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...]
Joinery Basics: Mastering the Art in 15 Steps
A Comprehensive Guide to Essential Woodworking Techniques Introduction: Woodworking is a timeless craft that combines precision, creativity, and skill. For enthusiasts aiming to undertake high-end projects such as constructing timber-frame homes, assembling trestle tables, or crafting step stools, mastering joinery is crucial. This guide will delve into the essential joinery … [Read more...]
Work smarter rather than work harder
Working smarter instead of harder tends to be, in practicality, something that is difficult to achieve, since in the office it is likely that one will end up doing both. However, working nonstop within long blocks of time tends to backfire for craftspeople for three main reasons. First, making mistakes tends to be costly, in terms of literal dollars as well as hours of time wasted. Second, … [Read more...]
What is mango wood, its features, common uses and benefits
Exploring the Unique Qualities and Versatile Applications of Mango Wood So what is mango wood? Mango wood is the wood derived from the Mango tree (scientific name Mangifera Indica for its origin in India), found in tropical countries of Southeast Asia, Australia and the South Pacific Islands. The mango tree is planted in great numbers for the trade of its fruits. However, these trees … [Read more...]
It’s No Small Thing!
While the pandemic has been completely unpredictable and not without its sadnesses and legitimate griefs, that is not the whole story. Paul Sellers makes his living at home, in his workshop, in deep connection with wood. His children are always welcome to join him. One of the benefits of the pandemic is that more fathers are able to spend time with their children on home improvement projects. What … [Read more...]
David Binnington Savage 1949 – 2019
David Binnington Savage passed away on Friday, January 18th, 2019. David will be remembered as a furniture maker who turned his workmanship into art. He was also an inspiration to his staff and everyone trained at the Rowden Atelier. Under his guidance, Rowden was transformed into the well-respected school. As he was fighting the illness, David never stopped working and he managed to publish his … [Read more...]
