Rescued from the Rainy Roadside

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  • Опубликовано: 20 ноя 2024
  • Tom Johnson of Thomas Johnson Antique Furniture Restoration in Gorham, Maine fully restores this 19th century antique chest of drawers that had been left by the side of the road in the rain. Tom has been restoring furniture professionally since 1979. Visit our website at www.thomasjohns...,, 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).

Комментарии • 3,4 тыс.

  • @chrisnicholls6898
    @chrisnicholls6898 9 месяцев назад +515

    I wonder - doesn’t everyone in Gorham, Maine know that if they leave a 19 Century chest of drawers out in the rain, Tom Johnson will make it whole again? Another wonderful video. Thank you!

    • @98Zai
      @98Zai 9 месяцев назад +56

      Legend has it that if you leave an old chair out in the rain on the night of a full moon, a sorcerer will come by and enchant it!

    • @johnsonrestoration
      @johnsonrestoration  9 месяцев назад +48

      They must have figured that out by now!

    • @johnsonrestoration
      @johnsonrestoration  9 месяцев назад +25

      Yes, so true!

    • @hellyeaOU812
      @hellyeaOU812 9 месяцев назад +32

      can you imagine the person thst threw this out ? they are probably kicking themselves

    • @CarlaMWard-
      @CarlaMWard- 9 месяцев назад +13

      @@johnsonrestoration But what is the estimated value of the item ? G'day from Australia

  • @carriesilvinaespinozavilla5177
    @carriesilvinaespinozavilla5177 8 месяцев назад +25

    Im the academic department assistant fir the Cabinetry and Furniture Technology Dept. at Palomar College, Escondido Ca. Your fabulous videos should be used in classes. Furniture restoration is the foundation of knowledge.

  • @Bobbyj438
    @Bobbyj438 9 месяцев назад +220

    The fact that you kept it out of a landfill and saved a piece of history makes it invaluable.

  • @carriebtc
    @carriebtc 9 месяцев назад +333

    After 1,363 comments written before me, I don't expect mine to be read by you, but, I feel compelled to say, how honored I am to be a witness of the amazing work of a true artist of furniture making. Thank you so much for sharing the detailed process of your meticulous craft. The best for you always sir. Cheers

  • @lukafilm
    @lukafilm 9 месяцев назад +169

    Probably my favorite restoration to date! No client, just done out of pure love for furniture and craft. Perfection!

  • @jodirauth8847
    @jodirauth8847 Месяц назад +11

    This dresser was saved from the landfill or someone's burn pile. Now it is a beautiful restored old growth American furniture piece from the first 50 years of USA. The fact it has survived all those decades is amazing. You have with your extensive experience and hard work and knowledge restored this dresser to a very beautiful antique that anyone should and would be proud of to use in their home.

    • @johnsonrestoration
      @johnsonrestoration  Месяц назад +1

      Thank you Jodi! Well said! I am so glad I was able to save it. Though not valuable, I think it represents our history as much as any museum piece

  • @panders55
    @panders55 9 месяцев назад +18

    Just goes to show you, you can't have too many clamps. Beautiful Restoration Thomas.

  • @pamsheets632
    @pamsheets632 9 месяцев назад +155

    Mr Johnson, it's amazing to watch you transform furniture! You're definitely the master! I'm so glad you rescued this chest! Beautiful, stunning job 😊❤

    • @jo-annegreen3173
      @jo-annegreen3173 9 месяцев назад +4

      Ditto.

    • @johnsonrestoration
      @johnsonrestoration  9 месяцев назад +4

      Thanks!

    • @HighPeakVideo
      @HighPeakVideo 9 месяцев назад +4

      I think it looks pretty amazing!

    • @cynthiakammann7368
      @cynthiakammann7368 9 месяцев назад +2

      It's an amazing result, and you make it look so easy... Which only proves your level of expertise. Too much of this furniture is ending up in landfills.

  • @toddylu6869
    @toddylu6869 9 месяцев назад +33

    I just have to comment that this has to be the luckiest piece of furniture on Earth. To be found wasting in rain and then picked up by Mr. Johnson, completely repaired and placed in a beautiful home. As a retired nurse...this is like being far away from home, needing an emergency surgery...luckily the best surgeon in the country is visiting his niece who admitted you. He finds you, fixes your issues and restores you to return home to loved ones. This was a great video!

    • @johnsonrestoration
      @johnsonrestoration  8 месяцев назад +3

      Thanks! Yes, it is amazing. I hate to think of all the pieces that aren't saved in time

  • @iakwia
    @iakwia 9 месяцев назад +110

    I swear, wood turning is a form of magic. Watching you turn those legs was amazing.

    • @johnsonrestoration
      @johnsonrestoration  9 месяцев назад +1

      Wow, thank you! I love turning

    • @iakwia
      @iakwia 9 месяцев назад +2

      @@johnsonrestoration I've always wanted to try it. From watching and looking at the finished turns, it seems to take a gentle touch, an artist's eye, and a mathematician's precision. Then you have to duplicate all of that. I'm thinking that must be the hard part - the duplication.

    • @marykayryan7891
      @marykayryan7891 9 месяцев назад +1

      Yes. You, Tom are an artist in so many ways, but your turnings are sure one of them.

    • @schoensangalli6972
      @schoensangalli6972 7 месяцев назад

      Mesmerizing indeed.

  • @rjcvintage1027
    @rjcvintage1027 9 месяцев назад +104

    A customer was watching me fix veneer on a similar piece recently, and asked me who taught me to do it. I said, "Thomas Johnson, of course". I totally meant it, you influence a lot of my restorations and I am very grateful. Thanks Tom.

    • @johnsonrestoration
      @johnsonrestoration  9 месяцев назад +14

      Wow, you are so welcome. I consider it high praise coming from a fellow tradesperson!

  • @alcord2540
    @alcord2540 8 месяцев назад +17

    As a small boy i watched my grandfather in his shed at weekends.He was a builder/carpenter by trade.His hobby was cabinet making and he was meticulous like you.All his tools were hand tools.No electric drills,no circular saw and various hand planes.He made some very good furniture and i have several pieces he made.I have worked in engineering until i retired an have good hand skills on metal plus multiple machine tool knowledge.I do make and repair wooden items but not on your or his level.Your demonstration brought back fond memories.Thankyou.

    • @johnsonrestoration
      @johnsonrestoration  8 месяцев назад +2

      You're so welcome! Thanks for sharing those memories. I'm so glad you have some of his pieces! Be sure to write the history of each piece and attach it

  • @bethcrane5780
    @bethcrane5780 9 месяцев назад +56

    This lovely elderly lady has been on quite a journey. Beautiful restoration. Wouldn't the original craftsman who cut those dovetails, be justifiably proud of how they stood up to time, use and weather. It's been beautifully restored so following generations can appreciate craftsmanship. Thanks for sharing with us.

    • @johnsonrestoration
      @johnsonrestoration  9 месяцев назад +8

      You're welcome! I always think about the people who built it

  • @statewench2828
    @statewench2828 9 месяцев назад +114

    Thomas you are too humble. You took a ragged thrown out piece of history and gave her a new life! Honestly, I love you for what you did. Those people that want to complain have no beauty in their own lives and go around making others miserable just so they have company.

    • @jerrygillette854
      @jerrygillette854 9 месяцев назад +9

      Thomas, you did an absolutely amazing job on this chest of drawers. The veneer work on the drawer fronts turned out beautifully. Nice of you to save this piece from the trash heap.

    • @johnsonrestoration
      @johnsonrestoration  9 месяцев назад +1

      So true! I like that! Thanks

    • @johnsonrestoration
      @johnsonrestoration  9 месяцев назад +1

      Thanks!

    • @jimzucker
      @jimzucker 9 месяцев назад +2

      i like him because he is humble ;)

    • @aaronadams5953
      @aaronadams5953 9 месяцев назад +1

      All I can say is that’s amazing. Please do more of these projects!

  • @travelbugse2829
    @travelbugse2829 9 месяцев назад +51

    My late father used to repair and renovate old grandfather clocks. He would staple a typewritten card at the back detailing his work, with some background, and the date. Why not do the same? In another 200 years the chest of drawers will be worth a fortune! Best wishes from London UK.

    • @johnsonrestoration
      @johnsonrestoration  9 месяцев назад +15

      Thanks! Yes, I know I should. I don't have an explanation for why I haven't been doing that!

    • @tedtimmis8135
      @tedtimmis8135 9 месяцев назад +6

      That’s a great idea!

    • @hj179
      @hj179 9 месяцев назад +7

      My father used to make reproduction grandfather clocks from old ornate worn out pianos and new mechanisms.

    • @travelbugse2829
      @travelbugse2829 8 месяцев назад +1

      @@hj179 We had a quote last year for the grandfather clocks my sister and I inherited. They are worth very little these days in the UK - a typical Victorian one is worth maybe £150 in London, or $190.😒

    • @caroleast9636
      @caroleast9636 8 месяцев назад +4

      Definitely worthwhile A simple act like that is golden for a future historian. Let’s hope that this piece lives on in the custody of someone else who appreciates it.

  • @knottyal2428
    @knottyal2428 9 месяцев назад +51

    Once again, it's clamp city and Old Brown Glue time! This is a wonderful example of Thomas and his knowledge and skills in the resurrection of a roadside wreck.
    Yes sir, it looks pretty good!

    • @jamesthompson8133
      @jamesthompson8133 9 месяцев назад +1

      Yep! When he says looks pretty good it’s game over!

    • @johnsonrestoration
      @johnsonrestoration  9 месяцев назад +7

      Thanks! I want to make a video called "Clamp City"

    • @johnsonrestoration
      @johnsonrestoration  9 месяцев назад +3

      Oh yeah!

    • @knottyal2428
      @knottyal2428 9 месяцев назад +3

      Thank you Thomas, for your remarks and craftsmanship.
      My wife says clamps are like handbags(purses), you can never have too many!

  • @maggiesue4825
    @maggiesue4825 9 месяцев назад +39

    Furniture snobs may turn up their noses if they wish, but this is a lovely piece of furniture that you have brought back to life!!

    • @johnsonrestoration
      @johnsonrestoration  9 месяцев назад +1

      Yes! Thanks!

    • @meepenjaap7999
      @meepenjaap7999 9 месяцев назад +1

      Not sure why you say this. I am a true furniture snob and purist of the highest order when it comes to restoring and refinishing furniture and his work is masterful.

    • @MrWolfSnack
      @MrWolfSnack 8 месяцев назад

      I think the issue of value goes out the window once someone takes an antique piece, throws it to the curb for the garbage truck to crush it, and it sits in the rain for weeks, warping apart beyond all comprehension. By that point it would never hold any value again at all due to all the water damage and/or insects, so it's fair game to take "artists liberties" with it. @@meepenjaap7999

  • @kathyjames9250
    @kathyjames9250 2 месяца назад +3

    Your investment of time and care has re-established usefulness in this quietly lovely piece, it’s like a dog without papers, still worthwhile and lovable.

    • @johnsonrestoration
      @johnsonrestoration  2 месяца назад +1

      Thanks Kathy! I love the "dog without papers" reference! I will use that if you don't mind

  • @jand7782
    @jand7782 9 месяцев назад +27

    Only a master furniture restorer and historian could recognize the actual value of the hopeless pile of trash left by the side of the road and then bring it back to its former glory. Beauty from ashes. Nicely done.

  • @victoriavillegas5
    @victoriavillegas5 9 месяцев назад +10

    Beautiful job Mr Johnson.

  • @RamonVisagie-s1o
    @RamonVisagie-s1o Месяц назад +2

    thank you for saving this piece

  • @michaelhenderson5683
    @michaelhenderson5683 9 месяцев назад +45

    From roadside wreck to a thing of beauty. You worked your magic one again. 👏👏👍
    Antique furniture purists , eat your heart out😊

  • @Ecila-Samerberg
    @Ecila-Samerberg 9 месяцев назад +12

    Always looking forward to Friday and your Videos Mr. Johnson. You'd doing great work. Best wishes from Germany Alice

  • @brittassss
    @brittassss 9 месяцев назад +31

    RUclips has so much ..... garbage, but Tom Johnson never disappoint. Insightful and quality every single time.

    • @johnsonrestoration
      @johnsonrestoration  9 месяцев назад +1

      Thank you! That's very nice!

    • @time4clocks
      @time4clocks 9 месяцев назад +2

      I heartily agree with that statement!!

    • @peter-pg5yc
      @peter-pg5yc 9 месяцев назад +2

      he is quiet soft spoken lets his work shine thru..and boy does it ever

  • @dajohnnyboy
    @dajohnnyboy 9 месяцев назад +19

    Destined for landfill and brought back to life with sensitivity and understanding. Shows why you are a master of your art. Outstanding.

  • @marthapuccio5885
    @marthapuccio5885 9 месяцев назад +16

    Thank you for making these videos. I thoroughly enjoy watching them.

  • @laurelkirkham117
    @laurelkirkham117 9 месяцев назад +17

    WOW, WOW, WOW!!! All I can say is you are a master craftsman! To any naysayers that have heartburn over refinishing this antique, this baby was headed to the dump. This was an absolute rescue of epic proportions. Well done sir!

  • @goofe.washington953
    @goofe.washington953 9 месяцев назад +31

    I know I’m not the only one who thinks this, but geezum this is so interesting and calming…almost zen.

    • @panos3051
      @panos3051 9 месяцев назад +2

      Quite correct. And it's because master Tom has unlimited patience and, more importantly, the utmost respect for every piece of furniture he touches.

    • @goofe.washington953
      @goofe.washington953 9 месяцев назад

      Good comment@@panos3051

    • @johnsonrestoration
      @johnsonrestoration  9 месяцев назад

      Thanks! I try not to talk

    • @johnsonrestoration
      @johnsonrestoration  9 месяцев назад

      Thank you! I do! I don't know why, thanks to my parents?

    • @buckywill9322
      @buckywill9322 9 месяцев назад +3

      Was that a shop cat I saw? Just visiting or a temporary shelter from the cold?
      Another great video sharing your knowledge and skill. Very enjoyable!

  • @derrickstorm6976
    @derrickstorm6976 9 месяцев назад +45

    At the end of the day people buy antiques to brag about them to their rich friends, and people buy old beautiful pieces like this to enjoy and admire them. So kudos to you Tom for, "restoring" this one to it's golden days!

    • @johncraske
      @johncraske 9 месяцев назад +2

      derrickstorm6976 To be fair, rich people also buy antique furniture because they like them, even if they get the added bonus of showing off the pieces to their friends.
      I have always bought antique furniture - the majority from 1820 -1860. Why? I find the pieces attractive, they are made from solid wood, they have a history and - even more important - they tend to be far cheaper than their modern equivalent. Particularly if one buys at auctions.
      Plus, of course, if I decide to sell any item after a few years, there's every chance I will get my money back. Which is clearly not the case if I were to buy from an expensive shop selling contemporary furniture.

    • @michaelpage7691
      @michaelpage7691 9 месяцев назад +1

      From the scrap heap to beautiful useful piece of chest of drawers. When are the young going to realise that chipboard furniture won’t last. Great job. 👏🇦🇺😁

    • @mm9773
      @mm9773 9 месяцев назад

      This refers to the idea that furniture made after a certain era is essentially “worthless” for collectors (also depending on the condition, of course). The point here is not that younger pieces aren’t properly appreciated, the point is that you’re losing out very bigly when you put 50 hours of work into a piece that won’t sell for thousands of dollars. Is it still worth it? Of course - you spend a week rebuilding a wonderful piece, and you get to enjoy it for the rest of your life; it just wouldn’t be good business.

    • @johnsonrestoration
      @johnsonrestoration  9 месяцев назад

      Thanks! True! people love to tell their friends what something is "worth". Road Show's assesments make me crazy

    • @johnsonrestoration
      @johnsonrestoration  9 месяцев назад

      Thanks! Yes, same here, most of our furniture is mid to late 19th century

  • @mab49696
    @mab49696 7 месяцев назад +1

    Beautiful
    Beautiful
    I just noticed that you said the top was pine, wow, i never considered that a cabinet could nice if made from different wood, mahogony, pine walnut and cherry feet
    Beautiful
    You rescued this piece from where so much of our history is destined, unappreciated
    I hope it survives another 200 years, maybe longer

    • @katrussell6819
      @katrussell6819 7 месяцев назад

      Old furniture pieces often have mixed woods in them. They used what they had.

    • @johnsonrestoration
      @johnsonrestoration  7 месяцев назад

      Thank you! Yes, they mixed wood, but it was all stained to look more or less the same

    • @johnsonrestoration
      @johnsonrestoration  7 месяцев назад

      Thanks! Yes, true! Sometimes by design

  • @MOLLIMEDIA
    @MOLLIMEDIA 9 месяцев назад +7

    You can see the beauty in abandoned furniture. I love your patience and positive energy. :)

  • @eileennacsin4680
    @eileennacsin4680 9 месяцев назад +39

    A true diamond in the rough that not many could see. Thank you Tom for having the knowledge, skills, and supplies to bring it back to life!

    • @judithburke1539
      @judithburke1539 9 месяцев назад

      He really has a way of turning what some consider trash into treasure. Thank you for taking us on this journey with you 🥰👏☺️!

    • @johnsonrestoration
      @johnsonrestoration  9 месяцев назад +1

      You're so welcome!

    • @johnsonrestoration
      @johnsonrestoration  9 месяцев назад +1

      You're welcome!

  • @rossl2344
    @rossl2344 8 месяцев назад +1

    Tom, that was a great find and just in the Knick of time. A wonderful restoration. Great work! Thanks for uploading it 😃

  • @tombaker3794
    @tombaker3794 9 месяцев назад +25

    Sir, you said you think it looks pretty good, I say it is fantastic. I make furniture as a hobby for family, and I've learned a huge amount of information on furniture construction, coloring & finishing from your videos. Your videos are exceptionally descriptive in the procedures used, the how's, and why's. Thank you for taking the time to provide these tutorials, you are a most generous man, as well as an expert in your field.

    • @johnsonrestoration
      @johnsonrestoration  9 месяцев назад +1

      Thank you! That is so nice, I appreciate you watching and commenting. Good luck with all your projects!

  • @bobpetti4841
    @bobpetti4841 9 месяцев назад +39

    This was a wonderful project. I can't imagine how any solid wood furniture could be considered worthless these days. Bringing that old chest of drawers back to life - such a worthwhile way to spend your time. Thank you for sharing with us.

  • @pamelaakapambo822
    @pamelaakapambo822 9 месяцев назад +2

    EXCEPTIONAL WORKMANSHIP !

  • @maurawhelan3530
    @maurawhelan3530 9 месяцев назад +13

    It does my heart good to see beautiful wood furn, esp an antique, saved from the trash. Ppl just don’t appreciate quality and craftsmanship so much anymore. Thank you for restoring this treasure! Have a lovely weekend greetings from so Fl.

    • @johnsonrestoration
      @johnsonrestoration  9 месяцев назад +1

      Thanks! Me too! I love saving objects from the landfill

  • @federicoprice2687
    @federicoprice2687 9 месяцев назад +11

    Another stunning restoration and conservation, but above all, a salvation!! It's heartwarming to see how you've resurrected a piece of history from certain destruction, and given it life again. Not only have you saved an item of interest, heritage and charm, but sensitively and meticulously respected the original joinery and materials. About 200 years ago it was a basic but essential piece of decent home furniture, and served it's purpose since then. Thomas, you've given it another lease of life and as a result of your skills and the modern conservation materials you've used, it will no doubt last even longer again. It has evolved from utilitarian to unwanted and now, under your craftsmanship, back to being a charming item that will no doubt be cherished, respected and much loved. Another wonderful job, another informative and educational account, another piece of our heritage saved from the scrapheap. Thank you Thomas, and bravo! Warmest greetings from UK. 👏 😊 🤗

  • @kevinbarrett9615
    @kevinbarrett9615 8 месяцев назад +5

    As someone who worked as a refinisher for 5 years in the 90’s, I can say you are a master of your craft, well done sir ! Bringing discarded pieces like this back to life must be very rewarding.

    • @johnsonrestoration
      @johnsonrestoration  8 месяцев назад +1

      Thanks! Only 5 years? I hope you are still doing some work on furniture!

    • @kevinbarrett9615
      @kevinbarrett9615 8 месяцев назад +1

      @@johnsonrestoration not really I’m a retired teacher, busy with some other pursuits but enjoy the videos.

  • @dougrobison1156
    @dougrobison1156 9 месяцев назад +11

    Well Thomas, that was yet another masterful bit of work! In my 20s (now 69) I saw the leg of an upside down wooden table in the dumpster of my sister apartment. I pulled out a small three legged tilt top table of walnut with a veneered top. One leg was missing and the veneer was lifted. I made a new leg, glued down the veneer and sprayed it with NC lacquer. I still have it today! As a project it was maybe 1 or 2 percent of your chest of drawers project here, but it did get pulled out of a dumpster for gosh sakes! Since then I have rescued many pieces as an amateur. I remain in awe of your talent and the fine fine work you do! All my best, Doug

    • @johnsonrestoration
      @johnsonrestoration  9 месяцев назад +2

      Thanks Doug! Saving pieces from the trash is the best!

  • @yolandaneely6431
    @yolandaneely6431 9 месяцев назад +15

    Dear Mr. Johnson, only a master can do what you do! Your find was a treasure!
    Greetings from California.

  • @petjunction411
    @petjunction411 Месяц назад +1

    Fantastic work. That piece looks amazing!

  • @speedracer2336
    @speedracer2336 9 месяцев назад +8

    Tom never fails to impress, just keeps getting better!

  • @jandavis1523
    @jandavis1523 9 месяцев назад +10

    Tom, the best restorations are of pieces found alongside a road. You have given this a new life as a treasured dresser that can be used for decades to come! Really enjoyed this, and your little tortoiseshell kitty is quite beautiful! 😊

  • @AliceGamble-e5o
    @AliceGamble-e5o 8 месяцев назад +1

    I am glad I found this channel as I have a armoire I need to try to save. If yoy can save this fabulous roadside chest, then I need to be inspired. You are a wonderful teacher.😊

  • @barbkrienke8400
    @barbkrienke8400 9 месяцев назад +9

    I’m so happy that this chest found a person with the skills to make it beautiful again!!! If I had seen that on the side of the road, I would have thought it was hopeless!!

  • @jorisdemoel3821
    @jorisdemoel3821 9 месяцев назад +5

    A nice indepth look at a master craftsman's solution to so many problems, and a worthy and utilitarian piece repaired and put back into use.

  • @MrWolfSnack
    @MrWolfSnack 8 месяцев назад +1

    13:40 I am in awe at the amount of clamps needed just for this one corner alone. Now I know why people have so many of them!

  • @southernrrman
    @southernrrman 9 месяцев назад +6

    Not only are you a great restorer, you shoot an excellent video. Camera, lighting, editing, and easy listening without and-uh and all the fillers. A true master.

    • @johnsonrestoration
      @johnsonrestoration  9 месяцев назад +2

      Thank you! I do like the videography part of the job

  • @mrstandfast2212
    @mrstandfast2212 9 месяцев назад +170

    Ruined? RUINED???!!! It's an inspiration.
    You've saved it from landfill, tidied it from the roadside, recycled it into a useable piece of furniture, employed traditional and modern methods of work, used traditional and modern materials, utilised products from small companies who are trying to stay alive in the face of corporate giants, gained the satisfaction of what you've achieved, and helped to instruct and inspire the rest of us. So, it's far from ruined.
    Oh, and thanks for not covering it with chalk paint.

    • @alangknowles
      @alangknowles 9 месяцев назад +15

      Well the book says they are rubbish, and the last owner thought it firewood.
      But now it's got a new lease of life. And some real quirks that will delight a future furniture historian.

    • @maggiesue4825
      @maggiesue4825 9 месяцев назад +8

      Amen!!

    • @notfeedynotlazy
      @notfeedynotlazy 9 месяцев назад +6

      Yeah, no chalk paint. Everyone knows that the way to go with antiques is to lacquer them in white with Titan paints.

    • @eddygonzalez6018
      @eddygonzalez6018 9 месяцев назад +4

      Some people are clueless as to the value of what they have. Others, simply don't care. Although usually is more the former.

    • @johnsonrestoration
      @johnsonrestoration  9 месяцев назад +4

      Thank you! That is so beautifully said! I really appreciate it!

  • @vickiwood9192
    @vickiwood9192 9 месяцев назад +9

    Mr. Thomas, you not only teach furniture restoration techniques, but you also teach the history of furniture making and design. You are a valuable asset to anyone interested in these things. Thank you.

  • @markbuten1728
    @markbuten1728 9 месяцев назад +6

    Absolutely amazing. My favorite furniture has always been from the 1830s and 40s. Late Sheraton early empire or in Europe Biedermeier. It’s so wonderful to see you work and repair this piece. I wish I was 40 years younger and could be apprentice. Thanks for another great video.

  • @Englandfan91
    @Englandfan91 9 месяцев назад +5

    You are the best that could have happened to that piece of furniture. You rescued it and I don't understand how somebody could have thrown this out in the first place. Those feet are amazing. I don't care whether it has any value, it looks great. This is far better than modern mass produced furniture.

  • @ronaldcumpsty5605
    @ronaldcumpsty5605 2 месяца назад +1

    You certainly are a man up for a challenge. You really are amazing in what you manage to do with customers treasures and now a discarded piece too. I guess sometimes you just have to do a restoration for your own fun and no customer pressure. I hope your neighbour doesn't watch your videos... lol. I love the way you approach every piece you work on as if you were conducting brain surgery.

  • @elizabethhazel6039
    @elizabethhazel6039 9 месяцев назад +11

    I watch a lot of furniture restoration videos but have never come across Thomas Johnson before. WOW. He's the real deal.
    And he owns more clamps than any person on the planet. :)
    What a treat to witness this amazing transformation - beautifully done!

    • @johnsonrestoration
      @johnsonrestoration  9 месяцев назад

      Thank you! That's nice...

    • @boa1793
      @boa1793 9 месяцев назад

      Wow, that you haven’t heard of him! His number of clamps are nothing compared to his skill. I love how he works so slowly and carefully and then has all sorts of knowledge to solve all sorts of problems.

    • @billmcfadden7488
      @billmcfadden7488 8 месяцев назад +1

      Some of those clamps look like they've been trusted shop companions for a good long while!

    • @kennethbrown5720
      @kennethbrown5720 8 месяцев назад

      his daughter also does renovation, also talented try and watch her videos

  • @stevenkohl258
    @stevenkohl258 9 месяцев назад +5

    Sir you are a magician. I have learned so much from watching you. Who cares about value when you are saving a fine piece from the side of the road. Outstanding work

  • @adrianfbird
    @adrianfbird 8 месяцев назад +1

    Awesome job on that and you have a grand looking home for it to sit in…..top show I say 👍

  • @ricjamil3073
    @ricjamil3073 9 месяцев назад +5

    I think you did an amazing job in giving this piece a second chance to adorn someone's home. Great job!

  • @Jeff-uy8xg
    @Jeff-uy8xg 9 месяцев назад +9

    Pure artistry Tom, outstanding!!!!....Thank goodness some furniture-flipping chick with a Graco spray gun did not pick up this piece, drown it in wood filler, and paint it the obligatory sage green LOL.

    • @johnsonrestoration
      @johnsonrestoration  9 месяцев назад +5

      That made me laugh! Thanks! But I've watched some of these "chicks" do a damn fine job on what is used furniture, saving those pieces from a landfill

  • @pdbowman
    @pdbowman 8 месяцев назад +1

    Favorite part of this one is probably the fine dry delivery Tom gives that ‘hard data on the most recent transaction’ line he’s saved for the close.
    Keep ’em coming, Tom!

  • @skirtedgalleons
    @skirtedgalleons 9 месяцев назад +4

    My favorite video from you ever because I love how you took this out of the garbage and refinished it into something stunning. I feel your quiet pride in this one.

    • @johnsonrestoration
      @johnsonrestoration  9 месяцев назад +1

      Thanks! I am proud of it. I had no idea it would look so good!

  • @melissataylor5494
    @melissataylor5494 9 месяцев назад +4

    Thomas- this a wonderful restoration of this chest of drawers. I learn so much watching your videos. Thank you. You saved a bit of American history.❤

  • @Vavala3534
    @Vavala3534 8 месяцев назад +1

    Loving the detective work and the furniture history

    • @johnsonrestoration
      @johnsonrestoration  8 месяцев назад +1

      Thanks! Me too - I'm always learning something

    • @Vavala3534
      @Vavala3534 8 месяцев назад

      I learn a lot from your channel and it is always a pleasure@@johnsonrestoration

  • @allisonwoods6161
    @allisonwoods6161 9 месяцев назад +6

    Wow, wow. I wonder if the people who dumped this piece could see it now, would they have regretted their actions. Its a beautiful piece brought back to life by a man who just gently and methodically works his way through the entire piece showing respect and love for what he does. A truly beautiful piece in all its glory. Thank you 😊

    • @annt5410
      @annt5410 9 месяцев назад

      They would probably try to claim it again.

    • @johnsonrestoration
      @johnsonrestoration  9 месяцев назад +1

      Thank you Allison! That's my fantasy that somehow the people that threw it away will see the video "Hey! Wait a minute!"

  • @natsen04
    @natsen04 9 месяцев назад +4

    You are a master! ❤

  • @ellekewilms6891
    @ellekewilms6891 8 месяцев назад +1

    Fantastic work on a lovely piece of furniture! It was great watching the whole 'show', thank you. I appreciate how you explained everything you did so thoroughly The finished product looks beautiful.

  • @RobinRepairs
    @RobinRepairs 9 месяцев назад +8

    Tom you are the restoration wizard of Maine if not the world, nothing short of legendary. 50.59 minutes of Resto Bliss. Thank you once again.

    • @johnsonrestoration
      @johnsonrestoration  9 месяцев назад

      You're so welcome!

    • @panos3051
      @panos3051 9 месяцев назад

      Between “Maine” and “world” I definitely choose “world”. I follow several restorers on YT --naturally not the kind that “restores” by painting--, no one compares to master Tom.
      (And I hope you don’t mind my calling you “master Tom”, dear mr Johnson: I mean it with great respect and great affection.)

  • @stephenboots
    @stephenboots 9 месяцев назад +4

    "I think it looks pretty good." I love that understatement at each reveal in your videos, Tom. I don't think I've ever seen a transformation where the piece didn't look superb after your restoration magic! This chest is no exception -- it's a treasure now!

  • @heatherwalton9501
    @heatherwalton9501 7 месяцев назад +1

    I am a bit late to the party but felt it would be too rude not to comment given the amazing transformation l have just witnessed. I thought that piece of furniture was a gonner for sure - it looked so wrecked. An incredible range of skills needed to bring it back to life. You certainly got through some glue there - and clamps! I am guessing it probably took far longer to restore than it would have taken to make in the first place? What a labour of love - l am beyond impressed!

  • @davidc3808
    @davidc3808 9 месяцев назад +6

    Well done Tom. Whatever anyone says in a negative way about this restoration, you have actually brought back to life a piece that was on the way to the graveyard. Thanks for sharing you knowledge in this enjoyable video.

  • @annpotter5366
    @annpotter5366 9 месяцев назад +4

    I am always in complete awe watching you , Mr. Thomas , work your magic!! This one is no exception. The care you give to each and everyone of the pieces you bring back to life is amazing. My grandfather , father and two of my five brothers were cabinet makers and carpenters. I ,myself refinished furniture for my own home..(no paint).. I just turned 80 years young last month and did a desk and night stand for my 12 year old great granddaughter. They were mine from my home. She said she would pass them on to her children.

    • @johnsonrestoration
      @johnsonrestoration  9 месяцев назад +1

      That is so great! When you pass down a piece of furniture, be sure to write down everything you know about it and attach it inside. That way future generations will know it should be kept in the family (hopefully)

  • @deniseacebo9679
    @deniseacebo9679 8 месяцев назад +1

    OMG I LOVE IT! ❤ YOU ARE SUCH AN ARTIST!

  • @BrianDoherty-e8s
    @BrianDoherty-e8s 9 месяцев назад +5

    I like how you made it look just like it would had it been "lived with" normally rather than set out on the roadside. It still belongs to its era.

    • @johnsonrestoration
      @johnsonrestoration  9 месяцев назад

      Yes! Thanks! I always try to do that

    • @BrianDoherty-e8s
      @BrianDoherty-e8s 9 месяцев назад +1

      It's such a crime to see vehicles, houses, furniture, etc. "updated, modded, modernized." Their essential nature is lost and they look pimped out! This video is a classic in respecting the original nature of something.@@johnsonrestoration

  • @maryingham3516
    @maryingham3516 9 месяцев назад +4

    Can you believe how well the crotch mahogany veneer came out?! The bureau was worth saving for the veneer alone. It’s beautiful. You are amazing Mr Johnson.

  • @1492chris
    @1492chris 8 месяцев назад +1

    As a fellow restorer of 50+ years I commend your workmanship. Makes me want to find something to restore, thanks for the motivation.

    • @johnsonrestoration
      @johnsonrestoration  8 месяцев назад

      Thank you! Coming from a fellow tradesperson I take that as high praise

  • @sgwsteve1665
    @sgwsteve1665 9 месяцев назад +4

    The work you do is simply amazing. Thanks for sharing

  • @johnsrabe
    @johnsrabe 9 месяцев назад +4

    How good is Tom? He could restore my faith in humanity!

  • @marianparks2864
    @marianparks2864 9 месяцев назад +1

    Wow. You saved it!!

  • @Wisconsinite
    @Wisconsinite 9 месяцев назад +11

    While my husband was employed by the county highway department, he would find furniture “in the ditch” so to speak. Wisconsin is a newer state than Maine so our ditch treasures aren’t as old as what you get. Nor are they in as good of shape. He manages to see past the broken parts, the horrible finishes to see the potential finished piece. I refurbish/refinish them. Watching you work, I was happy to learn that most of what I do follows your techniques. Our home is furnished with “old attic”, “early rummage”, “dumpster”, and “ditch”. Old furniture is much sturdier than most of what you find new. My maternal great grandmother’s kitchen table, and my paternal grandmother’s chairs are back in use today. I look forward to each of your videos to see what treasure you will bring back to life.

    • @johnsonrestoration
      @johnsonrestoration  9 месяцев назад

      That's great! Our house is furnished much the same way! I'm glad that there are some workers who see the value and save these pieces

  • @bobmarrier4374
    @bobmarrier4374 8 месяцев назад +4

    I've Rescued a few antique pieces over the past 50 Years, every time I dust or Polish one of them, I can hear It whisper. Thank you. Imagine what this piece is saying to this guy.

  • @kathyw1710
    @kathyw1710 8 месяцев назад +1

    I truly enjoyed your video and you try to keep it as original as possible, the value of this piece is priceless. You worked on it would love it’s very obvious it’s worth it wait and gold for those of value a true original original piece of wood in their home today it’s all cracked wood Prestwood garbage so it is a nice piece and thank you for your video

  • @dansmith5524
    @dansmith5524 9 месяцев назад +3

    Here's my take on the "you ruined it's value as an antique" idea: If you have an antique chest-of-drawers that is worth $60,000 and restoring it will reduce it;s value to $40,000 then you don't restore it. If you have a chest-of-drawers that is worth $600 and restoring it will reduce it's value to $400 and it's more valuable to you or a customer as a usable piece of furniture then you restore it. Not every piece of old furniture is a priceless antique.

    • @johnsonrestoration
      @johnsonrestoration  9 месяцев назад +1

      Exactly! I work on furniture that everyday people actually use! Thanks

  • @simontravis7452
    @simontravis7452 9 месяцев назад +1

    I would go as far as silk purse from a sows ear, very good outcome for the chest of draws, well done it deserved to be saved.

  • @darink300zx
    @darink300zx 9 месяцев назад +1

    Most recent transaction history. lol. Love this channel.

  • @squiremc
    @squiremc 8 месяцев назад +1

    I absolutely love your method of dealing with the dry, cracked veneer on the drawer fronts!
    If I run into this I now know what to do. Thank you!
    Subbed with a smile on my face.
    Regards from Warragamba Australia.

    • @johnsonrestoration
      @johnsonrestoration  8 месяцев назад

      You're welcome! And welcome to the channel!

    • @squiremc
      @squiremc 8 месяцев назад

      @@johnsonrestorationThank you!

  • @LynneBaillie-d3j
    @LynneBaillie-d3j 7 месяцев назад +1

    Anyone who thinks that you have ruined the value of an antique isn’t worth listening to. You rescued a piece that was destined for the junk heap and did it in a fashion that is respectful of its history and preserved a lot of the patina of its age. The repair of the veneered drawer fronts is amazing.

    • @johnsonrestoration
      @johnsonrestoration  7 месяцев назад

      Thank you! That remark was for the appraisers on Road Show

  • @jenniferwhitewolf3784
    @jenniferwhitewolf3784 9 месяцев назад +1

    Wonderful recovery.

  • @annstrahlendorf2879
    @annstrahlendorf2879 9 месяцев назад +1

    Beautiful Work 👏👏👏👏👏👏👏

  • @redrufus444
    @redrufus444 8 месяцев назад +1

    Great Restoration.!! Brought the piece back from the trash pile and in use again..!! Bravo..!!

  • @charlesdowrick2075
    @charlesdowrick2075 9 месяцев назад +7

    As a retired cabinet maker,I can say,you did a fantastic job.

    • @johnsonrestoration
      @johnsonrestoration  9 месяцев назад +1

      Thank you! That means a lot to me, from a fellow tradesperson

  • @jefflang3572
    @jefflang3572 8 месяцев назад +1

    So your video showed up and I clicked on it and really enjoyed it. Obviously you enjoy your work and last time I used a lathe was in 8th grade shop. I still have my candlestick. It is an antique now ! Yes I have subscribed and hit the like button ! If you are interested in seeing great Aunt Roses living room desk/table that no one wants, it needs restoration ! My guess would be 1880s, used to be ornate

  • @melliW1
    @melliW1 8 месяцев назад +1

    I admire your work,
    you made a wonderful, beautiful dresser out of a piece of old throwaway wood.
    I subscribe to your channel because I want to see more of your unique work.
    thanks for sharing it with us.

  • @PawsAndKeys
    @PawsAndKeys 6 месяцев назад +2

    Those shots where he shows the materials and supplies used: priceless. So many repairs will be enabled by Tom's educational efforts. Yes he himself will fix many great things, but the rest of us will fix 100's times more furniture via his methods.

  • @dalecampbell8141
    @dalecampbell8141 9 месяцев назад +1

    Wow Tom, I thought even you couldn’t make this beautiful. Once again I was wrong. Wonderful job. I keep telling other furniture restorers to watch you and learn what they should be doing.

  • @Sharon-bo2se
    @Sharon-bo2se 8 месяцев назад +1

    Just found your channel. What a great save for the poor thing left in pieces outside. The new legs look very good and fit the proportions nicely. I agree about the top, good to save it and its history.
    Btw, your channel has very good resolution and the details are very clear.

  • @marstondavis
    @marstondavis 8 месяцев назад +2

    At long last, a man that calls it a 'Chest-of-Drawers' and not a 'Chester Drawers'. My mother would be proud of you. Great work. I like a man that does good work for the sake of the work alone. It looks like a million to me.

    • @johnsonrestoration
      @johnsonrestoration  8 месяцев назад

      Thank you! 😊 Someone commented "Chester Drawers", I had not heard that before. I like it!

  • @jwcinc12
    @jwcinc12 9 месяцев назад +1

    the clamp master. I enjoyed this a lot. I visited your lovely town of Gorham about 23 years ago for a family reunion. Maine has the best hotdogs and buns in my opinion. I have tried to buy the lobster roll style of hot dog bun locally and red snapper dogs, but just can't unless I order from there and shipped all the way to WA state.

    • @johnsonrestoration
      @johnsonrestoration  9 месяцев назад

      Thanks! Yes, when we lived in the DC area, we had to bring down a lot of those rolls whenever we visited New England! They grill so beautifully

  • @janetplanet09
    @janetplanet09 9 месяцев назад +1

    So much furniture produced today is particle board and plastic. I have furniture from my grandmother that is from the 30s and bulletproof. There are issues with the veneer and finish, but I’ve hauled this tall chest of drawers from Chicago to Atlanta to Boston to LA and back to Chicago and it only lost a bit of veneer on the bottom. You can’t even move a modern piece of furniture crosstown without it falling apart. (I lost the foot off a credenza just moving it from one floor of my apartment building to another!). Real wood furniture, while not museum quality, is still worth restoring. Thank you for tolerating my rant. ❤️

  • @ronnyrice697
    @ronnyrice697 9 месяцев назад

    Watched from start to finish and I have to say that you are an absolute amazing craftsman. Could not stop watching.

  • @meepenjaap7999
    @meepenjaap7999 9 месяцев назад +1

    Now that was a piece worthy of restoration and you did a great job. I think I can say from all of us that we'd all like to see more of your Tortie assistant!