Terry Kelly Furniture and the Art of the Philly Comb Back Chair

Terry Kelly joins us today from Mapleton, Maine to tell/give a glimpse into the world of Windsor Chair building by getting to know a special Windsor – the Philly Comb Back chair.

The Philly Comb Back Chair

This is the chair that really got me thinking that I wanted to build Windsors.  It is based squarely on one that Curtis Buchanan builds.  I changed the legs a little, and omitted the brace spindles, but kept the built-up arm (which looks awesome!), the shield seat and the Philly turnings for the legs.  I also made the arm posts extra long…I think it looks better.

This historic American chair got it's name because it looks like a hair comb

The finish is black milk paint layered over barn red.  It actually reads more like a stain than paint.   This shot shows the knuckles, I can’t wait for the black paint to wear thru to the red,  should look pretty cool.

From above it looks like its got wings

Bird’s eye view.  Lately I have doing the pommel a little different, moving it from a single point to a ridge running down the middle. Also the seat front comes to a point, like a bow,  which adds visual interest to the front.

Handmade detail - Windsor chair arm

I think it’s a solid rendition, but I also wanted to be ready to do it.  I didn’t want to buy the legs, use dowels for the spindles, etc. I didn’t want some half-hearted attempt, I wanted to be able to accurately copy the chair, but more than that I wanted to make it my own.  I’m really happy with the results,  a very gratifying milestone.  Check out my blog to follow me as I take on more chair challenges, you may be surprised to see what goes into the art of custom furniture-making. In fact, if you really want to learn more…

If you’ve been wanting to try your hand at building, I’m happy to get you started! Send me a message to set up a class to learn about the art and craft of woodworking. Subjects range from hand tool basics to chair building to finishing, or whatever else you want to learn.

Know a thing or two about custom comb backs? Have a favorite Windsor chair in your home with a story to tell? Share it with us!