A Visit to Thos. Moser, Handcrafted Furniture Makers

The workshop of Thos. Moser is nestled in Auburn, Maine, just north of Portland, where the iconic furniture makers have been handcrafting pieces for over five decades. Thomas and his wife, Mary, founded the business in 1972. Tom served as designer and maker while Mary handled sales and finances.

Earlier this year, James made a pilgrimage to the Moser workshop to experience their craft and process firsthand.

What struck him most was the sheer volume of highly skilled work, the innovative techniques and problem-solving, and the commitment to handwork. The workshop has developed ingenious approaches to their craft, particularly in complex joinery like intricate chair arms. The Mosers developed unique ways to systematize complicated builds while preserving as much benchwork and handcraft as possible. This balance of innovation and tradition proved deeply inspirational for James.

Like Farmhouse Pottery, Thos. Moser is dedicated to providing a livelihood for local craftspeople. They employ over 70 makers who are trained in the traditional methods of furniture making. It’s increasingly rare in our fast-paced world to encounter a business that prioritizes craftsmanship over profit.

Thomas Moser began as a teacher, and later set out to restore the lost art of fine woodworking in 1972. He originally produced his one-of-a-kind pieces in Gloucester, ME.

His and Mary’s first ad that ran in Down East Magazine in 1973 says it best:

“Antiques are prized for their qualities of age, design, and purity of craftsmanship. Our furniture is inspired by traditional design, constructed with pride, and executed by hand, restoring a relationship between man and his practical art.”

The makers at Moser began hand-signing every piece of furniture in 1977 as their finishing touch and a way to honor the discipline of its craftsperson. This tradition speaks to something deeper than branding — it’s an acknowledgment of both the material and the maker.

Similarly, our makers at Farmhouse grace every piece of pottery with our hand-stamped laurel — our mark of authentic craftsmanship and heritage. Like the hand-signed furniture at Thos. Moser, our marks represent our commitment to beautiful, heirloom pieces crafted by hand.

Furniture and pottery making share a natural kinship — both utilizing tactile, warm materials that are derived from the earth. Although a generation apart, our founders share an appreciation for things made by hand. Whether turned on a lathe or a potter’s wheel, we both take pride in honoring the tradition of making with skilled hands — sharing with New Englanders and beyond.