My Experience With The Greene And Greene Blanket Chest

My Experience With The Greene And Greene Blanket Chest

As someone who loves woodworking, I was thrilled when a friend asked me to make a Greene and Greene Blanket Chest for her home. I had heard of the style before but had never attempted to make anything in that genre. After some research and planning, I dove right in and was pleasantly surprised with the results.

What is a Greene and Greene Blanket Chest?

The Greene and Greene style of furniture originated in the early 20th century in Pasadena, California. The style is known for its use of intricate details, such as ebony accents, cloud lifts, and exposed joinery. The Greene brothers, who were architects, created custom furniture for their clients in this style, and it has since become iconic in the world of woodworking.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making a Greene and Greene Blanket Chest

1. Choose your wood: The Greene and Greene style typically uses darker woods like mahogany, but other options include oak, cherry, or maple.

2. Create the frame: Cut pieces for the frame and join them together using a combination of box joints and dowels.

3. Add details: Use a router to create the signature cloud lifts and other details, such as ebony plugs in the corners.

4. Add the lid: Create a lid using more box joints and attach it to the frame using hinges.

5. Finish: Sand the chest and apply a finish, such as tung oil or lacquer.

Top 10 Tips and Ideas for Making a Greene and Greene Blanket Chest

1. Use a darker wood to create a more authentic look.
2. Take your time with the details, as they are what make this style unique.
3. Consider adding a cushion to the top of the chest for extra seating.
4. Experiment with different finishes to find the one that best suits your taste.
5. Make sure to use high-quality hardware for the hinges and handles.
6. Consider adding a lock to keep valuable items safe.
7. Practice your joinery skills before attempting a project like this.
8. Research other Greene and Greene furniture pieces for inspiration.
9. Consider adding a tray or compartments inside the chest for organization.
10. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes – they can often lead to unique and unexpected design elements.

Pros and Cons of a Greene and Greene Blanket Chest

Pros:

• Unique and eye-catching design
• Durable and long-lasting
• Can be customized to fit your style
• Can be used for storage and seating

Cons:

• Requires advanced woodworking skills
• Can be time-consuming to create
• May be expensive to purchase or commission
• May not fit in with all styles of decor

My Personal Review and Suggestion on a Greene and Greene Blanket Chest

Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed making the Greene and Greene Blanket Chest and would highly recommend it to anyone with advanced woodworking skills. The details and joinery were challenging but rewarding, and the end result was a beautiful and functional piece of furniture that my friend loves. My suggestion would be to take your time, practice your skills, and have fun with the design elements. It’s a great project for those who want to challenge themselves and create something truly unique.

Questions & Answers and FAQs

Q: What is the size of a typical Greene and Greene Blanket Chest?

A: The size can vary depending on the intended use, but a typical size is around 48 inches long, 20 inches wide, and 24 inches tall.

Q: Can this style be adapted for other furniture pieces?

A: Yes, the Greene and Greene style can be used for a variety of furniture pieces, including chairs, tables, and cabinets.

Q: What type of finish is best for a Greene and Greene Blanket Chest?

A: It ultimately depends on your personal preference, but tung oil or lacquer are popular choices for this style.

Q: Is it necessary to use ebony for the accents?

A: No, while ebony is the traditional choice for Greene and Greene furniture, other woods can be used as well.