Phil Lowe Digital Library
Visit the Phil Lowe Library where you can download scans of furniture pieces built by him.
Find a Local Chapter
SAPFM chapters connect local furniture builders throughout the US.
Visit Our Sponsors
A list of sponsors who support SAPFM. Please support them with your business.
Our Story
Furniture Making is in Our Blood
For more than 20 years, The Society of American Period Furniture Makers has been committed to providing our members with the best in fine furniture making education. We provide this service through our symposiums, publications, chapter meetings, and on-line resources.
We are a niche interest in the overall makers movement ...
Our Mission is:
☑ To create a forum for the understanding, education, and appreciation of American period furniture.
☑ To develop and encourage the use of standards and ethical practices in the reproduction and conservation of period furniture.
☑ To offer membership to all with an interest in period furniture.
☑ To assist members with the identification and location of resources including people or organizations having specialized expertise.
☑ To conduct public exhibitions for the recognition of members’ work.
What is American Period Furniture?
Though a relatively young nation, America has enjoyed a rich array of furniture period styles. Some have been been heavily influenced by Europe and Asia, while others are uniquely American. Join us for a walk through furniture history from pilgrim times to the present.
Membership Has its Benefits
Members enjoy many benefits. Some of these include our annual printed "American Period Furniture" journal and our quarterly electronic "Pins and Tales" magazine. You will have full access to our online resources including articles, curated lists, downloads, and more. There are 2 national events every year and access to any meeting hosted by local chapters throughout the country.
American Period Furniture Journal
Published annually by the SAPFM, contributors include members and guest authors. It is the only trade publication devoted exclusively to the interests of period furniture makers. Contents include how-to articles, biographies of important cabinetmakers, analyses of important pieces, and articles dealing with historical topics in period furniture making. Just as SAPFM is a unique organization, our journal is a unique publication.
Upcoming SAPFM Events
Many of our events are open to guests. Attending a local chapter meeting is a great way to learn more about SAPFM.
Nov 18, 2023: Indiana Chapter Meeting (Fishers, IN)
Jan 20, 2024: Chesapeake Chapter Meeting (Harrisburg, PA)
Jan 25-28 2024: Colonial Williamsburg's Woodworking Conference
June 28-July 1, 2024: SAPFM Mid-Year Conference (Philadelphia, PA)
Announcements
2023 American Period Furniture Journal - Now Shipping
Board of Directors Election Results (2023)
2023 Educational Grants Announced
SAPFM Member Featured on The Highland Woodworker
2022 Makers Challenge Winner
Dan Faia Selected for 2023 SAPFM Cartouche Award
Join SAPFM Today
SAPFM is here for you. We are dedicated to fine period furniture craftsmanship. Membership provides an opportunity to meet like-minded furniture makers, share information, and expand appreciation and abilities in making furniture. Collectors, enthusiasts, and academics have an opportunity to learn how furniture was made, how skills were acquired, how materials were used, and construction process and procedures.