About Stu
I have been working with wood most of my life. My passion for wood has evolved from a journey that began in my father's woodshop, continued through the restoration and remodeling of several homes, and continues today as I build furniture. I believe that in everything we do it's the journey and NOT the destination that counts; so once or twice a year I study with other woodworkers to continue learning.
While there are many influences that effect the creation of my furniture, the principle influence is the wood itself. George Nakashima, in his book The Soul of a Tree, describes how each piece of wood has a specific purpose that it reveals to the woodworker. This is the philosophy that guides me as I build furniture. I search for wood with a unique character and figure that harmonizes with each part of my furniture. I rarely stain or color the wood, instead preferring to hand-rub an oil finish that allows the woods figure to dominate the design.
My construction techniques have evolved to using a blend of modern power tools and traditional hand tools to achieve an efficient balance between time and craftsmanship. Initial milling and dimensioning of stock is done quickly with power tools; while final fitting of joints and preparing surfaces for finishing is done using traditional hand tools such as chisels, hand planes and scrapers. I use traditional joinery, such as mortise and tenon and dovetail joints that have withstood the test of time. Each joint is hand-fitted to ensure a solid, well constructed piece that will last for generations. Where appropriate, I use reversible hide glue to ensure easy reparability. Final surfaces are carefully prepared by hand to ensure an exceptional finish.
My work has been featured nationally in several magazines -- including Woodcraft, Fine Woodworking, and Arts & Crafts Homes -- and on ABC's Good Morning America. Locally, I have been featured in Washington Woman magazine and The Washington Times. I was recently selected by the editor's of Arts & Crafts Homes magazine as one of seventy-two noteworthy Arts & Crafts furniture makers in America. I have consulted to ABC Consumer reporter Elisabeth Leamy on furniture construction, and worked with furniture industry expert Jennifer Litwin. Recently, I exhibited in several juried shows including the 2006 Clifton Day Festival, 2007 Baltimore Fine Craft Show, and the 2007 Philadelphia Invitational Furniture Show.This fall, I will exhibit at the Clifton Day Festival and Fine Furnishings Providence Show.
I also serve as President of the Washington Woodworkers Guild.
