Craftsman Furniture Methods & Techniques

Quarter Sawn White Oak

Quarter sawn is a method of sawing a log so as to feature the ray flake which is the decorative, wavy pattern prominent in quarter sawn wood. This special cut yields a limited number of top grade boards and requires a longer drying process. The result is a very distinctive grain pattern that is also very stable and less susceptible to warping and shrinking. When viewing the end grain of quarter sawn lumber one will notice that the grain runs predominately perpendicular to the board and not horizontal as with flat sawn lumber.

Mortise and Tenon

A commonly used glue joint is the mortise and tenon glue joint. This is the strongest glue joint that can be used in joining boards that are perpendicular to each other.

Dovetailed Glue Joints

Half blind dovetail joints are used on all drawer components, both front and back. This joint is referred to as a half blind because the joint does not protrude through the front and back drawer components. A through dovetail joint is incorporated in some pieces of furniture where an attractive, strong and intriguing joint is desired.

Tongue and Groove Back Joints

A beveled tongue and groove joint is used on furniture that is constructed with a solid wood back. This joint allows the wood to expand and contract over wide spans keeping the integrity of the furniture intact.

Inlays

Inlays are sometimes incorporated in cabinet doors and table tops. Inlays add a level of design, interest and craftsmanship to any piece of furniture.

Double Lock Mitered Glue Joint

Furniture components such as bed posts and table legs are constructed with four quarter sawn white oak boards that are glued with a double lock mitered glue joint. This method is used to best display the quarter sawn oak’s ray flake and limit the exposure of flat grain.

Hidden Compartments

Some pieces are constructed with hidden compartments. This is an interesting tradition from years ago that is still relevant and interesting for furniture today.

Available Finish Materials

Mission Furniture Line Finishes

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Only the finest finish materials are used to insure the best protection and enhancement of the wood for the life time of the furniture. High quality wiping stain is applied to bring out the beauty of the wood grain. In the next step the finest spray sealer available is applied to insure permanent adhesion of the top coat. The top coat applied is the best on the market today. It has achieved the highest ratings possible in durability and protection.

Pioneer Line Furniture Finishes

Barn Red • Mustard • Spring Time Sage • Sky Blue • Farm House White • Honey • Cinnamon

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