Villa Savoye

Villa Savoye, a photo by Chimay Bleue on Flickr.

Got a little behind, but here's something while I'm cutting more edits into that never ending part 2 of Simplified Woodworking that's due.

Knoll Furniture Sale

Photo of Knoll amoeba, dining and low tables.

In the world of Mid-Century Modern or Atomic Design furniture, Knoll is one of the most recognized. During the 50's and 60's they helped promote the Modern style that we know know as "MCM". To this day they are recognized as being a quality and progressive company of modern style. And...even though times have changed, Knoll has maintained it's touch on the past.

Knoll still is producing many of the designs made famous in the 50's and 60's. They even have amoeba tables that they still manufacture. So why the talk about Knoll? Well, right now, www.2modern.com is having a sale on Knoll products sale on Knoll products. I thought you folks might like to know, and then you could get your Knoll product for a reduced price, and get free shipping to boot. To see the details, follow the Link.

Simplified Woodworking: 2 Tone Coat Rack Prt-1

One day, the best, or maybe the worst idea hit me. This is how it went: "I like to design and make things. There are things I have to make for my house. It's hard to find instructions on how to build furniture and the like, without a semi-pro or professional shop. I have a tripod and a camera, why not shoot a simplified "how to" woodworking video where everything is done with the minimal of hand tools? Yes, the minimal tools also applies to the videography.

So there I went with ideas of a simple concept being a simple procedure. Not so my friends... I'm not complaining though. In only 3 days, I've learned a lot about directing ones self and how stubborn ones self can be. Have you ever tried directing yourself? It's not easy. You just look like an idiot when you don't listen to the director (yourself), and the the director (yourself) yells at the actor (yourself). Yep, good times for all. I've already made large improvements in learning where to edit and all though. I still have a lot to learn. It will come with time.  Please bear with me. My promise to you is that with every project I shoot, my best will be done to better the quality and content of the videos. So, please let me know what I'm not explaining. Constructive criticism is always welcome. In the end, this video is really for you folks.

As briefly mentioned above, over the years, I have read quite a number of books, magazines, and articles on woodworking. I've also watched a number of videos and shows too. From these, I have learned a lot about how to execute different tasks, techniques. I also learned many useful principles of woodworking. However, something was missing from ever show or article I saw or read. What was it?


Alternatives, that's what was missing. In what way? Well, while each show/article had photos and instructions, and while all were well written, they didn't teach people how to use simple tools to do the same job that the big professional tools do. True, in some cases a simple tool just can't be replace. So, they also show the use of simple tools in these projects. Many times though, the focus was on the most efficient way to do the job.

Efficiency is great, but only if the cost of tools and materials doesn't out weigh the need/function of the item being built. See, I've thought about, and calculated many times the cost versus need of the tools shown on these shows. In every case, I decided that, while I would love to have the table saw, bench planer, or drill press, I couldn't justify the cost. Once again, I don't have anything against these tools. There may come a day when I start to sell my works and I may just buy these for efficiency sake. For the time being though. I can, build what I want and need with simple tools, creativity, a few extra hours, and some hard work. Fact being, so can you.

That's why I'm starting Simplified Woodworking. The "simplified" doesn't refer to the projects that will be tackled, rather the tools and materials needed to tackle them. Since I'm no Pro, this will give me the chance to learn, help others, and make mistakes so that all of us can better our abilities.

One thing to keep in mind is that these projects are based on things we need for our own house. Even if you don't need these same items. You can use these projects to learn the techniques that are used in many of the woodworking projects that you will want to complete. Something I've learned about woodworking is that any project can be as simple or complicated as you want it to be. Keep in mind though, that many times, simple is just as good as complicated, or even better. Others times, you will need a more complicated method to allow for strength, durability, and quality. In the world of woodworking there are very few variation in principals of joining, cutting, and finishing. However, the techniques can vary greatly. Still, each one serves a very important purpose.

As the projects are completed, I will do my best to explain all the methods used to the best that time allows in the videos. Also, I will explain these same methods in a written post. My explanations will include: why I am doing what I am doing, and also, what else could have been done instead.

At the bottom of the list you will see video Part 1 of the project: Simplified Woodworking: 2 Tone Coat Rack. It goes over the design and the materials. In Part 2 we'll actually begin working on the project. Video Part 2 will be out soon. 

So, here is the list of tools and materials you will need. You can download the drawing that I did in Illustrator from my flickr if you wish (see image above). Hope you enjoy the video, and let me know what you think.
Eric McGrew

The materials use for this project are:
- Plywood piece 7"x30"x1/2" (1) Note: Any wood can be used as long as it is the dimensions listed
- Plywood piece 6 3/4"x29 3/4"x1/2" (1) Note: Any wood can be used as long as it is the dimensions listed
- Wood Glue, epoxy, or Liquid nails
- 1/2" Dowels, smooth or grooved (1 stick=3ft long)
- Flax seed oil / Small can (any coating of your choice will work)


Tools
- Circular Saw (Hand saw can be used)
- Hand Saw
- Drill
- 1/2" Drill bit / sharp
- Hammer (Wood, Rubber, or lightweight steel)
-Jigsaw
- Orbital Sander
- Sand Paper: 100,120
- Square
- Measuring tape
- pencil
-Application method for oils or coatings of choice. Consult your local hardware store for each product you may want to use.
- Safety gear: Safety glasses, ear plugs

To see parts 2 & 3 of Simplified Woodworking's "2 Tone Coat Rack", follow this link.

Fireplace

Fireplace, a photo by Chimay Bleue on Flickr.

I don't know why, but I dig this cantilevered fire place. There are so many textures and really well designed aspects to it. I really like the detail of the grill to put a pan or pot on. If I could have a large fire place of my option, this would be it.

Architects: Vilhelm Wohlert and Jørgen Bo (1958 - 1991)
Location: Humlebæk (Øresund), Denmark 

Why Not Digital?

Digital art is becoming, by in large, a huge part of our lives. We see it on TV. Many times we save some card or ad that was originally created by someone via graphics programs. In fact, in many schools, digital art is the primary focus for graphics design programs. I know that in Art Institute it was back in '99. So how much more so today! My question then is, why is it so hard for people to except digital art as fine art?

No art field is easy. It's always hard to make a living selling art. In the MCM genre, many enthusiast are very design oriented and are willing to buy art and decor for their homes. True, some only want authentic Mid-Century, or vintage art. Others though, have really seen the importance of helping the community by buying, what I call "Mid-Century revivalists" art. However, would you buy digital?

Art of Edwin Wade

As an artist, I have to say that digital art is no less difficult than other forms of art that I create. I sculpt and build furniture. Having done many of these things, I have found that all have there difficult points. For instance, the time it takes to make a digital graphic is something to consider. Why? Well, the artist must draw/sketch their design, then they must process the design to modify it in the graphics program. After that, all textures to be used in the image must be created. Something of interest is, that many times the textures used have been hand painted or manufactured. These textures then have to be uploaded and modified to a usable format for the graphic. After all of this, the artist must select the correct settings and materials to produce their art on. Once all this is done the artist get to try and sell their works in a widely apathetic industry.

All said and done. Digital art is, in fact, art. It is a very challenging and difficult art. So, the next time you want to buy a piece of art, at least consider a Digital created piece.


Some of my favorite digital artists

Michael Robertson

Edwin Wade

 

A Little Behind

I'm working hard on the first video to my short video series; "Simplified Woodworking". That's why I'm posting this. I haven't had any time to write anything else.

Simple, but Sweet. Mr. California Clothing

"Classic Leisurewear For The Modern Man."  

I have to say that my order of design and style list goes as follows:

1. Wood: Sculptures, furniture, paintings
2. Clothing of Swing, Lounge, Mod
3. Architecture

Then the list goes on from there. As you can see, my #2 favorite design subject is clothing. When we lived in the states, I was always looking for that perfect suit, leisure shirt, pleated swing/leisure slacks, loafers, chukka boots, fedora, or Ricky jacket.  Some of these I found with time. Others I found, but just did want to spend the money. Even today, while not living in a place that I'm willing to where my vintage stuff, I still love clothes. I don't know why, but I do.


In my interview with Chimay Bleue I asked where he shopped for Mid-Century/Vintage styled clothing. He answered with many of the brands that I personally wear like Ben Sherman, and Original Penguin. He also mentioned Brooks Brothers, which I know about, but have never purchased from. I have had a few of there pieces from thrift stores and found them comfortable, but I always found a vintage suit that I just liked better. 


During the interview though, he mentioned another company that I had never heard of. He named Mr. California. So, as I was prepping the post for publishing, I had to get the site address to Mr. California. While there, I took the time to look around a bit. What I found was very nice.


While Mr. California doesn't have, what I would call, a very large selection, the options are very complete. You can find a shirt for any occasion. Their pricing wasn't really out of line with the other companies that you may buy from like Penguin or Ben Sherman, but you are limited to just shirts, and a jacket. Not jackets, just a jacket. At least online. One cool thing about Mr. California though is that their shirts and jacket do have cool chevrons, crest, and like designs embroidered on the chests. 


Since I've never owned a piece by Mr. California, I can't vouch for the quality.There are few factors that make me confident though in their product. First, the site makes it very clear that the product is select, and not for every man. Second, the emphasis they put on their originality, and their following the original design. Third and final, all the products are made in California. Generally speaking, if a company goes thru some much effort to let people know that their product isn't for just anybody, they stick to original design, and they only produce product in a domestic setting, they probably watch the their produce quality control pretty tightly. Now, I'm not saying they're all that, but they just might be. So, go check them out, and let me know if they are all they say they are.

MCM/Googie Los Angeles Evening

Los Angeles Evening, a photo by Chimay Bleue on Flickr.

One thing that has always amazed me about the Googie/MCM style is the ability to make a solid, weighty, or stagnant object look as though it is weightless, moving or airy. This is even been accomplished with the right kind of photo.

Here you are seeing both those aspects put into practice. A great design, and a great photo.

Architect, Gin Wong (William L. Pereira & Assoc.)
Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. By using these links you can get what you need/want and help Amidst Mod to continue providing info and inspirations.   

Salk Institute

Salk Institute, a photo by Chimay Bleue on Flickr.

You don't get much more Mid-Century/Retro Futuristic than this. I love these shots! They're AWESOME! The cold concrete, clean streets, and monotone coloring make all these photos that Chimay Bleue aka Darren Bradley took instant MCM favorites of mine. They just really give that Sci-fi vibe.

Architect: Louis Kahn

Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. By using these links you can get what you need/want and help Amidst Mod to continue providing info and inspirations.