Reproducing a Missing Moulding - Thomas Johnson Antique Furniture Restoration

Tom Johnson of Thomas Johnson Antique Furniture Restoration in Gorham, Maine fabricates a missing section of perimeter moulding for this octagonal candle stand top. 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).

[@adhc8560]

The average person seeing the finished product would never guess how much work went into that one little piece. Amazing.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! That's true, but it's true of so many things we take for granted in our everyday lives!

[@leewood729]

I learn so many little tips and tricks watching this channel. Paint thinner on a brush to help remove tape without damaging the finish. I'd never have thought of that.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! Yes, it really helps

[@juliettpapa]

Your chanel is by far the best furniture restoration chanel out there..... your skills are amazing. Regards from Germany.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Wow, thank you!

[@anaya51]

It's so encouraging how you show your mistakes and bumps in the road along the way.....because, let's be real, everyone makes mistakes. It's all about how you confront them and overcome them that makes you a true professional. You sir, are quite the professional. Patience and determination is the game, and you got it!

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks. In fact when we started we edited out the mistakes. Only because I was trying to keep the videos as short as possible. But everyone clamored for more, so I'm showing more of the process, people don't seem to mind the length.

[@Val_Emrys]

@@johnsonrestoration I like seeing more of the process. When it comes to watching these restorations, more is definitely better. Also, I like that you mostly don't speed up the camera. That just makes me dizzy.

[@StSamples]

@@johnsonrestoration I know this is a two year old comment, but I really do enjoy the length of the videos. I don't see you adding not filler or repetitive content, and it's a joy to watch a true craftsman at work during my down time.

[@zonnig46]

I am very impressed about your craftsmanship mr. Johnson. Its a pleasure to see you working in your workshop. Thanks for sharing. Grtz from Amsterdam, the Netherlands.

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome!

[@leenielsen7928]

I just started watching your vids. You are a marvelous artisan. I am not in the furniture repair repair buz., but have learned so much from you. That, and watching for pure enjoyment. Too bad you are retiring. Hopefully, the media will remain on line.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! That's my intention - to keep making videos

[@wilf81]

I love the fact you did such a good job even you can't tell where the new piece is!

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! That's always my goal!

[@thomasparrott2599]

the touch of a master's hand. Fantastic job. I put the legs on it and a little shaker candle. Looks great. I cherish it even more now that you did it for me.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Hi Tom! I'm so glad. It's funny, I'm sitting here answering comments, and realizing that I need to send you a link, but here you are! Thanks again for being so patient.

[@larrysorenson4789]

Thank you for supporting Thomas.

[@richardbrooks3569]

I would not have thought this repair possible. Genius fix.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks!

[@desireemcmurtrie7206]

Enjoy your openings and closings. The pets look loved and cared for.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you! I love taking care of the animals

[@HomeImprovementWoodworking]

I love how you're making repairs like this accessible for others to learn from. I'm a fan and subscriber! Thank you!

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome! And thanks for watching!

[@Val_Emrys]

I couldn't even visualize a repair to this at the beginning. An extremely tricky repair done expertly.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks!

[@bobvogel9019]

I have gained so much knowledge watching your videos Tom. I love to watch a master craftsman with a passion for his craft. Keep the videos coming please.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks for your kind words! I intend to!

[@nashvillain171]

Thomas Johnson I got stuck today binge watching your videos and I CAN'T STOP!!! This is so interesting seeing you work and solve problems. Please keep posting and I'll keep watching.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! I will!

[@larrysorenson4789]

Imagine the Bavarian craftsman carving molding like this as entertaining tasks while hand carving the bear or huntsman riding relief sculptures on a gigantic clock. Fantastic job. What great sculpting skills.

[@johnsonrestoration]

I do think about who built these pieces. I make do but I'm no carver! I want to take a class

[@larrysorenson4789]

I studied sculpture at the University of Illinois as a part of the Architectural Curriculum. It was tremendously rewarding. My instructors were Frank Gallo and Pete Fagan; both famous artists and sculptors to this day. Gallo three great parties that were always legendary for the number of young ladies. What an amazing time. That is where I learned bronze casting processes. I’m now sculpting an aluminum valve cover that mimics the appearance of a flat head engine. These folks were amazing. Take the class. It will be an enjoyable break. I love woodwork and marvel at the wooden boat industry in Maine. My bucket list includes a three week boat building class that is provided in Maine at the famous “Wooden Boat” facility there. If I can pull it off next summer I would really like to spend an afternoon with you. Your friend and admirer, Larry Sorenson in beautiful Arizona.

[@howardschaefer1445]

Your continuing these videos is greatly appreciated.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks, and I appreciate you watching them!

[@Slynk]

The patience it must take so slowly shave away tiny layers of wood to creep up on that final shape! You did a great job Tom. I think it looks pretty good.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks!

[@larrysorenson4789]

I have been amazed that I have most of the same old tools and clamps that you use. I mean exactly the same. Then you pull out my funny murcurachrome colored adjustable triangle. Mine dates from 1966 and I still use it today. Amazing!

[@johnsonrestoration]

That's a little scary! We must share a similar work history

[@PRRGG1]

Pie crust table, something that looks so difficult to master. Great job matching it.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you very much!

[@georgetissot5933]

You are a true artist in every sense of the word. It is a pleasure to watch you create. In our hurry up and slap it together world, we have lost something of our personal worth.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you! But really, I’m not an artist, I know and work with artists and I am not one of them! But it does take an ability to visualize things. Still, I consider myself to be a tradesman who’s just trying to do things correctly

[@jodiemcclary4457]

Love watching you work. I am learning so much.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you! That's great!

[@mercoid]

Another triumph Tom. I so look forward to your videos. Thank you!

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome!

[@darleeneadams9833]

I've been watching/listening to you for a few weeks, very impressed by your talent. This piece, I think, shows that skill talent and professionalism.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you!

[@lb003g0676]

Thanks Tom! As per usual it's an amazing pleasure to watch you work, I'll always be here to watch I think. And I also loved the hummingbird(?) at the end! I've just got my own set of chisels to do a drawer repair. Hopefully it goes well, but watching you has taught me quite a bit along the way.

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome! Good luck with the repair

[@MikeLehikoinen]

Beautifully done Tom. Your skill in using dye stains is remarkable. When I use them, it usually absorbs too much and goes too dark

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks Mike. Yes, that's a problem. Always sand really well to 220, and thin the stain (you can always go over it again), and often I'll seal first with shellac

[@georgecronin3592]

TOM, in england these small table tops are called pie-crust edges. That small writing box I saw in a previous video of yours is called a writing slope over here, and the leather on the writing surface is called a skiver.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! It's so interesting! Here we call them Pie-crust too. But the "lap desk" is different for sure

[@iansloan4261]

The work requires the skill of a surgeon. Then the talent of an artist.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you! I also do dentistry!

[@juliachennault7344]

You hit another one out of the park!!! Thank you for taking the time to do these videos! I've gotten my parents hooked on your channel and my kids love you too ☺☺ you are a true artist and have taught me so much!!!

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you! The whole family? who knew? I appreciate it very much

[@rick91443]

Can't say it enough; love watching you work and listen to your patient commentary...Thank you Tom...cheers...rr

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks!

[@Salsahaj]

Impressive work there, Tom! Excellent repair work ;o)

[@johnsonrestoration]

Many thanks!

[@chryslerny413]

Tom I really love the repair jobs. Especially the broken legs. Like when you use the router and then add in material to mend the joint. I've watched all of yours. Thank you for the high quality content.

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome!

[@alandickson3545]

Just love your work on this. Made to look simple - but actually a very difficult job to blend in. I had a vaguely (very much so) similar job on my Edwardian front door architrave and I did not even get close. Great work and a pleasure to watch. Thank you for posting.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks for watching! Well, there are many times I miss the mark, the secret is to just do it over! It always goes a lot easier the 2nd time around and that's how you learn

[@rirkc]

"Honestly, I'm not even sure myself which piece it is..." You, sir, claim to not be a carver. The verdict is in -- your carving skills are just fine! Thanks much!

[@johnsonrestoration]

Wow, thank you! I appreciate it!

[@georgecronin3592]

TOM,many thanks for your reply to my post. Strange how different terms are used to describe the same thing in various countries. No wonder why the world seems to be at odds with itself. Have you ever heard of an English woodworker, and journalist Charles Haywood ? well worth a quick Google. Always a pleasure finding a new video of yours, and superb to find that you are good enough to reply to my posts. George.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! His name is so familiar - I believe I have a book by him, I have to go look

[@Jim_me]

Good job.Glad to know I'm not the only one that cuts miters short.

[@johnsonrestoration]

If it's too short you can always cut it again!

[@fredmclean5934]

Outstanding job Paul. reproducing pieces like that are a real "clock burner." Thanks for showing your mistakes as well as what actually worked. My shop would have had to charge several hundred $ unless it was part of a bigger job or a life long customer. I may have tried casting that piece if I could get another piece off, although maybe not. Please check in if you ever want or have time. Fred McLean , McLean's Refinishing, Inc. Est 1979.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks Fred! I also started my own shop in '79. Suddenly that sounds like a long time ago! Where are you located?

[@Rob-cd3ks]

Again, thank you for taking the time. Appreciate your skills and sharing.

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome!

[@tetreaulthank4068]

Great seamless restoration Thomas

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks!

[@themeat5053]

I wish I had your talent and patience. I'm impressed, I just came from a site where some young wood worker had every Incra fence they make and then I watch you, a true master craftsmen, use a scrap wood auxiliary fence with your miter gauge. Thanks, Tom.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! I wish I had a better fence! I like the Incra products - maybe someday.......

[@Parken26]

How nice with a Friday evening video from your faboulous workshop - much appreciated.

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome!

[@MrJonathanmichelle]

Beautiful work Tom.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks William! (oops, I called you John in a previous reply)

[@MrJonathanmichelle]

@@johnsonrestoration Hahahaha, no problem Tom.

[@rosalindaestrada5314]

Second time I watched this video and I am amazed how easy it is for you to make a replica from start to end and make an old piece of furniture beautiful again.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! This was an interesting job, I learned a lot doing it

[@rick91443]

Hold Everything! Only at 4:11 and find your tape idea of matching molding REALLY COOL!!! Must put off rest of the video watching till after lunch; we're only Saturday and I have horses to feed!

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! Yes, definitely, animals first! And most importantly: water! I try to do everyone's water fresh every day

[@rick91443]

Forget to mention all the chickens too...Chickens very finicky about CLEAN water...cheers...rr

[@rehaimy]

Amazing set of skills.....I am sure to your customers it sometimes looks like a work of magic....Poof! here's the top with nothing missing...Thanks for sharing

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! Yes, most of my work, it looks like I didn't do anything! Ironic

[@robinalexander5772]

Another nice job of restoring.🔨

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks!

[@nubsack6142]

It looks pretty good.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Oh yeah!

[@danielmiller2977]

I know which piece it was... just kidding. Great job as always, and an inspiration to me. you're one of my favorite channels.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! Don't tell anyone!

[@judithfairchild8620]

Very well done you can't see which piece was replaced

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! Lucked out with this one!

[@markduncan6690]

It's always so interesting how you engineer your way around your projects!

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! Yes, it's the problem solving that's the most challenging and satisfying

[@harrynewell912]

Probably never in the course of wood repair, has so much effort been paid to one small piece of molding! Looks pretty good!

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks for watching! Yes, I agree!

[@oldthingsanew]

Awesome work! Thanks for posting it for us beginners who enjoy trying to restore beautiful old antique furniture pieces.

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome! And thanks for watching!

[@gemgari]

Great job Tom!

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks!

[@wahinenuiloa]

You sir, are fearless! Thanks for sharing

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome!

[@damionthelwell2032]

Hey there mr. Thomas great job on this reproduction at the molding I am venturing off into some repairing of furniture and stuff and you have been a great inspiration to me you've been like the grandfather that I never had as I watch your videos of learned so much from you thank you man

[@johnsonrestoration]

You are so welcome! But man, I wish you hadn't said "grandfather"!

[@Corsario-ud1du]

I also think it looks pretty good. Thanks for this video.

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome!

[@ronmack1767]

Very nice repair job Mr. Johnson. Looked like a difficult job to me in making the replacement molding and protecting the leather top. Thank you for your time and effort producing the videos. Take care and God bless.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you!

[@Michele-zn5yi]

I'm always amazed & fascinated by your work. This carving was complicated & a lot of detail & work. You always do a perfect job of everything you restore. I always wonder how the piece was made long ago. This carving is beautiful.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you very much! I often wonder how these things were done too. With no power and no electric lights! Can you imagine working with no lights?

[@jaycorwin1625]

I thought this would be a little on the uninspiring side, but totally opposite. Your skills are amazing.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks!

[@billmcrae1424]

I enjoy these so much...a sort of COVID therapy.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! Yes, for me too!

[@billmcrae1424]

@@johnsonrestoration you might enjoy the Bedo's Leatherwork KZbin videos. A skilled cobbler!

[@tombarlow6176]

Brilliant work Tom i wish I could do wood work like you

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! 👍 Never know until you try!

[@eerbrev]

Colour on point as always. Also, very cool tricks for preventing the tape from damaging the leather - I'll have to catalogue those in my brain somewhere.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks!

[@colleenkidwell6871]

Wow. Stellar work.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you!

[@INOXGS]

A video about French polishing would be nice. Again great work Thomas !

[@johnsonrestoration]

The problem is that I am not an experienced french polisher. Maybe I'll make one anyway, my editor can figure how to make it look good. Check out "The English Polisher", I love his videos

[@Chungoman83]

What a great job Thomas!! Thank you so much for your videos, very inspiring.

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome!

[@paullawless6044]

Great job Tom

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks!

[@SparrowStockwell]

That looks awesome.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you!

[@alexadenuga8253]

Amazing job! So much skill amd knowledge demonstrated in this video. Thank you for sharing your work

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome!

[@Artexmadera]

Thanks for the helpful video as usual, learning a lot from your work..

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome!

[@barker20cd]

I really enjoy your work Merry Christmas and Happy New Years!

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! And Happy Holidays to you too!

[@jamesreid2651]

Lovely work, always enthralled watching your videos.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks!

[@billholmes6639]

Such patience Tom, amazing work!!

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks!

[@davequinn4701]

nice trip with the compass to follow the contour... love your show

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks!

[@Nixima81]

You are an amazing Craftsman great work as always. Keep up the good work.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks!

[@drmkiwi]

Thanks, very interesting. When I saw the profile of the moulding, I was expecting you would make a steel scratch stock (I think that is what it is called!). Maybe not worth it for one piece or too difficult because it doesn't follow a straight line? It is great you take the time to not only repair these antiques but go to even greater lengths to show us! Cheers, David.

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome! Yes, I got out my scratch stock but realized I might as well just carve it, the scratch stock "holder: couldn't do the curves. In fact I think any kind of a guide couldn't do the curves.

[@dikyoda1881]

Another extremely informative video with excellent attention to detail.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks for watching! Like your dog!

[@kendalfountain3393]

Looks pretty good 👍

[@johnsonrestoration]

Yes! Thanks!

[@PraecorLoth970]

Love your videos, please continue what you are doing.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! I intend to!

[@mp330600]

Excellent job, as usual.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks!

[@jfred1924]

Two thumbs up Thomas

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you!

[@dadams9158]

Better than pretty good. Very good. This is a nice instructional video on reproducing moulding and putting down a quality finish on unfinished or roughly(150 grit) sanded wood. Thank you.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you! I appreciate it!

[@LostMountainRestoration]

Outstanding! Thanks.

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome!

[@agneshardcore1515]

It is absolutely impressive how big knowledge you have. :) I love watch your movies, because every time i'm learning something new . I was wondering how much of time is needed, to learn how to use propelly chisels? As always marvelous job :)

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you! I don't know, but not long. You have to learn how to sharpen them, and learn about grain direction. They are not dificult

[@davidchagelishvili2301]

looks awesome

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks!

[@huskyjerk]

Fabulous !

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks!

[@rparker2824]

Looks great! I would think its good therapy to be so focused on your work.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! It does keep you out of therapy!

[@pointman1921]

Amazing job on the restoration! I got into watching the small details and quick work-arounds with confidence.The piece you were working on kept pulling my attention. What is that thing? Why is there leather on it? How would one use it?I figured it out after the fact, but during the video it had me stumped. Great job!

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! I guess I thought it was obvious that it was a table top, but that's the problem when I don't have the entire piece

[@danielmiller2977]

I love hangin out with you in the shop.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks again!

[@jamesmccurley3808]

Looks pretty good.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks!

[@billballeza377]

Brilliant!

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you!

[@marchu50]

Nicevideo!!

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you!

[@RWJonesAIC]

I always enjoy these repairs that need a lot of hand craftsmanship. I am having a bit of problem with my dye stains. I'm hoping you can let us know where you get your dye and toners from. I would be great to see how you employ both dye and toner, someday.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! I've shown using both in this video! I get them from Mohawk, but the Behlen products from Woodworker's Supply are the same

[@randyattwood]

What a challenge!

[@johnsonrestoration]

Yes it was! Thanks!

[@emanuelmifsud849]

good job. perfect match

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you!

[@jonka1]

Do you "feather" new wood? By this I mean the technique of putting water on to raise the grain and sanding it off. I learned this when restoring guns and have found it useful when matching up to old wood.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! No, the only time I might do that is if I was going to use a water stain or water based finish

[@MsRazvan29]

Superb bravo respekt Thomas ❤🙋‍♂️🤝

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you!

[@paulgartner4619]

Any idea where your table saw hold down came from? Your videos are a great start to the day.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks Paul! I got it a long time ago from a catalog. It's kind of junky and they make a lot of better ones, you can search on line and you'll see

[@agwbcfjc2]

The skill shown in reproducing the moulding was masterful, Mr. Johnson. Thank you for sharing. BTW, may I ask about the Scotchbrite pads? Does the Scotchbrite Co. make pads for wood workers, or are you adapting the pads to your woodworking needs? And, do the different colors of the pads denote various abrasive qualities? Thank you.

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome! I think they are made primarily for metal work, but obviously can be used for anything. And yes, the colors denote different "grits" www.3m.com/3M/en_US/company-us/all-3m-products/~/All-3M-Products/Abrasives/Industrial-Abrasives-Finishing/Hand-Pads/?N=5002385+8692962+8710644+8710812+8710964+8711017+3294857497&rt=r3

[@sandywebster5667]

Have you seen, or tried, the new 3MM flexible sandpaper? It really looks like it would be very good for sanding curves and turned posts and such. You can form it right around your finger and get right into a tight curve. I haven't got it yet, but I am going to. I just saw it advertised..

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! I'll look into it. I've been having great results using 3M Scotch Brite pads

[@andybyerly5629]

Another GREAT session with Thomas...I also really thank you for the recent compendium of finishes..GREAT WORK....Just a thought how about a compendium of furniture history ....you say something like ' this is an example of 'such and such' furniture ' but it's "likely a reproduction"...I know it might be your opinion ...BUT why?....I think your knowledge of furniture history ( Louis the XYZ to Queen Ann' s to Federal to say Craftsman's style and on to modern) would be HUGELY valuable....Thank you and PLEASE PLEASE keep doing this!

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! I have to balance out the info with my desire to talk as little as possible in the videos.

[@johnmontgomery560]

Masterful

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks!