IGMA | Education

36 Hour Class

Instructor:
Linda LaRoche, Fellow

Course:
Furniture Construction

Project: Philadelphia Pie Crust Tea Table, Circa 1760-90

(class is FULL)

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Course Description:
This extraordinary table is characteristic of mid-18th Century high style Philadelphia craftsmanship. Referred to as “piecrust” because of its bold scalloped rim, these tables were artistic masterpieces as well as engineering marvels. With the table top down and in place, it could be rotated to serve tea around a group of seated guests; and then when not in use, the top could be turned vertically to reveal its stunning surface and the table moved out of the way against a wall.

Students will learn the mechanics of the box or “birdcage” construction that makes this rotation and tilting action possible. They will have the opportunity to learn faceplate turning to make the stunning table top, as well as turning the vase and tapered column of the supporting pillar. They will make and use templates to cut the legs as well as the bold scalloped table rim which is carved from the solid piece, as is traditional. Students will also cut dovetail slots in the pillar base to locate the three supporting table legs, which are cleverly reinforced with a metal spider. They will then carve the elongated claw feet and the low relief delicate foliate designs down the knees. As necessary, students will learn to sharpen and maintain their turning and carving tools.

Class time constraints will limit the amount of embellishment that will be possible, but students will see many examples of elaborately carved pillars and legs while in class. Because of these time constraints, the table built in class will not be an exact reproduction of the table pictured here, but will be a composite piece of details stylistically appropriate to the form. This class offers many challenging learning experiences and students will come away with a stunning piece of classic Philadelphia craftsmanship, combining the highest level of artistry with 18th Century ingenuity.

Time: 36 hours. While completion is unlikely, students will go home with all the techniques and materials to finish on their own.

Power Tools: table saw, lathe, moto tool, drill
press, shaper

Skill Level: Intermediate and advanced. Experience with power tools is required.

Materials Fee: $15. Turning tools and gravers will be available for an optional fee up to $95, depending on the identified needs of the students.