Harvey Ellis Bookcase
A faithful reproduction of the epitome of
Arts & Crafts design.
G
ustav Stickley once wrote that the best way to learn furniture
design was to build a proven design. He wrote that the student
"learns from the start the fundamental principles of design and
proportion and so comes naturally to understand what is meant by
thorough workmanship." This bookcase is one of the fi nest examples
of proportion and detail that make the Craftsman style more than just
a simple piece of furniture.
In 19 03 Har vey Ellis designed this glass- door bookcase while work-
ing as a designer for Stickley. The fi rst time I saw an original example
of this piece of furniture I was struck by how perfectly proportioned it
was and how well all of the details combine.
These details also present some challenges in building. While this is
a relatively simple piece, the joinery must be precisely executed. Before
I began, I spent some time tuning up our table saw and jointer, made
sure my squares and measuring tools were in order, and sharpened my
chisels and planes.
We have the choice to work by hand, work by power or work with
both. If we understand where each method excels – as well as where
each falls short – we can master both sides and produce furniture we’re
proud of, without taking forever to make it.
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