
Once upon a time,
there was a tool in need of a home. Deep in the cavernous warehouse of the evil dragon Amazon, it languished, hoping to one day be freed from its captivity. At long last, that day came when a knight in dusty overalls forked over a reasonable reward and liberated the tool. The knight and the tool developed a close bond, one might even say a sure bond, working tirelessly side-by-side to rescue furniture from the mighty Landfill. Then one day, the knight was cursed by the wizard Ikea and wounded in furniture battle. The healers told the knight that jousting at staples would no longer be possible. While the bond between the knight and the tool would never be broken, their encounters would be less frequent in the future. Thus the tool returned to a shelf — albeit it a warmer and friendlier one than from whence it came — to await a time when the knight will again call upon it in a time of great need.

Yes folks, my beloved Surebonder® pneumatic staple gun and I have had a forced parting of the ways. Yanking out five billion staples has given me severe tendonitis in my shoulder which is affecting my ability to use my hand. So, it is with regret that I must announce that I will not be taking on any upholstery projects that require disassembly for the foreseeable future. I AM STILL WORKING ON FURNITURE, just restricting my work to refinishing and painting. I am still able to take on custom work that requires sewing alone (e.g., throw pillows, seat cushions) or furniture which has already been stripped of staples to a bare frame.

For the month of December, I will be taking a break from the workshop for the holidays. I might tinker a bit, so you may see a post or two, but I’m going to experiment with something I’m not good at: self-care. Completed furniture is still available at my online storefront (https://theartisanmarketsfurniture.com/seller-collection/serendipity-sequels/) and I’ll still be posting on Instagram (@serendipitysequelsmn). Many thanks to those of you who have been loyal readers and clients this past year. I couldn’t do this without your support! May your holiday season be full of friends, family, and fun! More from the workshop in 2024!