Each week we bring you a round-up of interesting and entertaining woodworking content from the Woodworkers Institute and the web, including handy tips to help you get stuck into your next woodworking project.
The Windsor Chair
The instantly recognisable Windsor chair has been a staple of functional design since the early 18th century. Known for its lightweight and sturdy construction, this time-tested design is crafted using a combination of different wood types, each selected for its specific properties.
One of the defining features of a Windsor chair is its construction method: the legs and back spindles are socketed into a solid wooden seat, creating a strong, durable structure without the need for nails or screws. This method relies on precise joinery, allowing the chair to flex slightly under weight while maintaining its strength. Traditionally, Windsor chairs are made from a mix of hardwoods. The seat is often crafted from a single slab of elm, chosen for its resistance to splitting. The legs, usually turned on a lathe, are made from strong, dense woods like oak or maple, while the back spindles and bow are often crafted from flexible woods such as ash or hickory, allowing for steam bending. This combination of materials ensures a balance of durability, flexibility and comfort.
The origins of the Windsor chair trace back to England, where it was originally an outdoor garden chair. By the mid-1700s, the design had evolved and gained popularity in America, becoming a household staple. Craftsmen refined the form, creating regional variations that showcased local wood species and carving techniques. Despite changes in production methods, the Windsor chair remains a timeless example of wooden craftsmanship. Its elegant yet practical design has endured for centuries, proving that well-executed wood construction can create furniture that is both beautiful and functional.
Fancy having a go? Read on to find out how to make your own Windsor chair
Videos of the Week
Woodworkers Institute Articles of the week
Woodland Craft
This week’s article on how to build a yurt is taken from Woodland Craft by Ben Law. Featuring beautiful illustrations and detailed sketches, journey through a world of woodland creativity to discover how to make spoons, chairs, baskets, fencing – even a caravan! A superb gift for anyone looking to spend some creative time outdoors as the days get longer.