Clint Godin at The Wachusett Wood Shoppe makes wonderful primitive and country style furniture. Let’s hear a little about his journey–and how he explains the difference between some of the historic styles.
Our “journey began in 2000 with my interest in building furniture for myself, friends
and neighbors. I found that most requests were primitive and country styles with custom designed features. While designing and crafting furniture, I was inspired by the historical significance of the North Central Massachusetts region, along with historical Deerfield, Plimoth Plantation and Sturbridge Village not all that far away. Thus I created Nathanial Stuart furniture collection and the Abigail Cooke accessory Line, fondly known as Abbey’s Closet. I found myself reading and researching about Primitive, Shaker, Country and Early American furniture. I found inspiration in the simplicity while in the design stages of my furniture.
What is Primitive, Country, Shaker and Early American furniture?
Let’s start with Primitive. In our country’s beginning years, furniture was built with a purpose. It was simple sometimes crude and made of pine.
What is country? Country can be a simple Rustic Style, It’s about comfort and colors. The furniture can be painted or stained and also made out of pine.
What is Shaker? Shaker furniture was a reflection of their beliefs. They were good craftsmen but was not adorned with much decoration.The doors had raised panels but the raised field was put to the inside of the cupboard. They also used pine and other inexpensive woods.
What is Early American? Early American is a popular style with home owners that have Salt box or Colonial Style homes. It was plain with straight lines and sturdily built. Nothing fancy. The furniture was made from local woods such as pine and oak. It was either painted or stained.
Each piece is hand crafted in my shop one at a time using modern tools but with yesteryear Traditions.”
The cabinet below is painted with Old Village buttermilk black paint as the base coat and Old Village Salem Brick as the top coat.
Thanks to Clint for allowing us to use some photos, and his explanation of the differences between these styles. I think I’ll be able to identify them a bit now! You can find him at: http://www.thewachusettwoodshoppe.com or
The Wachusett Wood Shoppe
11 Stickney rd. Fitchburg, Ma 01420
e-mail: thewachusettwoodshoppe@msn
phone: 978-348-1735 cell:978-602-7075
Old Village Paint has been making paint for over 200 years, we’re proud that our colors are not only historically accurate, we were making them while history was being made! Keep us in mind for your next beautiful home project or furniture redo. As always, give us a call or visit us on Facebook to ask questions or share photos of what you are doing!
I have lived a long time and am convinced that God governs in the affairs of men. If a sparrow cannot fall to the ground without His notice, is it probable that an empire can rise without His aid? I move that prayer imploring the assistance of Heaven be held every morning before we proceed to business.- Benjamin Franklin
2. Paint any Old Village Buttermilk or Vintage Paint colour you choose on top and allow to dry. (Thin top coat with distiller water for easier sanding.) 
Old Village Paint 