Craftsman Joinery Techniques

Through tenons and exposed joints are hallmarks of Greene & Greene style furniture. These techniques provide both aesthetic appeal and structural integrity. Here's how to implement them in your projects:

• Tenons: Joints where wood pieces fit together without nails or screws. A tenon fits into a mortise (an opening in the wood), creating a strong connection. Cut the tenon to fit snugly but not too tight for optimal strength and appearance.
• Ebony square dowel pin joints: Add style while enhancing durability. These pins should stand proud, showcasing your craftsmanship. Using contrasting colors like dark ebony against lighter wood can highlight these details.
• Reverse tapering: For leg designs, try this technique. It creates legs wider at the bottom than at the top, adding visual interest without excessive bulk. A simple jig can help achieve this effect.
• Diamond-shaped inlays: Made from ebony strips, these add sophistication to breadboard edges. Angle the grain for a subtle shimmer in the light.

When constructing, follow the process carefully to ensure classic joints and smooth finishes. This approach saves time and effort in the long run.

Building with Greene & Greene inspirations combines tradition with innovation. The artistry and precision behind each joint and inlay keep this style relevant, offering both stunning furniture and a tangible piece of history.

Creating Tapered Legs

To create tapered legs in the Greene & Greene style, follow these steps:

1. Use a taper jig, which is essentially a sled that slides across your saw, holding the wood at the right angle for cutting.
2. Construct a simple jig using cleats for stability. It should accommodate your leg blank's length with two spacer blocks: one 1/2" thick and another 1" thick.
3. Place the leg blank against the fence, starting with the 1/2" spacer for the first two sides. This setup shaves away a thin wedge of wood, tapering one edge at a time.
4. Rotate the leg 90° and repeat the process.
5. Use the 1-inch spacer for the last two faces to create the subtle reverse taper.
6. Consider softening the tapered edges with a 1/2" round-over bit to add class and prevent chipping.

The taper combines form and function, ensuring balance, durability, and visual harmony. This attention to detail is a hallmark of Greene & Greene design, contributing to its enduring appeal.

Inlay and Relief Techniques

Diamond-shaped ebony inlays add elegance to Greene & Greene-inspired projects. Here's how to craft these intricate details:

1. Rip 1/8"-thick strips of ebony wood, orienting the grain parallel to the long axis of the diamond.
2. Create a jig to hold the ebony strips at the correct angle on your saw for precise diamond cuts.
3. Mark intersecting lines at each corner of your intended surface for layout.
4. Place a diamond at your mark and trace its shape with a fine-point pencil.
5. Use a handheld router with a 1/8" straight bit to remove most of the material, cutting just inside the traced line.
6. Finish with a sharp chisel to smooth out the edges for a perfect fit.
7. Glue the inlays in place, then sand carefully to blend with the surface.

These inlays catch the light, drawing attention to your craftsmanship without overshadowing the piece. They exemplify how small details can significantly elevate a project's overall impact and quality.

As you work on your woodworking projects, remember that the essence of craftsmanship lies in the details. Each joint and inlay is a testament to skill and dedication, transforming furniture into lasting art. Embrace these techniques to not only build but also preserve a legacy of elegance and precision.

"If I can build that chair, I can build any chair." – Tom Stangeland, on his first encounter with Greene & Greene style furniture

This quote encapsulates the challenge and reward of mastering Greene & Greene techniques. With patience and practice, you too can create furniture that stands the test of time, both in durability and style.

1. Stangeland T. Expanding on a classic style. Fine Woodworking. 2014;
2. Peart D. Greene & Greene furniture design. American Woodworker. 2015;
3. Klausz F. The Workbench Book. Taunton Press; 2007.