Jon Parker is not just your typical carpenter. His passion for conserving and breathing new life into lumber makes him an ecologist. His use of historical artifacts to re-purpose into new items makes him a preservationist. His original designs and creative prove that he’s a true artist. And somehow with his many talents, he remains one of the most humble and down-to-earth people I’ve ever had the pleasure of meeting.
We are extremely happy to include him as a member of our talented team, and we take great pride in having him as our featured artisan. Take a moment and get to know Jon Parker…he’s really one in a million.
OOOH: How would you describe the craft you work in? What sets your items apart from other artisans?
JP: I design and build unique woodcraft from recycled lumber and salvaged logs. Many times the found wood has an aged patina that cannot be duplicated using new lumber.
OOOH: How long have you been crafting? Have your interests and materials changed over the years?
JP: I started as a young boy making my own toys with wood from salvaged vegetable and fruit crates. The warmth and organic character of wood have never lost their charm.
OOOH: Typically, what steps do you take when working with reclaimed wood to enhance its beauty?
JP: I choose the most beautiful or interesting “face” of each board for the outside surface, carefully join the parts, progressively sand to enhance the grain and figure, and carefully finish to achieve a soft “hand”.
OOOH: Each of your creations has a story. Do you have a piece that had a particularly interesting story or one that you are most proud of?
JP: From roadside cast-offs to dead trees, wood is everywhere and mostly free for the taking. I received a pile of partially burned, huge barn floor planks from my neighbor for helping clean up after his historic mid 1700s barn was destroyed by arson. The 300 to 400 year old virgin red oak planks made 30 benches and tables that naturally finished to a deep golden brown color that only aged lumber can provide.
OOOH: Where do you find inspiration and how do you keep up with the latest trends?
JP: The simple Shaker type designs that showcase the woods beauty lends itself to using reclaimed wood. The wood tells me what I can get out of it to maximize use and minimize waste. Usually, the small quantity of found wood limits production to “one of a kind” pieces while avoiding the trend to mass produce.
OOOH: Do you have any plans for future work? What would you like to accomplish?
JP: To create more sculptural designs in the Wharton Esherick tradition would be satisfying.
OOOH: What would be your best advice for someone interested in crafting unique furniture and accessories from reclaimed wood?
JP: Start looking for wood, it’s everywhere. Don’t be scared, in woodcraft one only gets better with practice.
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