Chairmaker Caleb James shared this amazing video on how skilled joiners used to construct sash windows. I loved it so much that I want to share it with my readers! So what did you think?

Source: www.arnoldzlotofftoolmuseum.com

The beautiful traditional art of joinery, brought to life in the construction of a sash window frame from raw pine boards through completion using only hand tools.

Commissioned by the Arnold Zlotoff Tool Museum in South Hero, VT and featuring joiner Ted Ingraham.

CLICK HERE TO SUBSCRIBE TO FUTURE FREE ARTICLES & VIDEOS!

5 1 vote
Article Rating
Subscribe
Notify of
Guest

8 Comments
Inline Feedbacks
View all comments
Simon Peacock
Simon Peacock
December 28, 2014 2:12 pm

Wonderful, inspiring video. I never really thought about how much joinery is involved in making a ‘mere’ window… and what I especially enjoyed was the moment when the narrator said that no glue was used. Makes sense. Strange that seeing a wood plug carved and cut off could be so satisfying! I’m a beginning woodworker hobbyist. I guess passion makes the otherwise everyday seem magical. :-)

Martin
Martin
October 31, 2017 1:59 am

Yes… magnificent. I live in an old house with original sash windows and always wondered how they were made. Now I know. I wonder if power tools that are all the rage these days are any substitute for specialist hand tools that are used in the video… lovely job in any case :-)

Daniel Bennett
Daniel Bennett
October 24, 2018 12:11 pm

I live in a subdivision with a restrictions requiring traditional wooden windows for all street facing windows. They look great but I have to replace one and can not find anyone to build me just one. It is a 6′ x 3′ casement 8 light. I may have to beg a woodworking friend to help me build one. My home is only about 10 years old so they were certainly made by more modern methods.Got any suggestions?

Mark A Tremaine
Mark A Tremaine
May 25, 2021 4:42 pm

Very cool video! I’m getting ready to install some antique sash windows in our 1903 farmhouse. However, I need to build the frame and jambs for the windows (I do have the weights) and have no idea where to begin. Any pointers?

Brian
brian
January 15, 2022 8:57 pm

“Only the most talented were allowed to make windows”
“Here is the long boring part, the apprentice usually does it”
sounds about right

Ernie
Ernie
May 1, 2023 1:56 pm

Hi Josh,

I’m in Richmond and hoping to find a woodworker or shop which can make about 6 replacement sashes for some casement windows. I just need the rails, and no assembly. Avg sizes are about 20×60 overall. I have a cad drawing.

Would you be interested or do you know someone who might be?

Wood And Shop Traditional Woodworking School
The House Joiner (Making Sash Windows By Hand)
The House Joiner (Making Sash Windows By Hand)
The House Joiner (Making Sash Windows By Hand)
The House Joiner (Making Sash Windows By Hand)
The House Joiner (Making Sash Windows By Hand)
The House Joiner (Making Sash Windows By Hand)
The House Joiner (Making Sash Windows By Hand)
The House Joiner (Making Sash Windows By Hand)