Make an Arts and Crafts Mirror

Make a mirror frame — or two — for gifts or your own home in the likeness of an actual Arts and Crafts style frame. The Arts and Crafts movement, which stressed craftwork and simplicity, originated in England in the 1850s and spread to the United States. You'll learn a variety of techniques you can apply to other woodworking projects, as well.

The original frame hangs in the entry of the Blacker House, a masterpiece in the Arts and Crafts style in Pasadena, Calif., designed by the renowned Pasadena architectural firm Greene and Greene. The frame is about 16 inches by 38 inches, perfect for checking hair, hat or tie on your way to an event. You can choose to replicate that frame or make a taller one, about 16 inches by 48 inches. 

Owners of the Blacker House are clients of the instructor, so he was able to make detailed notes about the frame's construction.  Most notable is an unusual, angled haunched joint at the top that has to fit perfectly. It’s tricky to perfect, but when you do it just right, you'll have a new joint to add to your projects.

This class is focused on creating robust joinery, using patterns for shaping, and getting details right in final construction. You will:

• Work with pattern shaping and CNC jigs for accurate, consistent work.
• Use the Festool Domino for quick, precise joinery.
• Learn how make perfect, pillowed ebony plugs.

Details

• Registration deadline is Nov. 21.
• When you register, you'll have the option of ordering one or two sets of materials, sufficient for either size or a combination. One focus of the class is learning how to make multiples, so you will probably have time in the class to cut two sets of parts. But you may need to finish one frame on your own after the class. The instructor will be available for guidance for one hour of Open Studio time after each Thursday session.
• The instructor will discuss hanging hardware and demonstrate how to hang the mirror.

Materials

Prerequisites

Class Policies

Instructors or Guides