Restoring Midcentury Modern Chairs by Paul McCobb - Thomas Johnson Antique Furniture Restoration

Tom Johnson of Thomas Johnson Antique Furniture Restoration in Gorham, Maine restores these midcentury modern classics: a set of number 432 dining chairs from the Linear Group by Paul McCobb. Tom has been restoring furniture professionally since 1979. Visit our website at www.thomasjohns..., 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).

[@dougharkness6776]

I need to build myself one of those screw trays!! Another great video. Thanks for sharing!

[@airingcupboard]

Agree. They are great.

[@CRKingstonAZ]

I thought exactly the same thing. I even took a picture of the screen so I could sketch up a design.

[@rosemarshall1219]

This tray is genius

[@randallthomas5207]

When I was in college and living in a shared apartment with little personal space, I stored some things in a shed at my folks house. Included in that was a bag of free flying disks, and a full set of Frisbee Golf Disks, they were different weights and diameters so you could change them depending in the shot. I had about $500 in them. I was out to visit the folks, and went out in the shop to visit with dad before dinner. He was busy organizing his shop, and had cut three inches out of the rims of all my golf frisbees, and was using them to sort nuts, bolts and screws. I asked him why he hadn’t ruined the bag of free disks the food court in the student union used instead of plates. They were all the same size. He was shocked when I told him how much the set he had cut up had cost.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! A friend made that for me. It's a "Parts Buddy"

[@nashvillain171]

Tom Johnson on Saturday morning...HECK YEAH!!!

[@donaldmackay6749]

You beat me to it. No better way to start a Saturday morning. Chairs are just so tedious, especially x 6. Great job Thomas.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Better than cartoons? Thanks!

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you!

[@nashvillain171]

@@johnsonrestoration Any day, Tom!

[@jaycorwin1625]

Liking now, watching later. I haven't seen a single video of yours that I wouldn't watch again. They're all good. Thanks, Tom.

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome! Hope you enjoy it

[@CRKingstonAZ]

I’m always so excited to see a video from you, Tom. I love watching you work and solve the puzzle before you. While I could never do what you do, I’ve learned so much from watching you. I’ve gained the confidence to attempt some small furniture repairs and to touch up some small finish blemishes that I would never had tried without your help. I’ve even picked up a rocking chair I found at the curb with a cracked seat because I realized I could fix it and I did. Thank you for helping me pick up new, practical skills. I’m doing “pretty good” if I must say it myself. I’m looking forward to your next video. Thank you!

[@johnsonrestoration]

Hi Charlene, you're welcome! I'm so glad that people can get the confidence they need to try things on their own

[@pyraledubuis9744]

in some countries, one must be careful with "things at side of the road", because of bed-bugs. For small objects, a stay in the freezer ensures safety, for bigger ones i don't know, maybe careful examination ?

[@Tannhauser111]

To remove rusty screws, I don't use a hot air blower but a soldering iron. It always works. Greetings from Germany. Please excuse my bad English.

[@cynthiafisher9907]

Tannhauser111 Your English is perfect!

[@Calgary27]

Great tip re soldering iron - less risk of damage and maximum benefit to metal screw. Your English is great!! The world needs more Tannhauser111 ❤️🇨🇦❤️

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! Good idea! I will try that next time

[@johnsonrestoration]

Yes! Thanks!

[@johnsonrestoration]

Yes!

[@ImAnEmergency]

Thank you for doing these McCobb chairs justice

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome!

[@тамакактотама]

-Thomas, what a fine fellow you are, I admire your delicate taste and your skill, you are a maestro with a capital letter! Bravo maestro, art and love will save the world!🖼🎨🤘👌👍🤗🤗🤗

[@peterpanassow7814]

Agreed! 👍

[@johnsonrestoration]

Wow, thank you! You're kind words are appreciated!

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you!

[@paulamorris4727]

Beautifully designed furniture restored to its original glory. Lovely job, as always!

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you very much!

[@cobberpete1]

Most Enjoyable. I like it that you only do what is necessary, rather than going to town and the Blitzkrieg approach

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! It's tough not to sometimes!

[@judithburke1539]

They look beautiful! Well done!

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you! 😊

[@richardcampbell8498]

Another fine job. Cheers Tom.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Many thanks!

[@kevinmurrell9779]

I have a job that's very hard at the moment. To relax I watch Tom's videos and enjoy them all. Binge watched most of them again over the last week. It's great watching an expert at work!

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you! I'm glad I can help, even in a small way

[@braidwooddesignstudio5536]

Watching you restoring something old, retro and loved is the best entertainment for a Sunday night down under. Nicecto see you again, take care.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! I appreciate it!

[@florenceb6550]

I really love watching you restore furniture Mr Johnson, I learn a lot and your patience relieves my anxiety . Patiently awaiting your next video 💕

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you! I appreciate it!

[@kisselectronics8360]

Watching a true craftsman at work is a real joy to behold. Thank You

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you!

[@stephenboots]

Another great video! Yes, notification emails aren't working. I am, however, getting notifications on my phone from the KZbin app.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! Good to know!

[@HistoricHomePlans]

Hi Tom. It's always a treat when you come out with a new video. I wonder if your customers enjoy seeing these videos as well. I'd find it fascinating but a bit nerve wracking, like watching a child go in the hospital for minor surgery. Do you get feedback from your customers on the videos? What do they have to say?

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! All my customers that have commented have loved the videos. But there are a few I never heard from and as always I'm a little concerned, but I'm sure everyone's happy with the work

[@jeanhawken4482]

Stunning

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you! 😊

[@whitexeno]

Thanks for sharing TJ

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome!

[@deettekearns9092]

Beautiful job, as always! Thanks for the video!!!

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome!

[@noel-ec4iy]

marvelous, grateful thanks for your videos

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome! Glad you like them!

[@jeanloreaud9282]

Une restauration qui a dû être longue,mais très bien réussie,bravo à bientôt salut Jeannot 🛠😉

[@johnsonrestoration]

Merci!

[@alanmcwilliams4264]

I've had the same issue with KZbin, I go directly into subscriptions to find the latest postings I've also redid the bell but that didn't change anything

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! I believe you tube has stopped notifications

[@FixingFurniture]

Another nice restoration Tom. What do you think of the Old Brown hide glue? I'm also going to send you a surprise gift after watching one of your scenes to make you work a little easier. Cheers. Scott

[@johnsonrestoration]

Hi Scott! It feels like Christmas! I really like the OBG. Longer working time than the glue from flakes

[@00wheelsrob00]

Always great content from a master of his trade! Thx for sharing your work with us.

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome! Glad you enjoyed it!

[@seantango2754]

Always learning so much from you, Tom. I see you went to the coast lately to see some cormorants and herring gulls. I always enjoy your openings, as well.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! Yes, a few days at the shore!

[@mrhignettshorses]

Nice work Tom, thanks for sharing your skills.

[@johnsonrestoration]

My pleasure!

[@barbaracatalano6299]

It is so great to see you! Been a minute. Love the chairs. Hope all us well up there.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Yes! Thank you! And I hope the same for you too

[@MrJozef1974]

Very good job. Thumbs up!

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks a lot!

[@rickspriggs2176]

I'm only believing it's walnut because you say it is. I'd swear Oak or Hickory myself. Thanks for the videos. Of all the methods you show I think patience is what I learn the most from watching you.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! I agree. But then some of it was definitely walnut. Big mystery

[@andrericardoantunes5752]

Hi Thomas! My name is André, I am a restorer, I live in the city of Curitiba - Brazil. I always watch your videos and I have already applied several of the techniques that you teach in my work, I am also happy to see some that I use being used by you, this tells me that I am on the right path. Thank you for sharing your knowledge. A big hug

[@johnsonrestoration]

Fantastic! I'm glad you like them. It always means a lot to me, coming from a fellow tradesman

[@Laidahen]

Andre - my father was from the village of Lapa in Rio de Janeiro. He got some training in furniture during his youth and moved to the U.S. at 18 years old. He was able to build up a business in the Washington D.C. area in antique restoration which thrived for over 40 years.

[@conradotis318]

you all prolly dont care at all but does someone know a tool to log back into an instagram account..? I somehow forgot my account password. I appreciate any tricks you can offer me.

[@conradotis318]

@Salvatore Joey Thanks for your reply. I found the site on google and Im trying it out now. Looks like it's gonna take a while so I will reply here later when my account password hopefully is recovered.

[@conradotis318]

@Salvatore Joey It worked and I finally got access to my account again. Im so happy! Thanks so much, you saved my account :D

[@pyraledubuis9744]

at 12:38 (diagonal pegs) "...it weakens the join", ... and, as you experienced it a minute earlier, makes disassembling difficult and more damaging, which is inconsistent with using a reversible glue, precisely in view of a possible break of the glue joinery with decades of use. Fundamentally, we use reversible glue for our grandchildren to be able to repair it, well after us. It is nice and comforting to see a venerable piece of furniture coming in parts with only a bit of heating, water vapor, and some hammer blows. while an irreversibly-glued piece of furniture will most often be doomed to the trash at the first minor accident.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! Well said! But hide glue isn't magic, a good joint is still difficult to take apart. Any adhesive will loosen with heat, but you've got to be able to get the heat to the glue -easier said than done!

[@HBSuccess]

Tom that’s a ton of work to get done in two days IMO. Your methodical approach pays off.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks!

[@floief]

The chairs look great and ready for a new life. Funny you should mention your notifications. I've been getting mine but I've found that the videos I've watched aren't marked as watched or are marked as partially watched. I've searched the internet for a fix and can't find one.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! I hope we can figure this out

[@erwinwinkelmann]

Ich bewundere Ihre Kunst!. Alles Gute für Sie.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Dankeschön! Gleichfalls

[@w4447]

Another nice video Mr Johnson. I have a quick question though. why not clean everything when you had the chair apart? Couldn't you move the tape to the ends to clean them?

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! I always glue up a piece before I do anything else. Moving the tape could lead to disaster!

[@43painter]

Great job ! What I never understood is when you put bees wax òn polyurethane lacker , a impermeable layer ? The wax can't reach the wood and stays on top of the polyurethane varnish layer, I guess. Or is it just to even the overall color of the piece ?

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! You are right, but the wax is to help protect the finish. I mean, it can help, but in a limited way. It's also about the appearance

[@JoelWetzel]

Have you found a use for an oscillating multi-tool yet? The idea struck me when you cut off that extra dowel that one would make a good flush-cut saw for tight spaces. I'm pretty sure they have scraper blades too but haven't tried it for myself. All things being equal I prefer working on small stuff with muscle power. Peace.

[@georgepauls2911]

Joel Wetzel multi tool would have worked well especially in tight situations like cutting that dowel (I’ve got 2 and been using them for close to 20 years)

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! I do have one but keep forgetting to use it on furniture repairs! I've used it for so many other things

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! I've got to remember to use mine

[@Weesperbuurt]

You made my day. Maritime birds too...cormorants and herring gulls.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! Yeah, cool birds!

[@lohikarhu734]

Tom; when you face a very difficult screw, useful tool for you might be the "hammer driver", an impact screwdriver that uses a hammer blow to drive a cam that drives the screwdriver bit... The advantage of these drivers is that they apply the hammer force against the screw, preventing stripping the head, at the same time as they apply the rotational force. I think that you just need to "back up" a piece as small as a chair with something to prevent damage from the impact, but not a problem with larger pieces.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! I have to look into that. Maybe a new tool! Yes!

[@peterelement820]

Just as well you mentioned about the bell icon. I wouldn't have known otherwise

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! I should do that more often

[@steverundle8635]

Surprised with how the cane seats have endured the neglect.

[@lawannarobinson9900]

I too was thinking the same, how did the cane seats survive unless they were restored at an earlier time.

[@HeikeWoolard]

There's actually one that looks like it has been redone. Right there in the end shot. And if people take out the various items in their back pockets before sitting, there are not little fingers picking and nobody standing on the seat (yes, I am redoing a chair that a lady fell through, because she kept using it as a step-stool), then they can hold up.

[@dr.skipkazarian5556]

Exactly, I would have imagined that those would be the first areas of vulnerability; however, I have discovered with my own teak furniture (outside lanai) that undue wear or erosion on the cane can be mitigated by using a large padded (removable) cushion.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! So true, but some have been redone

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! Yes, the seats were different ages, some may have been original

[@52memor]

Thomas use an electric soldering iron rest it on the head of the screw for a couple of minutes, it's a lot easier and direct than using a heat gun

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! Yes, that would have been better. Next time.....

[@walmartdog1142]

My email notifications disappeared too, although one will occasionally slip thru. I still get notifications under the bell icon. After searching for several weeks, I found a KZbin corporate page where those turds said it was done because people were complaining that the notifications were clogging their email, and that many subscribers weren't responding to notifications they had received. There are still postings about how to fix this problem, but nothing works.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you! I've been meaning to look into it. If people are getting too many notifications they should reduce their subscriptions! But it may be all the other notifications too. I turn off all notifications except a few

[@johnfithian-franks8276]

Hi Thomas, at what point does it become unprofitable in time or currency for you to work on items?

[@johnsonrestoration]

Never! It is too expensive for some items of course but people are doing these restorations for sentimental reasons, money and value are not considerations

[@joescarborough1]

Were you using a maroon Scotch Brite with your Krud Kutter solution to clean those pieces? On another note: KZbin quit sending email notifications as of 13 August 2020 claiming that less than 0.1% of those emails were ever opened. The notifications are now found under the "bell" icon in the upper right-hand corner - IF you are logged into a youtube account AND you have your settings correctly configured. (Please don't ask how to do that. There's too many browser/platform variables.) All the best, -- Joe

[@gerryryan6988]

I'd like to know about what scotch brite you use with the Krud Kutter also. I have some kitchen cabinets I need to clean. PS You are a real artist! Not much of a rant though :) Also wondering if you cleaned the cane too?

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! I appreciate the info. I will look into it

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! I use 2 Scotch Brite pads, gray is ultra fine, maroon is medium grade. I didn't clean the cane, I'm not sure why. It looked fine though

[@jorisdemoel3821]

A lovely light touch. Someone really 'screwed up' that one chair apparently... Was that the paler one that can be seen in the group shot?

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! Yes, there was a paler one and a darker one. The owner, who inherited these chairs, didn't know why

[@carljames9351]

Joint 3 picked a fight with Tom and lost! Spectacularly 😆

[@johnsonrestoration]

I like that! Thanks

[@suhayl5157]

Those chairs with their current condition look good enough; no need to break them so you can repair them.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! They were shakey, but yes, that's why I resorted to the new glue

[@lionvillelion]

here are those chairs: www.1stdibs.com/furniture/seating/dining-room-chairs/paul-mccobb-calvin-sculpted-walnut-cane-x-base-dining-chairs-set-of-six/id-f_20426032/

[@johnsonrestoration]

Hi Gregory! Sorry I missed this earlier, thanks! Happy New Year!

[@tiailds]

I'm curious why the diagonal dowel holes that were cut off weren't filled in?

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! because I forgot! I think they'll be OK

[@waynethompson8416]

Tom, I thought you might be interested in something I noticed. My computer crashed, hard drive died. In having it fixed, it was switched from the Windows 7 that I was using and preferred to Windows 10. Ever since I got Windows 10, I no longer get notifications. Well, I get them, but they don't last long enough to read what they say. So, any that come in at night while I am sleeping just simply disappear. With Windows 7 they didn't go away until I closed them out or clicked on them to view. That no longer happens with stupid Windows 10!

[@dlevi67]

You should be able to see all the notifications until you clear them - click on the notification icon bottom right of the screen, and that should bring up the notifications you haven't managed to read when the pop-up is displayed.

[@waynethompson8416]

@@dlevi67 , tried that some time ago, was already suggested to do that. Didn't work!!!

[@dlevi67]

@@waynethompson8416 Hm. Sorry. Do you actually get the notification window to come up? Have you checked that your "Focus Assist" settings are what you expect them to be? (type Focus Assist in Cortana search box)

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks Wayne. I am so hopeless when it comes to computers. My editor is tech savvy, and I need to get him to find out what's going on. dlevi67 sounds like he knows what he's talking about

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! I'm going to give this info to my editor, so we can find out the best way to do this

[@PacificEdibleSeaweed]

👏👏👏👏👏👏👏

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you!

[@toomaskotkas4467]

Wow, very elegant chairs! It's too bad the copies now will be made in a week or so in China.

[@mercoid]

Too bad..., depending on who you are.

[@toomaskotkas4467]

@@mercoid I guess if you a Chinese that doesn't invent anything but bluntly copy everything you are doing O.K.

[@johnsonrestoration]

No doubt! Thanks!

[@johnsonrestoration]

True. Nothing wrong with Chinese products! They manufacture to the specifications, it's up to the buyer to provide those specs

[@johnsonrestoration]

Yes, the Chinese do copy, but to the company's specs

[@ArchieStiglitz]

Why would you use a plastic lacquer om chairs that originally have nitrocellulose lacquer? Why not use what the furniture are supposed to have?

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! Only because the aerosols only come as Acrylic. We don't know what the original finish was, I'm guessing nitro-cellulose. The acrylic is compatible

[@ArchieStiglitz]

@@johnsonrestoration Okay, that's odd. I have cellulose in aerosol cans in my workshop here in Sweden. I would be surprised if you don't have that in the states. I myself never work in acrylic lacquer, unless it's a more modern furniture that is supposed to have plastic finish. Anyway, love your channel, you have been a great inspiration and I've learned a great deal from you.

[@rawbacon]

It's interesting those chairs have a lot of value to someone, my guess is if you put them out in the trash at least a thousand people would pass and not pick them up.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! You're probably right

[@valerielambert7922]

I'm in awe of your patience on most jobs, but this one most of all so far. The first chair was so problematic and then there were all the others to do...... Have you ever felt like giving up on a job?

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! Well, it's never an option as all these pieces belong to customers!

[@jessefoulk]

Always has the same exact introductional words for years

[@johnsonrestoration]

True! Now I'm thinking I should change it up. But how?

[@MrPhotodoc]

The screw sorting jig alone was worth watching this.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! The "Parts Buddy Jr"

[@2goldenace]

Same thoughts

[@tcl5853]

“D’oh!” As homer Simpson would say. So simple! It’s so useful that human beings should be given one at birth!

[@hdibart]

What did you think of the premixed hide glue,Mr Johnson?

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! I like it a lot. You still have to heat it! But still very convenient

[@jenford7078]

Really nice work on those! I always appreciate seeing how you respect original finishes, too many "strip em n sand em's" out there. Nothing is nicer than seeing them as they were meant to look. Gotta add, your wildlife and animal clips at beginning and end have had me hooked since I first found the channel. Just heartwarming beauty!

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you! I'm glad when people appreciate what I'm trying to do.

[@ericlomas5467]

Never heard a more civilized, calm rant :)

[@spotteddogmercantile5458]

It's like he wasn't mad, just disappointed.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you! I'll have to step it up a bit next time!

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you! Exactly

[@jeremyloveslaurie]

Hahaha exactly i was like oh boy we gonna see firey TJ but then just calmly sharing his fatherly I'm disappointed in your choices talk and honestly that hit harder.

[@KentVillard]

Thomas' rant was exactly what I would expect from such an obvioulsy smart, calm and good natured person. It was straight to the point and without theatrics or drama - bravo!

[@gav2759]

It is a fact of life for a chair, that it will require disassembly and regluing over it's lifetime. This is not the most taxing job I will face, until encountering those additional dowels, that some "enthusiast" has inserted. There is an optimum size for dowels and tenons, all they have done by adding more, is weaken the structure. Nice job again Tom, thanks for posting.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! So true, and after drilling those dowels, the chairs still were loose.

[@robertlassiter5808]

gav2759 I spent my working life as an electrician and have encountered work done by “ enthusiasts “ . Most of which varied from annoying to down right dangerous. There are some things in life better left to professionals , electricity and antique furniture being two of them.

[@ellisc.foleyjr9778]

Ask and Ye shall receive! I was sitting here yesterday thinking, "hmm sure wish Tom has a video coming!? I'm going thru withdrawal! and fired up the confuser this morning and Wa!la! heres the video I wanted what more could you ask for. Good save on the broken screw, also. Thanks again Tom for another good lesson.

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome! Yes, I missed my usual Friday release

[@paulthompson2035]

I think it's great that on a weekend you get 2 of my favorite KZbin channels from America closely followed by the third on Tuesday morning. All to do with timber

[@randallthomas5207]

RE the “Warm Walnut” finish. They were just making the transition from varnishes to oil based urethane. These were production pieces and they added dyes to the finish to accomplish a consistent finish across the line, and pieces made at different times. The “Warm Walnut” was a spay applied, dyed urethane. The science behind the dyes wasn’t’ nearly as advanced as it is now, And they were prone to UV fading. The darker chair has had less exposure. I collect and restore furniture from the Lane “Acclaim” series designed by Andre Bus, from the same time frame. They also applied a “walnut” dyed finish to that line, and it was made from, walnut veneered lumber core sheet goods with solid walnut in a few places, and white ash used for the legs and a perimeter around the top, and some trapezoidal veneer inlays in top to simulate dovetails. The whole thing was spray finished in the the “walnut” urethane varnish. They show up on eBay constantly, and some one has stripped them and applied one of the modern water based urethane finishes. The visual contrast between the walnut and the ash is almost disturbing.

[@richardbrobeck2384]

look great

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks Randall. That is good info! I have collected quite a few of those same pieces. The ones with the original finish do show a contrast between the woods though. I've refinished some just natural and they look great

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks!

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! Some of the wood definitely looked like walnut, other pieces not so much

[@HBSuccess]

Great information! I knew what I was seeing in those arms/legs was ash!! The crest rails don’t look like walnut either to me... more like birch or maple (something closed pore) I work a lot with vintage electric guitars and they have the same dye fade issues A “cherry” red finish often winds up light brown for example.

[@onesixfive]

love to hear your rants! please speak your mind more often! to hear from the expert is a real privilege. and whats up with the new hyde glue? im shocked to hear you'd abandon your old glue pot! what do you like about the new stuff enough to make the change? i was getting anxious during that glue up as well - glad to hear you are actually human! i wonder if the 'calvin' brand is named for the dutch reformed church, i know there were (are?) alot of calvinists in grand rapids. another great video - nothing like tom johnson (from gorham.......maine) on a saturday morning!

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you! Better than cartoons? But I am trying "Old Brown Glue", and you still need to heat it! Good stuff

[@adrianstephens56]

"An exciting glue-up" - only on this channel!

[@kellerrobert80]

Yes, he said it was "frantic", but if you rewind 45 seconds he looks cool as a cucumber. Frantic in Tom's world means his heart jumps to whopping 65 bpm! Great job, as always, Tom.

[@francoisfouche2568]

@@kellerrobert80 I was thinking the same thing, I was very impressed with the working time of the glue as it seemed Tom was so cool and calm .... only after, when he said it was a "frantic" glue-up, did I realise it was !

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! Plenty of action!

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! It's all in the editing!

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks!

[@okjoe5561]

I think that first chair was stored in someplace like a damp cellar, that's why the screws rusted.

[@sandrawest4118]

Thanks! I was going to ask that question. I appreciate your answer. Peace💫

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! Could be, but also the original bleaching process could have affected them too

[@douglascodes]

Tom Johnson, where can we buy some Thomas Johnson Antique Furniture t-shirts?

[@onesixfive]

Take my money!

[@deettekearns9092]

I would buy one in a heartbeat!!!

[@22Piroko]

Me too!

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! We keep talking about that. I need to look into it

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks!

[@mikespunchlist]

Dang Tom..you're hands are all skinned up and band aided. Have you been juggling chainsaws in your off time?

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! Always issues! Wait until the cold weather!

[@ralphiewigs2208]

You should see my glue ups...yelling, crying, profanity and despair. They always involve some sort of apology to my wife. She's a pretty good sport.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! Believe me I know! Putting a video camera into the mix really changes things!

[@danivaleiro8273]

I'm addicted! I'm Tom Johnson, from Thomas Johnson antique furniture restoration, in Gorham, Maine.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Yes! Thanks!

[@Jack.333]

Bleach is an oxidizer. I am suspecting the screws rusted from the exposure to a bleaching dip or application. Great Job Thomas Johnson

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! I think you are right!

[@kathleenmilligan2944]

Watching your videos is almost as good as hanging out with my Dad while he did projects. Enjoy you. Miss him.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you! That's really nice. I miss my Dad too!

[@anthonychavez3742]

The glue that you mentioned that's new to you did you call that old brown glue?

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! Yes, "Old Brown Glue" www.oldbrownglue.com/

[@rehaimy]

I discovered old brown glue 5 years ago, and since then it's been my go to glue whenever I can use it. How did you like it?

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! I like it a lot! I will continue with it

[@unfortunatedisgrace246]

"i go on a little rant here" he sais and continues with the calmest, most informative "rant" you can do. really sweet!

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! I'll try to do better next time!

[@jrand2631]

Really nicely done. 👍👍👍 11:45 - "You should mark a piece up as if someone else is gonna put it back together" Exactly! Who haven't been handed over a pile of parts from something that someone else had dismantled, without marking them up, and still they expect you to reassemble the piece in 5 seconds!

[@johnsonrestoration]

True! Especially when you disassembled it yourself!

[@brianandtamiolson2330]

Please make more videos for my husband and I. We watch together each night but have run out of new videos. Thank you for entertaining us and teaching is something new each time.👍🏼 🪑

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you, I will! I have almost 200 hundred videos published! Sure you watched them all?

[@brianandtamiolson2330]

Thomas Johnson Antique Furniture Restoration I had a transplant a year ago and with all of my down time, my husband and I did a Thomas Johnson Marathon year. Love your work and videos. 👍🏼

[@ricksolari9570]

It appears that the liquid hide glue crystalizes over time and basically "self-destructs". Why, then, is it still used in lieu of a better, modern product?

[@georgepauls2911]

Rick, i don’t think that the “original” glue was hide glue, if these chairs are from the 50’s or 60’s then it could be PVA or Urea or other modern glues, these have to be scraped off before re-gluing as it will interfere with the bond I’m assuming that Tom is using “Old Brown Glue” (Made by Patrick Edwards - it’s traditional hide glue with additives that give you a long “open time”) this allows Tom to do a complicated and lengthy glue up with some semblance of peace. Most glues (PVA’s - Titebonds and others) have very short open times like 15 or 20 minutes max, before they shin over and then won’t give you a good bond, hot hide glue as seen in his other videos gels quickly, it’s still ok, but you wouldn’t get the time necessary to glue the whole chair and would lead to panic, so the “Old Brown Glue” is a great glue choice in this instance Lastly, hide glues are easy to clean up, even after it’s dried, PVA’s and others need to come off immediately which is tough of you have a clamp or? in the way, also hide glue does not affect the finish, where residues of PVA’s and others will interfere with dye or stain penetration leaving an unsightly mark

[@georgepauls2911]

Rick Solari PS, with regard to the crystallization of old hide glues, the hide glue is moisture sensitive and over time does, but the beauty is that taking the joint apart is easy and less destructive, also you don’t need to scrape or remove all of the old glue to get a good bond as the new hide glue re-constitutes the bit left over (bond strength is not affected), if you need to disassemble and clean modern glues it can be a lengthy and difficult process and you need to get most of it off before re-gluing Hide glue is also reversible so museum quality restorations require it as what’s important is the original bits of a piece and as time goes along a repair might need to be redone, I think we have seen Tom use heat and a damp towel to undo hide glue joints and with heat one can sometimes reactivate old hide glue to reattach loose veneer

[@mercoid]

@@georgepauls2911 ....I just restored an old side table that had what I believe was old, crystallized hide glue. Approximately 75-80 yrs old... All the glue joints were effectively unbonded. It was very easy to scrape off the old glue. I reassembled with Tite-Bond which was what I had on hand. And thumbs up to Tom! I’ve learned so many things from his videos which have transformed my approach to these projects. Just wonderful!

[@georgepauls2911]

mercoid yes that would work, I don’t have a problem with PVA’s they are good glues, but not suited to all applications, if I’m working on an 18th Century Philadelphia Chippendale piece I only use hot hide glue, if it’s Modern I pick the glue that works the best, in the case of something like these chairs Tom had many parts and needed multiple clamps, the short (15-20 minute) open time of PVA’s would be a real problem as the parts all need to go back in the proper location and with all of Tom’s labeling there is still a possibility of screwing up in the panic to keep within the open time, other issues are that the piece is not painted, but clear - PVA’s unless completely removed will affect the finish, especially the penetration of dyes and stains, cleaning the hide glue in this case is easy and can be done after it dries which is not the case with PVA’s - this would make the glue up even more stressful If the break is a structural one and regular glues would be too weak (say a chair back which gets a lot of lever action as the sitter leans back) I’ll often use an elastomeric epoxy (G-Flex or Flextec) as they don’t cure brittle, can be sanded, sawn, chiseled, and colored with various pigments and have a bit of flexibility to withstand shock In my opinion there is nothing worse than the panic that sets in as one is doing a complex glue up and time is running out

[@mercoid]

@@georgepauls2911 ...Thank you for the informative reply. I’ll look to employ this information soon, as I have several chairs awaiting restoration in my garage. A few of which have been badly molested by the previous owner with all manner of screws and mending plates.

[@Catbirdmom2]

I can’t remember seeing you have such a hard time disassembling a chair before! Obviously they were well-made and cared for to have lasted this long in such good condition. Thank you for sharing your efforts and not just editing it out. It always helps my confidence when I see someone with so much experience have to put in a little bit of effort to do something that would severely test my abilities. Beautiful work as always! Thank you!

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome! Yes, a while ago we decided to show the good, the bad, and the ugly! Originally, we edited out problems and just showed the solutions - but people demanded more!

[@jimiblue1277]

Can't believe Tom still has under 100K subscribers. What a shame! Excellent work as usual! Thanks!

[@mercoid]

It is hard to believe. People like antiques. People like carpentry videos. People like restoration videos. This has it all from one of the premier furniture restorers in the country. Why not more subscribers??

[@johnsonrestoration]

You and me both! Thanks! I'm getting there!

[@johnsonrestoration]

Who knows? I feel like I'm doing everything I can!

[@chillyspoon]

Every video of yours teaches me something - thank you as always. I saw another commenter asking what you think of that premix hide glue, I'd be interested in know this too, were you happy with it?

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome! Yes, I really like the glue www.oldbrownglue.com/

[@chillyspoon]

@@johnsonrestoration thank you!

[@4ngu54110tt]

Is there a reason why you generally re-glue with hide glue instead of e.g. titebond or PVA? Is it a personal preference or to keep with more traditional furniture manufacturing process? Would it devalue items to glue up with modern glues or is hide glue just better for restoration purposes in your opinion? Cheers 😊

[@georgepauls2911]

Angus Allott it’s the long open time of the Old Brown Glue and the fact that it does not interfere with the finishing process, most modern glues have very short open times and this was a complicated glue up

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! I always use hide glue on period antiques, because it's compatible with the old glue. I could have used any glue on these chairs, being modern. As long as a piece is glued up correctly, no loss of value

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! Yes, this Old Brown Glue has a good open time

[@progqueen5952]

When you said, “Makes for exciting glue-up” I think you are the Steve Mcqueen of furniture restoration! Nice to see you are well and hope your family is well too! Greetings from Illinois!

[@johnsonrestoration]

Wow, thank you! I don't mind being compared to Steve McQueen! We're all fine, I hope you are too

[@rirkc]

Yours has to be the most polite "rant" I've ever seen to date. Thanks for another great vid!

[@johnsonrestoration]

I appreciate that! Thanks!

[@kie1937]

Always brilliant videos

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you! First comment!

[@leosenden6855]

Heating up screws with a solderingiron will often loosen them. Nice videos, love to watch them. Greetings from the Netherlands.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! I'll have to try that

[@robertc8134]

Hi Thomas, I had to pull-apart a poorly fitted/glued mortise-and-tenon joint a few weeks back. I'm the only one in the shop (as usual) and I was also applying the glue to the failed joint. The question became one of "how to pull the joint apart carefully, and hold it for a second or two as the glue is applied." I used two 3/4 inch pipe clamps, reversing the outboard ends (by compressing the stacked springs underneath, sliding them off, and placing them back on the pipe "backwards"). Place both ends of the clamp between the legs containing the failed joint, and turn the steel cranking handle on the clamp COUNTERCLOCKWISE to reverse the clamping motion, thus spreading the legs. It worked like a charm! I hope I remember it.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks Robert! That's the way I have always done it. But now I like these "spreader" clamps like the one I use in this video

[@sooth15]

I want you to know that your screw tray (shown at 6:25) is one of the most brilliant and useful things I've seen in years. I built myself one a year or two ago when I had seen it in another video, and use it all the time.

[@mercoid]

Yes! As someone who doesn’t have one, but will soon, I can say that spilling out a container of random screws and having to put them back, is almost dreadful enough not want to do it at all.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks John! van Benten designed and made that. The "Parts Buddy"

[@johnsonrestoration]

True!

[@garyschotland8321]

Tom, another great video. I'm working on a similar set of c1960 walnut modern dining chairs. Can you please share the brand and exact type of spray lacquer you used? I'm assuming Mohawk? Thank you!

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome! You are right: www.mohawk-finishing.com/products/wood-touch-up-repair/aerosols/ultra-flo-clears/

[@Hugo_Overthere]

I think these chairs are a mix of woods. Some look like oak or birch, and some look exotic, like tulip or orchid. Like you, Thomas, my guess is they were bleached and perhaps lightly pickled to try and make all of the woods look alike. Different woods age differently, so some of the chairs aged through the camouflage. Catalpa? Acacia? Jacaranda? Monkey pod?

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! I think you are exactly right. And that makes them difficult to touch up or refinish

[@kathybarth4863]

If I don’t get notifications - I will hunt your videos down.

[@ronaldframe1045]

Enjoy your videos! I'm sure you've heard of this tip but maybe it will help some of your viewers. When removing old screws, nuts and bolts it often helps to tighten them first before attempting to remove. I have used this many times with success over my many years of remodeling work and working on my old Triumph motorcycle.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! Good idea! I think that happens sometimes inadvertently. makes sense, anything to break that rust a bit

[@gordonwilton1452]

Great video and a lovely set of chairs, thanks Thomas. If the cane had been discoloured in places due to years of seat rubs, would you have left it untouched or would you have made it a uniform colour? If so how would you tackle that please? I'm asking because I have a set of 70s G-Plan chairs with discoloured cane seat backs. hwfurniturearchive.bucks.ac.uk/asset-bank/action/viewAsset?id=1224&index=20&total=36&view=viewSearchItem The seat pads have been recovered since new so they don't look quite so 70s!

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks Gordon! I would leave it alone. Cane is very difficult to stain and color. It doesn't take stain, so you have to spray it with toner lacquers, which of course then wear off with use! Not worth the effort

[@tjh_8913]

A lot of the supplies and tools you use are on Amazon. I’m sure many of us would be happy to purchase them through affiliate links! Keep up the good work and congratulations on 100k subscribers.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! I know, I need to do the affiliate thing

[@jerryking7502]

Would it be better if the joints were not so tight fitting? Tight, but not as tight as those chairs? Or is it the glue that makes it appear that way? Too bad about the chip outs. I have experienced that myself. Mostly when it is veneer. Splinters easy like walnut...Maple maybe? Another awesome restoration...

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! You need tight joints. The glue will only work with wood - to - wood contact. These chairs are oak, hence the splinters

[@paulmaryon9088]

Hi Tom, UK greetings, I thought oak on some parts of those chairs? Difficult to tell from here! and an unusual fixing on the back legs, I often use a soldering iron on tricky screws, puts the heat right where you want it!! How did you get on with the premixed hide glue,and what was it called? Thanks as always for a great vid, stay safe

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome! The pre-mixed glue is "Old Brown Glue" www.oldbrownglue.com/ I'll try the soldering iron trick

[@robertstigter9195]

Fantastic video again Thomas, I again learned a lot about your technics. Have a question: Can you please tell us where you get the scrapers with the red handle from. They are hard to find in german DIY markets here. Thanks in advance and looking forward to the next lesson. Rgds and stay safe, Robert

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! It's from Woodpecker: www.woodpeck.com/woodpeckers-mighty-mini-scraper.html

[@cynthiajenkins6835]

Hello, I totally agree about putting to many screws or dowels I a joint it makes it weeker. I have run across this problem with some of my furniture finds. I hate when someone put nails in joints. I have an old dresser from 1908 bought at an auction. It was is such bad shape. When I got it home the whole thing wobbled. It's usable now and I really would love to take it apart and start over. However I am using it to store items. I usually work on my furniture items in the winter. Not cold enough here yet. Great video.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! Yes, I have seen so many failures because of too much drilling and dowelling etc.