Building a 17th Century joined Blanket Chest with Anne Marie Elder - 2026
I’m thrilled to share that my friend, Rick Liegl, and I have been selected as a mentor–apprentice team for the 2025–2026 Southern New England Apprenticeship Program (SNEAP). This program is funded in part by the National Endowment for the Arts, the Connecticut Office of the Arts (DECD), and the Cornelia T. Bailey Foundation, and is supported by the Connecticut Museum of Culture and History. This prestigious grant supports the preservation and transmission of traditional arts, ensuring that time‑honored skills continue to thrive in our region.
Under Rick’s mentorship, I will deepen my study of 17th‑century joinery and decorative carving - working entirely with hand tools. I will focus on creating a historically accurate 17th‑century joined chest inspired by the work of Thomas Dennis, one of New England’s most celebrated furniture makers of the 1600s.
My love for carving and woodworking working was deepened when I inherited by great grandfathers tools about 6 years ago - most of which are from the 1800's. My great-grandfather, grandfather and father were carpenters and joiners. I am proud to carry on their legacy using the same tools that they used.
I started my journey with 17th century New England joinery and carving when I attended a class taught by Peter Follansbee, who is a world-renowned for his exceptional skill and his deep knowledge of 17th century joinery and carving traditions of New England and England using traditional tools.
In addition, Rick and I started Colonial Crafts of CT to further the education and knowledge of pre-industrial crafts in New England.
I will be hand making and carving something similar to this Thomas Dennis chest. Follow my progress below!
PICKING and DRAWING OUT MY DESIGNS
Drafting out a design on a test piece.
CHOOSING AND PLANING MY WOOD
The front, back and sides will be made of Oak and the top and bottom from Pine. These are the typical woods used in New England joinery in the 1600’s as this wood was readily available at the time.
CUTTING ALL MY BOARDS
I cut my top and bottom rails, my stiles, muntons and panels out of white oak. It’s starting to look like the front of a chest.
Rick Liegl talks wood grain and ensuring that each piece is square and evenly planed.
Laying out the general design of the chest.
Time to Start Carving!
