The Rare Shaker Tilting Chair! - Thomas Johnson Antique Furniture Restoration

Tom Johnson of Thomas Johnson Antique Furniture Restoration in Gorham, Maine has a rare opportunity to work on this unusual, slightly canted Shaker Ladderback Chair with ball-and socket joints at the base of its back legs. 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).

[@chazzyb8660]

Tom, I studied Shaker furniture back at college in the 80s, even built some of the chairs and other furniture from their book of plans, but neither saw a real 'tilter' or was entirely convinced they'd work. So it made me very happy to see this chair, and your work in bringing it back. Clever folk those Shakers, except the vow of chastity, which more or less doomed them from the outset? Except of course if you feel the end of the world is coming then there is no real need to plan for generations ahead… But, "Shakerism has a message for this present age - a message as valid today as when it was first expressed. It teaches above all else that God is Love and that our most solemn duty is to show forth that God who is love in the World." Which is hard to disagree with. In repairing this chair it is pleasant to think you are completing, or perhaps adding to, the process that was the original "act of prayer" made in its creation? Either way, I'm thinking "It looks pretty good."

[@chazzyb8660]

I hadn't clocked quite how integral Gorham, Maine was to the Shaker story. Gosh Tom, you really are in the heartland there - it's surprising you haven't shown us more Shaker pieces, but I guess they were pretty well built on the whole.

[@dlevi67]

Very good comment! It reminds me of a joke about "The world according to 4 philosophers" Moses said: "The Law is everything." Jesus said: "Love is everything." Spinoza said: "God is everything." Einstein said: "Everything is relative." (Note for literally-oriented pedants - I know Einstein and the others didn't say exactly that; it's a _joke,_ OK? 😁)

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you! I definitely feel a connection to the craftsman that have come before me when I'm working on a piece, although I'm not attuned to the Spiritual part, I feel it. Maybe "God" and "love" are the same thing

[@johnsonrestoration]

I have never had many Shaker pieces in for repair - mostly rockers in need of new rockers! I have templates for most of them now

[@johnsonrestoration]

I like that!

[@sheilablackburn183]

I dont think i will ever get tired of watching your amazing wood working skills, the precision of cutting out the tiny bit in the bottom of the chair leg with such a huge saw is fascinating to see.

[@johnsonrestoration]

That makes me smile! Thanks

[@huskyjerk]

That ball-foot assembly was just amazingly executed by Tom. Pretty slick.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! I'm just glad it worked!

[@michaeltreadwell777]

Well Tom, that was BRILLIANT. What an unusual chair - never heard of such a thing, but a very clever idea ! Obviously you did a superb job and made it so fascinating to watch your skills in play. Thanks for making such interesting videos Tom. Take care :-)

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! I had not heard of them either!

[@bethcrane5780]

I think this is one of my favourites from all your videos. Ball and socket joint from wood. Masterful. Thank you!

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome! Yes, this was the first time I'd seen one of these chairs. The Shakers are amazing.

[@sharonparmelee9633]

Hi Tom! I can't express to you how much joy and a sense of calm I get from watching you do your magic (hard work and years of experience) on these gorgeous pieces of furniture! It takes me back to when my dad and I used to restore older pieces for our own families.... Daddy was a building contractor, but after he retired, he enjoyed the restoration process!! I am in the process of rewatching all of your videos......there seem to be some I missed, so those are brand new to me!! I hope you and yours are well and I'll see you in your videos!! Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge with us!!

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome and thank you! It makes me happy when my videos can bring back memories of your Dad

[@paulamorris4727]

My grandfather was a carpenter and furniture maker. When you break out your chisels, it reminds me of watching him in his workshop. Lovely job on a unique piece!

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you! That means a lot to me. I think of my father often

[@kendallclevenger6924]

Love your videos Thomas. I am a 72 year old woodworker and today is my birthday, so watching this was a great birthday present!

[@dlevi67]

Happy birthday, and many returns! (My turn tomorrow)

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! Happy Birthday!

[@johnsonrestoration]

Happy Birthday!

[@dlevi67]

@@johnsonrestoration Thank you, Tom!

[@cathuggerniowacity]

I think it looks fantastic! Never seen one like it. And never seen anyone create a ball of wood! You’re a great teacher! Thank you.

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome!

[@cherylcook6284]

Thank you for teaching me to appreciate the lovely craftsman, who has done a wonderful job refinishing a few family pieces for me. I never understood how much hard work and talent is involved in restoring old furniture pieces.

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome! Yes, that's one of the things I like about the videos too

[@kenc2257]

What an unusual chair. The way that pivoting ball foot secures to the back leg is pretty ingenious. Great job on the repair.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks!

[@morenowg]

I can feel the chair feeling the love you were putting into it through your work. Excellent video. Loved it.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Yes! Thank you!

[@donnashelley3939]

Thanks for being my lunch companion! Quite the skill-challenging job. Extremely well-done!

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome! Lunch is my favorite time of the day!

[@baseball4697]

Timeless master class video with many tricks taught to us with this one. Not sure which is more impressive, the original creative design or the creative and skilled repair a century later. Impressive. Thanks, Tom!

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome! I appreciate it!

[@jesseburch7063]

Mr. Johnson, you have the patience of Job and the artistry of Michelangelo. What a stupendous piece of work.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks Jesse! That's nice

[@billballeza377]

Don’t know how I missed this one, Tom. Thoroughly enjoyed watching your innovative approach to this repair. That V-shaped tool rest for your lathe was something new to me. Nothing like having the right tools for the job.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks 👍 I really like this video too! It was fun to do

[@monteashmore3730]

I learn something every time I watch you. You have no idea how you've inspired me and I'm sure, others.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you! That's nice

[@MichaelKieweg]

Brilliant video! Never have heard of or seen such a chair. I learned a lot. Greetings from Germany

[@johnsonrestoration]

Glad you enjoyed it! Thanks!

[@JWimpy]

That was a very ingenious way of attaching that ball in its socket. There is a lot to be said about the old ways of building furniture. Another great repair well done.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! It was interesting!

[@salsipuedes8042]

I enjoy watching your videos more than I enjoy almost anything else on television! I’ve learned so from watching you and primarily about patience and more patience I am impressed with the excellent care you extend to all the amazing tools you use. You must sharpen those chisels on a regular basis…! Thank you for sharing your knowledge with the rest of us. May you continue to do this for many more years.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you! That is very nice, I appreciate it

[@dahljerald2934]

Once again you've managed to educate and entertain us. Thank you for that.

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome!

[@jamescole1786]

2/13/22; you took 6 hours to do a fantastic job! Making a wooden ball & socket for a busted rear leg on an old Shaker 'leaning' ladder back, cane seat chair...! Fantastic craftsmanship Tom! ..oh yes, the camera work: super close-ups of 'ball making', chisel trimming socket internals for best fit (super sharp blade), then leather strap & wedge installation of 'ball' into socket, audio, real-time commentary while cutting/shaping, fitting etc. Thomas, this is great 'antique detail-fix' woodworking! Gotta be one of your best videos of difficult projects. Carry on Sir!👍👍👍👍🧑‍🔧🍷🍷

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you! So kind! Yes, this is a favorite

[@Dee-jt4td]

And just when we though we have seen every thing you present to us with another master piece. What a pleasure.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you!

[@YouT-DJ]

Very cool technology in that chair. Thanks Tom.

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome!

[@ronmack1767]

Enjoyed the video Tom. Very nice repair duplicating the foot. What an ingenious way to connect a homemade swivel foot too. Thanks for the video and y'all take care and God bless.

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome Ron!

[@petebutler5139]

Master Craftsman! I always enjoy your videos!! Now that I think of it, I’ve been watching your videos for about seven years now! ☺️

[@johnsonrestoration]

Wow, thanks! And let me say I appreciate that and your comments and support over the years

[@1ocean515]

Amazing how they worked that socket ball and secured it with leather. Great job replicating the design and repairing it. Beautiful. 👍👍

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you!

[@shariclegg5273]

Grandpa always tilted his chair back, he would have really enjoyed a chair like this. I never knew such a thing existed. Thanks for the history lesson. Great job.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! I didn't know about them either!

[@dlevi67]

Looking forward to this one! And for once, the sun is shining on a British Friday.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Great! The sun is everything! If the sun is shining it's a great day

[@ormurgujonsson8463]

I appreciate that you include books and resources as tools at the end there because most of what you do wouldn't be possible without the knowledge passed down through them

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! I like showing the tools also. The books really come in handy also!

[@paullazenby3668]

A new video genuinely makes my day. Coffee grabbed, comfy chair, time to relax. Keep up the good work Tom.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you! First comment!

[@htimsid]

The surgeon at work, marvellous.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you!

[@raymondbenadictine]

It's always a good day when I can relax with a masterclass from Thomas Johnson. Long may you continue, Tom.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you! I hope so!

[@byronrosener8765]

My ok

[@joann5157]

Tom, you are truly a genius! Your skill and workmanship are a pleasure to watch. Kisses to Ella.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you! kisses delivered!

[@damogranheart5521]

Great job and thank you for peeks at Ella, the bluebird, and the lovely cardinal!

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome!

[@dougguest930]

This one was even more interesting than usual. Always a real pleasure watching you work Tom.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you!

[@perihelion7798]

This video clearly demonstrates the difference between 'repair' and 'restoration'. I was also impressed with the drill press and the lathe. Old, but effective, machines, very well maintained. A good tool, shown respect and care, will last for generations. Kudos!

[@dwaynekoblitz6032]

Exactly!!

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! I agree!

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks!

[@sylviekoenig9960]

I knew nothing about these chairs. This was both interesting and educative in many ways. Thanks Tom.

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome! I hadn't seen them either. The Shakers are very interesting!

[@mariekado7151]

You are such a wealth of knowledge. Pleasure watching you.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you!

[@stevencorley2352]

Once again you introduce me to a type of furniture I had never heard of. Expertly done, Tom. Thanks.

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome!

[@fianorian]

What a fascinating chair design. I have never seen a tilting chair and wonder who came up with such an ingenious design. I honestly did not think you would be able to repair that delicate piece of socket. Kudos!

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! I had my doubts too!

[@josephkerley363]

That was an unusual repair! Ingenious way they used to attach the ball. I didn't see that coming. Well done again Tom.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Yes, thanks!

[@johnpagani4006]

Tom …..you never cease to amaze me with your knowledge and solutions!

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! I appreciate it!

[@52memor]

WONDERFUL JOB !!!!!! Many thanks Thomas

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome!

[@leetalar4167]

I have been watching you for years. Am amazed at the work you do. I have learned so much and I am grateful. Thank you Tom

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome! And I appreciate you watching all this time

[@dickmeisterling3924]

One of your best efforts. Tom.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! I appreciate that!

[@janthomas7094]

Again the camera work is so good on all those close ups of stuff. I just love your show!

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! (again) I appreciate it!

[@peterolsen6454]

I salute your skill at colour blending with your projects, it is wonderful to watch.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks!

[@janis6363]

Interesting project to work on. Authentic Shaker furniture is worth all your precision in restoration. Always amazed at your talents accumulated over time in a great life in beautiful Maine.👋🏼👋🏼

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you very much!

[@ggmax2958]

Love the ingenious way they held the ball in there. Never knew such a chair existed

[@johnsonrestoration]

Me neither! Thanks!

[@tomatin6437]

That was a lesson in creativity! Thank you for another brilliant Video.

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome!

[@ww3ok]

The closeups of the chisel work were great. Lovely repair.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks!

[@nancyclark3049]

Pretty good, indeed John! Love how your videos begin and end with nature in Maine- seems like a nice place to live.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! It is!

[@switthoft]

Thanks for adding the details of time and tools. Very helpful for better understanding the work.

[@johnsonrestoration]

You are welcome!

[@markedone9778]

Wonderful video as always Tom, very educational and informative, I have never seen a chair like that before, keep up the good work!

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks!

[@lysdexsick]

first of all , you Sir are a Master of your craft!! secondly , what a lovely and simple chair.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you very much! It is!

[@frankstoverpurebloodsaltya6441]

AWESOME JOB TOM! REALLY NICE!

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks!

[@paulmachak9853]

From start to finish, a superb vid.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you!

[@MrJbeckettjr]

True old-world craftsmanship. You never cease to amaze with your skilled repairs. Thanks for the vids. I'm very happy that I caught a recommendation to your channel. It's become my favorite. I wish I would have found it much sooner.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you very much! Better late than never! Welcome to the channel

[@nena4215]

First I’ve ever seen anything like that, low tech cool, beautiful job, as always.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you very much!

[@yeagerxp]

Excellent restoration 👍👍👍Thanks for sharing

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome!

[@mickyjb2003]

Well done Thomas,great job.Thank you.

[@johnsonrestoration]

You’re welcome!

[@jasonhammond4640]

I've always wondered how Shaker builders got the ball to stay in the socket in those chair legs. That's pretty cool.👍👍 Thanks for the tool list at the end of the video too.

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome!

[@tobiasbook1879]

Thank you for another great video, i I just can’t get enough of this. Have a nice weekend!

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome!

[@Nancy-uv4xx]

It was fantastic to learn about chair construction on this one! I appreciate hearing your time and tools at the end.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks!

[@evamaisoumenosgood]

This is the best show about restoration that is available anywhere. Mr. Tom is a true craftsman, and his work shows the respect he has for the pieces he works with, their history, and even their imperfections. And yes, it is lovely to see all the animals outside, as well as the black dog, the loyal "helper." Thanks!

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome! I appreciate it!

[@kelvinnance8371]

Thank you for another excellent lesson in craftsmanship and creativity, Thomas! Also, you did a great job of the up close video capture!

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're very welcome!

[@josephina4792]

Beautiful work, and all through I was hoping you would demonstrate the tilting feature - well done! In school we would get in big trouble for tilting back in our chairs. Leave it to the Shakers to make a chair just for that purpose ❤

[@johnsonrestoration]

They were quite clever! Thanks!

[@Val_Emrys]

I really like how you have all the tools (and expertise) to do any repair. It is ok to be a rank amateur and save furniture from a landfill using what you have on hand but it great to see what is possible from a true professional. That is something not easily seen by the average person. Edited: that cardinal in rain!!

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! usually I don't need many tools, but the power tools I used for this one!

[@mrstandfast2212]

Another superb job. Years of knowledge, patience and sharp tools. When it comes to antique furniture restoration, Thomas is 'The Guvnor', as we'd say in England.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you! I like that!

[@vilmasaldate]

What an interesting chair design, I didn’t know those existed until I saw this video, thank you Tom!

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! Yes, they are rare! I hadn't seem one either

[@09gearchange]

Outstanding as always Tom, and a little insight on how to sharpen curved tools. Thank you so much . First time I have ever seen a restoration on a ball and socket chair let alone a tilted one.

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome! me too, I had not seen one before

[@simonkeyse8185]

Another lovely job done, as usual.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks!

[@derekmerchant1282]

Truly an education here. First I’ve ever heard of a tipping chair and the method was revelational. Thanks for sharing

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome!

[@lmckay8881]

I really enjoy your videos and I learn something every time. Thanks Tom!

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome!

[@corvus1238]

Another genius restoration. I love it that 'not bad' isn't good enough for you.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks!

[@thierrytalon8600]

That was impressive, Tom!

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks!

[@lkmayhew9390]

Nicely done, Tom!👌

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! 👍

[@Brian-Burke]

Great job Tom! I liked seeing how you sharpened your gouges.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! 👍

[@troystaten5633]

Nicely done, thanks for showing us.

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome!

[@keithwallington4966]

Well tom a very nice repair as allways nice to see you again

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks!

[@nobuckle40]

The repair does look good. Very unusual chair. I was intrigued by the way in which the ball was held into the socket. Shaker ingenuity never ceases to impress me.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Me too! It was great working on it

[@heatherbruce4681]

Thank you Mr. Johnson!

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome!

[@michaelguida448]

I have never heard of a chair like that before, very interesting. when you repaired the leg where the ball was going I was wondering how the ball would fit, but as always you showed why we watch your channel in the first place. Your knowledge and skill never ceases to amaze. thank you so much for sharing.

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome! Very nice

[@spanko208]

Excellent work as always !

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks!

[@kimallen6604]

Thanks so much for adding the summary, especially the time spent component.

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome!

[@SuperBollus]

Ella Bean seems impressed. Great job Tom!

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! She's like "meh"

[@interact48]

Part of my family were Quakers here in England, I remember a cottage with homemade ironing boards fitted into wooden panelling in the kitchen and homemade folding tables. I still have some very old shaker box’s, loved this video Thomas xxxx

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! Yes, that sounds like a similar mentality

[@curiousmike1044]

A history lesson along with a furniture repair lesson. Love it! Well done.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you!

[@markaubuchon6265]

Always continue to amaze me. Much respect sir

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you!

[@rongriggs1460]

Very interesting chair and another masterful restoration project.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you!

[@mygardenofthings]

Another brilliant work, thank you. Video quality.. wow! 😍

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you!

[@rirkc]

Cool design and perfect restoration!

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you!

[@Jessiebes]

Wow, pure craftsmanship!

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you!

[@kennethcoade2902]

Another masterclass.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you!

[@Tim-57]

Hey Tom Very interesting chair and great fix, was nice to see you demonstrate it as well. Take care

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks Tim!

[@lynndegg9523]

What an amazing job you do Your attention to detail is wonderful. I just love watching your restorations

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you so much 😀

[@garykorzelius5930]

This was the first time I have ever seen a chair made to rock back on. Great video, I wish I had a 10th of your skill. Thank you.

[@johnsonrestoration]

You are so welcome!

[@kennethleslie9414]

Another great job, a really unusual design of chair

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! It is!

[@markphillips6154]

I think it looks pretty good. What a crazy ingenious idea that ball on that thing is. And fixing it was even more intriguing. Seems to me like you have a pretty fun job

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! I do! I am very fortunate