Gondola Rescue - Thomas Johnson Antique Furniture Restoration

Tom Johnson of Thomas Johnson Antique Furniture Restoration in Gorham, Maine restores this set of three nineteenth-century gondola chairs. Tom has been restoring furniture professionally since 1979. Visit our website at www.thomasjohnsonrestoration.com, or write us at [e-mail]. 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).

[@rdaltry777]

Tom, I know you are stepping back a little, but we really appreciate your awesome videos and the craftsmanship you have. Thanks for continuing to upload, you are a true gem.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you!

[@furtim1]

@@johnsonrestoration thank you!

[@mokimmy6457]

Earlier today some of the veneer popped off my birdseye maple dresser. After the initial panic, I thought about all the veneer repairs I’ve watched you do on your channel. I felt so appreciative of all the knowledge you’ve provided to all of us. I gathered up my hide hide glue, painter’s tape, glue scraper and a clamp. I’ve done it like you’ve shown us and will let it dry overnight. And tomorrow hopefully I’ll be able to say “I think it looks pretty good” just like you do! Thanks for all the lessons!

[@maryingham3516]

Whoever does your filming and editing does such a good job. It’s just like I am there watching over your shoulder.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you! I do filming, and I have an editor

[@tonywatson987]

Tom, I just want to let you know how much I enjoy and appreciate the time and effort you put into your restorations. I especially like the attention you pay to letting us know the materials you use - so often restorers are very protective of their materials and techniques, only showing the end result, not the mistakes, recovery and re-working. Thank you!

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome! I have always shared everything I know and use, and it has only brought me more work and happiness

[@wildfrank]

It's such a total pleasure to watch a craftsman at work, quite humbling!

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you!

[@Veronica-pv3qh]

He is a master!

[@johnmason-smith]

Your videography is excellent. The lighting and close-ups and edits on the gluing, the showing of the repair waiting to dry - it's all very good.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! I like making videos!

[@starlight-wj5nc]

Wonderful work! You absolutely restored the beauty back to those chairs back to life love it 👍🏿👍🏿👍🏿👍🏿👍🏿✊🏿

[@chrisfrench8323]

Your videos just keep getting better and better, Tom. We're not just watching, we're learning from a master.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks Chris!

[@normy31]

An antique restoration artist, and that doesn't even come close to what we watched. Extremely inspiring!

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you! That's nice

[@dougguest930]

Thanks for another deep dive into your world Tom. I never fail to learn from your videos but I think the most valuable part for myself is your narration which explains your thought processes. I hope you find that egg lol.

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome! I try not to talk too much! Oh yeah, I got the egg

[@timziegler9358]

Your clients are very fortunate to have you restore their chairs. Very well done! Best wishes.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you!

[@paulmaryon9088]

Always a pleasure to see one of your videos Tom, thank you, hope you and yours are happy and well, keep 'em coming, all the best

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you!

[@jeanhawken4482]

Absolutely stunning. I always wonder if furniture restorers ever get the financial rewards they deserve for such time consuming work. I suspect a lot of love is given to the Timbers

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! Most do well. It is difficult to charge as much as you need to to stay in business, really the same for any small businesses

[@bobnicholas5994]

I needed this calming incredible vid to drown out all the ugh stories on you tube. Thanks for keeping it simple and not selling out.

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome! I appreciate that!

[@udalimb384]

I love how those chairs reflect use and repair. Treasured yet practical.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Yes! Well said!

[@marien20]

16 hours… wow. Another great job, thanks Mr Thomas!

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome!

[@dawnchattin5935]

You are a brilliant craftsman and every video is a teaching experience. Thank you for generously sharing your expertise and knowledge. The Gondola chairs are miracles of restoration, astounding quality. They look "pretty good."

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you! I appreciate it

[@FelixDegenaar]

Such a great restoration! So sad that Ella did not get to watch you do it. We miss her in your shop, I imagine you do as well.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! Oh yes, every day, all the time

[@nancybridegam6903]

Of course you do. ❤

[@patientorlando1306]

It is so cool to see you getting creative with your filmography Tom; I really loved the way this video was put together - you took us on a journey, not just a straight up tutorial! You're really coming into your own with this and I for one am living for it! The cherry on top was the chicken announcing her new egg...just delightful! I hope you do feel how much we appreciate the time and effort you take to make and share these master tutorial/day-in-the-life-of videos Tom...I have learned so much and loved every minute. Thank you and stay safe!

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome! And it's great to receive such positive support

[@AquaPeet]

I'm always so amazed at how you're able to make an added piece of wood disappear into the repaired item. First you're able to find a grain matching chunk, then you're able to shape it like it's supposed to be there and then you color match it... and it's gone :D

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks Pete! It helps to have plenty of scraps to choose from

[@monteashmore3730]

It's always a pleasure watching you work. I can't tell you how much I've learned by watching.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! That's great!

[@MrPhotodoc]

I've seen many episodes of furniture and wood items being restored by Tom but this one looks like he has outdone himself. Looks very good!

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you!

[@sandithompson5265]

Most relaxing watching you do these repairs and I love the way you tell what you’re doing and why you’re doing it every time the project turns out beautiful 😊

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you!

[@rhondafirestine-gz4he]

You don’t simply repair,you are an artist!

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you! That's nice

[@susiereed3612]

Your work and explanations of your thought process in determining next steps has been very informative. Your videos are a master class in not only furniture repair but utube videos with excellent close ups and just enough wide shots. I have learned so much from your videos, I am inspired to tackle some repairs on my own antique furniture. Thank you.

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome! I appreciate that! Yes, give it a try!

[@judithfairchild8620]

You did a great job returning the chairs to the beauty they had when new. Gorgeous chairs.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks Judith!

[@saggioculo5386]

Love the before and after shots. I always look forward to your videos.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks!

[@gc4824]

Thank you for being such a true genius of furniture restoration, Sir, And thank you for sharing all of these experiences with all of us.

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome!

[@melissataylor5494]

You are a miracle worker! Thank you for taking us along. I’m always happy when you post a new video. I have watched all of your posted video. Thanks again.

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome!

[@hder8740]

Love the way you keep teaching and sharing knowledge. Thank you as always.

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome!

[@tony-ps4qw]

Nice job- I appreciate you passing on your true craftsmanship-especially the finish touch-ups and color blending Thanks!

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome!

[@alexwoolstencroft1197]

What a sensational job you did on these! I look forward to your videos and careful restoration techniques on each different piece. I loved the trick with the pumice in the beeswax polish. You’re an absolute champion!

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you! That's nice

[@davidc3808]

Well done Tom, a great restoration as always.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you!

[@Joe1935429]

The master at work! A pleasure and an inspiration to watch. The sound of a hen laying an egg is music to my ears. Thanks!

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome! I love that too

[@paulstanding7267]

Very nice old chairs. Look amazing now you have restored them owner will be very pleased with the end results. 👍😀

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! They are pleased!

[@maggiesue4825]

The lines are lovely, and the finish glows! Your skill and expertise never fail to amaze me! Nice job doesn't cut it!!

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you Maggie Sue!

[@nancyclark3049]

Lovely, Tom! So much fun watching a master work! Love your channel!

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you!

[@alisonmoffitt1051]

Beautiful grain matches and of course everything else. Your ingenuity is a joy to behold and your clamp collection would take some beating. It’s always pretty late when your videos come up but worth every bit of sleep deprivation to watch. You are a generous teacher and I feel as though it’s Christmas again with each new project. Thanks so much for all the extra work involved in recording.

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome Alison! I appreciate it!

[@lostonwallace1396]

You did a nice job matching the grain, and making those chairs look nice again!

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks Wallace!

[@lostonwallace1396]

@@johnsonrestoration You're welcome, but you can call me Loston. It's my real first name. It's just not one you're likely ever to hear again, as my Dad made it up. He thought it had a nice cowboy hero sound to it. Heh.

[@Mike--K]

Another magical restoration and a true pleasure to watch.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you!

[@Redd513]

The way you are able to match the different tones and make them look like they were there from the start is amazing!

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you!

[@markmurphy3578]

I like watching the process and care that you take during these restorations. There is so much to consider and the logic you employ is amazing. Years of practice really shows. 🙌

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks!

[@iakwia]

What a wonderful way to start a day! A new Tom video!

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! First comment! Congratulations!

[@iakwia]

@@johnsonrestoration Thank you for non-political, gentle, amazingly educational content that showcases fantastic furniture, a loving canine companion, beautiful wildlife footage and your own phenomenal skills. When I see one of your notifications pop, I know I have something exceptional waiting for me. Thank YOU!

[@behonestwithyourself3718]

Wow, just wow. You blow my mind everytime! Nice work Tom!

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you!

[@knottyal2428]

Beautiful results as usual Tom! The curved components of these chairs were always going to be fragile with stress along the grain. You have brought back their grace, with utmost skills.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you!

[@The93Momo93]

Your amazing color matching skills never cease to amaze and I really like how you went out of your way to touch up that old repair as well. Looks fantastic.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you!

[@charlessullivan5370]

Nice work, Tom. Beautiful results.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you!

[@christelmuller9198]

Wieder eine wunderbare Arbeit. Ich habe Hochachtung vor ihnen , danke. Hier kann man immer nur lernen. Viele liebe Grüße Christel ☺👏👏👏

[@johnsonrestoration]

Sehr gerne!

[@michaelhenderson5683]

Another great piece of work Tom. 👏👏👍

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks!

[@apb3251]

Skills and techniques of a master craftsman

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you!

[@sandrinedurand3203]

The love and craftsmanship that you put into your work is marvelous. This is always my moment of zen.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! That's nice

[@cmsheth09]

What a craftsman! The client should be super happy to have those back looking great.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you! They are!

[@jimflynn466]

Love watching craftsmen at work, my brother was a cabinetmaker and ended up as a bar fitter and shop fitter, did a lot of work in banks and did some work for me, double glazing, Louvre doors, wood panelling and doors a real artisan and worked to the highest specifications or he was not happy. Thanks Bro.❤

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! I think of my oldest brother often, and how highly skilled he was

[@michaellindsey1543]

You do amazing work! I'm very worried about the future when our generation is gone as there are so few artisans taking our place. . .

[@carolinegray7510]

I've wondered about that, too. "Do you, or have you ever "......had an apprentice? Finding one with the dedication and determination is almost an impossible task.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks Michael! They've been saying that for at least the last 72 years that I've been around!

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! I've had quite a few employees. But these videos are a lot better. I hear from a lot of restorers from all over the country.

[@colly1952]

I love how this man explains in few words every step of his work. And he's not afraid to admit he made a mistake. Also, there's no distracting background music. He must have been a teacher, once upon a time. A real artist.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you! No, I was never a teacher - but I guess I am now!

[@docinparadise]

After a few years of messing about with wood, I now realize just how much money you’ve invested in your shop. The clamps alone are worth a LOT, and the wood gouges (are the Pfeil?) are super expensive. Everywhere I look you have top notch and pricey tools….and look at all the wood🥰 If I did jealous in my life, this would be it. Let’s settle on admiration and longing. Beautiful work as always sir❤

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! Yes, but all that's been accumulated over 45 years! I always bought the best

[@romanb.6528]

I love watching you restore old furniture, thanks

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome!

[@nancyjm79]

Totally captivating. They turned out gorgeous.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you!

[@queenbee3647]

Awesome repair Thom! The amount of damage in those chairs was amazing. 😮 They were one step above kindling and now they are beauties.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks!

[@mikededmon]

As always, SUCH amazing work. I love that you showed the details on the color matching, joint filling, etc. Such good work.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you!

[@karanaz2008]

By giving these furniture a new life you are a giving a great opportunity for the coming generations to have a chance to see these antiques, GOD BLESS YOU.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you! That's very nice!

[@margaretlynch1494]

🙋‍♀️❤ Thank goodness these chairs found you! Nobody else brings wood back to life like you do, Tom!

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you Margaret!

[@schoensangalli6972]

Those damaged parts were not easy repairs; quite tricky indeed. You really did them justice.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you!

[@darryljacobsen19]

It’s true! You just can’t have too many clamps. A true craftsman at work.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks!

[@corvus1238]

Thanks for sharing another great restoration. I watched this at 9pm and was amazed that one of my hens was laying so late until I realised that it was one of yours.

[@johnsonrestoration]

That's great! good sound system!

[@louisecoter7568]

Je suis une femme de 74 ans et j'adore regarder votre travail. Quelle patience et quel talent. Vous me faites du bien!

[@johnsonrestoration]

Merci! Qui me rend heureux!

[@davidadams007]

Nice looking chairs. The repairs and refinishing worked out pretty good ;-). Your work gave them another 100 years of family enjoyment.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks!

[@simontravis7452]

Another masterclass, i always like it when you explain what needs to happen and then when plan A does work what planB etc will need to be, excellent work as always.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you! You always need a "plan B"!

[@KayWessel]

Beautiful work. So relaxing to see you working!

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks!

[@comsigninc]

Hi Tom. Nice preservation and renewal. I really appreciate seeing them in the home setting after you’ve worked you magic. Thank you.

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome!

[@bill6590]

Thomas, outstanding work. As a woodworker and metal worker, I learn a lot from your videos. It's the simple stuff that you do that really helps out. Like where to put the tape, for fitting veneer, etc. The approach to a major repair, i.e., "1 step at a time." Great show, my condolences on the loss of your dog. Old friends are hard to find.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you Bill! I appreciate it. And yes, I will miss her always

[@redmysterium]

11:06 I had never heard the term Chatoyance. Learn something new every day!

[@johnsonrestoration]

My favorite word! Thanks

[@topcat56]

Love your skills and these videos Tom! Great job and keep it up!

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks!

[@richardcary978]

Excellent job Tom! Quite the difference between a masters work and the previous attempts at restoration.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! It's always interesting to see what worked and what didn't

[@willaborge4824]

I have watched other furniture restoration channels. I find myself comparing their work to yours and silently telling them they are doing it wrong. You are truly the master! I always enjoy your videos.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you! That's nice

[@jarredmattingly5369]

Hi Thomas. Jarred Mattingly, no affiliation, Orlando, Florida. Watching your videos is always a learning experience, and somehow, at the same time it's a meditative therapy dose. Your videos contain the usual knowledge, mastery of skills, and great cinematography, but there's note's of completeness, and fulfillment, if those words even come close to describing the experience from your audiences' perspective. Naturally, there's a paternal, or avuncular feel as you walk us through what you're doing, why you're doing it, and pointing out pitfalls. Yet, I'm still amazed at how your presentation, even down to the speech patterns, volume, and word choice can evoke feelings of general accomplishment, thorough achievement, and I, for one, and I'm sure many others, am thankful for you ,and what you do, and who you are. You can't trim anything from your videos without diminishing the whole piece; not an ounce of fat anywhere in he videos. Always a pleasure to watch. Thank you sir.

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome Jared! That is a very thoughtful and well written, it means a lot to me, I really appreciate it. And I thank you for watching and being such a good fan.

[@jarredmattingly5369]

@@johnsonrestoration Thank you, sir! My pleasure.

[@rgrgeorge]

I knew this video was going to showcase your amazing woodworking skills the moment you said ‘ugh!’ out loud as soon as you saw that one damaged area. I don’t remember hearing you say that in any of your other videos. Another incredible job. Thanks for sharing.

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome! That's funny!

[@roliekennelley5589]

Tom, Absolutely amazing! I'll take your "looks pretty good" over anybody's perfect.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! That's nice

[@JamesDeese]

You are the preeminent craftsman on KZbin, and quite possibly anywhere else. Watching your work is inspiring and fun.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you! That's very nice

[@YorkshireLassCrochets]

How chuffed was I Tom to see there was another fabulous restoration from you waiting for me to get myself a cuppa Yorkshire tea and some biscuits to watch and relax with. Beautiful chairs. No scuff or scratch gets past you and is sorted no matter how small or the time it takes. The attention to detail is phenomenal.... .. And the chicken laid an egg 😁🐔 All the best from London. Kate x

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks Kate! I love that some viewers knew what the chicken was announcing!

[@timmummert63]

Tom your videos are great! I like that you are trying to limit them to around 30 minutes. I have been in the construction field for decades and now that I’m getting ready to ‘retire’ I have been taking on more furniture builds/restorations. You have been a wealth of information and I truly appreciate you for that!

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you! Yes, good luck with that retirement!

[@slawomirh.3636]

Oglądanie mistrza Thomasa przy pracy to czysta przyjemność. Na piękną robotę składa się wiedza, ciężka praca i pomysłowość. Pozdrawiam.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Dziękuję! Doceniam to!

[@ahummerich2751]

I’ve seen people repair furniture, you’re an artist.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you, that's nice!

[@mstreich]

I enjoy seeing the variety of techniques you use on the same piece. Always educational.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you!

[@MsRkerr]

I am always amazed at the beautiful work you do, and I learn so much from your information. Thank you!

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome!

[@anthonyfreeman5858]

Those 3 chairs came out so good they almost look brand new. Great job.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks!

[@carolinechronowski6080]

Another beautiful restoration! Does someone film you or do you do do the filming and editing yourself. I love the detail and closeups

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks Caroline! I do the videography and I have an editor who also manages the channel

[@carolinechronowski6080]

@@johnsonrestoration Your work is amazing!

[@federicoprice2687]

Masterful restoration, renovation, reincarnation and ressurection. Bravo! Your workshop and tools are also beautifully organised - rather like an operating theatre. Wherever I hide my hide glue I can never find it afterwards... Thank you Tom, you're an (inter)national treasure!!

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you! That is so nice. I can’t find many things either! We’re all getting older, and we have too much stuff!

[@garrockwaters304]

It is so relaxing watching you work. I call you the Bob Smith of wood working.............

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you! I think you mean Bob Ross? A lot of people have said that

[@roselewis7683]

you are a true craftsmen and artist. I really enjoyed the restoration of these beautiful chairs. What I wouldn't give to have a tenth of your talent. The grain matches were spot on. When you got done no one would know about all of the repairs unless they looked at it with a magnifying lens. I thought the fabric choice for the seats was an excellent one as well.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you! The seats did look good!

[@pitsnipe5559]

Those chairs came out nice. The style is timeless, not like some of the stuff you see in furniture stores nowadays.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! True...

[@sylviofiuza1141]

I really like watching videos about restorations, but you are the best of them. You show each step of the work, with very close images , where we can see and compare the before and after. This shows us its skill and ability to return the original shape of the piece. Thank you for sharing this work with us.

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome!

[@26beegee]

Love the shape of the chairs, very elegant though they do seem like a fragile design. The finish is beautiful! I could watch you work your magic all day. 👍🏼

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! Actually they seem pretty sturdy - good design

[@26beegee]

@@johnsonrestoration I do really like them!

[@sandrawest2105]

The whole kitchen sink had to be used, but, it was totally worth it! Awesome results❤. Thank you. peace💫

[@johnsonrestoration]

Yes, just about! Thanks

[@Tim-57]

Hey Tom Great outcome, I really enjoy watching your work. Take care of Yourself

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks Tim!

[@adrianorosa8423]

I don't know how you started in this Art of Conservation and Restoration but I know that the Art of Conservation and Restoration chose you very well for its representative. It is a pleasure to see your work and the final results. Thanks.

[@Troot51]

Tom's father owned a furniture repair shop. I imagine most of of the kids helped out in the shop one way or another. Other brothers also followed in their father's footsteps.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks Dean! I'm wondering - did you ever visit my Dad's shop? I feel like you must have but I don't remember

[@Troot51]

@@johnsonrestoration Oh yes Tom, on a number of occasions I was in your Dad’s shop. After school mostly, I’d guess. Loved the smell of the place. Old furniture and glue !

[@user-nz9uq9rf7v]

I love your videos. You are a true craftsman and artist. Please continue posting videos! Thank you!

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome!

[@daleyurk4369]

Tom, I think that result is right up there in your top 10! They are beautiful.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you!

[@HeikeWoolard]

These chairs look absolutely wonderful. It was hard to imagine when I first saw them, but have had complete confidence that they would come out perfect.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks!

[@YouT-DJ]

Great work Tom! Lot of tricks to fix these, and spring clamps!

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! Spring clamps are the best!

[@notfeedynotlazy]

Tom, yesterday as I made a repair on a table's leg I couldn't help but think about you... I mean, it was a camp table that we needed to use for an event TODAY, no buts or ifs, and I was forced to make *an horrible quick jury-rig that I couldnt help to realize would cause you a fit of just indignation if you ever saw it!* 🙂 Such is life...

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! Well, you gotta do what you gotta do! I've had to do the same thing

[@sylviekoenig9960]

" Problems with chatoyance "… Your use of words is music to my ears, Tom. I can't recall the last time I heard that delightful word… Chatoyance… ❤

[@johnsonrestoration]

Yes Sylvie! My favorite word...