Woodworkers Are Afraid of Building Chairs, but Why?

By Shane Mitchell
Timber Biscuit Woodworks

Building a chair can be a daunting task for many woodworkers. It requires a lot of precision and can be dangerous if not done correctly. Chairs are made up of many different parts, and each part must be the correct size and shape in order for the chair to look good and be both stable and comfortable. If parts are not made correctly, the chair could collapse or be uncomfortable, which is a major problem. And unlike a bookcase, which only needs to be able to hold books, a chair must bear the weight and movement of a human body. And as we know, humans don’t sit still. We move around quite a bit to get comfortable, and the chair’s design needs to account for that. In addition to being structurally sound, a chair must also be comfortable. If it’s not, there’s no point in having it.

All this to say, building a chair can be a complex and challenging task that requires careful planning and execution. But let’s talk about overcoming that fear and building a solid and comfortable chair.

Overcoming the Fear of Building a Chair

When thinking about building this chair, I had to identify WHY I was nervous and what I could do to make myself feel confident in the design and build process.

1. Choose a simple design.

While I designed my chair, there are many plans to follow. And there are many different chair designs, so choose one that is relatively simple and straightforward. This will make the build less daunting and more likely that you will be successful. You can check out my plans HERE.

2. Having the right tools.

Make sure you have all of the necessary tools before you start building your chair. This will help you avoid frustration and make the process go more smoothly. You can check out my video of building this chair, and I mention all of the tools, as well as substitutes for tools that you may not have.

3. Take your time.

Don’t rush through the process. Take your time and pay attention to detail. I have to remind myself of this from time to time. When I try to rush a process, that is when most mistakes happen. And the adage of measure twice, cut once is an oldie but a goodie. I also suggest using the same measuring device throughout the whole build. Measuring tapes are notoriously off, so at least if your measurements are off, they are off consistently.

4. Practice.

Joinery can be tricky sometimes, especially when using new techniques. So I like to practice on some scrap wood to build my confidence before doing it on the actual piece.

With these tips in mind, you can overcome your fear of building your first chair and create a beautiful piece of furniture you can be proud of.

Wood Choice Matters

When choosing the right wood type to build a chair, there are a few factors to consider. The first is the desired look and feel of the chair. Some woods, such as oak, have a warm, rich look, while others, like maple, have a more light and airy feel. The second factor to consider is the intended use of the chair. If the chair will be used in a high-traffic area, it is important to choose a wood that is durable and resistant to wear and tear. Some good choices for this include oak, maple, and walnut. Finally, the budget should also be considered. Some woods, such as mahogany, can be quite expensive, while others, such as pine, are more affordable.

Here are some of the best wood types for building chairs:

Oak: Oak is a strong and durable wood resistant to wear and tear. It is also a popular choice for chairs because of its curly grain.
Maple: Maple is a light and airy wood that is easy to work with. It is also a good choice for chairs because it is resistant to dents and scratches.
Walnut: Walnut is a dark and rich wood that is often used in high-end furniture. It is a good choice for chairs because it is durable and has a beautiful grain.
Pine: Pine is a soft and lightweight wood that is easy to work with. It is also a good choice for chairs because it is affordable. But with this affordability comes the disadvantage of not being as durable for high-traffic areas.

For my build, I went with my favorite lumber, walnut. As I mentioned, walnut has a beautiful grain pattern, and I specifically chose the straight grain pieces since they best complimented the chair’s design. And with the stress of building this chair, I want it to last. Walnut is a great choice for its durability.

After finishing this build, I am so happy that I accomplished something that I had been nervous to try. And a great takeaway is not to let that fear hold you back. If you’re thinking about building a chair, go for it! You might just surprise yourself.