POPULARWOODWORKING.COM ■ 21Edges Point the Way
We can manipulate the character
of edges to draw the eye to a focal
point in a design just like artists do
on a canvas. Artists use techniques
with edges to pull your eye to the
important elements in a composi-
tion. A sharp distinct edge or line
will draw your eye to one area of a
painting while a fuzzy or blurred
edge doesn’t have the same power to
pull your gaze. Frequently in paint-
ings, objects in the background have
blurred edges while the important
focus has sharper edges. Artists use
the term “lost edge” to describe
intentionally toning down a line or
blurring it on a secondary element
so that it doesn’t compete with the
primary focus in a painting.
Think Differently
About Edges
A painter can do some interesting
tricks with lines and edges. How
does this apply to furniture? It
means that if you want to draw at-
tention to some aspect of a design,
say some graceful curves, you can
do it with strong edges. Conversely
if you want to downplay a part of a
design you can use edges to help,
too. A good example is in chair
design. Frequently designers want
chair legs to compliment the form
but not take center stage. Visually
there are several ways to create
bolder edges or more subdued edg-
es. I’ve already mentioned mould-
ings. They create bold, distinct
edges by using light and shadow to
accentuate borders. Just adding a
simple bead to an edge will make it
bolder. You can also create strong
lines by using contrasting colors
like contrasting veneers or inlayed
stringing can create an eye-catching
edge. Carvings, especially architec-
tural patterns that border a space
can create a powerful edge.Tone Down the Edge
You can also dial back an edge.
Some parts of a design play a
supporting role, much like back-
ground singers. More subdued
edges achieve that end. We can
tone down an edge in several ways.
A simple chamfer will visually
soften an edge and at the same time
give the impression of less mass. A
rounded or turned profi le also will
tone down the eff ect of an edge as
the border recedes into shadow.Change Your Outlook
Take the time to observe closely
how designers use edges to compli-
ment a design. Pay special attention
to how masterful work uses edge
techniques to grab your attention.
This exercise in slowing down and
really seeing clearly may be the
eff ort that takes your work to the
next level. PWGeorge Walker is the co-author of two
design books and writer of By Hand &
Eye blog with Jim Tolpin.Lines & Edges
3 4
3 The edges of the vase and piano
top grab our attention. Note the
blurred edges on elements that
aren’t the primary focus.
4 Flat, beaded, hexagon and
turned: edges give each leg a
different visual weight.