Sam Maloof

Chairs by Sam Maloof Woodworking

Images by Gene Sasse

Sam Maloof was probably one of the most famous, recognized and successful woodworkers of the 20th century. Sadly, he passed away in 2009 at the age of 93. He has been a mentor of mine for over 30 years. His book Sam Maloof - Woodworker is about his life, how he started as a woodworker and made it his life long passion. It has been and continues to be a major source of inspiration for all of my woodworking and furniture. While I cannot pretend to be the craftsman Sam was, I can attempt to build everything I make to highest level of workmanship possible, as Sam would do.. His eye for simple design, balance and his "hard line" through out all of the many pieces he built, was extraordinary. His work is exhibited in famous collections such as the Smithsonian and the White House and is shown in galleries around the world. The furniture he built can sell for tens of thousands of dollars at auction, if and when it becomes available. I especially like how he used the term , woodworker,  to describe who he is and what he does.
As Sam would say "It's an honest word and that's what I am: a woodworker"
Get his autobiography "Sam Maloof - Woodworker" and enjoy it.
Or you can follow this link to his site Sam Maloof Woodworking