This is one of those pieces that, when you see it, you think: “Yep! Perfect for in the fireplace!” And then the Master starts his magic…..Wow! Just Wow!
Not me... I would think "I can definitely rescue this and make it mine forever" then it would sit and collect dust forever 😆 but I could never bring myself to toss it, I love this kind of furniture way too much.
In this throw away society, it is so reassuring to see some people cherish old pieces like this. You are so patient and methodical in putting this chest of drawers together. Shows what a true professional can do with what seems to be hopeless. Beautiful work.
Your fearlessness with these projects is very inspiring! That cabinet couldn't have come apart any further, but it had to be done! Also, I admire the collection of antique hardware you've amassed. You can never have too much of that stuff!
I always think of the people who built these pieces originally, never dreaming that some 130 years in the future it would still be around and being restored so impeccably and respectfully. Just stunning.
I would love to see the look on the owners face when they came to get it. They sent you a pile of firewood and you gave them back an heirloom. Masterful.
I love that the owners invested in saving this piece, with the structure being this damaged most wouldn't have bothered. You did a fantastic job! So glad I found your channel.
How satisfying to watch a craftsman bringing life back to a piece of furniture which has clearly seen better days. Sir, you maintained the integrity of this cabinet and now it can continue serving its purpose. Huge respect to you. Oh and good to see your 'old faithful' companion checking up on you occasionally. Happy 2020 and greetings from the UK.
As usual you are so modest! You took a basket case and rebuilt it into an heirloom to be cherished. You should be proud of your accomplishments and the fact that you stain glue blocks that will never be seen points to your wonderful work ethic, showing that you are truly a master craftsman . In this day and age, that is a true rarity, and perhaps your leading by example will encourage more people to return to our once proud traditions of craftsmanship. "Looks pretty good." Indeed.
Hi Thomas. I really loved your video about restoring a shattered leg on a card table. As an ex-furniture maker myself I can really appreciate your expertise and love of working with wood. You have a great manner and watching you work calmly and methodically on that table was so relaxing and enjoyable.
Excellent job. I would showcase it in my home any day. I am 70 yrs old, retired and do some woodworking as a past time. My father was a retired Master Cabinetmaker and I am sure he would have given this restoration a 'thumbs up'.
I loved watching you restore this dresser. My late father was a woodworker. He restored and repaired furniture for many people. I enjoyed your collection of clamps, sanders, parts. When we went through his workshop, we were amazed at all the little things he kept, just in case he needed them for another project. I wished I had videotaped him when he restored some of the pieces.
Superb and respectful craftsmanship. I very much enjoy watching your videos. My 95-year-old father was trained as a cabinet maker. I watched him work all through my childhood. Thank you!
@@peterpanassow7814 I love Tom's attention to detail, and his knowledge of how to color treat, stain, varnish, and polish wood. Craftsmanship and woodworking skills are still alive and well.
Your patience and your accuracy are like a beautiful piece of music. It is very relaxing to watch! Your work is amazing!!! Thanks for taking the time to share this with the world.
Just came from an old video of yours. So I checked for a recent one. Well what a treat! A mere 15 minutes ago you posted this. And I'm sure it will never get old!
You are an inspiration, Tom. I have a wood carving, 200 years old, 35x75cm (😉) and not cleaned for 40 years. Without you I would have left for a few more decades. But . . . I cleaned it patiently, with all the nooks and crannies. I also glued two pieces back into place. It was very dry. So I oiled it; I hardly recognize it! Second coat of oil going on tomorrow. I wish I had thought of a ‘before’ picture.
Seeing all of those nails reminds me of why I spend so much time designing the furniture I make to use precision joinery so that I never have to use a nail or screw with the exception of attaching a top from the bottom side with a few screws. It takes more thought and hand labor, but worth it. You have the patience and experience to work with these old pieces and that keeps this history alive.
You have such a respect for the wood and the original maker. I enjoy how you decode the idiosyncrasies of construction each time. Your own craft and aesthetic is exceptional and of course you help us to see it all with great videography and editing. Thank you for your dedication! 🙏
Sir, you are one very clever man. Your work always looks fantastic on completion. Your customers must be extremely happy with the finished item of furniture. Great video as well.
Yet another lovely video. I really like seeing minimal restorations like this one, I feel like you can really preserve the character of pieces like this. Any apprentices you have or had were likely very lucky having you as a teacher, as you have a great way of explaining while doing that really makes us feel a part of the process!
TOM?! Don't leave us hanging! Since you discovered a piece of the back wasn't missing, what was the message on the back? Happy New Year and great restoration!
Pedrick and Closson' which was in Lawrence Massachusetts during the mid 19th Century. Here is a link to a an advertisement. books.google.com/books?id=PWvlFXh1ecMC&pg=PA295&lpg=PA295&dq=closson+furniture+massachusetts&source=bl&ots=QHc6WscbJA&sig=ACfU3U1kUp5x44HVYKKqTxowi1ZDhxdhtQ&hl=en&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwja_ce1munmAhWWITQIHdFJAgQQ6AEwBHoECAsQAQ#v=onepage&q=closson%20furniture%20massachusetts&f=false
Thank you for making all your videos. You have inspired and thought me skills. I have been redoing antiques for our household and others. Fir the work I do, I ask what they feel it was worth, to donate that to their church or Salvation Army. Thanks you for the knowledge and inspiration!
when you come across nails or screws that have been in the wood for a long time they form a bond with the wood. I find the end of an electric soldering iron placed over the head expands the nail/screw breaking the bond then when it cools it easy to remove
Mr Tom, you have my utmost respect for the work that you do to "restore" furniture! When you say "restoration", that's exactly what you mean. Think more people needs to learn the definition of that word! I've watch videos where the title says "hutch restoration" and all they're doing is PAINTING a beautiful 1800 era piece of furniture and that makes my blood boil!!😳😂😂 oh well, I guess it's not always a bad thing and it's whatever makes them happy. Please keep doing what you do!! I've only watched one video but I'm completely and totally hooked!! Thank you!!
Having grown up in southern Louisiana listening to local folklore your cabinet brings to mind the story of Briar Rabbit and the Tar Baby. You fix one spot and then you find another until you have built a cabinet from kindling. Great job on the rehab. Watching your videos is like attending a class on classical furniture restoration. Your greatest lesson is patience in giving time for coatings to cure and giving a second coat rather than rushing the work. Thanks for what you do.
It's really nice to get a new video from you, Tom. I convinced my wife to watch with me today, and she and I really liked the way you handled all the problem areas on this piece. The surprise was the back side of the chest of drawers. It really did seem as if a piece had been missing! Naturally, you did your usual expert job on this Victorian chest, and I loved the way that you strengthened, replaced and recaptured the beauty in this antique. I hope that you and your family will enjoy a great and prosperous New Year! Happy 2020!
@@rustyaxelrod. Best year, so far, for a long time! Lockdown, for me, has been peaceful and productive. It’s kept most of the rats in their holes! I do understand that’s not the case for everyone, but you take what you can get. Only downside, a hoard of inconsiderate joggers huffing their way past, thinking they are the only ones who have a right to be outside, it got better when the gyms reopened, now they just splutter over each other! And me, I have it quiet again. (You won’t actually believe this, but I restored a ukulele, nearly a banjo😀)
I do restoration as well, and nothing crushes my soul as some beautiful mahogany or walnut piece of furniture that has been "upcycled" by application of white latex paint. SMH
It'd be interesting to see the owner's reactions to some of the more extreme restorations you do, not to boost your ego but to see how people react to a job well done.
You work with the wood with such precision and dignity …it is poetry in motion. You have as much respect for an old broken down piece of furniture as you do for the highly valued piece. It’s a pleasure to watch you work!!!
That was a wonderful restoration - the wood is so rich and glowing after the finish. Did you ever manage to decipher what was written on the cabinet back boards? Happy New Year and I'm looking forward to the next piece into which you breathe life again.
Another great job!!! What kind of wax did you use on marble top after you cleaned it. I have one I need to clean and wax. Tom you are a restoration magician!!! Really enjoy watching you figure out each issue.
I'm sitting here watching this and it just occurred to me that I am literally sitting here watching a mans glue dry, and I am totally engrossed. Nice job, I can't wait to watch the paint dry.
Hi Tom, I sure enjoyed watching you restore this Victorian chest and I have subscribed to your Channel. Every time I work sanding wood I always end up getting wood pulp or splinters underneath my fingernails. I noticed that you don't use any gloves. Do you ever have that same problem? I look forward to watching all of your videos..
From a broken down ugly duckling to a most beautiful swan that should last for many generations to come. Thank you Thomas once again for showing us just how much of a master craftsman you are. I can only imagine the joy you bring to the people who receive your restored items, well done sir.
I wish there were five or so teens watching ALL you do and apprenticing with you, because this kind of knowledge, skill and care should be handed down and spread far and wide. What an amazing piece. I love how you labeled each joint, created new side bottoms on the top drawer to replace the worn ones, filled in holes. I wonder what sort of animal made all those bite marks. Our son teethed on some old small pine end tables decades ago, but he sure didn't chew holes, just made little dents. Ha, ha. The family dog, squirrels, rats...who knows? Very interesting. What is the hot glue you use? Rabbit skin glue is something we learned about and used in my painting classes....we had a book with lots of ancient formulas for gessos, varnishes, etc. You created such a beautiful finish just by cleaning, light sanding and some oil. I bet that wood was thirsty after 100 years...
I'm sorry Tom, but I have to disagree with you.... This like all of your other restorations, doesn't look "pretty good"! This as all your other restorations, turned out BEAUTIFUL! Sir, you are much too modest! You are amazing! Happy New Year to you and your family... and thank you for sharing your talent with us in 2019... can't wait to see what else is in store for us in 2020! God Bless, much love to ya! ❤
Many folks would have thrown this piece in the trash. It’s nice to see how a little work and know how can preserve a piece of our past. What a beautiful piece of furniture it turned out to be. Great job. You always give me inspiration to try some things for myself.
This was fascinating to watch. Thank you! I have what I was told is a Victorian dresser and it has, again what I was told, Acorn and oak leaf drawer pulls. Again I was told they were made between the years 1868 to 1878. Thing about the dresser I LOVE is it has a hidden drawer. So well hidden I had the piece for about 10 years before I even realized this drawer was there. We were in a flood. Dresser did not get wet or damaged just a little mud on the feet I had to tip it upside down to clean it properly. Then I noticed some thing looked odd in the base. Some one had nailed the drawer shut with finishing nails. Over the 30 years I have had it we did do some back repairs. I wish I had watched this video prior to my clumsy attempt.
A video of you rummaging through your old parts drawers would be an absolute top shelf ASMR video. The few seconds you showed her in this video (the wooden scussions and casters) set the tingle-level to 11. Thanks Tom!
Once again another beautiful job. I enjoy watching these videos b4 I call it a night. Some people enjoy reading a good book, I’ll pass, I like watching restorations, furniture, tools just about anything.
Happy New Year to you and your family, Thomas. Greetings from Belgium, where 75 years ago Americans fought the battle of the Bulge against nazi Germany. They fought under very harsh conditions and lost a lot of men. We will never forget those who paid the ultimate price for our freedom. In the winter of 81'-82' I did my military service in the Ardennes, close to Bastogne. The cold is not a joke there.
I love the scratch sound and careful attention you put on the scraping of your furniture. So maticulice work it's amazing to me and the patience you have to see that your work is accomplish just right!
I want to thank you for all you are teaching us. This may seem strange, but I have been employeeing some of your clamps and techniques to solve a dilemma I have been wrangling with over the years. I restore old 1/25 scale models. In the late 50's and early 60's some were made of a vinyl material that has warped over the decades. I have watched your work building jigs and using clamps to secure glued pieces just where they must be. Also using heat. Though not for the same purposes, you have inspired me to see how the tools and techniques of your discipline can be employed to salvage and restore some of these old model cars and save them from the dumpster. Thank you! Bet you never imagined your skills could be transferred to such a hobby.
Wow! I could not have imagined that, but it makes sense, the principles are the same. Thanks! Email some photos of the models: thomasjohnsonrestoration@gmail.com
I just discovered you and subscribed. I’m not a woodworker or anything but my boyfriend is a carpenter and I love watching old restorations. It looks like you’re performing a delicate surgical procedure. It’s truly amazing!
This is one of those pieces that, when you see it, you think: “Yep! Perfect for in the fireplace!” And then the Master starts his magic…..Wow! Just Wow!
Thank you!
Right? He always amazes me!
Not me... I would think "I can definitely rescue this and make it mine forever" then it would sit and collect dust forever 😆 but I could never bring myself to toss it, I love this kind of furniture way too much.
In this throw away society, it is so reassuring to see some people cherish old pieces like this. You are so patient and methodical in putting this chest of drawers together. Shows what a true professional can do with what seems to be hopeless. Beautiful work.
Thank you! I appreciate it!
Thomas Johnson: Saving history one piece at a time. Not just a restoration, a complete reconstruction. Amazing result!
Thank you!
Your fearlessness with these projects is very inspiring! That cabinet couldn't have come apart any further, but it had to be done! Also, I admire the collection of antique hardware you've amassed. You can never have too much of that stuff!
So true! Thanks!
I always think of the people who built these pieces originally, never dreaming that some 130 years in the future it would still be around and being restored so impeccably and respectfully. Just stunning.
Thanks! I think about that too!
I would love to see the look on the owners face when they came to get it. They sent you a pile of firewood and you gave them back an heirloom. Masterful.
'heirloom ' my good man.
Wow that is embarrassing. I can partly blame autocorrect but not for the whole thing.
Thanks!
Great way to put it aha
I love that the owners invested in saving this piece, with the structure being this damaged most wouldn't have bothered. You did a fantastic job! So glad I found your channel.
Thank you very much! I'm glad you did too!
"I've got to take it completely apart and put it back together again" ... the sweetest words to hear at the beginning of a restoration video :D
36:34 "I really like doing a minimal restoration like this"
@@infillion7177 he was talking about the finish.
Thanks!
How satisfying to watch a craftsman bringing life back to a piece of furniture which has clearly seen better days. Sir, you maintained the integrity of this cabinet and now it can continue serving its purpose. Huge respect to you. Oh and good to see your 'old faithful' companion checking up on you occasionally. Happy 2020 and greetings from the UK.
Thank you! And Happy New Year to you too!
As usual you are so modest! You took a basket case and rebuilt it into an heirloom to be cherished. You should be proud of your accomplishments and the fact that you stain glue blocks that will never be seen points to your wonderful work ethic, showing that you are truly a master craftsman . In this day and age, that is a true rarity, and perhaps your leading by example will encourage more people to return to our once proud traditions of craftsmanship.
"Looks pretty good." Indeed.
Wow, thank you! I appreciate you watching and your kind words. These words make my day!
Tom,
Words can not express how grateful I am for your taking the time and effort to make your videos. Sincerest appreciation and thanks.
You're welcome! And I so much appreciate you watching!
I know nothing about woodworking, but it was a joy to watch a master craftsman and artist at work.
Thank you! And now you know something!
More of a structural restoration. The result is beautiful. I bet the family were pleased. I like the minimal restoration approach.
Thanks! Yes, it worked out well
Hi Thomas. I really loved your video about restoring a shattered leg on a card table. As an ex-furniture maker myself I can really appreciate your expertise and love of working with wood. You have a great manner and watching you work calmly and methodically on that table was so relaxing and enjoyable.
Thanks!
From a pile of rubbish to an heirloom anyone would be proud of. I’m amazed by your skill and expertise!!!
Thanks!
Excellent job. I would showcase it in my home any day. I am 70 yrs old, retired and do some woodworking as a past time. My father was a retired Master Cabinetmaker and I am sure he would have given this restoration a 'thumbs up'.
Thank you!
I have to say I always do appreciate all the different angles you shoot from during the restorations, It's great
Thanks!
I loved watching you restore this dresser. My late father was a woodworker. He restored and repaired furniture for many people. I enjoyed your collection of clamps, sanders, parts. When we went through his workshop, we were amazed at all the little things he kept, just in case he needed them for another project. I wished I had videotaped him when he restored some of the pieces.
Thanks! I have so few pictures of my dad in the shop, in fact maybe only one. I wish he could see these videos!
During the intro, your dog was watching you like a hawk, he’s very keen to see the project start. Love the content! Keep it up. :)
Thanks! Will do! She's waiting for the hide glue to start hitting the floor!
What an amazing restoration !!!
Thank you!
It looks gorgeous - absolutely gorgeous.
Thank you!
You are not a craftsman, you are a miracle worker. Love your videos.
Thanks!
That cabinet must have feel like having a bath, going to the doctor and a beauty salon after 140 years!! Great job Tom
Thanks! Think of how good it must have felt!
Superb and respectful craftsmanship. I very much enjoy watching your videos. My 95-year-old father was trained as a cabinet maker. I watched him work all through my childhood. Thank you!
Thanks! How lucky you are to have been able to spend time with him!
I have a similar dresser in really great shape. It's holding a mirror up top.
I helped my mom refurbish it back in the 70's.
Thanks! I wish this one still had it's mirror
Such a beautiful job, Tom! When it came in, it was looking pretty rough, but now...? It's a treasure!
Thanks!
I agree! Looks fantastic. Tom is s magician. 👍
@@peterpanassow7814 I love Tom's attention to detail, and his knowledge of how to color treat, stain, varnish, and polish wood. Craftsmanship and woodworking skills are still alive and well.
… And that Ladies and Gentlemen is what a true craftsman who cares about the quality of his work looks like!
Thanks!
Your patience and your accuracy are like a beautiful piece of music. It is very relaxing to watch! Your work is amazing!!! Thanks for taking the time to share this with the world.
You're welcome!
Amazing to think the piece is still in the original family ownership and likely will be for a few more generations. Lucky for them to have found you.
Thank you!
You are the Bob Ross of furniture restoration. Love your videos!
Wow, thank you!
Just came from an old video of yours. So I checked for a recent one. Well what a treat! A mere 15 minutes ago you posted this. And I'm sure it will never get old!
I personally think he is the best on RUclips!
Yes Sir. Tom is the best I have ever seen. He respects the spirit of each piece with minimal new pieces.
Thanks!
Thank you!
Thanks!
You are an inspiration, Tom.
I have a wood carving, 200 years old, 35x75cm (😉) and not cleaned for 40 years. Without you I would have left for a few more decades. But . . . I cleaned it patiently, with all the nooks and crannies. I also glued two pieces back into place.
It was very dry. So I oiled it; I hardly recognize it! Second coat of oil going on tomorrow.
I wish I had thought of a ‘before’ picture.
That is so good to hear! Of course I'll need to look at my conversion chart. But I am very happy I could inspire you to take that chance!
Good heavens. What incredible work you do. That's a transformation.
Thanks!
Seeing all of those nails reminds me of why I spend so much time designing the furniture I make to use precision joinery so that I never have to use a nail or screw with the exception of attaching a top from the bottom side with a few screws. It takes more thought and hand labor, but worth it. You have the patience and experience to work with these old pieces and that keeps this history alive.
Thanks! I agree! It's great that you can design and build you're own furniture
New life for that tired old piece of antiquity. Beautiful.
Thanks!
These are my favorite kind of videos-the long ones with tons of things to restore and necessary new parts to make.
Thanks! me too!
I love walnut and you sir did a marvellous job resurrecting this set of drawers. It’s beautiful.
Thanks!
I am extremely jealous of the satisfaction you must feel after rebuilding that piece. Beautiful work.
Thanks! It is a good feeling!
Outstanding restoration as always :)
Thanks!
You have such a respect for the wood and the original maker. I enjoy how you decode the idiosyncrasies of construction each time. Your own craft and aesthetic is exceptional and of course you help us to see it all with great videography and editing. Thank you for your dedication! 🙏
You're welcome! I appreciate your comment!
Sir, you are one very clever man. Your work always looks fantastic on completion. Your customers must be extremely happy with the finished item of furniture. Great video as well.
Thank you!
The beauty of the timber was completely obscured when the drawers arrived. The transformation was amazing.
Thank you very much! Yes, it really came out great
Yet another lovely video. I really like seeing minimal restorations like this one, I feel like you can really preserve the character of pieces like this.
Any apprentices you have or had were likely very lucky having you as a teacher, as you have a great way of explaining while doing that really makes us feel a part of the process!
Thank you!
Now you having me thinking you're a Magic Man!
The pile of kindling into a BEAUTIFUL piece of furniture. WOW!!
Thank you for sharing you knowledge.
You're welcome!
TOM?! Don't leave us hanging! Since you discovered a piece of the back wasn't missing, what was the message on the back? Happy New Year and great restoration!
What did it say. It looked like the word MASS was written on it.
My question as well. LOL
Pedrick and Closson' which was in Lawrence Massachusetts during the mid 19th Century.
Here is a link to a an advertisement.
books.google.com/books?id=PWvlFXh1ecMC&pg=PA295&lpg=PA295&dq=closson+furniture+massachusetts&source=bl&ots=QHc6WscbJA&sig=ACfU3U1kUp5x44HVYKKqTxowi1ZDhxdhtQ&hl=en&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwja_ce1munmAhWWITQIHdFJAgQQ6AEwBHoECAsQAQ#v=onepage&q=closson%20furniture%20massachusetts&f=false
Thanks! Still can't make it out!
I think it was "MISS"
Thank you for making all your videos. You have inspired and thought me skills. I have been redoing antiques for our household and others. Fir the work I do, I ask what they feel it was worth, to donate that to their church or Salvation Army. Thanks you for the knowledge and inspiration!
You're welcome! That's really nice
when you come across nails or screws that have been in the wood for a long time they form a bond with the wood. I find the end of an electric soldering iron placed over the head expands the nail/screw breaking the bond then when it cools it easy to remove
Thanks! I will try that
Mr Tom, you have my utmost respect for the work that you do to "restore" furniture! When you say "restoration", that's exactly what you mean. Think more people needs to learn the definition of that word! I've watch videos where the title says "hutch restoration" and all they're doing is PAINTING a beautiful 1800 era piece of furniture and that makes my blood boil!!😳😂😂 oh well, I guess it's not always a bad thing and it's whatever makes them happy. Please keep doing what you do!! I've only watched one video but I'm completely and totally hooked!! Thank you!!
You are welcome! I appreciate your comments
Happy New Year! All the best to you AND THANK YOU FOR BEING OUR TUTOR!
You are welcome! And Happy New Year to you too!
Having grown up in southern Louisiana listening to local folklore your cabinet brings to mind the story of Briar Rabbit and the Tar Baby. You fix one spot and then you find another until you have built a cabinet from kindling. Great job on the rehab. Watching your videos is like attending a class on classical furniture restoration. Your greatest lesson is patience in giving time for coatings to cure and giving a second coat rather than rushing the work. Thanks for what you do.
You're welcome! Yes! Growing up I think we wore the grooves out of our Brer Rabbit and Tar Baby record! I like that analogy
It's really nice to get a new video from you, Tom. I convinced my wife to watch with me today, and she and I really liked the way you handled all the problem areas on this piece. The surprise was the back side of the chest of drawers. It really did seem as if a piece had been missing! Naturally, you did your usual expert job on this Victorian chest, and I loved the way that you strengthened, replaced and recaptured the beauty in this antique. I hope that you and your family will enjoy a great and prosperous New Year! Happy 2020!
Thank you! And the same to you also!
A pleasure to watch you calmly and surely save an important family heirloom. I look forward to more of your restorations. Peace.
Thank you!
I've been looking forward to something looking pretty good...thanks Tom! Happy New Year to you and yours...
Thanks! And same to you!
You, sir, are the Bob Ross of furniture restoration.
Thanks! That is high praise!
Happy New Years! Thank you for all your hard work in 2019 and before.
I'm looking forward to "pretty good" 2020!!!!!!
You're welcome! Me too!
How did that work out for ya? (Sorry, couldn’t help myself)
@@rustyaxelrod. Best year, so far, for a long time!
Lockdown, for me, has been peaceful and productive. It’s kept most of the rats in their holes!
I do understand that’s not the case for everyone, but you take what you can get.
Only downside, a hoard of inconsiderate joggers huffing their way past, thinking they are the only ones who have a right to be outside, it got better when the gyms reopened, now they just splutter over each other! And me, I have it quiet again.
(You won’t actually believe this, but I restored a ukulele, nearly a banjo😀)
This is unbelievable! How you did the piece of art from such garbage!!! Love your amazing work!!
Thank you!
It's so beautiful. I cannot stand it when DYIers take a gorgeous piece and slap paint all over it.
Thanks! Yeah, me either!
I do restoration as well, and nothing crushes my soul as some beautiful mahogany or walnut piece of furniture that has been "upcycled" by application of white latex paint. SMH
@@solinvictus39 EXACTLY!!!!!!
@@solinvictus39 about the marble on the top. How does it is attached?
Thats a beauty Thomas! I love how that beautiful wood grain came to life. Thank you for great work and content.
Thanks Chris! This was a piece I'd like to own!
Great work as usual! Would have been good to see how the back looked when finished.
Thanks!
The ugly duckling became a swan, your patience and dedication for detail brings out the best character of the wood - congratulations
Thank you!
It'd be interesting to see the owner's reactions to some of the more extreme restorations you do, not to boost your ego but to see how people react to a job well done.
Thanks! maybe someday!
You work with the wood with such precision and dignity …it is poetry in motion. You have as much respect for an old broken down piece of furniture as you do for the highly valued piece. It’s a pleasure to watch you work!!!
Thank you! That's nice
That was a wonderful restoration - the wood is so rich and glowing after the finish. Did you ever manage to decipher what was written on the cabinet back boards? Happy New Year and I'm looking forward to the next piece into which you breathe life again.
Another great job!!! What kind of wax did you use on marble top after you cleaned it. I have one I need to clean and wax. Tom you are a restoration magician!!! Really enjoy watching you figure out each issue.
Thanks! A commenter found an ad for the company, it was a retailer
Thanks! I didn't wax it, just cleaned. I will try Butcher's Wax
Another wonderful old piece of furniture, keeping the character is key.
Yes, thanks!
I'm sitting here watching this and it just occurred to me that I am literally sitting here watching a mans glue dry, and I am totally engrossed. Nice job, I can't wait to watch the paint dry.
Paint? on this piece? God forbid!! LOL
I read your post and had to laugh as it pretty much described what i was doing too!
Thanks! That's good!
Thanks! yes, a good one!
Amazing craftsmanship! You are so knowledgeable, it is a pleasure to watch you at work!
Thanks!
Hi Tom,
I sure enjoyed watching you restore this Victorian chest and I have subscribed to your Channel. Every time I work sanding wood I always end up getting wood pulp or splinters underneath my fingernails. I noticed that you don't use any gloves. Do you ever have that same problem?
I look forward to watching all of your videos..
Thanks for watching! I guess I do but nothing I wouldn't consider normal. I have an excellent fingernail brush which I use at the end of the day
Great work. It's good they have pieces of their family's past like that. Now it's ready for their grand children. Again wonderful work.
Thanks!
I think the message is an address for an old firm - "Pedrick & Closson, Lawrence, Mass."
You're right, Pedrick & Closson, auctioneers from Massachusets.
I agree.
Yes. The replies below are right
Thanks! Correct, or the original retailer
Too many people would not see the beauty in pieces like these. I love seeing these pieces restored.
Thank you! me too!
Thomas, outstanding work! What resources do you use for your antique hardware?
Thanks! I use Ansaldi Hardware and House of Antique Hardware, both on line
From a broken down ugly duckling to a most beautiful swan that should last for many generations to come. Thank you Thomas once again for showing us just how much of a master craftsman you are. I can only imagine the joy you bring to the people who receive your restored items, well done sir.
Thank you!
Have you tried removing the scratches with a steamer? That's how my dad does it. The steam swells the wood and brings the scratch out
Thanks! Yes, I've steamed dents many times
Love your videos. My ancestors moved from Barnstable to Gorham in the 1760’s when it was established.
Thanks! That's amazing! I often imagine what it must have been like back then
Proper doggo placement is vital to a proper restoration.
So true! close to the hide glue bits and the treats in Dad's pockets
Only old wood can look that good with restoration, yet another excellent job well done
Thanks! Very true!
So what did it say on the back?
"Pedrick and Closson", a retailer
I wish there were five or so teens watching ALL you do and apprenticing with you, because this kind of knowledge, skill and care should be handed down and spread far and wide. What an amazing piece. I love how you labeled each joint, created new side bottoms on the top drawer to replace the worn ones, filled in holes. I wonder what sort of animal made all those bite marks. Our son teethed on some old small pine end tables decades ago, but he sure didn't chew holes, just made little dents. Ha, ha. The family dog, squirrels, rats...who knows? Very interesting. What is the hot glue you use? Rabbit skin glue is something we learned about and used in my painting classes....we had a book with lots of ancient formulas for gessos, varnishes, etc. You created such a beautiful finish just by cleaning, light sanding and some oil. I bet that wood was thirsty after 100 years...
Thank you! I appreciate it. That's hide glue, I'm not sure how it's made
I'm sorry Tom, but I have to disagree with you.... This like all of your other restorations, doesn't look "pretty good"! This as all your other restorations, turned out BEAUTIFUL! Sir, you are much too modest! You are amazing! Happy New Year to you and your family... and thank you for sharing your talent with us in 2019... can't wait to see what else is in store for us in 2020! God Bless, much love to ya! ❤
Thank you! And the best to you and your's also!
Many folks would have thrown this piece in the trash. It’s nice to see how a little work and know how can preserve a piece of our past. What a beautiful piece of furniture it turned out to be. Great job. You always give me inspiration to try some things for myself.
Thanks!
For the love of God man, please use push sticks with your table saw.
Absolutely, my high school shop teacher is rolling in his grave!
Deuce Luminox. I thought the same thing...until I counted Tom’s fingers. If anyone can do that, he can. The rest of us need push sticks.
@Dave Bryant Not sure who you're calling a hack, but the loss of a finger or two sure would change his style.
Thanks! Often, with small pieces its safer to hold it with fingers. In most of the shots here I’m using push sticks (scratch awls)
Thanks! Yes, still have 10, last time I checked!
This was fascinating to watch. Thank you!
I have what I was told is a Victorian dresser and it has, again what I was told, Acorn and oak leaf drawer pulls. Again I was told they were made between the years 1868 to 1878. Thing about the dresser I LOVE is it has a hidden drawer. So well hidden I had the piece for about 10 years before I even realized this drawer was there. We were in a flood. Dresser did not get wet or damaged just a little mud on the feet I had to tip it upside down to clean it properly. Then I noticed some thing looked odd in the base. Some one had nailed the drawer shut with finishing nails. Over the 30 years I have had it we did do some back repairs. I wish I had watched this video prior to my clumsy attempt.
Thanks! I really like the secret drawer story. Nothing in it I assume!
@@johnsonrestoration YES there was lots of dust. :(
the man who built it is smiling in his grave.
Thanks! I think about him (them)!
MINIMAL restoration?? Oh MY! You rebuilt the whole thing! Amazing is the right description
Thank you!
A video of you rummaging through your old parts drawers would be an absolute top shelf ASMR video. The few seconds you showed her in this video (the wooden scussions and casters) set the tingle-level to 11. Thanks Tom!
You're welcome! I'll try to do more of that type scenes.
Once again another beautiful job. I enjoy watching these videos b4 I call it a night. Some people enjoy reading a good book, I’ll pass, I like watching restorations, furniture, tools just about anything.
Thanks! That's great
What a resurrection! You did so much and so little at the same time. It is fascinating.
I like that! Thanks
You did an incredible job on this piece! Beautiful!
Thank you so much!
Happy New Year to you and your family, Thomas. Greetings from Belgium, where 75 years ago Americans fought the battle of the Bulge against nazi Germany. They fought under very harsh conditions and lost a lot of men. We will never forget those who paid the ultimate price for our freedom. In the winter of 81'-82' I did my military service in the Ardennes, close to Bastogne. The cold is not a joke there.
Thanks! Wow! It is amazing to think about!
Wow beautiful restoration Thomas a real rags to riches transformation . Thanks for another wonderful journey .
You’re welcome!
I love the scratch sound and careful attention you put on the scraping of your furniture. So maticulice work it's amazing to me and the patience you have to see that your work is accomplish just right!
Thank you very much! I appreciate it!
In our throwaway society this goes to show you that anything can be saved. What an amazing transformation this piece went through. I'm in awe.
Thank you!
I want to thank you for all you are teaching us. This may seem strange, but I have been employeeing some of your clamps and techniques to solve a dilemma I have been wrangling with over the years.
I restore old 1/25 scale models. In the late 50's and early 60's some were made of a vinyl material that has warped over the decades. I have watched your work building jigs and using clamps to secure glued pieces just where they must be. Also using heat. Though not for the same purposes, you have inspired me to see how the tools and techniques of your discipline can be employed to salvage and restore some of these old model cars and save them from the dumpster. Thank you! Bet you never imagined your skills could be transferred to such a hobby.
Wow! I could not have imagined that, but it makes sense, the principles are the same. Thanks! Email some photos of the models: thomasjohnsonrestoration@gmail.com
I think it looks pretty good also Tom. A very peaceful 37:11 minutes spent watching a beautiful peace of work. Thank you. Robert in Alabama.
You're welcome!
Just watched it to the end..... what a joy. Thanks Tom AD
You're welcome!
What a beautiful job you've done. I love watching the deconstruction and reconstruction. Lovely piece
Thank you very much!
You are a brave soul for taking that apart. Beautiful piece.
Thanks!
I really like how you re-use antique nails. Those little details make all the difference. Do you ever steam the nail holes so they hold better.
Thanks! I agree! I haven't heard of that!
I just discovered you and subscribed. I’m not a woodworker or anything but my boyfriend is a carpenter and I love watching old restorations. It looks like you’re performing a delicate surgical procedure. It’s truly amazing!
Thanks! Welcome to the channel!
Love your two black cats...you are my favorite time of the day!
Thank you!