Craftsman Furniture Making A Comeback

First popular during the first two decades of the 20th century, Craftsman furniture is distinctive for its honest, forthright construction and emphasis on function. Now, in the century’s final decade, Craftsman furniture is enjoying renewed popularity. A variety of Craftsman pieces are featured in today’s hottest catalogs, magazines and furniture stores.

Now do-it-yourselfers can enjoy this exciting “new” style for a fraction of the cost of original and reproduction pieces. Made of oak (or the lumber of your choice), this bookcase project features tempered glass doors and adjustable shelves that will display and protect fine books, collectibles or almost anything else. And its clean lines and handsome finish will blend with almost any decor.

The project utilizes straighforward construction techniques just like the originals, making it a natural for woodworkers of all skill levels. Most of the cuts are straight, and the one curved cut for the base is traced from a full-size pattern, so there’s no guesswork involved.

The completed bookcase measures 60 inches tall by 36 inches wide by 12 inches deep.

The Craftsman Bookcase plan, No. 863, is $8.95 and includes step-by-step instructions with photos, full-size traceable patterns, detailed construction diagrams and a materials list and cutting layout.

A package of curio cabinet plans, No. C78, is $19.95 and includes plans for four other projects. A catalog picturing hundreds of projects is $3.95. Prices include postage and handling. Please allow 3-4 weeks for delivery (for first-class mail, add $1 per item up to $3 maximum).

MEMO: To order by mail, clip this article and send it with a check or money order to U-Bild Features, c/o The Spokesman-Review, P.O. Box 2383, Van Nuys, CA 91409-2383. To order by credit card, call toll-free 1-800-828-2453. Please specify plan numbers.