Publisher’s note: It’s the weekend, which means it’s time for Earlywood, a free excerpt from one of the thousands of pieces I’ve written since 1996. This is a mashup of a post that originally appeared on the Lost Art Press blog in 2014, and an excerpt from “
My favorite high school teacher used to tell us “anywhere is walking distance, if you have the time.” In my experience the same holds for hand tools - anything is buildable by hand tools, if you can spend the time. Or want to spend your time that way.
We bought a friend’s old band saw when he got a new one. He takes care of his machines, and it’s one we’ve both used in his shop before. So that’s another source of finding good quality vintage machines - hang around folks who might be upgrading soon. And who own a pickup truck.
I can't say that this is my favorite article since you have so many I enjoy but I can say that this article made me relax and not worry that I wasn't a 100% hand tool woodworker. I share this philosophy with students too.
Going middle is good advice for buying lots of things. But machinery for sure.
I watched the horse garage tour. You guys need some foliage in the beer garden! Also, a Kegerator that’s accessible 24/7. ;)
On a more topical note, I guess you’re a fan of shelix heads? I’ve heard conflicting opinions. No personal experience with them.
My favorite high school teacher used to tell us “anywhere is walking distance, if you have the time.” In my experience the same holds for hand tools - anything is buildable by hand tools, if you can spend the time. Or want to spend your time that way.
We bought a friend’s old band saw when he got a new one. He takes care of his machines, and it’s one we’ve both used in his shop before. So that’s another source of finding good quality vintage machines - hang around folks who might be upgrading soon. And who own a pickup truck.
I am mostly hand tools because I'm a hobbiest. But gawd without my 14" bandsaw I probably would have just given up woodworking.
I can't say that this is my favorite article since you have so many I enjoy but I can say that this article made me relax and not worry that I wasn't a 100% hand tool woodworker. I share this philosophy with students too.
Don't stop making sense, Chris. A lot of us are depending on you. Seriously. Every. One. Of. Us.