Wood 1026 Advanced Finishing: Don Williams in for summer seminar on Restoration, Chemistry and Technology of Transparent Furniture Coatings

Don Williams, Senior Museum Conservator , was in for a summer seminar on Restoration, Chemistry & technology of transparent furniture coatings. This intensive 5-day course introduced the history, technology, chemistry, properties, deterioration, and treatment of transparent coating materials and colorants, along with color theory, finishing techniques, and treatment and manipulation of existing coatings. The course was organized along three major themes.
*The History of Coatings - What Was It Originally?
*Technology of Materials and Processes - What Is It, and How Do we Know?
*What Will We do About It - Treatment Decisions and Processes

Some of the specifics that were covered were:

*Introduction to Coatings Chemistry and Technology: Formulation and Film Formation
*Historic and Contemporary Wood finishing Materials and Techniques
*Solvent Theory and Solubility Practice
*Evaluation of Appearance
*Characterization of Historic Coatings
*Survey of Coating Resins Used in Conservation
*Natural and Synthetic Dyes for Furniture Finishes
*Strategic Techniques for Coatings Restoration and Preservation

A subsequent coatings course (July 2010, proposed) will emphasize painted finishes, e.g. poly-chrome sculpture, decorated furniture finishes, and consolidating and inpainting painted surfaces. A third course in the series is tentatively scheduled for July 2011, and will emphasize advanced applications in the workshop setting.

Master Finisher, Greg Johnson teaches workshop at DCTC & NIWF

Greg Johnson came in for a five day workshop that focused on excellent looking nitrocellulose lacquer, two part coatings and special effect coatings. Each student got to keep their projects and the formulas to take with them. They covered how and why each step of the process is used to make stunning colors and coatings. Starting with raw wood samples, we proceeded with step by step processes, kept a written record of each step. Finishing techniques used include waterbase dyes, stain on dye, bleaching, clear and opaque coatings. Special effects such as crackle lacquer, satin rub outs and high gloss polishing were also covered.

Greg Johnson has been in the furniture making trade for almost 40 years and has earned the reputation as one of the most innovative wood finishers in America. He began working at his father’s cabinet making and restoration shop in Maryland in the early 1970’s. After completing a two year furniture program in ’81 at the Worcester Center for Crafts, he worked with his brother Tom in Boston. It was during this time Greg found his niche in wood finishing. In 1989, he became the principal finisher for designer Wendell Castle in Scottsville, NY. In 1999 Greg took a management position running the finishing department at a new production company called The Wendell Castle Collection. In April of 2005, Greg went into his own business full time, Johnson Furniture Restoration where he offers of full range of services including restoration, conservation, and custom finishing. You can find out more about Greg, and see his work at his WEBSITE

Past Grad, Sean Harrigan Talks About His Experience at NIWF

Sean Harrigan graduated in 2008 from The National Institute of Wood Finishing, he is currently living and working in Livingston, Montana where he is the owner & operator of Deluxe Lustre Fine Wood Finish & restoration.

"In March of 2008, while researching a wood finish, I came upon the National Institute of Wood Finishing's website. Astounded, I thought "what is this?!?" Being a painting contractor and looking to expand my skill level into other ventures, this program immediately sounded like something designed just for me. As I read through the syllabus and testimonials I knew I must venture from Montana to Minnesota and see for myself what this was really about. When I toured the classroom and work area and saw what the current students were doing & I knew this is where I wanted to be. Fortuitously, I was able to secure the last open spot for 2008-2009. All this, just 3 weeks after learning of the program. Without delay my wife and I began to make plans to move to Minneapolis for 10 months.
Mitch eases everyone into this intense program. He shapes your skills from the ground up, building a sturdy foundation in color theory. Even the most talented students are challenged, and Mitch will not leave you with an uninteresting moment. As you strive further, Mitch pushes your potential as far as you dare to take it, leading you on the path to success. As the student advances through the program, you see how one class develops into the next, finally reaching the crucial goal; an unyielding understanding of color, coatings, wood, conservation, solvents, spot repair, adhesives, methods of application, tools used and modus operandi. Through Wood Finishing Technology, you as the student can find out how many things there really are to know about wood finishing. This is a sound program that Mitch has designed and honed for over 30 years.
Upon re-entering the workforce, I am slowly building my own Wood Finishing business. Now contracting on-site wood finishing work, I feel I have an edge over the local competition. I’ve executed successful spot repairs and attractive interior finishes. I am able to offer many finishing solutions and options on projects old and new from furniture to architectural millwork. My knowledge from N.I.W.F. is used on a daily basis. Everyday I think of new ideas and I am impressed how far this education has already taken me.
Mitch Kohanek is inspiring, passionate and dedicated to teaching you the art and craft of wood finishing. He has instilled in me a level of confidence and a thirst to seek out and learn more about finishing. This program is one of a kind. It has enhanced my quality of life immeasurably. Thanks Mitch. I’ll see you at one of your summer offerings."