads etc.More ads more settings to the liking of CZcams and you get more people to see you.
Me too! Thanks!
Yeah, I haven't really gotten into all that stuff - I definitely don't want more commercials
I have watched every episode, some many times, and I somehow don't know the wonderful doggies name? 🧡
A viewer below said that her name is Ella (b.w.highness) She is adorable!
@@juadonna Thank you! She is a fantastic dog 🧡 So patient and thoughtful 🧡
Yes! Ella Bean! Thanks
Yes! Thanks! I think so too!
You always have the bestest toys.
Oh yeah! Thanks!
I wonder, do your clients watch your videos? If I were a client, I would not only feel confident, but would feel so excited to have you as the person to restore my precious belongings. You are my guru!
Thanks! Yes, they do! That's one of the best things about the videos. When someone enquires about a job and I can send a video of me doing a similar job
44:04 Clearly you got the good old dog to look at the camera with a treat. How do I know? The drool!
Oh the drool! Not all the time, but if there's food.....
It looks a little like an Irish coffin table. A dining table which could be used for a wake. The coffin would be placed on the table with the table leaves down and the wake would be held.
I think it's a bit short for a wake table, at 5' or so (and as far as I know wake tables were elongated oval rather than almost round - so that the leaves would not drag on the ground when dropped), but it's the same general shape. Lovely wood and foot shape (now, _that_ is quite Irish!)
Thanks! I have not heard of those!
Thank you! I've been hoping for input as to age and area. I don't know about Irish furniture
A carpentry lesson, a cute dog, a cliff-hanger? this video has it all!
Thanks! I like that!
You explained and showed us in real simple terms what we need to know about the Plugs & Dowels. I never gave much thought as to why the plug was better. I was just taught that it was. Thank you again Tom for these wonderful videos.
You're welcome! Thanks for watching!
Same Bat time , same Bat channel, we’ll see what Thomas does next.
The suspense is killing me!
The shop foreman who likes to lick his feet , gave his approval at the video end . Good Job ..
Dawg
Thank goodness!
Oh yeah! Top dawg!
Another beautiful job Tom!!!
Thank you so much! 😀
So many things you showed me. The top cut out of the stripper can, the difference between a dowel and a plug, and cutting the end off the screws-a big job. I thought you would lose it on getting the table to the floor, but of course not. I can't wait for the finish. Thank you for a wonderful 45 minutes of joy.
You're welcome! Yes, the table move was scary
Really. A cliffhanger. I didn’t see that coming. Lol. Always enjoy your videos but this one stressed me a little. I really wanted to jump in there and help you out with that table.
Yeah, I could have used the help! Thanks!
The oil used that has no smell, could that be butcher block oil ( Like Ikea has ), it does not smell ( and you can lick your feet after walking in it). I find it hard to get of furniture when its mixed with wax.
Again being picky, but of or off? Otherwise thanks for your comment - helpful.
Yes, thanks. I was thinking raw linseed oil. We'll never know!
Who would have thought that at this stage of my life my greatest anticipation would be for Episode Two of "The Great Drop Restoration"? Your ingenuity intrigues, and your wit amuses................and your finished projects amaze! Thanks for sharing this particular restoration.........
You are so welcome! Who ever thought that at my age I'd be making videos for CZcams!
You cannot know what the future holds
YT algorithm working over time and suggesting this video. Expected only to watch a few mins and move on but found it really quite interesting and watched the whole thing. Thanks!
You're welcome! That is gratifying!
Before watching this channel I never understood the value or necessity of clamps.
It's all about clamping!
Did I spy you using Gilboy's furniture wax on that leg? A good old English company.
Yes! Great products!
@@johnsonrestoration I use their polishes as well. Really helpful people.
If I weren't 7000 km away, I would volunteer to come and work as an apprentice close to you, doing all the hard work. Period
Thank you! I needed some help with that last move!
I've been struggling with clamps for a long time. The idea of using a large spring clamp to hold things in place, then clamping is brilliantly simple...thank you Tom.
You're welcome! I don't know what I'd do without spring clamps. They really are that extra hand you need sometimes
I wonder where he got ahold of xylonic acid.
I asked Tom about this before. I believe it’s oxalic acid, he pronounces differently.
@@nigelm5777 Right you are, and it's available on Amazon. Thanks! Not sure we can blame this on Tom, I'm guessing the best I can, but my spelling is suspect.
@@nigelm5777 Oxalic - definitely. Can be found easily in chemical supplies stores, and as easily but much more expensively in woodworking stores.
Thanks! I get it from Hood Finishing Products
Yes, thanks!
Thanks John. New lesson learned!!
Warm greetings from Madrid (Spain)
You're welcome!
This channel so relaxes me, on a Friday that's a good thing
Perfect! Thanks!
I want to thank you for taking the time to teach us about dowels and plugs. I learn new things every time I watch your videos.
It was funny when you were mopping the floor and said someone might walk in bare foot and then lick their feet, I laughed out loud, because before you said lick their feet, I thought why would someone walk barefoot in a workshop?? Duh🤔that handsome four legged fellow 😁
Yes! Thanks! That left a lot of people wondering
Thank you for another information packed enjoyable video. I can’t wait for part two!
Glad you enjoyed it! Thanks!
You Sir do awesome work. Love watching your videos from start to finish
Thanks!
@@johnsonrestoration you’re welcome Sir
When I saw the wallowed screw holes under the hinges I thought "I would fix those with Plugs", but you already knew that. All of my best Ideas were stolen by those who went before me. Thanks for the video. Can't wait for part two.
Thanks! I like that! I will use it!
This was a treat to watch. Thank you sir!
You're welcome! Glad you enjoyed it!
Thought this was going to be a boring episode, but was really informative. Thanks.
You're welcome!
I have waited for your next video and boy I wasn't disappointed, good job your a body builder on the side, it looked like we are not the only ones waiting with tongues hanging out for part 2.
Thanks! Although that last move looked pretty bad!
I am learning a lot from this project...can´t wait for the second part, thanks!
You are welcome!
another great master class looking forward to part 2 thank you Mr Johnson hope ya all well and safe
Thanks, you too!
Love the longer format!! So entertaining and educational. Thank you!
You're welcome! Glad you enjoyed it!
Enjoy watching you work. Will be waiting for part two😍
Thanks! Coming soon!
A very special new episode! A kind of masterpiece of wisdom (as usual) Thank you very much Thomas!
You're welcome!
I’m in awe of your talent, skill and artistry once again.
Thank you!
Oh wow, this video was AWESOME!! So much detail and so many skillful tips were shown. Terrific!! Can't wait for part two. Love the table. Can already see it surrounded by Windsor chairs and set with pewter dishes. Woot!
Thanks so much!!
Wow, that poor table has seen a lot in its years. Thank you for bringing it back to service and giving us an amazing education along the way!
Thank you! Glad you enjoyed it
I loved the end. Can’t wait!
The suspense.......
I really enjoyed the longer video and format! Thank you!
You're welcome! Glad you enjoyed it!
Thank you. Always a joy to watch this & learn something new.
You're welcome!
The lesson on dowels vs plugs was superb, but the bit that pushed this over the edge was Bella (?) dribbling in the promo section at the end. Fantastic.
Thanks! Yes, once she knew there were treats involved the waterworks opened up!
Always such a joy to see you working on genuine 18th c. antiques !
Thanks!
Yay. Double the pleasure. Double the fun. Double feature. I’m usually impatient, but I’m not even mad.
That's great! Thanks!