Our 18th Century Assembly Techniques

Today Duckloe & Brothers use time-honored techniques traditionally used to hand-build 18th century furniture. Quality craftsmanship can be found in every chair, including our signature Windsor back chairs, rocking chairs, bar stools, Windsor benches, and settees.

All our chairs are made with the highest quality kiln-dried hardwoods. Chair legs are turned from hard rock maple; seats are carved from either cherry or poplar (poplar being more historically accurate). The back spindles are made from hickory, while the turnings under the arms are of maple. Chair arms are steam-bent from either hickory or ash.

• All legs, arm posts, and spindle holes are drilled completely through the seat and arms.
   
• Glue is placed in the holes; the legs, posts, and spindles are then secured in the holes. These tried and true joinery techniques prevent legs from becoming loose over the years.
   
• These parts are then split with a chisel, and a wooden wedge coated with glue is driven down into the split. This widens the parts within the bored holes, creating a super tight fit.
   

Pictured right, a Duckloe craftsman completes the final steps for a #5 Loop Back Arm Chair—clearly demonstrating the integrity of construction of our Windsor chairs and benches. After assembly, each piece undergoes our 12-step finishing process.