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#1 ·
Todd A Clippinger

March, 2010

This month, for our LJ eMag, we meet with Todd A Clippinger and learn a bit about his woodworking journey.

1. How did you find LumberJocks and what was the key feature of the site that kept you coming back?

Not long after I bought my computer I was talking with my local tool supplier about some ideas that I had for doing woodworking videos online. He told me about this guy that calls himself the "Wood Whisperer" who was doing video.

When I checked out Marc Spagnuolo's site, I found the link to LumberJocks. The world-wide community is just incredibly generous and friendly, that is what kept me coming back.

2. Tell us a brief history of your woodworking journey

My woodworking journey has it's roots in my remodeling career. I was doing a lot of work on older homes from the 1920's and 30's and I always loved the original style trim work and built-ins. I was usually tearing out poorly matched remodels from the 70's and 80's that had been inflicted on these beautiful old homes and I often needed to fabricate the trim myself. It was here that I developed my hand and tool skills.

To understand what I was working on, I looked into architectural history and discovered the Arts&Crafts movement, Art Nouveau, Art Deco, the Prairie School, Greene&Greene plus the key figures associated with the styles. Then I found out there were contemporary woodworkers interpreting these styles in a modern vernacular and I was hooked.



3. I can often tell when a project is one of yours; what do you think defines a "Todd A Clippinger" piece?

This is kind of a hard question for me to answer. It almost needs to be someone on the outside looking in to point out what it is that says "Todd A. Clippinger." My work goes from a Shaker bench to a very contemporary closet design. But there is something about it that all ties together.

Often, there is a certain way an individual interprets materials and assembles elements that creates a personal style. I love contemporary interpretations or a modern style that reflects a traditional one. I love curves and arches, when appropriate I try to get them into my work.



4. Your work is very artistic, where do you get your inspiration?

I am greatly influenced by the study I have done of the historical figures and movements. The influence may or may not be directly seen in the project, but it is always in my head interacting as I design.

My wife and I visit art galleries and we know a lot of artists that work in various mediums. Talking to them is stimulating to my creative process.

My best ideas and design solutions seem to occur when I am taking a walk with my wife and the dogs. There are all these influences and logged ideas in my head and they seem to breakthrough on their own when I relax and am just enjoying time out with Rita and watching our happy dogs run.

5. What do you find to be the most challenging part of woodworking and what is the most rewarding?

In building a freestanding piece of furniture it is easy to figure out a pleasing proportion and there is a freedom of expression. But I am usually working with a specific set of parameters such as space, style, and budget. The most challenging aspect is to come up with a design that fits all of these requirements at the same time.

The most rewarding part is reaching that break through moment when I nail it with a good design and it fits all of the requirements. The project as a whole is a visual, tactile, and cerebral experience that is satisfying in every way and happy clients are a great part of the reward.

6. What is your "most" favourite project created to date?

I am emotionally attached to all of my projects, but the one I am most fond of is the Mahogany Sofa Table. This was the first project that I really expressed myself and would consider it to be on the higher plane of fine woodworking and design.

I made the table for my wife, Rita, and we have it here in the house. It is such an easy piece to look at, I really nailed it with interpretation of materials and the proportions. It was part of the portfolio that got me juried into the 2007 Western Design Conference.



7. Where can people find you on the internet (website etc)?
www.amcraftsman.com

The website is very static because it's primary function is an online portfolio for potential clients. I have more work on display at LumberJocks.

8. What is the biggest tip you can give people starting their journey into woodworking?

Spend lots of time in the shop and less on the computer.

As you are building in the shop, many things are happening. Hand-eye coordination and muscle memory is developing which creates skill. A sense of understanding for volume, mass, and proportions will develop as you build as opposed to just drawing. Also, greater creativity will be generated as the principle "One Idea Begets Another" occurs.



9. Anything else you'd like to share with your fellow LumberJocks?

Don't be afraid to push your personal limits on a technical and creative level.

I have had some redo's in my projects and had to figure out some master level repairs for situations that have gone awry. But everything has pushed my work and skills to the next level.



Thanks to Todd for taking the time to do this interview (and for all the support he provides to our site and our members!)
 
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#2 ·
Todd it was very refreshing to read the interview and learn of your journey and get an overall feel of how you feel about wood working..since Ive been here i have always been impressed with remarks made by others after they had met with you or you had given them help with a certain wood working problem…i applaud your journey and what you have achieved, may your success continue and i look forward to what else will come our way from you and from your shop…grizzman
 
#4 ·
I appreciate the inspiration. Sometimes if I am having a tought time with a project it seems to help doing routine stuff that allow me to think while my muscles memory or sanding or whatever I will zone out and it and will come to me what I was doing wrong. But it time in the shop not at the computer that does it.
 
#5 ·
Todd has been an inspiration for me. He is such a driven, hard working person, that you can tell about him. You just have to respect him for that. I would not be surprised to someday hear some say, " that's a Clippinger piece".
 
#6 ·
Todd is a good friend and always an inspiration. When you can get your hands on that sofa table it is even more impressive than in the photos. Other than talking Rita into marrying him, I think it is the best thing he's done, so far. I expect great things to come and will be watching.
 
#18 ·
Thos. Angle

April, 2010

This month, in our April issue of our LumberJock eMag, I had the privilege of interviewing Thos. Angle.

1. How did you find LumberJocks and why did you join?

First, let me say what an honor it is to be asked to do this interview. I can't remember how I found Lumber Jocks. Maybe from Fine Woodworking Magazine. I know I instantly joined and felt at home.



2. you are known as our LumberJock cowboy but we also know you as the woodworker who is a master craftsman when it comes to leather work. Tell us a bit about your woodworking journey and how the leather work fits in.

I really got interested in wood working in 1978. I hired on at a state mental institution in a sheltered workshop. I supervised a crew building pallets. There was an unused wood shop there. It was all old Delta equipment. There was a Unisaw, jointer, bandsaw, RAS and drill press. In years past this shop had been part of the old Occupational Therapy Department. I bought a ShopSmith and began to set up my own shop. I think I built a table and a cradle and a few other things before I headed back to ranching. It seems as though wood just became part of a strange group of things in my life that included leather work, art, music,cows and horses. The next time was in 1990 when Carleen and I bought a ranch. I needed to build things and again bought a ShopSmith. I built lots of projects for the house and remodeled the upstairs into a bed and breakfast. Woodworking became an on and off thing as the ranching and cattle grew and took over most all my time. When we sold the ranches off in 2005, I moved my ShopSmith into my new shop in Jordan Valley. Carleen and I decided that there was no time like the present to try our dream of combining my Woodworking with my leather work.

For a long time I had felt that hand carved leather was a natural to add decoration to woodwork. I felt that it would be of definite appeal to those who adhere to the western lifestyle. Because most leather carving follows classic design as does wood carving, stone carving and engraving, It is easy to incorporate designs in leather into almost any style of furniture by changing the style of the carving. Almost any type of art can be interpreted on to leather. This includes,pictures, Celtic designs and anything else the leather artist can think of. The only limit is your imagination.

3. I notice you have been commenting on discussions about marketing through social networking. What are you currently working on and what does your future hold for you?

Frankly, the interest in Social Network Marketing is more to do with my employment by Snake River Ranch in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. I will be doing some marketing there and need to keep up with what is working in other than traditional venues. I can see that when I retire we might be able to use this form of marketing to advantage with the shop. That doesn't sound much like I'm going to retire, does it?? Maybe just not ride for a living anymore.

4. In regards to your woodworking and leather working, who/what has been your greatest influence?

While I have studied Maloof and Krenov, I never adopted their styles as much as their attitude and approach to creativity. I've looked at the Shakers, Chippendale, Hepplewhite, et al. Garrett Hack and Lonnie Bird come to mind. I guess everyone in some way influences my work. I keep track of a whole bunch of talented Lumber Jocks and am not afraid to steal a page from their book at every opportunity. Todd, Les, Dennis, Charlie, Mark, Tommy, Lee and the list goes on and on.

In leather working, there is no doubt that my main influence is Don King. However, Dick Swanson, Tommy Hacking, Brad McClellan, and a whole lot more have contributed unknowingly to my work.



5. If someone wanted to combine their woodworking with leatherwork, what would your best piece of advice be?

The skill levels in both disciplines must be equal. Excellent woodworking will not cover up poor leathercraft or the other way around. Also the style of woodworking needs to compliment the style of leatherwork.

6. What is your favourite project that you've created?

I would have to say the Walnut Wall Cabinet with leather panel in the door(see my projects). However the Kitchen at 404 Blackaby Street is pretty close.



7. When you last moved, you sold all of your equipment and are now focusing on hand tools. Is there one piece of equipment that you really miss and perhaps will replace?

I really miss my table saw. Eventually, I hope to replace all the machinery.

8. Do you have a website?

At the present I just send folks to Lumber Jocks to view my work. I had a web page for a while but nothing came in from it. Maybe in the future we will build one.

9. Best tips for woodworker?

Never stop learning. You can learn from almost any one. Never be afraid to try something new. Push your own horizons to the limit. I will use my false teeth to shape wood if they are the best thing to to do the job. The wood doesn't care how it is shaped as long as it is shaped correctly. Table saw, handsaw, Planer or handplane it makes no difference to the wood. Learn good design and design before you build. Allow design to follow function. Allow the wood to speak for itself and lastly; put some of yourself into each piece.



10. Anything else you would like to say?

I was blessed(or cursed). While in high school, I was fortunate to receive 4 years of college level art courses from a wonderful teacher named Letitia Alder. It was foundation based and progressed as I progressed. I suppose the habit of studying and learning never went away. There were two of us whom this wonderful teacher really pushed to be all we could be. Mark Maddox became a highly respected architect in the Midwest and I became a cowboy. I've spent the last 40 years trying to get off a horse and make it in the art world in some way.

I've learned over the years that all of us have a fantasy world and our real world. Most of my life my real world has been the fantasy world of many people. I feel I have been very fortunate and blessed to get to do the things I have. My life has never been easy but I've never been bored.

Thank you Debbie for this opportunity.

-Thos. Angle, Jordan Valley, Oregon

Thanks to Thos. for taking the time to do this great interview.
 
#31 ·
David

May, 2010

This month, in our May issue of our LumberJock eMag, I had the privilege of interviewing David.

1. how did you find LumberJocks and what was the key feature of the site that kept you coming back?

I found Lumberjocks doing a random Internet search one evening while passing some free time. I spent the rest of the evening exploring this wonderful woodworking treasure trove and I've been coming back ever since. The site is uniquely organized to allow, not only interaction between woodworkers, but also easy searching and posting of content.

Very early on, one of my first Lumberjock buddies was "Mot". I truly enjoyed our interactions, especially the camaraderie that developed and the inspiration to start posting woodworking videos. I would add to that list the likes of Karson (in my mind "The Grand Master" of Lumberjocks!), Ms Debbie, WayneC, Todd Clippinger and Lee Jessberger. From the very beginning I found Lumberjocks to be a very welcoming place for a woodworker to hang out.

David's first project posted…


2. tell us a brief history of how you got into woodworking

I've been interested in woodworking since I was a kid. My Eagle Scout project was a series of "ship quarterboards" for the bus stops in the small coastal town of Scituate which lies just south of Boston. The quaterboards were routed with the town name. The ends were detailed with a fan and the finish featured gilding the routed edges, fan details and the town name. I've been hooked on woodworking since and prefer to think about designing and building for myself rather than buying something pre-made.

3. your woodworking journey today involves so much more than "building" - tell us about your current goals and activities (blog, interviews, etc)

I am enjoying exploring areas of woodworking that I thought I would never investigate. My interaction with a fellow Lumberjock, Neil Lamens (Furnitology Productions), inspired me to pay more attention to the design process and to try my hand at veneering and marquetry.

My blog has played a pivotal role in my woodworking development. I made a lot of good woodworking friends via Lumberjocks and my blog. I recently had the chance of meeting some "cyber woodworking buddies" in Boston. It was a very rewarding experience!

One of David's Interviews…


4.what do you find to be the most challenging part of woodworking and what is the most rewarding?

The most challenging aspect of woodworking for me is to make myself step out of my comfort zone and take the risk to explore an unfamiliar technique or procedure. The most rewarding part of woodworking for me is the sense of calm and relaxation I get from working in the shop. Of course there is always that thrill when something works out really well!

5. what is your "most" favourite project created to date?

My favorite project to date was an art display bin built for some friends that own an art gallery. It was my first project built with a design exclusively developed and finalized with SketchUp. It was also my first project utilizing locally harvested native Oregon wild cherry.



6. I always like to hear about the inspirations behind people's woodworking .. what inspires you?

I think my inspiration comes from trying to incrementally improving my skill set.

7. where can people find you on the internet (website etc) besides here at LumberJocks.com?

My blog, "The Folding Rule", can be found at http://foldingrule.blogspot.com/
The Folding Rule is a photo / video journal of my woodworking activities from my small garage based shop.

8. what is the biggest tip you can give people starting their journey into woodworking?

Pay attention to the design process early in your exploration of woodworking. Design is as important as that favorite tool or awesome piece of special wood.

Don't be afraid to ask questions. I found that every Lumberjock that I contacted to be friendly and more helpful than I imagined. It is really amazing how some of these guys who are accomplished professionals interact with those of us with beginning and developing skills.

A project donated to an auction…


9. anything else you'd like to share with your fellow LumberJocks?

I think the sense of community found on the Lumberjocks website is a unique commodity. The willingness to share, inspire and encourage fellow Lumberjocks makes this the best place for woodworkers of every skill level. I personally want to thank every member of Lumberjocks because, one way or another, they have all helped me on my personal woodworking journey.

Thanks to David to take the time out of his very busy schedule to answers these questions.
 
#37 ·
teenagewoodworker

May, 2010

This month, in our June issue of our LumberJock eMag, I had the privilege of interviewing teenagewoodworker.



1. how did you find LumberJocks and what keeps you coming back?
I found out about lumberjocks the same way that countless other people have, through the Wood Whisperer. He mentioned the site and at the time I was new to woodworking so I was trying to find every website that I could that had anything at all to do with woodworking. Now what keeps me coming back is probably the community as well as how user friendly the web site is. I am able to just take a glance and I can instantly see some cool projects as well as tell what is going on without having to dig around as on many other websites. That combined with so many good people just makes the site a winner in my book!

Denis' first project posted at LumberJocks.com


2. tell us a bit of your woodworking history
Well my dad's always been a do it yourself kind of guy. He's a master electrician as well as just an all around home improvement master. He just seems to know everything so I kind of wanted to be like him and build stuff. So building has always been my passion, I was watching This Old House at 2 years old, Played with Lego's for countless years and then one day after my proposal to build a shed had been turned down I saw an episode of the New Yankee Workshop and I was instantly hooked. I think that my first project all together was a baseball card stand, simply made out of OSB and some 2×4 offcuts using a screwdriver and a drywall saw. I don't have it any more but since I made that I've never looked back.

3. I'm always interested in "inspiration" - what inspires your work and your style of work?
Personally I like Period work. That has always been my general taste and what I like about it is that although it gives you freedom it is still defined by laws. I'm a Math guy and love math so I like having the guidance of period furniture but you still have wiggle room to make it your own or build something a different way. Generally When I do period work it is based off of something I see in a house or a book or something and I just think about it and then get to work. Sometimes I will draw a little sketch on graph paper but I rarely ever go full scale except on pieces with lots of embellishments. For Contemporary or Artsy work I find my inspiration in whatever pops up. It could be a piece of wood or just a form that I see in a tree that inspires me to build something. Usually if I do that kind of stuff it is either something I have done on my own or something that a customer has brought to me. I do believe though that inspiration can be found anywhere and for lots of my more interesting furniture the things that inspire me are some very interesting things themselves.



4. what is your favourite tool and why?
My favorite tool probably has to be my Lee Valley Low angle Smoother. I just love handplanes and it is such a beautiful hand plane. That is probably one of my favorite things about woodworking, having the project being near completion and just taking a freshly sharpened blade to the wood and watching it peel right off.

5. what is your favourite project that you've created?
My favorite project that I have finished has got to be my bowfront desk. I honestly just love that desk. It's not perfect by a long shot but I just love the form of it as well as the beautiful wood and everything about that desk just seemed to work. At the time I sold it I just wanted to get rid of it since it was taking up space, but now that it's gone I miss it more everyday. I'm hoping to make another one soon as well. Now that I have it all figured out I could probably do it in a few days minus milling the wood.

!!

6. what is the most challenging part of woodworking for you?
The most challenging part of woodworking for me is remaining calm. The problem is I get too ahead of my self. I want to see pieces together and forget to plane areas and it creates a total mess. I have been getting better at it but getting ahead of myself is one thing that has really haunted me on my past projects.

7 what is the most rewarding part of woodworking for you?
The most rewarding part of woodworking for me is between finishing and hand cutting dovetails. I love to see perfectly hand cut dovetails go together because it is such a great satisfaction once they are all done. They are the most beautiful joint in woodworking as far as I'm concerned. Luckily for me as well I have known Charles Neil for a good deal of my woodworking career so he has helped me out with finishing countless times. I've always liked it and now I'm getting to the point where my finished really are bringing my projects to another level and I enjoy seeing the finish complete the project and bring it all together.



8. what is the best piece of wisdom you can pass on to woodworkers?
Reach for the stars. In all honesty where there's a will there's a way. Even if you think of something, whether a new design or a new technique, write it down and give it a try. You can never improve unless you challenge yourself and trying to bring yourself up a notch on every single project and every single thing you do, trying to do it better than you did the last time, will make you a much much better woodworker.



9. anything else you would like to say?
Nothing in particular except the Summer is here so now its time to get out and make some SAWDUST :)

Thanks to teenagewoodworker for taking the time to do the interview.
 
#50 ·
Scott Bryan

July 2010
This month, in our July issue of our LumberJock eMag, I had the privilege of interviewing Scott Bryan. Here is the full interview.



How did you find Lumberjocks and what keeps you coming back?
I became aware of Lumberjocks about 3 years ago as I was browsing the web sites of Matt Vanderlist and Marc Spagnolo. Both were promoting LJs at the time and I thought that the site sounded interesting. This prompted me to take a look at the site and I was floored by the stunning projects that were being posted. Also I really enjoyed seeing the positive interaction between the site members, since up to this time I had worked in relative seclusion with regards to my woodworking experiences.

I guess I am somewhat old school in that I really have never spent a lot of time with on-line social networking sites. For instance, I have a Facebook account but rarely look at it and I do not Twitter. But the thing that thing that attracted me to LJs when I first looked at it is the same thing that keeps me coming back today- the interaction and sharing of woodworking projects and topics. Like most of us, who are members of this group, when I get the opportunity to discuss woodworking topics I find it hard to quit. Being able to share woodworking knowledge and ideas is the central concept behind LJs and this is the principal reason for my involvement in the site.

Tell us a bit of your woodworking history- what your first project was, why you became a woodworker etc
I really have only been woodworking for about 15 years so I would classify myself as somewhat of a novice. I am sure that my personal woodworking journey started in a fashion similar to a lot of site members in that I got into woodworking largely through my DIY efforts. I eagerly watched episodes of This Old House and, later, New Yankee Workshop which gave me the confidence to attempt these type of projects. These shows fueled my desire to tackle home improvement projects on my own. This led to a trade off of projects for tools, with the approval of my wife, of course. Once I started down the DIY path this opened up other avenues which eventually led to an avid interest in working with wood.

I suppose that I have always had an interest in woodworking but early on it remained latent due to (1) lack of exposure and (2) lack of both tools and knowledge. My father was a third generation carpenter who tried to teach me his craft when I was living with him. But, at the time, I really did not have a lot of interest in what he was trying to teach me so I really did not pursue either carpentry or woodworking when I was younger. And, like most young people, thought I knew a great deal more that I actually did. Now, I can see that in another life, I would have found that pursuing a carpentry career would have been rewarding for me on a personal basis.

My first project was a simple walnut shelf that I made while taking an 8 week woodworking course through a local adult education program. I signed up for the course since I had no formal woodworking training and only had a router and table saw in my shop. The course gave me access to the power tools that I lacked. The interaction with both the other students and the instructor only added to my woodworking interest.



I am always interested in "inspiration"- What inspires your work and your style of work?
This is a question that is very difficult for me to give an answer. I would classify my style as Craftsman/Mission/Arts and Crafts since I really do not differentiate between them. I like the simple lines that projects of this style have and the relative straight forward build that they exhibit. I really wish I could give a more definitive answer but I just guess I am simply drawn to this style of woodworking simply because I enjoy its appearance.

What is your favorite tool and why?
This is an easy question to answer. It has to be my table saw. It is, without a doubt, the heart of my shop. Everything I do, whether it be working with wood or a home improvement project, will bring my table saw into play. It is my go to tool and, since I particularly enjoy building cabinets, it is, in my opinion, a necessity to have.



What is your favourite project that you've created?
My personal favorite would be hard to pick. It is rather like asking which of your children do you like the best. But if I had to choose I would say that I have two favorite projects. One of the projects that I have posted is titled Cherry Master Bedroom Remodel.



This is a project that I started largely for the challenge. I was "commissioned" by my wife to give the master bedroom a new look. After installing hardwood flooring the next step in the bedroom remodel was to put in crown molding. And then it evolved into adding wainscoting to the room. My wife chose brazillian cherry for the flooring and cherry for the rest of the room, which suited me just fine since cherry is my favorite wood with which to work. This was a large project for me- it took 10 sheets of cherry ply and about 300 bf of cherry to complete- but all of the crown, base and other molding were made in my shop so it did give me the freedom to spend a lot of time in the shop.

My second favorite project is the oak vanity that my younger son "commissioned" with the caveat that he be allowed to help in the build. This was a project that I particularly enjoyed in that (1) I got to spend some quality time with him in the shop and (2) I especially enjoyed the teaching aspect of the project entailed since he had virtually no woodworking experience before tackling this project. In actuality he ended up doing nearly all of the work on the project and, more importantly, once completed it received the seal of approval from my daughter-in-law as well.

What is the most challenging part of woodworking for you?
Again this is pretty easy to answer. The largest challenge I face is with using hand tools. I have always been a power tool user and, sadly, have neglected development of my hand skills. I have several saws and planes that inherited from my father and would love to have the skills to use them properly. Developing these skills, and the ability to hand cut dovetails, remain personal goals of mine.



What is the most rewarding part of woodworking for you?
I find that teaching and sharing the skills that I have learned are the most rewarding aspects of this hobby for me.

What is the best piece of wisdom you can pass on to woodworkers?
Don't be afraid to stretch yourself when planning a project. Too often we look for projects in our "comfort zone" because that is what we are familiar with. In order to grow and develop, our skills need to be pushed and stretched. Sure there will be "mistakes". But I am a firm believer that we learn far more from our miscues than we do our successes.



Anything else you would like to say?
This is always a dangerous question to ask of me since, as I indicated in the first question, once I get to talking about woodworking it is difficult to stop so I always have something else that I can say. But the one thing that I think is missing in most of our woodworking endeavors is the lack of real time interaction between woodworkers. Too often, we as woodworkers, tend to work in isolation. I think this is largely due to the relative scarcity of others who have a passion for working with wood and the press of our daily lives that limits the time available to interact with others who share this obsession for wood. To me this leads to "in-breeding". I think that some form of education is necessary to circumvent this condition.

One of the obvious benefits of being a member of this group is the ability to share and interact with one another. I would also suggest that periodically taking a woodworking course, attending a woodworking show or being a member of a local woodworking group would benefit any of us- from the seasoned pros to those of us who are relatively inexperienced.

And, of course, I would like offer my thanks for being selected for this interview. It is a distinct honor and privilege to be selected for this inclusion in the Emag.

Thanks to Scott for taking the time to do this interview - and for all the wisdom and support shared here at Lj.com
 
#60 ·
RobS

This interview with RobS is from the August, 2010 issue of our LJ eMag.



1. How did you find LumberJocks and what keeps you coming back?

ScottB, my brother-in-law told me to check it out, he was one of the first here and I wasn't too far behind.I come back mainly to check out the projects and blogs for something new and unique. First thing I do every time I log in is go to "my buddies" page and see what they have been doing. Then I try to glance through the items that have been added since my last visit. With the sites exponential growth, that becomes a more difficult. It is impressive that even though we are beyond 20000 jocks, it still has a close nit community feeling.

2. Tell us a bit of your woodworking history

While I've had several woodworking influences in my life, my older brother and my father stick out in my mind as the most important. My brother did some amazing work in high school and our school shop, near Cleveland, was fairly well set up and well instructed. I tried to follow his lead and I'm sure my very first project in shop was a cutting board that may still be at my grandparents' house somewhere. My father is more of a lumberjack - outdoorsy type person, thus feeding my interest in many of my more natural and free form projects.

3. I'm always interested in "inspiration" - what inspires your work and your style of work? (And, you seem to do a lot of work with "found lumber" - I love it! How did that start?)



Unique and useful, those are inspiring words for me and my woodworking. I like to make interesting items that I haven't seen before and yet still serve a purpose. I also prefer to recycle and/or repurpose the wood for my projects or I gather wood from the area around my home. I get some inspiration for what I "see" or envision in the piece at hand. I can collect wood on a beach and, depending on my finds, by the end of my walk will pretty much know what I am going to build, even before I've cleaned and evaluated the reclaimed resource. It's really satisfying to discover diamonds in discarded.

4. What is your favourite tool and why?

My favorite tools are my two micro-plane rasps, one I made a handle for and posted here, another is a smaller one that came with a handle. They can be as aggressive or as gentle as you like when it comes to removing material and are always at the ready, no batteries required.

5. what is your favourite project that you've created?

Very tough question; I'd have to say my favorite hasn't been created yet, it's still in my mind somewhere waiting for the right opportunity to present itself. I do like gifting my projects and can't remember them all. I made a small osage orange lamp for my brother and a river birch floor lamp for my father, ironically neither posted here. I am proud of both not for their quality but just by knowing they are appreciated. If I were forced to pick one, I'd go with the TV Stand posted here, as I'm always telling my wife not to buy something because, "I could make that" and on this project I actually followed through.



6. What is the most challenging part of woodworking for you?

At the moment I'd say time and possibly my lack of willingness to attempt a new technique; which I should do more often as I am usually happy with the outcome.

7 What is the most rewarding part of woodworking for you?

Giving, no doubt! Giving reclaiming materials new life and giving my projects as gifts and seeing people enjoy them.



8. What is the best piece of wisdom you can pass on to woodworkers?

Me? Pass on wisdom? Ha! Maybe that's just it. Have a sense of humor and enjoy what you do.

9. Anything else you would like to say?

When did you say I get the check? Just kidding. I am honored that I was selected for an interview and would like to thank Lumberjocks for giving me a place to share and most importantly a place to learn from woodworkers around the world.

Thanks to RobS for taking the time for this interview and for sharing his wisdom with us!
(The check is in the mail.)
 
#61 ·
This was a pretty good interview, Rob. I think a great deal of what you said to the questions resonates with the vast majority of us. This was enjoyable to read.
 
#68 ·
Dick & Barb Cain

This interview is from the September, 2010 issue of the Creative Hands Network News.

Dick & Barb Cain have been members of LumberJocks.com since August, 2006. Thank you, Barb & Dick, for this wonderful interview!


1. How did you first get started working with wood?
I guess I got off to a real early start. Being depression times my Dad was fortunate enough to have a job, so he took on the task of building a new home in 1935. I was three years old at the time. I was always under his feet with the small hammer he had given me, & small keyhole saw he let me play with. I can remember this because I hit my thumb once while pounding a nail into a wooden lathe. I can never forget that lesson, because it's hard to forget painful things I guess.
When I got a little older I was always making things like wooden guns that shot inner tube rubber bands. I also carried a jack knife with me at all times. My first Jack knife came with a pair of boots from Kinney Shoes. They had a knife pocket with a knife in it as a sales gimmick. I wore those boots to school everyday. BOY! would I have been in trouble in this day, & age. I may have been on TV news nowadays for bringing a knife to school. I was only in about 2nd grade at the time. Never in my wildest dreams did I ever think of a knife as being a weapon.

By coincidence I happened to find the knife in one of my tool boxes the other day.

_

I used to make sling shots, willow whistles, & carved my initials on things just about everywhere I went. I built a shack in the empty lot next to our house when I was about 14. It was torn down a few years later when my Dad sold the lot. My Dad always let me use his tools in his basement shop, & I used to make things like pushcart racers out of old red wagon wheels.
I also built some stick model airplanes as a teenager. One was a Lockheed Lightning P-38 fighter, the one with the twin tails.
In the area we lived, there was a lot of housing construction going on, so the houses became a playground for us kids after the carpenters left, so doing this must have helped me in the knowledge of carpentry.
My initial introduction to real woodworking were the wood shop classes I had in 8th, & 9th grades in the Hibbing school system. They were really well equipped with any kind of machine you could think of at the time. The 8th grade class was taught by learning to use hand tools, & 9th grade we learned the proper usage of power tools. I think this helped me more than anything. We also had superb instructors. Nowadays the kids don't receive this type of training.
They miss being able to get hands on experience, & this gives them the fear of being able to use woodworking machinery safely, & properly.

I made a Cribbage board, & this Bookcase in 8th Grade.

(click to view project)

2. What was it about woodworking that initially caught your interest, enticing you to get into it at the level you are now?

Buying an older home, actually made it a necessity to learn more, & to use my woodworking skills. Barb was always a homemaker, so we got by with my income. Doing the work myself was the only way to afford anything we needed.
We started out with old hand me down furniture, & when we wanted to upgrade, I would build something.
I even designed, & built our own kitchen cabinets.

(click to view project)

3. Tell us a bit of history of your journey from that beginning to where you are today.
Craft shows started to flourish in the late 1970s. We used to stop and view the things people were making. The carving exhibits caught my eye, & I became envious of the beautiful carvings some of them had created. I always thought to myself, "I wish I could do that".
I was a subscriber to Wood Magazine, & one issue had a lesson on carving an Owl in relief. I borrowed a set of carving chisels from a friend, & low, & behold, success! I discovered that I could carve.
I kind of kick myself for not trying carving before this. Here I was starting to carve at 50 years old, & thinking about all of those wasted non carving years of the past.

Here's my first attempt at carving.

(click to view project)

4. What inspires you regarding wood creations?
I get inspired whenever I see a piece of wood. I think, "what can I make from this"?
While I'm in the carving mode, which is most of the time. I'm always looking at pictures that could be used as a carving subject. I tend to clip pictures from magazines, & now with the computer, I can copy, & paste interesting things to my files.
When I plan on building a cabinet, or piece of furniture, I browse the internet, & magazines for ideas. I usually modify the project plans to my preferences.
When I use my lathe, I usually take a blank of wood, & set it into my lathe, & round it out roughly, then I just play it by ear. It's hard to predict what the final outcome will be. The nature of the wood has a lot to do with the final creation.

5. What are the greatest challenges that you have met along the way? (and how did you overcome them?)
In the spring of 1965, I decided to build a sailboat, a small catamaran. I worked on it in my garage almost every night for about three months, & we finally launched the ("Barbara Ann") in mid July.


(click to view project)

Back in 1968, we decided to have a basement built under our house. Trying to save a buck, I made an agreement with a house mover that I would help him with the project. He deducted my labor from the bill, which really helped a lot.
That was quite an experience. It surprised me how heavy a house is. As we jacked it up, we kept adding wooden cribbing, & it kept sinking into the clay until it finally stabilized. After it was raised to the proper elevation we rolled it back about 50 feet, so the hole could be dug. I installed new 2×10 floor joists while it was still blocked up to supplement the old 2×6 joists. I then took diagonal measurements of all of corners, & the block layers used these measurements to layout the foundation. When we rolled the house back, it fit perfectly. I saved on this job by carrying blocks, & doing other labors.
We added on to the front of the house, & also to the rear to accommodate a grade entrance plus a stairway to the basement. Being that we started this project late in the fall, we had it all enclosed just before winter came.

I've also tackled countless other projects, wood turnings, & carvings with perseverance.

6. What is the greatest reward that you have received from woodworking? (personal or tangible)
The many "hugs" I've received from Barb for things I've made for her over the years.

Also the appreciation I've received from my family, & friends that I've made things for. All of this is very rewarding to me.

Just looking at the things I've created is also very rewarding.

On the tangible side, I was able to take third place in the Lumberjocks contest last year. I've also placed in a couple of other LJs contests.
http://lumberjocks.com/awards/summer_2009/results/11

7. What is your favorite tool that you use for woodworking?
Without a doubt, I think my wood carving tools would take first place.

(click to view project)

My wood lathe would be a close second.

(click to view project)

8. What is your favorite creation/project?
WOW! That's going to be hard thing to do. I have many favorites when it comes to carvings. I think the one that was most difficult is the Irish Claddagh I made for Barb. Carving hands takes much skill, & I think I did them quite well. Also carving the Irish Knot was quite a chore.


(click to view project)

The Mining scene is another favorite. I think it turned out pretty nice.


(click to view project)

Also the Guitar I made for my son Steve, was a very satisfying project.


(click to view project)

There are lots of other favorites, so just check out My Projects.
http://lumberjocks.com/Chipncut/projects

9. What tips would you give to someone just starting out or currently struggling with woodworking?
Nowadays it's much easier to learn woodworking. There are so many sources available, such as magazines, & now the internet. These things were unheard of when I started out, but I did have the advantage of a wonderful school with a lot of equipment, & excellent instructors. If you do have the funds available to you, take advantage of taking some classes in woodworking. Also some of the tool shows have some great seminars that are usually free. You can also learn a lot with some of the videos on Utube.
When you buy tools, get the best you can afford, because your going to have that tool for many years, so don't skimp.
Another thing I'd like to say, is don't be afraid to try something you've never done. As I mentioned before, if I hadn't tried carving it would sure be a missing link in my life.

10. How did you find LumberJocks and what is it that keeps you coming back?
I happened to see a small article in Popular Woodworking Magazine, & typed in the LJs link. After viewing it, & looking at the way it was set up. I think I immediately signed up for it. That was on 08/19/2006, & here we are, four years later.
The best thing we like about LJs is the Jocks. You can't find a better group of people any place on this earth. It's like one big happy family. If anyone has a problem, woodworking, health, or whatever, there's always someone there to help. We have friends from all over the planet now. Isn't it amazing?
LJs has really helped me to be more computer savvy. I've learned through the help from Martin how to embed video, & pictures from my files, & also how to transfer images from one website to another by copying its address, & pasting it to another place.. It took me quite a few tries, but Martin was patient with me, & kept on helping until it finally soaked in.
LJs has also helped me with my writing. When I first got started here, I could hardly put two sentences together. I think it has exceedingly enriched my life , & I've also gotten much more proficient in expressing myself.
One more thing I'd like to mention is our Avatar. People have asked about it. The photo is a Photoshopped rendition of two of our pictures at about three years of age. We lived next door to each other for about a year until Barb's family moved, & we didn't meet each other again until we were in high school, started dating, & then we married.

SO THAT"S THE REST OF OUR STORY.

Finally: We'd like to thank Debbie for inviting us for an interview.
It's been a great honor, & was very rewarding to us

And two questions for Barb:

1. What is your favorite project?
Although I'm not a woodworker, I'm an avid fan of my woodworker HUBBY. My favorite way to express myself is through my photos. I Always have my camera in my hand ready to record his carvings, & other projects, also whatever Beauty my eyes come upon as I observe Nature's Wonders.

Here's a sampling of some of my nature photos.

http://static.photobucket.com/player.swf

I love to follow my SWEETHEART around, & take photos of his HANDS as he carves, & guides his tools. His Hands show so much Talent, & Strength.



2. How would you describe Dick when it comes to woodworking?
AWESOME!
To watch him as he carves is like watching a piece of wood coming to life. It amazes me every time I watch him as he starts a new project. It isn't only his carving, but I believe there isn't anything that he cannot make. As I said in the beginning, "He's AWESOME!"

I realized my "HUBBY" had woodworking talent by the first project he made for us when we were first married.We lived in a trailer house at the time, & living space was at a minimum. We were expecting our first child, & badly needed a place to store our many baby clothes. He drew up his own design, & made us a combination bench settee, & baby clothes storage container. It served two purposes for us while taking up minimal space.

Later on our "Settee Bench" became a unique toy box for our two sons'. We are still using it at our cabin to store lake gear in. It's still very strong, & solid after over 58 years! This Bench is full of of happy, & special memories that are very dear to us.
Since the beginning of our married life, he still continues to create, build, & carve numerous projects.


(click to view project)

From "THEN" until "NOW" tells,

"THE REST OF MY HUBBIES WOODWORKING JOURNEY."

Thank you so much, Barb & Dick, for taking the time to answer these questions. :) _
 
#113 ·
JockMike2

This interview is from our October issue of the CreativeHands Newsletter. Thanks to JockMike2 for taking the time to answer the following questions.



1.How did you first get started working with wood?

When I was young we didn't have much money, heck we were poor. I used to carve a big Bowie Knife out of wood, or make a sword, one time I made a bow and arrow and actually hit a squirrel with it. Didn't kill it but it probably had a sore side for a while. I remember my buddy and I making a skate board out of 1 old skate for the wheels, about a 3' 2X4 an orange crate and a skinny board for a handle bars and some nails. You could carry anything in that crate, groceries, ball, glove and bat or frogs, anything. We utilized whatever we had. We loved trash day. Dad would take the trash to the dump every week and my brother and I would go along to find things we could still use to make things with, a rubber tube for our rubberband guns, a piece of an old bike that we needed parts for, just anything. I still remember my Mom hollering at my Dad, "seems like you bring back more than you take out".



2. What was it about woodworking that initially caught your interest, enticing you to get into it at the level you are now?

I was Catholic and I used to marvel at the gorgeous woodwork in the church because I knew the Priest there had made all of it and I think that is one thing that got me interested in woodworking. Finally in shop class in high school I was able to use the machinery, but not before I learned how to sharpen a chisel, saw a board straight and learn how to sand it smooth. We had a good shop teacher with lots of patience and I'm glad he made me go back and do things until I got it right. It taught me the value of being precise and to do good work before moving on. There were Seniors in there making blanket chest with real nice wood. We had to buy, or furnish our own wood. Lucky for me the shop teacher had a few boards laying around that he let me have and the one thing I gravitated to, was the Lathe. I just couldn't believe the bowls and things being made on the lathe. I ended up making a mallet, about a 5 pounder out of some nice Maple and man was I proud.



I kind of left woodworking after school. I went to work in the shops in Lansing making money, buying a car, chasing girls and drinking. After being drafted in 1970 and going to Germany, again I was amazed at the architecture in the old buildings, inside and out. The statues in stone, the old churches, every street you walked down was history, not like it is here in the US. This is a young country, not to diminish the history of the Native Americans upon this country, but they didn't have the History of Europe, nor the architecture. It had a different feel to it there. It's very hard to explain. I went to the Black Forest on Alerts, we called them, when the whole post would go to the woods to practice war games. I spent time there, somewhere my father had been in WW11. Talk about awe inspiring. The little towns we past through still had blacksmith shops because they still farmed mostly with horses. The little towns were right out of a postcard. The Chapel Houses, the underground beer gardens, the old castles. We actually could find old castles to spend the night in that were uninhabited. The dungeons were filled with dirt through time, but we could climb to the parapets and you could tell why they built them where they did, because you could see for miles and miles around them with only another castle off in the distance.

Sorry for getting off track, you wanted to know where I get my inspiration, love for architecture, sculpture and Art, that's it. Seeing it and living there, being in History for over a year, I wasn't drunk all the time, I did absorb some things.

3. Tell us a bit of history of your journey from that beginning to where you are today

I did take some college courses in Sculpture and although because of work, my addictions, and family, I couldn't continue my education until 1986, when the shop closed, they paid me comp for an old back injury, and sent me back to school. While I worked at the shop for over 20 years I was laid off a lot, so I knew I had to find other work and jobs were hard to find.

A friend took me on his framing crew and I found a job I loved. Building houses, framing was like a dream job, outside in the open air, it seemed good but a lot of drinking in the trade. It was rewarding to see something go up and know you help build it. I got with a friend and we would frame small 3 bedroom homes on weekends at a small lake north of Lansing. We would get the deck down and laid out on Friday after work, on Saturday we would build the outside walls with, back then we could use ply on the corners and cellotex on the sidewalls, so we would put that on put in doors and windows and had friends help us hoist them up. End walls were easy and we did those ourselves. Then we would frame rooms inside. We would start early on Sunday putting up trusses, again we did have help with those, even though they were usually about only 24 footers. We would walk them down the top plate and set them up, then lay down the sheathing. Also, put in drywall backing. Like I said when we were done it was ready for roofing, siding and drywall, we would make about 1000 bucks each. Great money but Monday was a killer.



After graduating college, with a Social Work Degree in Substance Abuse Counseling I worked about 12 years in a 14 bed male unit for men. It was rewarding I miss it and loved the work I did. Then I fell and broke my back losing a lot of things in my life. Fishing, Hunting, Camping, that's when I took up the lathe I could work for a 1/2 hour and quit and rest or if I had to sometime lay down to ease the pain. Sometimes I sat and cried, the pain was so bad, anyone with nerve pain will understand, morphine, percocete, nothing will relieve nerve pain. I was a grotesque human soul for a while. This site helped me through that and with the help of my Dr. I was able to cope well enough to work in the shop, and with the help of the friends and family I made when I joined this site.



4. What is your favourite tool?

My favorite tool is the wood lathe. Although I've made a couple chairs and really enjoyed that also, I like making mortise and tenons. I like carving, but am not good at it, yet. I love sculpture of any kind whether it's a table piece or an abstract. They are all good and I see it in Andy's boxes, Trifern's bowls, in Dick Cains carvings and work with twisted vines, in Karson's work making cradles. The real sculptures I don't even have to name, each one of them could write a book.



5. What brings you the greatest reward from woodworking?

The greatest reward I get is giving away the things I make and give to family and friends. Those things will live beyond me and let those people know that I loved them.



6. What are the greatest challenges that you have met along the way? (and how did you overcome them)
My greatest challenges now are overcoming pain when I really want to work and get something done, due to my back injuries.

7. Which project that you have made is your favourite?

The most favorite thing I made was the hope chest for my daughter, and it took me over a year to make. That's what is really frustrating.



8. How did you find LumberJocks.com and what keeps you coming back?

I found this site by accident and it was after I had gotten into woodworking seriously and I enjoyed the marvelous things I was seeing and the insight I garnered from the people that were talking to each others like a close family. These guys not only cared a lot for each others work and helped each other out, they genuinely liked each other and I was amazed at the honest caring they had for one another as people.

I made a very good friend name Oscorner, not his real name, but he was a man of God and always ended every note he wrote, that Jesus is Lord. He had a heart attack, was asking my advice about Dr's and pain meds. I don't feel responsible for his death because I told him to seek advice other than his shop Doctor and he was scheduled for bypass the day before he died. I miss him, after these 2 or 3 years.

Thanks for reading this, I Bless each and every one of you because I consider everyone on this site a friend. Thank you, Mike Wurm

And thank YOU MIke for sharing your story with us!

[Note: April, 2012. Our dear friend past away this week. He shall be deeply missed!]
 
#114 ·
Congratulations on doing this fine interview Mike!

I was up bright, & early this morning, & this was at the top of my email list.

It was something nice too read before I even had my first cup of coffee.

I enjoyed every bit of the story of your past.

KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK< MIKE>
 
#128 ·
SnowyRiver

This interview is from the November issue of "CreativeHands Network" Newsletter.
SnowyRiver has been a member of LumberJocks since November 2008


1. how did you first get started working with wood?

I first began building things with wood when I was very young. Probably around 8 or 9. Although my dad was a weekend do-it-yourselfer and not a carpenter, I would help him build things around the house. Things like yard sheds, fences, a gun cabinet, and yard art. Even though he did most of the work, even at that young age, I had a sense of accomplishment when we finished. I was fascinated watching contractors come over to our home to do carpentry and electrical work.



2. what was it about woodworking that initially caught your interest, enticing you to get into it at the level you are now?

I can't say that I had a particular moment or revelation that got me to this point. I think that over time I enjoyed carpentry and woodworking, my skill levels improved, and once I had my own home, I was inclined to do the carpentry projects around the house myself. I would eventually try to do more difficult projects on my own house, figuring that I could use my own environment to learn, and if I got stumped, I could always get help from someone to show me the way. I sometimes found myself lying in bed for hours at night thinking about how I might do something. You might say I became consumed by the project, and I liked it that way.

3. tell us a bit of history of your journey from that beginning to where you are today.

For me it started helping my dad. Even things like building a soapbox derby car with him was fun. I took some shop classes in junior high school which had a semester or two of woodworking. I always enjoyed those months. I still have some of my early projects from those days. One being a 10 inch high wooden dog door stop, and of course the soapbox car. I always thought maybe I had it in my blood to do woodworking. My great grandfather from Germany was a cabinet maker, and my grandfather from Denmark was too. Although I was much too young to have spent much time with them before they passed on, I do have some of their work in my home.



I actually went to college to be a wildlife manager, but after becoming somewhat discontent; I decided to go to a trade school to learn carpentry. Although they had a bit of cabinet making in the course, most of it was construction, but it was very enjoyable and they had quite an extensive woodworking shop. This exposed me to many of the tools and machinery that I have today. Once finished there, I acquired an interest in electronics through amateur radio, and I eventually got my degree in electronics. I am currently a program manager for a large telecommunications company. I would come home from work and immediately dive into carpentry projects around the house. Finishing the basement, adding the deck, installing wood floors, etc. It was a welcome diversion from the hectic day. Sometimes staying up all night on Friday nights and weekends building, probably driving my family and the neighbors nuts with all the sawing and hammering. Through all of this I started to build a good tool inventory and started to stretch out into other woodworking and carpentry projects. Eventually I had friends and relatives asking if I could help them finish their basements, remodel their homes, or build decks.

My dad asked me if I could build a potting bench for his garden. After completing that project, I was hooked on woodworking. I had lots of construction tools, but still needed a good table saw, planer, jointer, etc. I had space in my current home so it was a just a matter of setting up shop once I could afford the tools. I bought a lot of used items and some new. Sometimes they would hang on the wall for a couple of years before I would ever use them. I would buy them when I had the opportunity rather than the need. Some of them were good tools and some not so good. Over a few years I eventually got most of what I needed to do most woodworking projects. All along, continuing to build decks, remodel and finish basements, and do small woodworking projects.



4. what inspires you regarding wood creations?

I am also an avid antique collector. I love the style of the old things, so much of what I do is styled after colonial, early American, and arts and crafts.

5. what are the greatest challenges that you have met along the way? (and how did you overcome them)

I think the biggest obstacle that I run into is simply financial. Woodworking is expensive. The cost of tools, lumber, etc., can sometimes be prohibitive. I work the used tool circuit quite regularly looking for tools that compliment my shop and the work I do. I do most of my woodworking during the long winter months here in Minnesota, so I enjoy picking out the projects I plan to do in late summer, price the wood and hardware, and order everything so once mid fall arrives I am ready to go for the next five or six months. I don't often do woodworking for hire, so it's all on my own nickel. I tend to build things as gifts for relatives and friends, and I occasionally treat myself and build something for just me.



6. what is the greatest reward that you have received from woodworking? (personal or tangible)

The greatest reward I get is a compliment that I might receive from folks that see or receive my work. Their excitement receiving it as a gift drives a lot of what I do. It's also rewarding to know that my work is in someone else's home, and that they like it enough to place it in full view for their family and others to see.

7. what is your favourite tool that you use for woodworking?

That's a tough question. I guess my favorite tool is the one that I am using at the time. I especially enjoy using the table saw. It's such a versatile tool.

8. what is your favourite creation in/for your woodworking?

I think my favorite project to date is the mission style grandfather clock that I built early this year. I also like the steamer trunk I built about a year ago for my son's wedding. Both are displayed in my LJ gallery.



9. what tips would you give to someone just starting out or currently struggling with woodworking?

Safety, safety, safety, and patience, patience, patience. Woodworking is a skill that takes many years to acquire. I always view an error or mistake as a learning tool. Start with small and simple projects. Take your time. Build your skill level on each of them but don't forget to keep challenging yourself. I would get involved with not only great websites like Lumberjocks, but join a local woodworking club if you have one in your area. If not, seek out local woodworkers and ask lots of questions. Take some classes if you can. There are a lot of woodworkers that are self trained, but it helps to have a mentor if you can. It will speed your skill development. Always have a clear mind and work safe in your shop.



10. how did you find LumberJocks and what is it that keeps you coming back?

I was searching the web one day for some ideas for projects. I came across another woodworking website. I joined and posted a question….after weeks, no response. I continued to search around and came across Lumberjocks. Within minutes of joining I received a bunch of welcomes and responses to my question. Lumberjocks is unbelievable. Such a great bunch folks. It truly is a family of woodworkers. I find the experience and knowledge level is unsurpassed. I like staying connected and sharing the knowledge with those that love our passion.

Thanks SnowyRiver for taking the time to do the interview!
 
#129 ·
Nice interview, Debbie.
I am amazed at the talent and kindness on this site. Everyone comes at woodworking from a different perspective, yet we can all teach each other… SnowyRiver is an fine example of this.
 
#145 ·
CharlieM1958

This interview is from the December issue of our CreativeHands News. We head to the workshop of CharlieM1958 to learn about his woodworking journey.


Charlie's first comment was, "These are hard questions. I didn't know I was going to be on 60 Minutes! :) "

1. How did you first get started working with wood?
In January of 2005 I was walking through Home Depot with a little extra cash in my wallet when I noticed a Ryobi portable table saw on sale for $89. I bought it more or less on a whim, thinking the price was right and it might come in handy some day. I had always done the standard handyman-around-the-house jobs like hanging shelves and the like, but had never really ventured into what you would call "woodworking."

Well, the first time a ripped a board to width, it suddenly dawned on me what a world of possibilities this little tool opened up! I immediately started building a box out of various scraps I had lying around, and I was hooked.



2. What was it about woodworking that initially caught your interest, enticing you to get into it at the level you are now?
I've always been a creative person. I started writing poetry as a young child, and have been composing music since I was 13. I was never good at visual arts, though, like painting or drawing. Woodworking opened up a way for me to express my creativity visually as well.

3. Tell us a bit of history of your journey from that beginning to where you are today
I don't consider myself that far along in my journey as a woodworker, so there is not much to tell. I started subscribing to a few of the woodworking magazines, and I found Lumberjocks. The site has definitely been my biggest source of information and inspiration. I've built my collection of tools over the last five years, and learned a lot through trial and error.

4. What inspires you regarding wood creations?
I'm inspired both by the traditional and the imaginative. I would love to be able to produce something like a traditional highboy or a rolltop desk some day, but I also like to come up with things that are new and different in some way.



5. What are the greatest challenges that you have met along the way? (and how did you overcome them)
The greatest challenge for me has been to learn patience. I'm all about instant gratification, and once I start a project I am anxious to see it completed. As we all know, haste makes waste when it comes to woodworking. I have finally started to learn how to enjoy the process. Taking the extra time to do something right always pays dividends in the end.



6. What is the greatest reward that you have received from woodworking? (personal or tangible)
I have sold a few pieces, but the real reward for me is my own satisfaction. Taking a piece of raw wood and discovering the beauty hidden within it is a real source of pleasure. Sharing my work with others and hearing their compliments is nice but, just as I find in writing music, the biggest payoff is really an internal, intensely personal thing. Even if I lived on a deserted island and no one would ever see a thing I made, woodworking would be just as much fun as it is now.



7. What is your favourite tool that you use for woodworking?
I think the table saw is still the tool I'd least like to live without, although I must say, as a novice turner, the lathe has captured my imagination and opened up another new world of possibilities.



8. What is your favourite creation in/for your woodworking?
My favorite creation is usually my last. I find I have to come back a few months later to see my work more objectively. Overall, though, maybe my favorite is a walnut hall table I made for my parents. It was made at their request to fit a certain space, and I think (even though it is nothing special) it exceeded their expectations. Every time I visit they tell me how much they enjoy it, and how much it is complimented by friends and neighbors.



9. What tips would you give to someone just starting out or currently struggling with woodworking?
Read, watch videos on the web, take classes, ask your fellow woodworkers for advice, but don't be afraid to experiment. I occasionally do things that contradict the "conventional wisdom." Sometimes they don't work out, but sometimes they do. In woodworking there are usually many ways to skin a cat. Only through experimentation will you learn which ones work best for you. Above all.. be patient. Don't hurry through one step just to get to the next. I've never finished a project and said "Gee, I wish hadn't wasted so much time getting those miters just right."

10. How did you find LumberJocks and what is it that keeps you coming back?
I was frequenting one of the woodworking usenet groups, and one day someone posted a link to Lumberjocks. I found it to be a fantastic site. At that time I think there were less than 2,000 members, and the core group of regular posters was quite small. You could literally view and comment on every project or topic that was posted, and there was a great helpful, family-type atmosphere.

Today, even though the site has grown quite large, there is still a strong core group of regular posters, a great sense of community among the members, and a true spirit of caring and helpfulness that makes me proud to call myself a Lumberjock!

Thanks for the great interview!
 
#146 ·
This was a nice interview. Thanks you both, Deb and Charlie, for letting us get a glimpse of your woodworking journey, Charlie.

And is this timely or what. This is certainly your special day Charlie. Happy birthday, Charlie.
 
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