David employs a combination of techniques on WoodWorks using both hand and power tools to design and build pieces which feature the use of exotic and domestic woods in ways that highlight their color and grain. He also incorporated metal leaf and a chemical patination in some of the projects. Countless viewers have stated that David’s unique style and fine craftsmanship made the show not only informative, but inspirational. About his style David says, “My work expresses a sense of time and mystery. My inspiration is derived from a fusion of styles including ancient Egyptian, African, Art Nouveau, Art Deco and Asian. But essential to all my designs is the attention I pay to fine details.” David’s philosophy is that what sets fine furniture apart from the rest is attention to detail, such as grain matching, strong joinery, good proportions, well thought out designs, and fine finishes.
Chippendale Side Table
Made from solid Honduras mahogany, the Chippendale-inspired side table built in this episode of Wood Works features a beautiful book-matched panel tabletop. The elegantly shaped legs are joined to the apron with mortise-and-loose-tenon construction. Weblike Asian-inspired fret pieces accent the corners of the table.
Display Cabinet
The classic design of the display cabinet made in this episode of Wood Works includes a flame-maple back panel, cove molding and a handcrafted handle. The rail-and-stile front and back frames are joined with loose tenons, and the solid cherry case is sun-oxidized for a rich finish.
Blanket Chest
Reminiscent of the arts-and-crafts style, the case for the chest in this episode of Wood Works is made from solid walnut and features dovetail joinery. The figured walnut lid is book-matched, then framed in purpleheart wood; and the purpleheart base has a traditional step profile that is shaped using a router template.
Arts and Crafts-Style Nightstand
Based on the design motifs of the arts and crafts style of the 1920s, the mission table in this Wood Works project features strong horizontal lines, mortise-and-tenon joinery and a natural wood finish. Quarter-sawn white oak makes for a distinctive grain pattern that is a trademark of this period style, and subtle details such as the beveled through-tenons add to the refined look of the piece.
Three-Panel Folding Screen
Host David Marks demonstrates the basics of mortise-and-tenon joinery, as well as other major steps, in the construction of an Asian-influenced three-panel folding screen. This elegant decorative piece is made from gorgeous Australian lace-wood panels, an ebonized frame and knuckled wood hinges. The distinctive frame is highlighted by angle-cut accents and a crescent-ridge design.
Mission-Style Ottoman
Based on the design motifs of the arts and crafts style of the 1920s, the mission-style ottoman in this Wood Works project features strong lines, mortise-and-tenon joinery and a natural wood finish. Precisely milled wood and subtle details such as the beveled through-tenons suggest strength and fine craftsmanship.
Contemporary Headboard
The tapering curves of the mahogany headboard made in this episode display a subtle elegance in the simple design. Shaped using a template, the frame is joined together with wood splines. A mahogany panel is set into the frame giving the piece strength and rigidity. The rails are attached using loose tenon joinery ad the rich finish is achieved using a mixture of potassium dichromate to bring out the warm tones of the wood.
Asian Sitting Bench
Featuring Asian styling, the elegant sitting bench made in this episode is sculpted from three solid slabs of maple. Integral tenons join the three slabs, and decorative accents carved from purpleheart wood adorn each side of the bench.
Standing Mirror
Made from solid cherry wood, the freestanding mirror made in this episode features curved legs made using a bent lamination technique. The legs are joined with a third member to create a stand that allows the mirror to swivel and lock in various positions. The frame for the mirror is constructed from cherry using loose tenon joinery, and the entire piece is sun-oxidized and rubbed with tung oil for a deep, rich finish.
Hanging Bookcase
The contemporary mahogany maple bookcase made in this episode is both sturdy and functional. Main features include dovetail joints, shaped edges and inset maple shelves. The dovetail joinery gives the piece strength and highlights the contrasting colors of the two woods. A mounting plate on the back panel allows the shelf to be hung on a wall, keeping floor space clear.
Copper-Top Hall Table
Made from solid black walnut, the stylish hall table built in this episode stands on elegantly tapered legs that are joined to the apron with loose tenons. The copper tabletop rests in a walnut frame that has mitered corners and is joined with wood biscuits. The copper panel is cut and glued to a plywood substrate, then given a crusty blue-patina finish to impart a tastefully bold look.
Carved Oak Barstool
Featuring a hand-carved seat, the arts-and-crafts style barstool built in this episode is made from quarter-sawn oak. Mortise-and-tenon joinery is used throughout to make the stool strong and sturdy. Integral through-tenon joints attach the legs to the seat, making for a distinctive design feature. The visible tenons are cut flush with the top surface of the seat, revealing constrasting colors and grain on the top of the stool.
Mahogany China Display
The china display built in this episode features a mahogany case and back panel. The side rails are made of dark wengae wood and provide sturdy accents. The shelves are trimmed with wengae, and brass support pins in the trim add beauty and strength to the piece.
