Eric Jacobsen apprenticed under nationally known woodworking instructor and author, Lonnie Bird, for two years before beginning his profession with one of the finest high-end 18th century reproduction furniture makers in the country. Eric felt very fortunate to be a part of such a respected shop. During his first three years there, he worked a double shift, eight hours building commissioned pieces and eight hours building furniture for himself. "I was determined to build this furniture at the level of the extremely talented craftsmen in the shop. I was particularly interested in developing my carving skills," Eric states. "I deliberately chose difficult projects and fought my way through them." All of the long hours and listening to pointers from his mentors paid off. Eric's skills grew quickly and he was soon building highly carved pieces for the company’s most discriminating clients.

During his seven years there he developed and made hundreds of exact reproductions and custom pieces including but not limited to: Newport double and low chests, Massachusetts high chests, Philadelphia rococo carved chairs, Philadelphia carved high chests, dressing tables, secretary desks, and carved Charleston beds. Eric also spent considerable time restoring quality antiques. “Restoration work helped me understand the ins and outs of quality furniture, and in the long run made me a better furniture maker.” During this period Eric mastered 18th century construction techniques and incorporated them with the most intricate carvings. He was afforded the opportunity to build, single-handedly, a set of 18 Philadelphia rococo carved chairs that now grace one of the grandest homes in the Delaware Valley. From the variety of clientele and assignments he mastered the end-to-end furniture development, construction, and finishing processes.

In December 2002, Eric began E. Jacobsen, Furniture Maker, with a large commission for a suite of antique reproduction Caribbean furniture, further broadening his repertoire of periods and styles. Eric enjoys the entire process of furniture making from selecting and milling timber to applying the finish and hardware. He prides himself on matching the wood and the details with the spirit of the piece. Finally having his own shop, he can assure that his pieces represent the quality and consistency that collectors expect. Eric has expanded his business to include all styles and periods of furniture, with any piece being possible. Please visit the "Quality and Details" page to learn about the furniture, details, and the possibilities. His pieces have been exhibited at important shows, including: The Early American Artisan Show, The Designer Craftsmen Show of Philadelphia, Winterthur Craft Festival, and Vassar House Decorator show.

Eric lives in Southeastern Pennsylvania with his wife Amy and their two young children, Avery and Evelyn.