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Thomas Dennis Joined Chest
Some of the most richly ornamented joined chests produced in New England in the USA during the seventeenth century are those attributed to the Ipswich, Massachusetts joiner, Thomas Dennis (1638–1706). He acquired his florid style as an apprentice in County Devon, England.
Choosing our woods and carving design
Most chests in 17th century New England were made from Oak and Pine as those were readily available in the Region. Many of the carving designs originated in England.
Preparing the Wood Stock
The wood needs to be planed to the desired thickness, squared up and using winding sticks, you ensure the edges and tops are true. Mortise and tenon work relies on square, true faces and plowed grooves that line up perfectly.
Building the frame with the proper fit
Starting to Lay Out and Carve the Designs on the Rails, Stiles and Muntins
Most period joiners did all joinery work before carving. Lots of mortise and tenon work in this step! And we get to use Anne Marie's great-grandfathers plow plane from the 1800's!
Starting to Lay Out and Carve the Designs on the Rails, Stiles and Muntins
Starting to Lay Out and Carve the Designs on the Rails, Stiles and Muntins
Starting to Lay Out and Carve the Designs on the Rails, Stiles and Muntins
This next step is A LOT of carving. Anne Marie chose strapwork patterns based off Thomas Dennis' work. It's called strapwork due to the long narrow bands throughout the patterns. It was inspired by leather straps on books and interlaced belts and harnesses.
Carving the Panels
Starting to Lay Out and Carve the Designs on the Rails, Stiles and Muntins
Starting to Lay Out and Carve the Designs on the Rails, Stiles and Muntins
Each of the three oak panels is carved so the strapwork and curves line up and flow across the front of the chest. After the designs are drawn, the background is carved out and the main shapes are carved, keeping the depth and rhythm consistent from one panel to the next. This careful sequencing ensures all three panels match, balance each other, and create the unified look seen on original 17th‑century joined chests.
Finishing the Frame
Adding the Bottom and Lid
Assembling the Frame
Bringing the frame together is where the joined chest truly takes shape. Each mortise‑and‑tenon joint is carefully fitted and secured with traditional drawbored pegs, creating a strong, glue‑less structure just as 17th‑century New England joiners built them. With the rails and stiles assembled, the proportions of the chest become clear and the foundation is set for fitting the carved panels and completing the casework.
Assembling the Frame
Adding the Bottom and Lid
Assembling the Frame
Coming soon.....
Adding the Bottom and Lid
Adding the Bottom and Lid
Adding the Bottom and Lid
Coming soon.....