This project was built and designed by Jeff and Jon from Today’s Craftsmen. It’s a Shaker-style bench made from reclaimed white oak, inspired by a scene in One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest, where simplicity and form intersect with nostalgia and character.
The piece blends classic proportions with rustic materials, showing how thoughtful design and reclaimed wood can turn a functional item into a conversation piece. With clean joinery and subtle details, this bench is a great example of woodworking with both story and structure.
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Drawing Inspiration from Film
The idea for this bench came from a moment in the film One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest, where a similar bench appears in the background. Its straightforward design and timeless lines offered the perfect reference point for a piece that would fit equally well in a modern or traditional space.
By recreating the design in their own workshop, Jeff and Jon added their personal touch—especially by using reclaimed materials that bring texture and history into the project.
Sourcing and Preparing Reclaimed White Oak
The white oak for this bench was sourced from Real Antique Wood Mill in Irvington, New Jersey. The boards arrived rough and weathered, full of the imperfections that give reclaimed wood its charm.
Before building, the boards were cut into manageable lengths. This step made it easier to work with the material and allowed Jeff and Jon to identify any defects—like knots or warps—that needed extra attention or creative workarounds.
Milling and Glue-Up
Each board was run through a jointer to flatten one face and establish a straight edge. This created a reliable surface for reference cuts and ensured tight seams in later stages.
After jointing, the boards were planed to a consistent thickness. Matching thickness across all parts is key for strength and balance, particularly in the seat where multiple boards come together.
The seat was constructed by gluing the milled boards edge to edge. To reinforce the joints, Jeff and Jon used domino joinery—adding strength while keeping the visual focus on the wood itself.
Shaping and Design Adjustments
To give the bench a stronger base and better balance, wider stock was used for the legs. The legs were then tapered to add elegance, while maintaining the blocky, grounded feel of Shaker-style furniture.
They also built an apron to connect the legs and support the seat. Measurements were adjusted slightly so that all parts could be cut from the same reclaimed material, ensuring a unified color tone and grain pattern.
Sanding and Softening the Details
After the structure was assembled, the bench was run through a drum sander to even out surfaces and remove glue residue. This gave the reclaimed oak a cleaner look while preserving its original character and wear marks.
To soften the appearance and improve comfort, Jeff and Jon considered adding chamfers to the bench edges. This would eliminate sharp corners while contributing to a more refined overall silhouette.
Assembly and Joinery Details
Each component was carefully aligned during final assembly. Screws were used for strength, with glue reinforcing the joints. To keep the fasteners hidden, they planned to use wooden plugs—both functional and in keeping with the aesthetic of traditional woodworking.
The bench’s width was kept generous to enhance its usability, while still staying within practical proportions for entryways or common seating areas.
Exploring Finish Options
As they wrapped up the build, Jeff and Jon explored different finishing ideas. One option was to apply white milk paint to the lower section, leaving the seat with a natural or lightly oiled surface.
This combination would create a visually appealing contrast, emphasizing the reclaimed oak’s grain and patina. It also adds a subtle nod to traditional Shaker pieces, which often feature painted legs with exposed tops.
A Bench with History and Heart
This bench is more than just seating—it tells a story. Its connection to a film scene brings a layer of nostalgia, while the use of reclaimed oak grounds it in sustainable and thoughtful craftsmanship.
Whether placed in a rustic entryway or a clean modern room, the bench feels both timeless and personal. The imperfections in the wood aren’t flaws—they’re features that remind viewers of the material’s past life.
A Project for Woodworkers and Film Fans Alike
Jeff and Jon’s approach showcases how reclaimed wood and intentional design choices can bring a unique energy to even the most straightforward pieces. Their careful craftsmanship and creative inspiration turn a simple bench into a meaningful project with character.
Please support Jeff and Jon by visiting their website: https://todayscraftsmen.com/.