When The DOG Chews The Furniture - Thomas Johnson Antique Furniture Restoration

Tom Johnson of Thomas Johnson Antique Furniture Restoration in Gorham, Maine restores these handsome stools. 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).

[@lindacgrace2973]

Every time I see one of your older videos and see Ella, I'm reminded of how grand a dog she was. She was loved and is missed. ❤

[@kathyandthedogs626]

Ella is missed indeed! What a grand lady!

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! She is! Everyday

[@johnsonrestoration]

I miss her so much!

[@SherryKrieg]

Thinking the same thing, myself.❤

[@michael5089]

❤️❤️❤️🙏🙏🌹

[@Cheryl407]

God help me if I turn on one of your videos in the middle of the day. I become transfixed and everything I was doing stops happening! Wonderful video, thank you for sharing. Give my love to Ella, where ever she might now be. 😊

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you! I'm glad! And thanks for thinking of Ella, we miss her so...

[@167curly]

Ingenious three dimensional geometry and jig system and painstaking replication work Tom.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks Phil!

[@jamesthompson8133]

When you say that looks pretty good now, that’s money in the bank! You always amaze us! Great work!!

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you!

[@caroleboeder6169]

Hello Thomas from Australia. I know nothing about woodwork/restoration but I do know that over the last couple of months I have been watching a man who is a master at his trade/craft. I have enjoyed every minute of it. Thank you for sharing your videos. This particular one has been wonderful. Almost soothing and I am stunned by the end result. Incrediable.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you! I appreciate it!

[@donamir3652]

Ha hecho usted un trabajo municioso y perfecto gracias!. Feliz año 2024

[@queenbee3647]

Great start to the day...a Thom Johnson video co-starring Ella Bean. The math involved in furniture repair is amazing. Better you than me. 😉

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! I appreciate that!

[@Lucinda_Jackson]

That's so funny you said that! As I watched, I found myself thinking of all the people who like to claim math is a waste of time and that they've never used what they learned in school at all. Clearly they aren't woodworkers!

[@carriebtc]

Congratulations Tom, what an amazing restoring job you have done again. There's always something new to learn with your very entertaining videos. I do thank you for sharing your trade. Cheers

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome!

[@Texburrito03]

Your ability to troubleshoot solutions for broken legs, stains and finishes astounds me!

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks!

[@billballeza377]

You never cease to amaze, Tom.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks Bill!

[@susannebiberstine3866]

Excellent! Thank you. :)

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome!

[@ellisc.foleyjr9778]

Like everyone else, I'm happy to see Ella again. and I agree she is missed. such a staple to all of your video's. There was such joy in watching her, watch you, and look up to you in admiration each time. You can't buy that kind of love or devotion. Oh Yes! lets not forget the craftsman in these video's too! once again Tom you showed us the wonder of all your skills. and gave us a great video of that, a tutorial, and enjoyment and as always great Videography also. Thanks for sharing. ECF

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome Ellis! I like seeing her too

[@billkurek5576]

Well said.

[@massoud999]

It was so nice to see sweet Ella.🐶

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! Yes, I like seeing her too

[@MDJeeper]

Good morning Tom. It’s an Ella video❤ Yay. Hope you are well. Enjoy your Memorial Day weekend!! As always, thanks for sharing your craftsmanship that looks pretty good! 🤗

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome!

[@Redd513]

Mr. Johnson "This is not a video on how to wood carve." Then proceeds to give a master class on how to carve. Also, as if we would ever think Ella would be so rude as to chew furniture! It's always so good to see her. She is clearly missed by all of us that watch your videos!

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks Robert! I miss her everyday!

[@huskyjerk]

Fabulous as usual by you, Thomas. Very nice carving work.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you!

[@Bloodlvst]

It's been while since I've commented, but after watching this one I felt I had to. It never gets old seeing you do full-on repairs like this, especially with the added challenge of having to carve out a pretty complex design and then getting it spot on! As always Tom, "pretty good" is an understatement.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you! Yes, this was a tough carving job for me!

[@iantyler4045]

Amazing work. That new leg blends perfectly. Only a trained eye would pick it. A pleasure to watch.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you!

[@maddieadams75]

Beautiful restorative carving. ❤Bella ❤ thank you for sharing her with us❤

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're so welcome!

[@garetkonigsfeld2]

Your staining color matching is amazing. Thanks for taking us along.

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome!

[@jeremydtb]

Wonderful craftsmanship and incredible patience - as always. Thank you Thomas.

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome!

[@stevehall4548]

You, sir, are the GOAT of furniture restoration!

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! That's very nice!

[@michaeltreadwell777]

All I can think of saying is 'STUNNING' ! Every time I watch you, I'm not only mesmerised, but amazed at how you figure things out - angles etc. I bet your customer was shocked and thrilled at the result of your hard work. Thanks for sharing. Take care 🙂

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you so much!😀

[@carpdude73]

It is great to see your wizardry at work and sweet Ella too! Thank you again for all your amazing videos!

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome Bill!

[@sylviekoenig9960]

What a nail biting video. I was holding my breath, on the edge of my seat, the whole time as you millimetered your way into carving the foot. Gosh, Tom! The care you put into building that contraption to make sure you cut the gnawed stump of that leg at the right angle and perfectly flat! Amazing! This repair was no easy task but, as usual, you went at it in your quiet unassuming genius way… Brilliant! 🤩

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you Sylvie! It was a tough one!

[@sandysela6642]

As always a brilliant job. If you could travel back in time I don’t think the original craftsman could tell which was the original and which was the repair.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! I like that

[@triplex86]

Wow, what a truly magnificent result from a master of his craft. I couldn't help but smile when I saw you had called this a "simple" restoration. Goodness knows what a "complex" restoration would be !!

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! I know! But the title does say: "or is it?"

[@johnfithian-franks8276]

Hi Thomas, every time I see you put another rabbit out of the hat and prove your ability it goes to show how bad I am at doing anything remotely like the miracles that you do on a daily basis. I couldn’t even start to copy another leg, let alone make an exact copy. Your talent gives us all a level to try and attain.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks John! I appreciate it!

[@marien20]

Oh, artisan of timber's ancient lore, Your craft, a marvel, forever to adore. Through your meticulousness, a story revived, A testament to passion, in each joint derived.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Wow! Thank you! I hope it ok if I use that! You put a lot into a very economical verse!

[@anilchak]

Truly a Antique Furniture Restoration Maestro at work - God Bless TJ !

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you!

[@gianluigimarino8264]

I love the work you do, you can tell it's a passion. The love you put into every step you take. It's all very nice, but it's not easy. Thanks Thomas.

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're so welcome! And I really appreciate your support

[@wayneshirey6999]

Didn't see anything simple here. Beautiful work.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks!

[@ncdave4]

".. the best I can.." Don't sell yourself short Thomas.. you're a master woodworker as is evident from all the hundreds of pieces you've restored.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you Dave, that's nice

[@tinlizzie]

You are a master of patience!! Whew! That is so nice.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks Liz!

[@mikethompson6713]

Hello Ella, hi Tom, Thanks for letting us see Ella again, we miss her too❤️

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you! Every day...

[@Lucinda_Jackson]

Ah, Ella. ❤ I had a friend in junior high whose father had a black lab. She was definitely his dog - friendly to all and loved her family, but HE was her everything. Her name was Inky and she looked at him the same way Ella looked at you. It's been 50 years since I saw Inky and I still remember her adoration of and devotion to her chosen person. Ella was/is a beauty. And, yes, we know she would never have done such a thing! What a hard job, but you managed to calmly just work through it and get it done. I love watching you think things through and shift direction when needed without drama. So impressive when combined with your skills. I guess we need to add teak carving to the very long list of all that you do so well. Enjoy your weekend! 🇺🇸❤️🤍💙🇺🇸

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you Lucinda! I love the name "Inky". It's amazing that you remember that

[@Lucinda_Jackson]

@@johnsonrestoration I'm a dog person and this was a special dog. Like Ella. I'll remember her name, too, though I never met her.

[@gydaanderson332]

As always I am impressed with your skillful artistry. It is so fun to see Ella. I miss her as I’m sure you do.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! I miss her so much - but it is good to see her in these videos

[@markroth9827]

That carving looked difficult to duplicate. Thank you for sharing.

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome! It was! That teak is tough stuff!

[@brendaprice4664]

Very impressive, as per usual. I’m impressed at how easy you made this project look. Thank you for sharing your genius.

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome!

[@Cradley684]

Great work Thomas, thanks for share and have a nice day, Brian UK !!!.👍👍.

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome Brian!

[@cajsheen2594]

Simple restoration! Oooh you fibber! Lovely work! ❤ XXX

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks Caj!

[@rebeccalock5772]

wow wow I just found this master furniture professional & enjoy his wonderful work. I hope young people will see how older strong furniture is the Best & can be fix & kept in the family for yrs & yrs. It makes me even more in love with the old furniture they didn't have all the tools we have now days. I hope he is able to teach all his skills & understand to others. He is a treasure ...Be Kind Be Safe & enjoying your show.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you! I enjoyed your comment, and I appreciate it

[@XL-5117]

These have really come out great. The legs which were chewed (not by Ella) are indistinguishable from the other legs. You again have excelled yourself sir! It was lovely seeing Ella again, brought joy to my heart.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you! I like seeing her too

[@lion1234lion1234]

As someone who cannot draw a straight line even with a ruler, I commend you on carving the legs essentially freehand. Good job. Love the channel.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! It is difficult - it took me awhile

[@vickiwood9192]

Euclid would be proud! A geometric challenge. I admire your patience.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! Yes, 10th grade geometry comes in handy!

[@YorkshireLassCrochets]

How lovely to wake up and find another one of your videos to watch. Ella would never chew table legs..if anything after so many years she spent watching you repair them she probably would have been able to help you with this job! 🐕☺ Sending greeting as always from London. Kate. X

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks Kate! No she wouldn't, but we crate trained her so she never got anything she was not supposed to. It's not difficult to do, but so many people just don't train their dogs!

[@guymottola7593]

You do such masterful work. It would be nice to see the customers reaction to the finished result!

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! I know! But not practical

[@chandarussell]

Job well done. The new leg and foot are amazing.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks Chanda!

[@caroltanzi29]

Thomas: the tables look fabulous! Ella seemed happy with them too. I miss seeing her in your shop.Carol from California

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks Carol! Oh, we miss her so!

[@wolf_ceit_witch]

They came out so beautiful. I was happy to see Ella again, such a beautiful pup, she is missed.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! Yes, I like seeing her too!

[@astridbrusin5115]

Theres like million tricks to make it properly! That nailtrick was precious, thanks for sharing, gluings that slide are my nightmare😂

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks Astrid! Yes, sliding glue ups are always incredibly annoying!

[@rgrgeorge]

Hooollleeee cow. That was amazing. I know sweet Ella is no longer here, but it was nice seeing her again. We had to say goodbye to our 16 year old JRT on Good Friday and we miss her so much. Dogs are such wonderful companions.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you! And I'm so sorry about your JRT, it is so difficult...

[@nancyseeley2041]

Another beautiful miracle, as usual! 😊

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you!

[@cathuggerniowacity]

I am sooo in awe of your work. Good to see Ella again.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! It is good

[@jeanine6492]

II watched so intently as I have a table that needs all its legs re carved from very square footed curved cabriole legs into ‘true’ French legs with snail feet and I thought I could get some tips from what you were doing. I was so glad as I now have a much better plan of action. I’ve obviously saved it to watch again and it’s so great to see Ella. Of course we knew she wouldn’t have done such a thing!! Thank you for all your work. Can’t wait for the next video!

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! good luck with those feet!

[@christelmuller9198]

Hallo Thomas , wieder eine wunderbare Arbeit und nicht zu übertreffen. Für mich bist du ein Handwerker mit Gabe . Deine Videos könnten Stunden dauern. Bleib Gesund und ein schönes und Frohes Pfingsten viele Grüße Christel ☺👍

[@johnsonrestoration]

Danke Christel! Ich schätze es! Ich bin katholisch erzogen worden und es ist mir peinlich zu sagen, dass ich vergessen habe, worum es bei Pfingsten geht! Ich werde das nachschlagen

[@christelmuller9198]

@@johnsonrestoration ich glaube du bist ein guter Mensch und das zählt ☺👍 💐

[@alangibb3100]

Tom, attention to detail and patience is key to these situations and you Sir seem to have that in abundance it turned out great well done.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks 👍

[@conniehusband1365]

You are such a positive man. Yes! I can repair this! Really enjoyed the " Girls " at the opening. Thankyou for recoding and sharing your work.

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome!

[@kittonsmitton]

Wow Tom not only do you give masterclasses in antique furniture restoration you are a master carver, Great Stuff, learning so much! Thank you Thomas.

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome Alistair!

[@byrnejr]

Nice job Thomas! Always nice to see you

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you!

[@bobnicholas5994]

The saw guide was an epiphany to me!! The nail protruding for clamping was the second one...lol. then the nails in the feet.. I believe I have watched all your vids and I still learn things I apply to my own small time woodworking. Thanks

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome!

[@SherryKrieg]

I won’t repeat what everyone has already said. Lol I’ll just say YES! to every comment here! Thank you sir for each and every video! All the best to you and yours.❤

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome! I appreciate it

[@petedavies4796]

Probably your best restoration, your patience is amazing. It came out brilliantly. Your skill when it comes to staining is second tp none.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! I appreciate it

[@paulmaryon9088]

Another great restoration, thanks Tom, hope you and yours are all well over there, take care and keep well

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you! We will, and the same to you and yours!

[@poetryqn]

@Thomas Johnson Antique Furniture Restoration, I've been binge watching your videos in admiration of your craftsmanship and patience. When you rigged the saw guide from aluminum stock, I had to stop the video to examine the angles. Wow. Some people can think spatially (three dimensionally?). Alas, I am not of that tribe. I so admire your ability to walk around a challenge and come up with a solution. Bravo!

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! Yes, some people have that ability, others not so much. I worked as a draftsman at one time and you really hone those abilities

[@johncullinan8041]

Amazing I would not have believed it possible but once again you did it, looks pretty good

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you!

[@yorwerthedwards1045]

Unbelievable patience and wonderful craftsmanship

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you!

[@dougguest930]

Another great piece of work Tom. You get the most interesting pieces to restore but of course they are the ones worth restoring. Thanks for the many treasures of information you give to woodworkers worldwide. Always a fan of yours.

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome! I appreciate it!

[@strokerace5468]

Very nice work especially with all the angles and variations

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you!

[@steve_weinrich]

A very artful and impressive repair.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks!

[@schwartzmatthewe]

You, sir, are a true master.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you!

[@fludrbywest3886]

Oh my !! Did I say magic master touch ? Well I do say it again!! I would have just replaced the whole leg !! And a master carver too? 😮😮 your very amazing Mr Johnson !!!❣️

[@johnsonrestoration]

Wow, thank you!

[@seaknightvirchow8131]

The complexity of this project was very deceptive at first. You are a true artist and craftsman.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you!

[@simonkeyse8185]

Another beautiful job.❤

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks!

[@danettepugh9272]

Amazing! Your patience is astounding

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you Danette!

[@margeryk000]

Great video! RIP sweet girl.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you! I miss her every day

[@bethrundle5560]

Extraordinary repair. Such amazing talent. Miss Ella ❤

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you! Yes, I miss her all the time!

[@Turitea]

Bravo! Not many would be willing to tackle a job like this.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! I'm never smart enough to say "no"

[@TheRealJonahWicky]

I've got to believe it's much harder to match a carving than to make all 4 feet originally. You did a great job!

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! I agree!

[@yeeeehaaawbuddy]

One of your most impressive videos. Carving the leg/foot like that... wow.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you very much!

[@debclark3934]

As always you do beautiful work

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you!

[@anthonychavez3742]

Lesson learned, worth in gold.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks!

[@37south47]

I lost you for quite some time on KZbin but glad to be back watching you work! Have to say I was on pins and needles for this entire repair!

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! We've been publishing every 2 weeks!

[@dennishinkle5010]

Sir I realize you are repairing this leg but it is a bit like sculpting. It's truly an art form and I say to you well done. Bravo.👍

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you!

[@timmaggard8862]

Great job Tom!!

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks Tim!

[@peggyjones3282]

I'm a very capable person and good at figuring things out. I watched this and thought, "where would you even start?" It's been fascinating and inspiring to watch you work through the problem. Thank you!

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome!

[@ronmack1767]

Enjoyed the video Tom. Great seeing Ella again and she was concerned that you did explain that it wasn't her who chewed up the stool legs. You sure could teach a carving class. It amazes me watching you shape an odd shaped piece of wood and bring it to look like the other claw feet. It was easy to see where you had polished to on the top. It definitely made a difference. They really look great. Thanks for the video. You all take and God bless.

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome Ron! I sure do miss her!

[@charlesbrack7017]

I have been impressed with all of your videos, but this one really showcases your incredible talent and attention to detail! Thanks for the entertainment and learning experiences.

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome!

[@yeagerxp]

Excellent restoration 👍👍👍Thank you for sharing. Be safe🇨🇦

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome!

[@edwardmurray4703]

your manual work is really something else. very goooood job!!!

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you!

[@lisawallace3124]

You, sir, are an artist! What an amazing talent!

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you so much 😀

[@sullyprudhomme]

I completely ascribe to the notion of restoring old furniture, but in this case, despite the sentimental value, I would have declared this to be a complete loss. But once restored, admittedly they looked quite nice. I hope this doesn't disqualify my chances of becoming your apprentice one day!

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks David! Sentimental value is a powerful force!

[@HenryLeslieGraham]

what an expert restoration. so many craftsmen today do not know how to make cabriole legs or carve clawed feet!

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! I don't really know how to make a cabriole leg from scratch. One of these days...

[@curtcoker6359]

You sir are a clamping wizard!!!

[@johnsonrestoration]

Yes! Thank you!

[@user-nz9uq9rf7v]

I think you are amazing. Thank you for your videos as I really look forward to seeing your talent and expertise.

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're welcome!

[@ferraridinoman]

Nice one Young Thomas! Love to see these older vids with Ella in them! x

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks! Yes, it is good to see her

[@gregoryjasongranado5248]

You are truly a master at your craft and love watching you work!

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you!

[@sandiekaye5241]

Amazing Thomas, just amazing. Thank you.

[@johnsonrestoration]

You're so welcome!

[@DubCPicker]

Masterful as always 🤘🤘

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks!

[@Mike-xs6ed]

Amazing....Tom, A delight to watch...

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thank you!

[@charlesbutsch7201]

Amazing challenge. It was great to watch you figure out how to create a new leg and repair another one. You are always fun to watch you meet a challenge.

[@johnsonrestoration]

Thanks!