Reply To: Side table – Form/function/design and customer satisfaction
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First, copying is how most furniture throughout history was made. That is why antiques can be classified by period, region and style. So don’t get too obsessed with whether or not your “copying”.
Second, your own “voice” will work its way into the items that you make on its own over time. It is something that cannot be forced. For me, it just sort of happened as part of the learning process and can also be a result of your particular set of tools, as well as your interests. For myself, that has worked out to be texture, scratched decoration and incorporating knot tying and rope work.
I can also echo Salko’s advice. Look at as many examples of furniture as you can. I have thousands of photos saved on my coputer that are photos of entire pieces as well parts of pieces that interest and/or inspire me.
Design is process that you will develop over time as your skill and experience develope. It will be ever changing as you grow in your woodworking, but certain elements will emerge that brings your particular style to every piece that you make. Your own “voice”, so to speak.
One last thing, none of the above will be of any use unless you have the confidence to build things your way. Believe in your vision for a piece and have the confidence to execute it. The fact that your asking the questions tells me that you are well on your way to developing your own “voice”
Great topic!