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.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).

[@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!

[@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!

[@chrisfrench8323]

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

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks Chris!

[@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

[@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!

[@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!

[@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

[@christelmuller9198]

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

[@johnsonrestoration]

Sehr gerne!

[@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!

[@marien20]

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

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome!

[@normy31]

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

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you! That's nice

[@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!

[@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!

[@hder8740]

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

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome!

[@davidc3808]

Well done Tom, a great restoration as always.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you!

[@udalimb384]

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

[@johnsonrestoration]

Yes! Well said!

[@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!

[@romanb.6528]

I love watching you restore old furniture, thanks

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome!

[@nancyclark3049]

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

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you!

[@judithfairchild8620]

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

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks Judith!

[@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

[@saggioculo5386]

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

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks!

[@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

[@Mike--K]

Another magical restoration and a true pleasure to watch.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you!

[@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. ❤

[@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!

[@cmsheth09]

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

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you! They are!

[@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!

[@charlessullivan5370]

Nice work, Tom. Beautiful results.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you!

[@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

[@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!

[@behonestwithyourself3718]

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

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you!

[@rhondafirestine-gz4he]

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

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you! That's nice

[@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!

[@michaelhenderson5683]

Another great piece of work Tom. 👏👏👍

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks!

[@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!

[@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!

[@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!

[@margaretlynch1494]

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

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you Margaret!

[@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!

[@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!

[@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

[@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!

[@apb3251]

Skills and techniques of a master craftsman

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you!

[@nancyjm79]

Totally captivating. They turned out gorgeous.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you!

[@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.

[@roliekennelley5589]

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

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! That's nice

[@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!

[@redmysterium]

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

[@johnsonrestoration]

My favorite word! Thanks

[@amyloueliza]

I had to Google it too. One for my personal dictionary. 😮

[@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

[@mstreich]

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

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you!

[@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

[@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!

[@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"!

[@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!

[@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

[@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!

[@darryljacobsen19]

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

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks!

[@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

[@schoensangalli6972]

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

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you!

[@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!

[@anthonyfreeman5858]

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

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks!

[@laraynekayfes5329]

Unbelieable!! Well-loved chairs getting new life! Love the chickens in the background😊

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! Yes, I had the baby chicks in the shop. They're all grown up now!

[@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!

[@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!

[@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!

[@davidadams007]

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

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks!

[@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!

[@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!

[@OwlingDogDesign]

Such fantastic work as always, Tom. Thanks for the great video! PS - I thought those chickens were outside my window tonight while watching your video. I had to shut the sound off for a second to make sure it was in fact, your chickens. Haha. 🤣

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks Cat! Yeah, you're the 2nd person to say that!

[@OwlingDogDesign]

@@johnsonrestoration 🤣

[@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!

[@SusanHammond-w6q]

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

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome!

[@judebrown4103]

Lovely....after a couple of stressful, worrying days its lovely to watch the peaceful magic of Tom's veneer and colour matching skills...and to chuckle to myself: "one can never have too many clamps" . Thank you sir for another beautiful repair, your clients must be so grateful. I know I am.😊👏👍🙏

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you Jude! That's nice

[@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!

[@garetkonigsfeld2]

Really nice job. Thanks for taking us along 👍

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome!

[@KayWessel]

Beautiful work. So relaxing to see you working!

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks!

[@Tim-57]

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

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks Tim!

[@ahummerich2751]

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

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you, that's nice!

[@MrLarrysanders]

Excellent video. Your craftsmanship is an inspiration to me. Thank you.

[@johnsonrestoration]

You are very welcome!

[@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!

[@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!

[@topcat56]

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

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks!

[@gracewilson6409]

I hope your dog is ok!! Love to watch you work your magic.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you! Ella passed away: kzbin.info/www/bejne/rHzOfaB4hMqVjc0

[@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...

[@johnsfurniturerepair]

BeAUTIFUL! glad to see you found my favourite little scraper from lee valley. excellent restoration, cheers!

[@johnsonrestoration]

Hi Trena! Yes, such a simple and cool little scraper. When I got it I realized that all these scrapers use that same cutterhead. I'm thinking I'm going to make my own if I can come up with a good design

[@juliettpapa]

Once again: this is to learn... all others are for entertainment. Stunning!

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! That's nice

[@gaelmalloy2021]

Boy, are you amazing. Your patience, incredible detail and knowledge is a joy to watch. Thank you 👍

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome!

[@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

[@carpdude73]

The wizard at work! Thank you for your amazing restorations!

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome Bill!

[@benscott1872]

Excellent repairs. Excellent finishing. The best repairs can look terrible if you can’t follow through with proper finishing. Tom, you are so skilled at both. Such a pleasure to watch. … Now, I would like to see a puppy at the shop. Not a replacement but just a next generation. Ella could never be replaced.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! Yes, Ella will never be forgotten!

[@rodp2310]

Beautiful chairs and fantastic work. 👏👏

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you!

[@johanhellings6580]

Great job again ! And an entertaining chicken in the background for some extra feel good at the start of the weekend. Thank you Thom! The chairs are looking great. Cheers form Belgium.

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome! And return cheers to Belgium!

[@kevinzufall]

absolutely beautiful repair Tom !

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you!

[@monopinion8799]

Master of the craft. RESPECT!

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you!

[@martemacdougall1985]

A very fussy restoration, and very successful. Love the profiles of these Gondola chairs. Mahogany is such a rich warm wood. Thank you for an educational video. Loved all your special features and custom wooden wedges for clamping. 👍

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you! Yes, they are very sculptural, amazing really