techniques

hands down my favorite tool , the Bernina KL114 from 1915, yes 1915

Why am I drawn to this 1915 vintage sewing machine?

I have recently upgraded from my 1962 Bernina to this 1915 (yes the year is 1915 with all original paperwork) KL144 model taking me back in time but forward in capability – how can this be explained?

The KL144 stands as a true engineering marvel of its time and is still respected today for its precision and craftsmanship in sewing.

With its cast iron body, heavy-duty metal gears and internal components, meticulously crafted, allows a stitch at high speeds while maintaining consistency.

Designed with mechanical ingenuity that prioritizes smooth, uninterrupted movement is what makes this an absolute must have for the enthusiast.

This well-kept 1915 vintage sewing machine is not just a tool but an enduring masterpiece of engineering that continues to serve the sewing community with the highest standards of perfection.

Absolutely a timeless tool in the hands of those who creates and crafts.

Combining the technology and craftmanship of this era with modern designed chairs makes for a winning combination ✨

designing furniture with minimalistic lines, floating concepts and sleek metal requires a solid integrity when it comes to joints

not just in appearance but also in strength

using MIG welding and consistently improving my skills over time has enabled me to deliver quality workmanship in the basis of each frame design

cutting, preparation and finally welding takes a concept from idea to visualizing the final product

steel can be cut several times, reshaped and re-welded which provides ample opportunity to be as creative as you wish

integration of various materials into one shape takes time, redo's and several iterations until clearances are perfect for coating preparation

surface preparation for coating is a precision process that ensures steel is smooth, and absolutely perfect before and coatings are applied. once coating is applies imperfections are clearly visible and amplified especially with glossy paintwork 

creating floating designs requires special attention to integrity of frames, ensuring weight can be carried and a balance in downforces are achieved

floating designs hide structures to bring the focal point towards the fabric, downplaying the steel

traditional methods are used to create the perfect form, but also a chair that is comfortable and suitable for everyday use

box frames are constructed in 115mm x 25mm planed pine, and reinforced in the corners. the box is also fastened to the steel frames of every chair to ensure a sturdy design that will last 

zig zag springs in 7 gauge, webbing and traditional rope tiing is used to create the ultimate comfort and form to support foam  

from the top layer of the springs, thick fabric is used to create a solif base for the foam construction

foam construction consists for multi layers of density to create the perfect seat

from the bottom starting with a 50mm high density foam

a dome in high density foam to create a bulge shape in the center

44mm of medium density foam for a soft cussion effect in the center

a 25mm high density foam layer

and lastly topped in 1/2 inch soft blue foam, both sides and top layer

Dacron is then used to wrap around the ensure seat for creating a smooth finish in support of the fabric

the last step in the process is to measure and cut the fabric with dimensions to create the ultimate form, with just enough stretch to create a perfect box 

the design of the backrest is completely different in its design, as it utilizes  much softer and thicker foams, with no webbing or spring support, topped in 25mm high density foam to create the perfect flow of and rounded edges. 

where the backrest meets the seat its key to ensure the dome effect of the seat in integrated seamlessly with the bottom of the backrest