Shop Talk is a weekly column featuring locally owned and operated businesses. This week, we talk to Don Dales of Fallsview Studio in Hobart.
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How long have you lived in the area?
For 10 years. Before I moved to Hobart, I lived in High Falls, in Ulster County. That's where I began Fallsview Studios.
Tell me about your business:
Mostly, I do upholstery. I also repair and refinish furniture. My expertise is in antique furniture restoration and I'm associated with several museums; however, I'll repair anything.
Also, I custom-build furniture. For example, in the early '80s, I built the sofas for the Senate Lobby in the Albany Capitol. I also built eight visitors' chairs in the Senate Chambers. I also restored the woodwork in the Executive Chambers. I restored 80 chairs in the Albany Court of Appeals and custom-made six Senate seats. At the time, Mario Cuomo was the governor of New York. He presented me with a citation of excellence for the work I did.
Describe a typical day in your business:
If I'm working, it's 8 to 5, nothing unusual. Here in Hobart, my days are anything but typical. I'm involved right now as a consultant for the Book Village. I'm restoring the house next door to my shop, and it will open next year as a mystery book store. I also regularly play the organ for the Presbyterian Church in Stamford. I'm also involved with other civic groups.
How did you get started in this line of work?
Even as a kid, I was interested in antiques. I'm also a musician. My first love was an old pump organ. When I was 15 years old, I picked up this pump organ. My father taught me how to strip and refinish it.
I went to college for music, working my way through college at an antique shop. That's where I really got going in the restoration business. I learned a lot along the way from many people. I took seminars and courses through museums. I even took seminars presented by John Melody, the head conservator of the Winter Thru, the Dupont Museum in Wilmington, Del. That's the largest museum of American furniture in the U.S.
Describe a memorable moment in your workplace:
When Gov. Cuomo got all the people together who worked on restoring the State Capital building for the dedication of the Executive Chambers. It was thrilling to have state officials recognize our work.
What is the most challenging part of what you do?
After 50 years of doing this, there are not many challenges. The most challenging part is getting business in Delaware County.
The most enjoyable?
It's transforming the pig's ear into a silk purse. I get great satisfaction in seeing the completed piece. The rewarding part for me is seeing the finished project.
What are some advantages/drawbacks of doing business in this area?
The advantages are the freedom to make my own goals and being able to take on other projects, like the Book Village.
The disadvantages are the small population base. I often have to go out of the area to get work. Also it's difficult to get competent help.
What sets you apart from your competitors?
The quality of my work and the depth of my knowledge in style, construction, and architecture, as well as my eye for detail.
What advice would you give to someone trying to enter your field of work?
Go to college. There are colleges that teach furniture restoration. Research them and do it.
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Shop Talk interviews are conducted by M.K. Moynahan. To reach Moynahan, e-mail mkmoynahan@gmail.com. For more information about Shop Talk, call Emily F. Popek at 432-1000, ext. 217.
