Today on Chat Chat number 8 they talk specifically about a chair they got their hands on. While the specific details of the past owners are not known, we know that this is a 19th century primitive Welsh ash low back style chair. Rudy remarks on the small size of the chair being 29 cm. They talk about how the chair is the size for children but that it could be a creepie chair meant for decoration … [Read more...]
My Mini Skidsteer [Vermeer S800TX]
I bought a mini skidsteer about six months ago. It is a Vermeer S800TX. This is a video of the machine including why I purchased one and why I chose the mini version vice the full size. I also give a tour of the machine and its corresponding accessories and attachment. If my thought processes do not interest you and you only want to see the skidsteer, you can skip to 14:48 in this video. Key … [Read more...]
How to Find the Best Jigsaw
Everybody loves building something with their own hands out of wood, even if you have never done it, you are probably interested in doing so. Making new things out of wood is something anybody can do and is probably a lot easier to do than you think. Professionals and amateurs alike can use a jigsaw, but you will want to make sure it is versatile enough to use on any project you're planning on … [Read more...]
STL215: Steve Latta’s favorite vises
There are some woodworking tips and tricks that you can follow to make sure that you know what you are doing. There are different parts that go into it that may have never heard of before, but their instruction will walk you through it. There may even be incidences that you think the blade broke when you are cutting a board, but it might just be that the setting is off, and you need to move more … [Read more...]
Must-Have Router Bits
A router is an essential tool for a powered shop. The question is, which bits should you use? First, carbide cutting edges are usually preferable to high-speed steel because they stay sharp longer. There are four basic bit types. Straight bits are the workhorses. Roundover bits "round over" the edge of a board, while core-box bits create coves and hollows. Dovetail bits have their uses as well. … [Read more...]
Quarter Columns
Quarter columns are a classy finishing style to any type of furniture. They tend to make the piece look slimmer and focus you attention on the middle of the furniture, rather than the edges. Many furniture makers think that a lathe is required to make quarter columns, but that may be tricky. Instead, it's best to use a routing table. This allows for a more consistent, fluid look that you don't … [Read more...]
Its Felt Like a Long Time Coming
I grew up continually helping on house projects. This background eventually helped convince me to apply to the Port Townsend School of Woodworking. I was originally slated to start class in the winter of 2018 but had to delay due to some economic hardships and started in the fall instead. I am grateful for the support from instructors and scholarship foundations that made this schooling possible. … [Read more...]
Make a Shaker Bench from 3 Stair Treads!
Making your own shaker bench can be very affordable when using yellow pine. The stair treads can cost around ten dollars and the wood has very little defects. This is quality without having to break your bank and the best part is that you get the satisfaction of making it yourself. If you don't have power tools their is an additional tutorial for using hand tools only. For experienced wood workers … [Read more...]
Breathe…
Taking a breather and taking the time to center yourself can make for greater productivity, and there are some specific pointers to keep in mind in order to do so. First, prior to the start of your work, you should clear your work area of unnecessary items and put everything else back in place. Second, consider making yourself a cup of coffee or tea, which can help with both focus and relaxation. … [Read more...]
Anger Management
Cabinetmaking is a great career filled with a variety of mental and physical challenges. It's also can, at times, feel like a lifelong exercise in anger management. You may become angered if your wood arrives late, if it's the wrong length or color, or if it has a crack or knot in it. Dropping things (components, tools, scalpels) on our toes can anger us as well. Consider these opportunities to … [Read more...]