David Johnson is a woodworker with over two decades of experience. Johnson was raised in California’s rural Central Valley. He studied under James Krenov while enrolled in the Fine Woodworking program at The College of the Redwoods in Eureka, CA, from which he graduated in 1997. Krenov is regarded as one of the most influential craftsmen of the twentieth century. His Fine Woodworking program emphasized elegance of form and a high regard for material. Krenov’s interpretation of Scandinavian minimalism influenced Johnson’s own interest in Danish Modern design.
Johnson’s caning knowledge is self-taught from one of the most important books on the subject: The Caner’s Handbook by Bruce Miller and Jim Widess. After developing his interest in caning, Johnson went on to apprentice under Widess at The Caning Shop in Berkeley, CA. In 2005, Johnson opened Sidecar Furniture, which specializes in the conservation of Danish Modern chairs, and which he operates to this day. His conservation prioritizes historical accuracy and the preservation of patina. Johnson also works as an instructor at Allied Woodshop in Los Angeles, CA.
