Inspiration may arrive in a flash, but good design results from a thorough process of generating, testing, and refining ideas. With Jeff and Phil’s experienced guidance, students in this course hone their design skills by creating chairs from concept to completed prototype. Through lecture and demonstration, Jeff and Phil share design methods refined through decades of practice, plus a wealth of information about chair ergonomics and construction.
Instruction covers a wide range of chair-making techniques, including lamination bending, steam bending, template and jig-making, joinery for curved and angled components, and hand and pattern shaping. In developing their own designs, participants explore visual elements, structure, and comfort through drawing, mockups, and prototypes.
Jeff Miller is a furniture designer, craftsman, teacher, and author in Chicago, IL. His furniture has been shown in galleries and shows nationwide, has won numerous awards, and is in the Decorative Arts Collection of the Chicago History Museum. He writes frequently for Fine Woodworking and is the author of Chairmaking and Design (Linden Publishing, 2006) and its companion DVD Chairmaking Techniques (Taunton Publishing, 2008). Other books he has written include Beds (Taunton Press, 1999) and Foundations of Better Woodworking (Popular Woodworking Books, 2012). His website is furnituremaking.com
Philip Morley is a British-born furniture maker who initially trained in carpentry and joinery at London’s City & Guild program. In 2003, he moved to the U.S., where he served apprenticeships with furniture makers Richard Chillcott in Apollo Beach, Florida and Michael Colca in Driftwood, TX. Self-employed as a designer/maker since 2013, Phil also writes for Fine Woodworking. His extensive teaching experience includes Austin Community College and our own Nine-month Comprehensive, among other programs. Phil’s website is philipmorleyfurniture.com.
Open to solid-intermediate and advanced woodworkers.
Tuition: $1,900
