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Hi-Yo Quicksilver!
00/00/0000, 00:00 | WoodworkingONLINE.comIt seems like part of being a woodworker is repairing old furniture, whether it’s your own or someone else’s. You’re probably already aware that working on old pieces like that can present some health concerns (lead paint exposure, for example). As it turns out, there are some other things you should be concerned about when repairing or even moving some antiques.
Discovery News is citing some info from the CDC (Centers for Disease Control) about the hazards of heavy metals in antiques. Old mirrors may have been backed with mercury and tin. And clock pendulums or lamp bases may contain mercury. You know…it’s the stuff you used to play with when you were a kid. It’s since been found to be a health hazard.
I remember a few years ago, my wife and I found an old bottle of mercury that had belonged to my mother-in-law, a nurse. Being the responsible citizen, I took it to our local township volunteer fire department/police station. I was essentially told to “get it out of here…we’re not responsible if something happens…you’re on your own.” Wow! I explained that I had several children in the home and I didn’t want it in my house. It didn’t matter. They insisted I remove it from their premises immediately. So, I took it home. I ended up having to call the county hazardous materials department. They sent a guy out. Turns out he was an old classmate of mine in high school. He laughed when I told him what my local fire department told me, but he donned heavy rubber gloves, removed the bottle from the house, wrapped it very carefully, and stored it in a well-insulated, shock-protected styrofoam cooler.
Then there was the local elementary school that had to shut down for a day when a child dropped a mercury thermometer on the front steps while returning from an outdoor science class. You would have thought there had been a bomb blast with all the emergency vehicles and personnel.
So, the next time you need to move Aunt Sue’s antique clock, exercise caution.
トレー/ tray
00/00/0000, 00:00 | Masashi's woodworking diary
１年生の３番目の課題が、このトレーです。
この実習のためにデザインしたものです。
日本のシンプルなお盆も考えましたが、取っ手をつけてやや洋風にしました。
取っ手の部分を機械でくり抜く加工を入れたかったためです。
The third project for the first year students is this tray, which I designed for the project.
First I thought of Japanese style simple tray but I put handles and made it rather Western style, for the students to learn how to use a router.
加工にはルーターという機械を使います。
まず合板で型をつくり、その上に材料を固定してルーターにかけると、その型どおりに削ることができます。倣い加工といいます。専門用語で治具（じぐ）と呼ばれるこの合板の型をつくるのも、実習の目的です。
Students make a plywood template first. Then place a material on it and cut it according to the template. It is one of the purposes of this project to learn how to make the plywood template, or the 'router jig'.
学生はそれぞれ、好みの形に取っ手をくり抜きました。
隅には、補強のための板「かんざし」を入れます。
Each student routed out their original shape.
The photo showing the keys to reinforce the mitred corner. It is called 'Kanzashi', hair ornaments, in Japanese woodworking.
ドリュー・ランズナー氏の椅子づくり講座/ chair class by Drew Langsner
00/00/0000, 00:00 | Masashi's woodworking diary
アメリカ人の木工家、ドリュー・ランズナー氏による椅子づくり講座が９月２７日から始まりました。８人の参加者たちが、クリの丸太を割るところから挑みました。
The greenwood chair making class by American woodworker Drew Langsner started from the 27th September. Eight participants rived chestnut logs to make post-and-rung chairs.
今回の講座には、いくつもの大きな意味があります。
参加者として、飛騨の学校で師範を務める木工のベテランから、工房を構えるプロの木工家、森林文化アカデミーの現役学生、生涯学習講座の常連さんなど、幅広い人たちが集まったこと。グリーンウッドワークによって、木のものづくりを楽しむ人たちの新しいネットワークが生まれつつあります。
そしてアメリカの第一人者を講師に迎え、レベルの高いものづくり講座を美濃で開催できたこと。レベルの高さは、木工のプロたちが参加者として遠方から集まったことでも分かります。ドリュー・ランズナー氏は３０年以上の経験を持ち、何冊もの著書があるグリーンウッドワークの専門家です。こうした木の文化の情報発信を美濃から続けていければと思います。
There are a lot of important meanings to have this class here at the Gifu Academy.
First, the class is organized and run by the Japan Green Woodwork Association, which was established by the graduates, students and short courses participants of the Gifu Academy. It is a good example of feedback to the college by the students.
The second thing is that a new network of people is being established by green woodwork as a catalyst. A master craftsman at the other woodworking college, professional woodworker who runs her own workshop, a regular participant of Gifu Academy short courses, are among the participants.
The third thing is to have had the best-quality woodworking programme here in Mino, Gifu prefecture. Drew Langsner is a famous woodworker who has more than 30 years of experience and published several books about green woodwork and chair making. We are hoping ourselves to be a centre of various woodworking information in Japan.
さて講座の前半の３日間は、ひたすら丸太を割り、四角に削り、それらをさらに八角形へ。
銑＝ドローナイフや、南京鉋＝スポークシェーブと呼ばれる道具を使って、椅子のパーツを作る作業が続きました。
During first three days of the class, the participants rived logs to pieces, and shaved them to square, then octagonal spindles using drawknives and spokeshaves.
Is Shopsmith Breathing its Final Breath?
00/00/0000, 00:00 | WoodworkingONLINE.com 
A while back, in a previous post, I talked about the news that Shopsmith was in financial trouble. The news today confirms it. Robert Folkerth, the president was quoted as saying,
“…the company ’significantly reduced’ its reliance on sales representatives who often travel to shows to sell Shopsmith’s tools and accessories.”
Wait a minute. Did he say they cut their sales force? What that tells me is that they don’t see much hope for the Shopmith product that we’ve known and loved since the mid-70’s. Has the competition for lower-priced standalone woodworking machinery pushed the Shopsmith out of the market? Sadly, I think it’s just a matter of time before Shopsmith goes the way of other woodworking machine manufacturers. Soon, the only place you’ll be able to read about them will be on the Old Woodworking Machines web site.
313 Downtime Monday
00/00/0000, 00:00 | Matt's Basement Workshop PodcastEvery so often it just happens, I get a little burnt out or just overwhelmed...even with woodworking!
I know it's shocking and unheard of, but there are times when shop time is available but getting in there is a whole other issue. Here are a few things I do for motivation or just to do something different but still woodworking.
If you'd like to enter for free schwag, have a comment, question or suggestion, drop me a line at mattsbasementworkshop@gmail.com or head over to the website. Or...leave a voicemail at 231 354-2338.
Listen to today's show by clicking on the player below
To download directly to your computer Right Click on direct download, choose "Save Target as"
273 Router Bit of the Month
00/00/0000, 00:00 | Matt's Basement Workshop PodcastIt's the first Friday of a new month and that can mean only one thing here at Matt's Basement Workshop...IT'S TIME FOR ROUTER BIT OF THE MONTH!!!!
Once again the great folks at Whiteside and Woodcraft sent us another router bit to tryout and giveaway. So for all of June ,Woodcraft is featuring Whiteside's Shaker Style Rail and Stile set. A great set of bits that makes quick work of helping you build beautiful Shaker Style doors for whatever project you have coming up.
Unlike other Rail and Stile sets. Whiteside's set is designed to cut grooves that accept a 1/4" plywood panel without the rattling and loose fitting that others leave you with. And considering that it's on sale at Woodcraft for 25% off all month long...it's a deal you shouldn't miss.
REMEMBER! If you have any comments, questions, suggestions or you want to enter for some free schwag drop me a line at mattsbasementworkshop@gmail.com or you can always leave a voicemail at 231 354-2338.
Hendrik is back this month and we're talking about "Why we woodwork". We'd love your feedback on why it is that you woodwork also, so call or write in to the show.
Don't forget too that Hendrik is wrapping up his annual finishing seminar: Part 3"Antique Restoration Techniques" - June 7th. Also, coming up on June 14th, Hendrik is conducting a seminar based on his book "Starting and Running a Woodworking Business"at his Acton, Ontario Workshop. If you'd like to attend or just get more information about these seminars contact Hendrik at info@passionforwood.com.
If you have the time, please take the new listener survey.
To download directly to your computer Right Click and "Save Target as"
264 - Safety Week - Eye Protection
00/00/0000, 00:00 | Matt's Basement Workshop PodcastSafety Week is coming to a close and here's the last installment from Matt's Basement Workshop. Eye protection is vital in the woodshop, with sawdust, chips, splinters, and even finishing chemicals flying around keeping our eyes safe is crucial.
We have plenty of options for all the various jobs we do in the woodshop, so it's just a matter of choosing the right one for ourselves.
Whichever one you choose, just wear them!!
A couple of good links to visit include OSHA's Woodworking eTool, Prevent Blindness America and also this 2002 report on eye related injuries from the Dept. of Labor.
Oh by the way...I'm giving you one more day to enter for the big Safety Week Schwag drawings. Saturday I'll be drawing the names of the winners and posting a special video. So check back to find out if your a winner of free stuff!!
If you have the time, please take the new listener survey. And don't forget to drop me a line with your questions, comments and suggestions, especially since Hendrik is back in May and we're talking about starting a small woodworking business. Just drop us a line at mattsbasementworkshop@gmail.com.
Also, Hendrik is starting his annual three part finishing seminars:
Part 2 "Hand Finishing and Rubbing Out" - May 10th or 24th.
Part 3"Antique Restoration Techniques" - May 31st or June 7th.
So if you live in the Toronto area or feel like visiting it, and you want more information about Hendrik's finishing seminars, send an email to info@passionforwood.com
Listen to today's show by clicking on the player below
To download directly to your computer Right Click and "Save Target as"
No Singlet Required
00/00/0000, 00:00 | Skiving OffHowever, what separates me from the vast legions of Pack Rats out there is the fact I still find a way to use all of the crap that I keep in piles down in the basement.
I realize most hoarders of collectibles (keepers of junk) are neither able to use their stuff nor find the strength to sell it on Ebay, so I want to help them. Today is our first installment of Pack Rat Self Help.
With this blog entry I imagine hundreds of guys going to the basement, digging through a pile of collectible stuff, and emerging with a revitalized part of a dapper wardrobe. Because today, I give you:
20 year old wrestling headgear:
1) During all stages of commercial air travel.
2) While playing slow pitch softball.
3) At very large gatherings (20,000+ people) like the Boat, Sport, and Travel Show held at the State Fairgrounds.
4) During Job Interviews.
5) Any funeral where you serve as a Pallbearer.
The other fun possibility is to choose one store that (at least in your mind) requires you to wear wresting headgear in order to visit. In my case it's Barnes and Noble's. Everything looks quite normal as I park the car, get out, and head toward the front door. However, there is nothing I like more than to have some guy standing at the front door, courteously delaying his entrance so he can hold the door for me, while I say, "Just a minute, Friend" and reach into my front pants pocket for the old headgear that I put on before setting foot into that store.
It stays there as I look at the books. The headgear is clearly in place as I peruse the music and movies at the back. I even ignore its presence on my head as I point out my published articles to uninterested strangers in the magazine area.
I keep it in place while paying for my purchase. I act as normal as can be as I ask the clerk what is my anniversary date for renewing the stupid B&N Membership.
However, the moment my foot touches the sidewalk outside the store, I scramble to remove that headgear like it is a giant cobweb I just unwittingly walked into.
That's what my life is all about, folks. I don't just come up with ways to use the stuff I have stored away....I find ways to do it with a grace and style that makes other people hold onto their children's hands just a little bit tighter when they see me out in public.
"I am Jeff Skiver, and I approve of this message." (Jeff Skiver)
What Would You Do With $25,000?
00/00/0000, 00:00 | WoodworkingONLINE.com 
My shop is only 400 square feet. Things are always underfoot and I’m constantly having to move one machine so that I can get to another. The lathe is stored in an adjacent (finished) room, the miter saw and stand are out in the garage, and I have to set up a couple of sawhorses out there just to cut a sheet of plywood down to size. Boy, what I wouldn’t give for a big addition to my house for a new shop!
The problem is, I don’t have an extra 25 grand laying around to spend on fixing up my home. But I could. And so could you.
That’s because Home Depot is giving away a $25,000 gift card (and many more prizes) to the best YouTube video entry showcasing the projects Home Depot customers would like to tackle around the house. You can submit your video from November 10 to December 15, 2007, and the winners will be announced sometime just before Christmas.
Think about it, you could finally add that gourmet kitchen you’ve always wanted…or put on a new roof…or add a backyard getaway…replace all the flooring…the list goes on and on. Or if you need some really great ideas for your video, pick up a free preview issue of Workbench. It’s full of practical ideas for your improving home.
Are you feeling creative? Then get to it.
To keep track of everyone’s videos, log in to YouTube and join the Home Depot “Gift Card” group.
Woodworking Q & A: Desperately Seeking a Truly Stainable Wood Putty
10/17/2008, 04:09 | Highland Woodworking BlogDear Highland Woodworking:
I have not been able to find a good stainable wood filler (or putty). Minwax indicates that their putty is, but it really isn't. It does fill the nail holes, but I can never seem to get the colors right even when I buy the wax pencils to try to assist. Normally I use Minwax Provincial Stain on my baseboard, pine doors and trim. Could you please help? I'll bet I'm not the only one with this kind of issue.
Thanks, Peter B.
Dear Peter,
Many of us struggle with the imperfect science of matching wood with putty. Despite the multitude of manufacturers and the wide array of colors they offer, finding an off-the-shelf product to match your wood and accept your stain exactly is a very tall order. It is really a process of getting the putty as close as possible to the color of the surrounding wood, and then further enhancing the repair through the coloring and finishing process.
As you know, putty and wood are different in many ways. Wood has side grain and end grain. Putty does not. Wood is wood, while putty is a mixture of many different organic and inorganic products. Furthermore, the density of wood is dissimilar from species to species as well as to wood putty. This is complicated by the fact that no two manufacturers' products are the same. As a result, finding an off-the-shelf putty to match your exact needs is very tricky.
So, what should we do? It is important to get as close a match as possible with either the wood, or if staining, with the final color of the piece. Then you can do your best to "make the repair disappear" through the staining or dyeing process and the finish coat (tinted or not). You will very likely have better luck disguising the repair by applying colored topcoats of finish, or by simply painting the area with artist colors. (Be sure to paint in grain lines to match the surrounding area.)
Several years ago, a trade magazine explained how large furniture manufacturers color match their products. As no two pieces of cherry or walnut are exactly the same color (and it is important to make them be the same color as the rest of the dining room suite), the process of coloring the furniture is actually a process of coloring the finish -- and multiple layers of finish at that. This allows a uniform color regardless of the underlying wood and any defects that are present. It is a little like repainting an old car, but you get the idea.
I hope this helps answer your question. We all struggle with this problem from time to time. For further reading, check out Bob Flexner's book entitled Understanding Wood Finishing. It is a super book that covers most aspects of finishing wood.
Sam Rieder
Highland Woodworking
Carving a Carousel
00/00/0000, 00:00 | WoodworkingONLINE.com 
I got a treat on Sunday. The Heritage Carousel at Union Park in Des Moines, Iowa was celebrating its tenth anniversary. As part of the celebration, they invited the original builders of the carousel, The Carousel Works, Inc., to attend and 
demonstrate their carving and painting skills. I got to speak with the owner and his wife (Art and Marilyn Ritchie) about their craft. It so happens that they’re from Mansfield, Ohio, close to where I grew up in Ohio. He’s been carving for over thirty years. His wife does some of the painting.
As we stood there chatting, he was using his Pfeil carving tools to smooth out the body shape of a horse figure. You could tell his tools were very sharp. He was effortlessly taking thin chips out of the basswood 
figure. I asked him how he keeps his tools so sharp. He uses a buffing wheel to hone the edge as needed.
One of my boys asked him how many times he’s cut himself. He smiled and pointed to his tool roll you see here on the left. He includes bandages as part of his tool kit.
As time went on, he commented to passers-by that they’ve got seven full-time carvers on staff at the shop. He said that the figure he was carving on that day is going to be a training aid for his carvers. As we were talking, he flipped the figure 
over to show how he had carved the musculature and rib cage of the horse on one side. His point is 
that unless a carver knows the anatomy of a horse, he’s going to have a difficult time carving one. The detail was fascinating and realistic.
The discussion turned to painting. He says they use three coats of primer, sanding between coats. Then the colors are brushed on. Finally, five coats of clearcoat are applied for durability.
Besides building new carousels using wood figures, The Carousel Works also does restoration of old carousels. To me, it was refreshing to see that there are still companies out there working hard to keep craftsmanship alive.
Podcast #31: Selecting Lumber for Great-Looking Projects
00/00/0000, 00:00 | WoodworkingONLINE.comGreat looking projects don’t just happen — they’re made. It takes a lot of time and effort to come up with the best looking lumber to create a project that really stands out.
Dennis starts the seminar by discussing the differences between “hardwood” lumber and the stuff you’ll find on the racks at the lumber yard. Then he talks about board footage, grades, surfacing, moisture content, and finally, how to choose the best parts from a board for a particular project.
During the seminar, Dennis keeps reaching for a tape measure. The one he used is available at the Woodsmith Podcast Store, along with a few other items he uses to make selecting lumber easier.
Holiday
00/00/0000, 00:00 | David's blog
There is ...
266 - Talking to Hendrik About Starting A Woodworking Business Pt. 2
00/00/0000, 00:00 | Matt's Basement Workshop PodcastThis is Part 2 of our talk with Hendrik about starting a woodworking business. We all know that at some point the thought of starting our own has crossed our minds. I for one have wasted many an hour, daydreaming of walking away from my day job and spending the rest of my life happily making beautiful projects for even happier clients. But, to be honest I wouldn't know where to get started, or even how. Luckily for us though our very own guest expert Hendrik Varju does and he's back to talk to us about it.
If you'd like to learn more about starting your own successful woodworking business from Hendrik, then stop by his website to pick up a copy of his book "Starting and Running a Woodworking Business".
Also, coming up on June 14th, Hendrik is conducting a seminar by the same name at his Acton, Ontario Workshop. If you'd like to attend or just get more information contact him at info@passionforwood.com.
REMEMBER! If you have any comments, questions, suggestions or you want to enter for some free schwag you can always drop me a line at mattsbasementworkshop@gmail.com. OR you can call me and leave a voice mail too!! 1-231-354-2338
If you have the time, please take the new listener survey.
Also, Hendrik is wrapping up his annual three part finishing seminars:
Part 2 "Hand Finishing and Rubbing Out" - May 24th.
Part 3"Antique Restoration Techniques" - May 31st or June 7th.
So if you live in the Toronto area or feel like visiting it, and you want more information about Hendrik's finishing seminars, send an email to info@passionforwood.com
Listen to today's show by clicking on the player below
To download directly to your computer Right Click and "Save Target as"
259 - Left vs Right Tilt Tablesaws
00/00/0000, 00:00 | Matt's Basement Workshop PodcastA while back a listener wrote asking about the difference between a left-tilt vs right-tilt tablesaw. This is a common question that beginning woodworkers have, and with good reason.
Usually these days the right-tilt saws are much more inexpensive, but even with the lower price most woodworkers prefer the left-tilts. Why you ask? I'll give you my opinion in the show.
You may have noticed I'm trying something new today. I've decided to start recording video of myself recording the show. This way I can add a little extra here and there, and who doesn't want to look at this mug??
Let me know what you think about this little experiment and of course drop me a line with your questions, comments and suggestions. And don't forget that Hendrik is back in May and we're talking about starting a small woodworking business, so get your questions in for Hendrik too. Just drop us a line at mattsbasementworkshop@gmail.com.
Also, Hendrik is starting his annual three part finishing seminars:
Part 1 "Preparing the Surface and Staining" - May 3rd.
Part 2 "Hand Finishing and Rubbing Out" - May 10th or 24th.
Part 3"Antique Restoration Techniques" - May 31st or June 7th.
So if you live in the Toronto area or feel like visiting it, and you want more information about Hendrik's finishing seminars, send an email to info@passionforwood.com
Listen to today's show by clicking on the player below
To download this show directly to your computer just Right Click and "Save Target as".
Wenzloff Dovetail Saw
00/00/0000, 00:00 | David's blog
As requested, here is a photo of the Dovetail Saw which Mike made for me.
It is ...
Wood Talk Online No. 42
00/00/0000, 00:00 | Matt's Basement Workshop Podcast
Status Report: Marc talks about his recent router table injury and his experiences with both the Laguna Resaw King bandsaw blade and the Final Cut tablesaw blade.
Matt just completed the chisel plane build and confessed that he purchase pre-made legs for an office desk. He is also continuing his experimentation with spokeshaves.
Around the Web: The all-wood X-Wing Fighter!
News: Rockler offers new cast iron router table. Sears offering Craftsman benchtop spindle sander that looks a lot like the Delta Boss unit. Lee Valley intros two new planes: Side Rabbet Plane and the Skew Rabbet Planes.
Hot Deals:
25% Off Bessey F-Style bar clamps at Woodcraft 6" - 30" long versions thru Sept.30, 2008.
Bessey K-body clamps at Woodcraft 24" & 40", buy 3 get 1 free.
WoodRiver Carbide Anti-Kickback Router Bits 10 piece 1/2 shank bits Woodcraft $50 or $5 each bit.
Bora Clamp-N-Cut Edge Guides (Mentioned in listener voicemail)
And a very special offer from Highland Woodworking. FREE SHIPPING to listeners of Wood Talk Online on any order over $50 through 10/03/08. Listeners just need to put "wto" in the Discount Code field during checkout. Terms, conditions and details are here.
Voicemail: Roberto had a question concerning tablesaws with built-in router tables. Ray wanted our opinions on Gorilla Glue. Chris wanted advice on clamping straightedges and cutting large sheets of ply.
Tom's Tip: Uh oh, you dropped some screws!!
Now we're Rolling - calling all retailers and writers
00/00/0000, 00:00 | UnpluggedShop.comMy account is now active at www.adroll.com. You can now buy space through them on my site or among the groups of sites I participate in at AdRoll including "Traditional Woodworking" and Design/DIY/Crafty sites. read more »
294 The Featureless Friday???
00/00/0000, 00:00 | Matt's Basement Workshop PodcastHey everyone, today we have the featureless friday! More or less, I've been bitten by a bug and I've down for the count since tuesday.
But that's no excuse for not having a show and not giving away free schwag to the greatest listeners in the world!!!
So I have a few things to share with you and a little fever ridden rambling too!!
Don't forget!! Hendrik is back in September so get your questions in for our open Q&A session. If you're planning on being at the IWF in Atlanta, anyone wanting to have a chat with Hendrik can leave a message for him in the Press Lounge. Or, better yet, he'll be attending The Wood Whisperer's after-show get together Friday evening, August 22nd.
If you'd like to enter for free schwag or just have a comment, question or suggestion drop me a line at mattsbasementworkshop@gmail.com or head over to my website at 231 354-2338.
Listen to today's show by clicking on the player below
To download directly to your computer Right Click on direct download, choose "Save Target as"
Do You Flatten the Backs of Your Chisels?
00/00/0000, 00:00 | WoodworkingONLINE.com 
One of the fundamental definitions of a sharp edge is the intersection of two flat surfaces that meet at some angle. Whether it’s a chisel or plane iron, if one of the surfaces isn’t flat, you can’t expect to get a sharp edge.
There’s a running discussion over on WoodNet about if, when, and how you flatten the backs of your chisels. Then there’s the question of what “flat” really means.
Personally, when I buy a new chisel, I’ll use wet/dry sandpaper on a granite tile and work through the grits until the back is polished. Then I’ll work on the bevel to get a sharp edge. After that, the only time I work on the back is to remove any burr after I’ve honed the edge. I’ve had good success with that method and my chisels seem to be plenty sharp. The same holds true with my plane irons.
With western chisels, I only worry about polishing the last ½” or so of the back. Japanese chisels are hollowed out on the back side, making them easier to flatten.
Head over to WoodNet and leave your 2¢ worth.
Shop Light Product Recall
00/00/0000, 00:00 | WoodworkingONLINE.com 
I’ll admit it. When it came time to set up my shop, I didn’t want to spend a lot of money on lighting. Yep…I’m cheap. So I went to my local big box store and picked out the least expensive flourescent shop lights I could find. But just so you don’t think I’m a total cheapskate, I did upgrade half of the tubes to the newer (and more expensive) daylight or full-spectrum tubes for more natural lighting. I learned that lesson from our new shop here at August Home Publishing. Natural lighting makes a big difference.
Now, my cheapness may come back to haunt me. The Consumer Product Safety Commission has sent out notification of a product recall for shop lights made by Cooper Lighting. You can read all about the recall here. To see the announcement on the CPSC web site, click here.
Well, since my shop lights look suspiciously like the ones that are being recalled, looks like I’ll have to climb a ladder and check them out. And if yours look like the one shown in the photo here, you should do the same.
A Baker's Dozen
00/00/0000, 00:00 | Woodworking Dungeon
I'm pretty happy with how it's come out. I used a new finish technique (CA/BLO) that I haven't used before and I'm quite pleased with the results. To see the others as they are completed, head on over to my other site...
Wood Talk Online #39
00/00/0000, 00:00 | Matt's Basement Workshop PodcastClick here to download latest episode
Status Report: Marc goes into a bit more detail on his Gadget Station: grain direction and acclimation. Matt is making his new bench out ofâââ.(drum roll)âââ.PLYWOOD!
Around the Web:
If you arenât on Twitter, you are missing out on the fun! We also review Charles Neils website, AntiquesBuiltDaily.com. Charles has a great collection of incredible videos and DVDs on all kinds of topics. We can all learn something from Charlesâ years of experience.
Safety reminder - Tablesaw injuries to remind us of what we learned during safety week.
Review of Final Cut Saw Blade and more info.
News:
Woodworking in America hands-on classes sell like hotcakes!!
Fine Woodworking starting to sell ebook versions of popular titles. Currently you can buy individual chapters downloadable as PDFs for $2 or buy the whole book (ebook version) for $15.
Hot Deals:
Pop WWâing 50% off back issues
Bessey K-Body Clamps 25% Off
Simple Green Cleaning towels (pop up container) almost 40% off.
Topics:
We discuss a recent article by Bob Flexner in the August issue of Popular Woodworking, titled â7 Myths of Polyurethaneâ
if you have a question or comment, you can email us at woodtalkonline@gmail.com or leave us a message at 623-242-2450.
If you have the time, please take the new listener survey at Matt's Basement Workshop and possibly win an iPod Touch. Head over to the website to learn all about it.
About Gebyok Center
09/09/2008, 06:08 | Antique Knockdown Carved Wood House
The Traditional House of Kudus is a traditional house of ancient culture that made from 95 percent high quality teak wood (tektona grandis). Presently, the sum in its origin area, Kudus, has become very slight compare with its glorious time in the 18th century. The Traditional Wooden House of Kudus with its parts, which full with carved, is continuously chased by collectors from local and foreign that generate one by one of the traditional house relocate from its origin location where its belong, Kudus.If it is seen from its physical condition, actually there were three categories of the traditional house in Kudus area. First was regular traditional house, second was carved traditional house and third was completely carved traditional house, known as Traditional House of Kudus.The first category appeared without carved. Its present predicted start from around year 1500th and the amount reach hundreds. Second category appeared almost at the same time but the owners had given a bit of carved in several places such as in pillars or doors. For the third category, the owners intentionally gave a full carved in all over the places. The quality of the carved was even until the highest point to reach the three dimensions level.
For note, the original traditional house of Kudus used to only located or exist in Kudus Kulon (West Kudus) area around Menara (Tower) of Kudus, a unique building remained by Sunan Kudus spreader of Islam in Java at the Wali Sanga (Nine Wali) era. The fact could be researched from its history. While, the regular traditional house could exist in the area around 10 - 25 km from Menara of Kudus. The difference between wooden carved and noncarved including more or less of the carved of the traditional house was because of the differences in the financial matter and the social status of the owners at that time.
As the time by, the original traditional house of Kudus is slightly disappear or relocate from its origin location, as they are many people who intend to acquire the uniqueness. Beside that, factors like the age of the traditional house, financial condition of the present owners and alteration in the social culture that different with the past condition, accelerate disappearing possibility of the original traditional house of Kudus. Furthermore, what it makes more concern is the possibility of vanished of the art to build the traditional house from Kudus itself as the place of origin.
Rise awareness of the vanishing of the traditional house of Kudus with its finest art, initiate an effort to maintain the existency of the unvaluable arts into an attempt to keep the art and the culture exist.
A long effort has been establishing for more than 30 years, started at around 1972 by Mr. H. Mustofa to collect, trainee and develop woodcarvers, workers and carpenters to specialize mastering the art of carving, how to maintain, structuring and setting the traditional house of Kudus with its parts, since traditional house of Kudus has speciality can be released and assembled back (knock down system) that absolutely need a particular expertise.
The effort was started from served the collectors who need his service in released and assembled back the original traditional house of Kudus that bought by them from the recent owners. Almost 60 % from the whole amount of traditional house of Kudus (totally the original sum is almost 100 houses) was handle by him. While in the process, it always found that minimum 30 % from the house clearances was damaged because of the hundred years occasion. It maked effort and obligatory to rebuild the damage parts to became complete as the former condition when it assembled back.
Using teaks wood that came from clearances of the old teak house of the wood reguler traditional house in the area surrounding district area such as Pati, Jepara, Demak, etc, especially because the owners usually want to modernize their house, component of the damage parts of the traditional house of Kudus were reconstruct together with its carved process to acquire the former condition. These process dawn the expertise in maintenance, construct, carving ability, knowing the carving style and motifs also technic in release and assemble the house, hence develop the ability to reconstruct the parts or even the whole parts of the traditional house of Kudus similar with the original one.
It recorded that 18 (eighteen) traditional houses of Kudus from the reproduction process were obtained from the long efforts. Eleven (11) were form as the standard of the traditional house of Kudus, while the rest were with the variation as requested by the buyers. The location spread in
Beside that, it cannot be counted parts of traditional house of Kudus like gedongan, gebyok and gapura have been made into many kind of size and variation to fulfill the passion of the antique collectors. Also there were many process of released and assembled of joglo, one part of traditional house that can and used for another functions like to decorate house yard, to construct pendopo, use to make garage, as a gazebo near the pool, etc. It counted also five (5) particular pendopo of Kudus was made in the process.
Beside the effort to keep existing the art and the culture, Gebyok Center which center in Kudus (see in location map), also has environmental friendly commitment as it has explained above that all the products are produced from the high quality old teak wood from ex-release of the old teak wood traditional houses where the age until reach hundreds of year and are not from the teak forest in the recent era. These are the additional value for the
Wesonbirt 2008 - still the perfect woodworking show.
00/00/0000, 00:00 | Sauer & Steiner
I had the good fortune to attend the Festival of the Tree again this August, and like last year - was not disappointed. The format was the same - camping on the grounds of the Westonbirt Arbouretum, large scale sculptures in a picturesque setting and very fine food prepared by “cheffie” (pictured below drying some tea-towels).
One of the most enjoyable things about traveling is the incredible people - and this year's adventure was no exception. There were many familiar faces to catch up with and just as many new ones. We were set up in the Classic Hand Tools marquee again - situated off to the side of the display area. But judging from the well worn pathways inside - we were certainly not out of sight.
There was a new demonstrator at the show this year - and for all intents and purposes - he stole the show. Steve Woodley specializes in supplying hand hewn timbers for restoration work and provided four days of inspirational demonstration.
He was supplied with 3 oak logs and over the course of the 4 days, managed to square up two of them. I found myself stopping to watch every time I walked by - with several additional deliberate trips to watch his progress. I was struck with the simplicity of the process - and the incredible skill and precision required to execute it properly. Steve taught me two very important lessons about axes. First - he taught me how to sharpen them - and yes - they should look like the backs of your plane irons. Secondly - a mediocre axe is not worth the struggle. He had at least 8 axes with him - all made by Gransfors. These are available in the UK from Classic Handtools or in North America through Lee Valley. Not only is he highly skilled - he is a fantastic guy. His brother lives less than an hour from my house and I am hoping to figure out a way to get him over to this side of the pond. I am working on it Steve.
It was great to see Jolyon Reynolds again this year - he was set up around the corner from Steve. Between the two of them - they had an amazing demonstration.
Mark Hancock and his charming wife Karen were at the show again and were a crucial part of the good natured fun and frolic in the classic handtools compound. There were only a few “safe” seconds for me to capture the above photo before Mark shifted his gouge and showered me with shavings. Typical : )
I was thrilled to see my good friend Michel Auriou again - it had been far too long since our last visit. I always enjoy Michel's insight into toolmaking, steel and business. The best piece of news was that Auriou is back in business. Hopefully some more left handed rasps will be in my future...
David Charlesworth and Pat stopped in on Saturday - it was great to see them again. They were set up beside me which gave us a chance to catch up a bit and talk shop. Here we are discussing one of Bill Carters planes (nice segue, eh?)
That same day - Bill and Sarah Carter arrived. It is always a thrill to see them. Bill had over a dozen planes with him - from wee little 1/2" boxwood smoothers, to an incredible 28-1/2" jointer. Bill was kept very busy with a steady stream of admirers and Sarah kept the three of us content with coffee and homemade cake.
If I had the money - this pair of mitre planes would have come home with me.
Another fine planemaker stopped in for a visit - Christopher Martyn. I met Christopher at last years show and was very impressed with his instrument planes. Some of his planes were featured in Fine Woodworkings 2007/2008 Tools & Shops issue.
My friend Tony stopped in to try a few planes - here he is testing out a No.4 smoother.
I also met Mike Riley and had a great visit with Phil Edwards. The Romanesque fellow is Alex Primmer - he works for Classic Handtools.
It is amazing how much changes in a year. Last year, Phil was contemplating making a few planes - and this year he had his own line of tools and was conducting a brisk business. A few days before I left for England, Phil sent me an email asking if there was anything he could bring along to help reduce my luggage. It was an extremely thoughtful offer and as it turned out - I did use many of his things over the course of the event. My deepest thanks Phil for taking good care of me during the show. I hope I can return the favour in Berea.
Mark Bennett was a new demonstrator at the show and I have to say I was quite impressed. He is a very kind, soft spoken fellow and we found ourselves discussing the finer points of plane design, our respective wood stashes (I suspect his will knock my socks off when I see it) and design in general. I thoroughly enjoyed his company. He was also a wealth of knowledge and passed on several great insights. One of the more interesting one was tree warts. I have to admit I was a little skeptical until he showed me one. He handed me a holly wart. He said they are very tight burls and cuts them into disks and uses them for inlay work. So I now have a Holly wart to add to my growing pile of timber.
Fun & games
The show was not just work - there was tremendous play as well. I sometimes feel guilty about it - and there were two instances where I found myself beautifully derailed.
The other derailment was Mark and I cleaning up a large piece of boxwood (with an Auriou rasp of course).
Philly and Mike Riley planting some vile shavings.
Chris Pye being majestic even when he is trying not to be. Chris was set up about 30 feet away but I was able to watch him transform a rather non-descript bit of wood into a very fanciful beast. I only wish I was able to pay closer attention - I know he has a lot to teach and I have a lot to learn.
I also had great visits with John Lloyd and Rob Cosman but did not manage to find them when I was collecting photos.
And last but certainly not least... a rather tuckered member of the International football team who was sadly defeated at the third annual “Billy Hancock Birthday showdown”. The Brits won 3/0. Mark shared a very funny comment on the last day. He was telling a few of us how surreal it was to be the keeper for the British team and seeing all these faces he recognizes from magazine head shots rushing at him. The quote went something like this... “and there was Rob Cosman - with the ball... rushing towards me. Bloody hell!”
I would also like to express my thanks to Mike Hancock, his lovely wife Mary, and their kids Alex and Billy. The Classic Handtool marquee is not the focus of Westonbirt - but it has become a very important part of it - and clearly inspires people to work with wood. Mike has done an outstanding job, and has proven that a vision of something different and a little creativity can make something very special happen. Congratulations Mike.
Dowel Drilling Jig
00/00/0000, 00:00 | WoodworkingONLINE.comYou can sharpen your woodworking skills with helpful tips and techniques from the editors of Woodsmith and ShopNotes magazines. Get a FREE tip sent to your email address each week! Go to WoodworkingTips.com and sign up today.Here’s last week’s tip from ShopNotes online editor Phil Huber:
Drilling a centered hole in a dowel can be a challenge. It’s hard to get the drill bit centered and keep the dowel from turning as the hole is drilled. To make it easier, I built the jig shown below.
Build the jig by first drilling a hole the diameter of the dowel in a piece of hardwood. Then just cut a saw kerf through the hole from the end to make a clamp.
Using the jig is simple. Begin by centering the dowel under the bit. To do this, clamp a piece of scrap wood to the table and drill a hole to fit the dowel. Then change out the bit to the size needed.
Next, slip the dowel into the hole in the scrap wood. Then slip the clamping jig over the dowel and squeeze the kerf together with a small clamp. Now you can clamp the jig in place and drill the hole in the center of the dowel.
Good Woodworking,
Phil Huber
Online Editor, ShopNotes
Shop-Built Mallet by a ShopNotes Reader
00/00/0000, 00:00 | WoodworkingONLINE.com While I was vacationing near my hometown in Ohio in August, I received a phone call from a long-time family friend, Dave
Corwin, from Delaware, Ohio. He and my dad are friends with a history spanning several decades. When I married, our first home was across the street from Dave’s, so we became friends as well as neighbors. The best part was, he was a fellow woodworker. There were three of us woodworkers on the block, so we could often be found in each other’s shop on any given day sipping a cup of coffee and telling a story or two.
Dave called to tell me that he made a Shop-Built Mallet we featured in ShopNotes 95. He said he really enjoyed the article and was especially tickled and surprised when I told him I wrote it. He said he had a little trouble planing the resawn stock to thickness. Here’s what Dave said about the project:
“The mallet was fun to make and was a challenging project. One problem that I encountered was that the double faced tape did not work out very well because it continually got saw dust in it. So, what I did was put a ¾” board on the planer table and ran the thin pieces through on top of this board. That seemed to work out well.”
Dave also commented that he really thought the simple resaw pivot block for the band saw was a great idea. He built one and used it for this project.
Thanks for sharing, Dave.
Grenadilla and Hawaiian Koa Wood Engagement Ring
00/00/0000, 00:00 | Wooden Rings from Touch Wood RingsThank you again for the beautiful ring you created for Vivianne. I proposed to her on December 21st and she said yes!! She was totally amazed by all the details and precision of the ring. It was her dreamed engagement ring and she is so thankful. After I proposed, we organized a gathering with our families to celebrate our love. I want to thank you both for your hard work throughout this process and for being what you are and living what you believe in.
270 DVD Review - David Charlesworth's "Hand Tool Techniques Pt.2 - Hand Planing"
00/00/0000, 00:00 | Matt's Basement Workshop PodcastIt's Feature Friday and today we're reviewing another great title from Lie-Nielsen. This is part 2 of the David Charlesworth series on hand planes. If you're wondering how to use a hand plane to get nearly dead flat edges, faces and more this is the DVD to get you started. To order your copy from Woodcraft Click here.
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Hendrik is wrapping up his annual finishing seminar:
Part 3"Antique Restoration Techniques" -