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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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#183 ·
kolwdwrkr

This interview is from the January 2011 issue of the "CreativeHands News". Thanks to kolwdwrkr for taking the time to do this interview.



Before we start, are you still doing woodworking or have you moved on?

"I'm pretty much moving on. It's not happening overnight that's for sure. I still have a couple of projects to wrap up. After I posted that I wanted to quit people have taken an interest. It's hard to tell them no but I'm trying too."

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

"My family was always poor so us kids had to work. It's a small town so construction was the main industry. I took a job building log homes 2 summers before I graduated high school. Once I started doing the finish carpentry I realized I enjoyed doing detail work."

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

"To be honest I never liked doing it. It was a job, and I needed money. As I got older I started buying some of my own tools and was able to start making things for myself. Once I was able to be creative on my own I knew I liked it."


3. Tell us a bit of history of your journey from that beginning to where you are today… including your decision to leave woodworking

"While in Colorado I was building log homes. We did everything from dig holes to applying watco. The only subs we called in was tile, plumbing, and electrical. Everything else was wood. It took us 2 years to build one house. I was working on some roofing one day and a girl jogged by. She would become my way out of Colorado and led me to California. I worked security until I got a job as a cabinetmaker. It didn't take long until I was the foreman of the shop. My boss also let me build projects for myself, and even gave me the material. I built an entertainment center and some other small projects. I won't go into details, but I quit that job and started working for a construction company. He had told me that I would be his partner once things picked up, and that I would be running the cabinet shop. Well several conversations and months later I came to the realization that he had no intentions of keeping his promise. It was upon that realization that I had to
start my own shop. I had acquired my C-6 license at this point, which was why I was going to be a partner.
In 2004 I opened up KOL Woodworks and became his sub contractor. I contracted through homeowners and designers doing residential woodwork. The focus was on kitchens, baths, entertainment centers, etc. I started doing the Philharmonic House of Design, and did that from 2005-2008. The house is set up through the philharmonic society. Designers are given a room and decorate it. They call in their own help to get the work done, and the house opens to the public. The proceeds help the children.
In 2008 my wife left me and things took a turn for the worse. I was left with a ton of tax debt, as well as a lot of unfinished work. I couldn't afford to get advertising, and had to finish up the jobs I had. Needless to say the work stopped and the bills didn't. I eventually lost my shop, house, etc.
It took 8 months for me to find a job. Now I am the production manager for a small shop in Costa Mesa, and have been considering starting KOL Woodworks again. My current employer is willing to sublease the shop, and give me work. It's a tough decision. I'm good at woodworking, but I'm not good at business. What happens now is still up in the air.
Although cabinetmaking is my profession, I have decided to leave woodworking behind. I can't stop doing it now because it pays the bills. But eventually something else should pay the bills. I think the industry isn't stable enough to rely on. Even if I don't move on it would be nice to know I could. So I have decided to put woodworking aside to focus on Jiu Jitsu. The goal is to become a Professor. If it becomes a full time thing then I can do woodworking as a hobby again. I think I would enjoy that more then trying to make money at it.
People ask me why I can't do both. Simple. It takes a lot of focus to be good at something. You can never be great at anything if you are focused on too many things. If I focus on both Jiu Jitsu and Woodworking then I will be okay at both. If I focus on Jiu Jitsu then maybe I can be great at it."


4. What inspires you regarding wood creations? and your new venture?

"I'm always inspired by my creations, even the bad ones. Just being able to make something from nothing should be inspiring to anyone. Plus you get to sit back with a grin and say "I made that", or you can learn from mistakes throughout the process that will help you on the next project.
What inspires me on the new venture is the fact that I can help other people. In woodworking you can find all the information in the world about what you need to know on the internet. You don't need anyone else to help you. In Jiu Jitsu you can't fight alone. There has to be a partner, so it helps me to gain better "social nerves". Not just that, but friends. There's a great satisfaction when someone asks about a move, and you get to show them. Participating in championships is fun too, and like any sport, winning isn't all that bad."


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

"Honestly, making money has been the greatest woodworking challenge. There are tools to do anything, and literature on how to use it. If you are patient with the process and devoted to it, you can accomplish anything. But there are no guarantees that someone will pay you for it. Unfortunately people haven't separated production work from craftsmanship, so they want custom pieces made at production prices. It isn't and never will be feasible. The other challenge is being able to afford to do it. I may want to do something that isn't meant to be sold, but can't afford materials or the tools to do it. Bottom line, money is challenging."


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

"The experience. I have produced a lot of work for a lot of people. When they do their walk through and tell me how wonderful everything is, that's my reward. The reactions from people who see my work to me are priceless."


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

"I enjoy using various tools. I use most of them during the process. So my favorites are normally the new ones, or the ones I'm least familiar with. The lathe is my favorite right now, but that's only because I have nothing to turn."


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

"My favorite creation is my bubinga cabinet, the one on the black stand. I haven't made to many things "for" woodworking that I keep around."


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

"Do it because you love and enjoy it. Don't do it for money. You will eventually hate it. If it starts to feel like work then you don't enjoy it anymore. Keep your tools sharp. Be creative. Don't let anyone tell you that you can't do something. If that were true we'd be living in caves. Don't be afraid to try new things, and be explorative."


10. What have you learned about life in the past few months, from making that decision to leave woodworking and then picking it up again.. and now - wherever that leads you?

"I've been learning some harsh realities for awhile now. I've always thought that things would be okay if I just kept doing what I do. Losing everything kept me down for a long time, and still does. I was fortunate enough to get to rent the place I'm in now, and to get the job I have. I've learned that you can't just sit around. If something isn't working then make the necessary changes to move forward. I need to put my family first.
Woodworking isn't paying my bills, so my decision is to seek what will. Who knows, maybe it's another mistake. But at this moment, woodworking has been the mistake."


11. How did you find LumberJocks and what is it that keeps you coming back?

"I can't remember how I found LJ's. I think I was on a different forum and found the link. I've made a few friends, and enjoy seeing all the work. Most of all, though, I thoroughly enjoy helping people doing anything in life. So I like to write "how-to" blogs on doing certain things. Lumberjocks is a good all around forum to do everything woodworking related, and even though we are only supposed to be woodworkers there, we do realize that we are all people too, and can have more in common then just woodworking."


Thanks again for doing this interview. I wish you well with your new venture.
And I have to say that I hope you are able to put your woodworking skills to use in your future. You truly have a gift and I, for one, have benefited just by being inspired by your creations.
 
#196 ·
GaryK

This interview is from the February issue of the CreativeHands Newsletter. Thanks to GaryK for taking the time to do this interview.



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

In Junior high school I took my first class on woodworking. In high school I took it also, but only for a short time. There were no girls there and believe it or not I took a power sewing class. Lots of girls there! :)
I didn't pick it up again for years after that. I had "more important" things on my mind.

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

One day, I don't remember exactly when, I saw a model wooden ship. It was amazing with all of it's detail and precision. I asked how much it was selling for and was told $15,000. I knew that the only way I would ever be able to have one was to build one myself. I was used to the precision, working in my fathers machine shop while going to school. I got a cheap little table top table saw, an Ohio Forge at Home Depot and a little 4" jointer from Sears (I still have it) and a cheap Royobi 9" band saw. From that meager beginning and about a year of steady work I made the model ship you can see in my projects.



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

Well, after making that boat and upgrading my bandsaw to a 14" Delta. I think I made a chessboard or two and decided that the cheap tablesaw had to go, so next came a Delta Contractor saw, and 6" jointer to boot. From there on there was no stopping me.

Not being one to shy away from a challenge I made the Mahogany Highboy as my first furniture project. It may look very difficult but it really wasn't at all. After that, I figured that I could build anything I wanted. I just thought of something and built it. I've always been able to visualize things in my head, so that helps and being an engineer doesn't hurt.
Look through my projects and you will see what kinds of things pop into my head.



4. What inspires you regarding wood creations?

Buildings and architecture are inspiring to me. Some of my projects are just scaled down features from buildings. Check out my Headboard and Pie Crust table to see what I mean. Both of those I got from buildings I saw while traveling in Europe.

I also like books on ornaments. I have about 10 different ones that I always thumb through for ideas. It's usually just one small detail that sparks an idea.



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

There really was no greatest challenge with the woodworking part, but finding wood has always been. I am always looking for wood. When I lived in the Los Angeles area it was pretty easy. There are a lot of places there. Since moving to Texas it's a lot harder. I tend to buy in bulk now and have it shipped. That takes all the fun out of the hunt, and you can't be 100% sure of exactly what you are getting. You have to remember that when you find a really great looking piece of wood you have to buy it then, because you will never find one exactly like it ever again.



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

My greatest personal reward has been looking at a newly created project. Especially that big harpsichord. That alone took me probably about 1 1/2 years of work over a 10+ year period.

Another is the recognition of my peers for my work by their votes in the Lumberjock contests. I won three contests on a row that really was a great reward. I also like when a project I made inspires someone else.


7. What is your favorite tool that you use for woodworking?

That's like a person to pick his favorite child. I guess it's a toss up between my band saw and drum sander. A great table saw is nice, but you can still get by with a contractors saw. Just like a jointer, nice to have one but not necessary. I like the band saw because it is so versatile. That was my first real full size tool that I bought .You can do things with it you can't do with any other tool. The drum sander was the last significant tool I bought. I use it more like a giant planer than a sander. I use a lot of highly figured wood and the drum sander is the least likely to damage it.



8. What is your favorite creation in/for your woodworking?

That would be my big harpsichord without a doubt. More time, thought, effort, money and patience went into it by far than anything else I have made. It was also the hardest thing to make, because so many different things went into it. Since at the time I couldn't find any plans, I had to design it on the fly. Lots of books and pictures were all I had to go on. It probably took about 6 months of thinking and planning before I even got started cutting wood.



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

Don't worry about making mistakes. Everyone makes them. I do all the time. Usually when I do, if possible I just change my design to accommodate it. Anyone that has never messed anything up has never done any woodworking. You live and learn and usually don't make the same mistake again. The problem is that there are a infinite mistakes to make! :)

Remember you don't have to tell anyone. If you don't then it never happened. Looking at some of my projects you might think, "how did he come up with that?". Well, it may be that it was a result of a mistake, but I'll never tell.



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

Actually I don't remember how I found Lumberjocks, but once I did I was hooked. There is no other place on the net that has so many helpful, informative, and friendly woodworkers. Martin did a fantastic of setting everything up and keeping on top of issues as they arise.

Thanks again, Gary, for taking the time out of your busy schedule and away from your wee one to do this interview.
 
#215 ·
TopamaxSurvivor

(This interview is from the March 2011 issue of our LumberJocks' eMag)
Thank you to TopamaxSurvivor for taking the time to share his story with us)


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

I started when I was about 8 or 10 whittling toys with a pocket knife my grandparents gave me for Christmas. I helped my dad and uncles building and fixing things on their farms as I grew up. I had lots of early exposure and responsibilities to not waste too much precious material on silly mistakes. One time, my uncle had me making boards to slide in to close the door of a grainery as it filled. After a few, I decided to cut them all since they were nearly the same length. The structure was probably close to 50 years old at that point. The door widened towards the top. Fortunately, the short ones fit in the one next to it.



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

Initially, I was fascinated by a bulldozer, a canoe and a hydroplane an older cousin had made. That is probably why I started whittling my own toys and for my little brother and sister. Other things took my attention away for many years, but I am now hoping to get to a higher level than most of my utility projects. I have done some rifle stocks and a full length Kentucky rifle from scratch. I have collected quite a bit of wood and tools to make some nice projects. I have always had high ambitions as a craftsman and been accused of being the standard for my peers. It only seems natural to transfer that ambition to woodworking even though I will never reach an elite level in this craft.



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

The previous question tells most of it. I am in the process of converting my 2 car warehouse to a shop. I have a business' tools and a little bit of inventory in there to along with the normal personal stuff. Stuff, stuff, stuff, we are all anchored to too much stuff! What happens when we do a project? We have just created another item of stuff for the accumulation.

4. What inspires you regarding wood creations?

Making toys for my grandkids and building historical flintlocks such as a Lehigh Valley and a German Jaeger. Many of the awesome projects posted on LJ inspire me to try some of them eventually. I have always had the interest, but had higher priorities.

I see lots of statues and figures I would like to try carving, but I'll never get them done because I doubt if I live to be 200 years old. If I did I would probably get side tracked on other interests before I got them all done.



5. What are the greatest challenges that you have met along the way?

I guess time would be the greatest challenge. Getting older and having other things out of the way is probably the greatest advance toward doing more woodworking. The Topamax overdose causing confusion seems to be a slight, permanent disability exacerbated recently by a migraine prevention medication I tried. Migraines and side effects are always a concern around power equipment. I have found my greatest relief discovering triggers while doctors have only made them worse.

6. What is the greatest reward that you have received from woodworking?

Seeing my grandkids playing with my creations, making my wife happy with whatever she ordered and shooting target rifles I have made, especially when I win with them!! I'll never forget getting my 10 pin on NRA Rams with a rifle I stocked myself. That ranks right up there with my 1,000 yard black powder bullseye patch from the Ottawa Arms Collectors.



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

Probably a chisel or gouge with a slight curve. A few simple chisel marks were used to mark flintlocks in front of the trigger guard with the sign of the Sons of Liberty. I do not know if my g-g-g-g-g-g-grandpas had it on their arms, but they certainly served in our first war.



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

Probably, my first full stock Kentucky rifle built from scratch. It was quite an accomplishment at the time. I didn't have any power tools. I sawed the barrel channel with my daddy-in-law's bench top table saw. The rest was done by hand except for drilling a few holes with ¼" power drill. A friend had to have it after I let him shoot it. I traded it off to him. I could always make another.



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

Ask Lumber Jocks, they are here, ready and willing to help you out. Don't worry about mistakes. The only time you learn is from them. When you see a master at any trade, you are looking at someone who has made a million of them. The trick is not repeating them and knowing how to blend them into the project without them being visually detracting. If it's not distracting or really noticeable, it isn't there.

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

I found Lumber Jocks searching the web for toy ideas. I signed up for the e-magazine. I was busy with family and business that summer and fall. Occasionally, I would look in from links when the e-mag arrived. When I had a little more time I realized what a great site it was, what I had been missing, so I signed up for real.

I keep coming back almost daily to check the projects and look through the forums. I have looked at at least the thumbnail of every project posted. Once I got through the 17,000 or so, I have made it a point to not fall behind. Sometimes it is almost overwhelming if I have missed a few days. It used to be a couple pages of projects a day. Now it seems there are always 5, sometimes 7 or 8.

This is one of the friendliest safe havens on the web with lots of knowledgeable people with expert answers for any question. I have found answers to questions I didn't even know I had or would be having if I got that far into woodworking. I just try to answer electrical questions to try to contribute something in return for what I have gained here.



Thanks again TopamaxSurvivor for sharing your story.
 
#243 ·
WistysWoodworkingWonders - Shop Tour

While checking out workshops I noticed this one by WistysWoodworkingWonders. I smiled when I saw that a single idea blossomed into a multi-purposed space.

Wisty's work space began as a typical garage workshop and then, during a casual (and joking) conversation with a neighbour the idea started to form. But I'll let Wisty tell you about the journey himself.



"Debbie asked if she could drop by for a tour of my shop [in Victory, BC, Canada] which of course is a great honour. So let's start off with why I built the shop and how I came up with the design. For years (since high school) I have been playing around with computer drafting programs and designing floor plans for houses. I took basic woodworking in school which I suppose was the true start of my love for woodworking.

About 12 years ago I got the woodworking bug back after buying my first home. At that time, I worked primarily out of a shed with improvised tools to do the brunt of the work. After moving to our current house, I set up shop my wife's garage (typical layout of many beginner shops). My neighbour and I were talking one day - actually joking about combining his shop with whatever I build in my back yard and he suggested, why not build it now instead of saving up for years. So the idea was there and after several long talks with my wife and kids, we decided to do the build.
The design of the shop came to fruition due to a few key elements. The first being what space I had available and the current layout of our yard and home. We decided to figure out exactly what other spaces we would need or could gain through the addition. After a few weeks of planning, I started in on the computer and came up with the layout of my shop/garage/Wii room/sun deck, sports gear room, etc - oh, and a place for my hot tub too.

Construction started in 2005. The first step was to remove 2 massive trees that bordered the land between my neighbours place and mine. It took an arborist all of 1 day to fall both trees, which of course took us a few weeks to clean up. We ended up getting a great deal on having the trees milled at a local woodworking show that just happened to be the weekend after we had the trees taken down. Some things just work out for us woodworkers. We let the wood dry for the next couple of years in my shed and have since used some of it to build the cabinetry you see in my shop pics.

Back to the construction - It took a while to get to where we are now as I have a full time job with the Canadian Navy that takes me away from home frequently such as my trip to the Sudan in 2008. I did manage to get everything built within a couple of years and am still working on completing the cabinetry. It is currently on hold as I serve another overseas mission - this time to Afghanistan.

The shop itself is connected to the house through what was the back door. It has enough room for a serious hobbyist to have all my tools and room to move around in the shop. The ceilings are 9' at the highest point lowering to just over 8' (to assist with the required slope of the deck above). I built a separate room to house my compressor to assist with noise reduction. There is a space for every tool in my shop which now includes all the basic tools (planer, jointer, table saw, router table, wood lathe, drill press, radial arm saw, chop saw and massive dust collector).



As I mentioned, the shop is still under construction but only to finish building the remainder of the cabinets. It has been a long and challenging project but worth every bit of time and money we have put into it. Once I retire from the Military, I plan on continuing my work with wood as a serious hobbyist. There is nothing better than spending a day in the shop seeing a project transition from rough lumber to a beautiful project for the house.

Speaking of projects - what kind do I build? Well for now, mostly just things we need around the house such as kids furniture, desks, entertainment centers, etc. I have not yet made a business of my wood shop, but that is a possibility we may consider in the future. Have a look at my projects that I have posted to see more.

Thank you all for visiting my shop - I hope you all enjoyed the quick write up about how the shop came to be. Please feel free to leave any type of feedback on my lumberjocks page - I always enjoy hearing what people have to say about my shop, tools, etc.

Have a great Woodworking Day!" ~ Wisty.

You can read more about his shop/deck/Wii Room here.
 
#244 ·
Wisty,

Sounds like you are well on your way. I wish you all the luck in the world.
I finally got to the point of being able to do some of the more fun and difficult projects after starting my shop in 2000. I retired in 2000 and was called back to work for a couple of years. The shop is not completed as of yet, I expect it will never be in my lifetime.

Don
 
#247 ·
Dennisgrosen

This interview is from the April 2011 issue of the LumberJocks' eMag. Thanks to Dennisgrosen for taking the time to do this interview.



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

it all started i think the same summer my parents build their house; I was on summer vacation at my uncle and aunt's and he had this lovely basement with a lot of different handtools - a candystore to come down into for me. Even today, I wouldn' be able to tell you what half of the tools was used for and were. He was a real DIY-man, a man of all trades sort of.

When I was there that summer I got this weird thing over me - I wanted to make a box to my mother as a gift and my uncle said, "okay here is the bench and a 4×4 piece of pine ….build" ……BOOOH I said and hoped he would show me how to and he did. Probably the worst box ever made …LOL but it had small brass hinge and a brass hook as a lock and a tiny little room inside,
not big enough to have a pair of earrings in.

The day I was going home to my parents he came with a little gift and said this is yours now, hope you can use it. The room inside was made with the two chisels there was the gift. He must have seen something in me …LOL

Later we got Sloyd (= woodworking in the elementery school) and learned to use frame saws, planes and chisels. Little by little, 2-4 hours a week, we made a bunch of small projects that the teacher said we should make and were told what tools we were restricted to use, building up the confidence of the young people :) In the rest of the school time until I stopped at 10 grade, the last year I made a simple relaxing chair and a sofa table / coffee table of my own design sort of
done only with unplugged hand tools; the only power tool we was allowed to use was the drill press.

The next many years it was more or less only DIY work on 8-9 houses beside my parents. I refurb/restored, together with friends, and building R/c airplanes and the last twelve years on my own house.

A couple of years ago I really got interested in woodworking, in a sick period, and at the same time I was without a job but fortunately I had my computer and start searching the net both to learn new things and to search for woodworking tools and how to maintain them, then a weird idea of one day in the future making one or two planes myself …:) In that two year period I learned more about tools, DIY, and woodworking than the in first 45 years of living



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 tiring of only doing DIY work and the only magazine we can get in my country, when I started to buy it, had one or two real woodworking projects with pictures and the article but then they switched to only DIY articles about house refurbing so I was glad to have the internet to search on :) and we have no place in Denmark as far as I know of where we can walk in from the street and buy good hand tools like planes and chisels but I still remember, not so much the building, but how proud I was and the feeling it gave me every time I used my homemade furniture. I guess you will have the same experience if you try to make a hand tool yourself and use it in the shop :)

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

After I had discovered that I actually had been bit by the woodworking bug many years ago
and got the virus back, then it kept coming back with shorter and shorter periods
saying, "go for it go for it" with a bigger and bigger voice and after I discovered LumberJocks and a few other sites + you-tube a couple of years ago the hunger has been ever growing, but on a real tight budget it's going very slow but fortunately I have been able to buy used tools (you can see how in my bragging tool gloat series .. lol) and now I have started to restore them little by little so they are ready for the day I get a real shop in a new place

4. What inspires you regarding wood creations?

I still don´t know yet, I think, with all the great projects I see here on LumberJocks and a voice screaming, "I want to make them all, every single one of them." I know there are some categories I probably never will attempt to make do to the fact that I´m not artistic at all but I do admire those who can carve and scroll in free form and make sculpture art. But for the moment I look more at shop/tool projects and I think its natural in this stage that I am building up a tool collection and figuring out what I want to work with and how I will work in the future.



5. What are the greatest challenges that you have met along the way?

The greatest challenge beside a toooo tight budget …lol….is a personal thing and really hasn't much to do with woodworking. It is my ability to write and read in English correctly and fast enough. Its the same in Danish don´t worry ….lol- but that has something to do with a car accident back in 1981where I had to start from scratch of learning to walk, talk, read and write again. It did take me nearly 3½ years to get out of the wheels and back to work
but I still have constant back pains…..a minor thing that's just bugging me :)

The best defense to these kind of troubles is to attack them with the head high and a good sense of both humor and black humor and to laugh a lot; the bigger smile you can keep on your face the easier/faster you go through it.

And thanks to all LJs - you have helped me a lot every single day just by being who you are

6. What is the greatest reward that you have received from woodworking?

I can only say that it must be the journey when making the project. I know what I said
before about the feeling of using a homemade thing, but from the days when I flew with
R/c airplanes it wasn't so much flying with them that I liked, of course I was proud when they actually could fly the first time I tried them, but where most R/c pilots would maybe use 100 hours in the building process I probably would use 6-700 hours on the same plane and did :)
In other words, this thing of making something with your own hands help me to
relax and find myself again after stressing on the job

7. What is your favourite tool that you use for woodworking?
8. What is your favourite creation in/for your woodworking?

As a totally newbie myself to the woodworking trade, still more or less struggling with the first board of pine :) I can honestly tell you …..I don´t know yet, except if you count the computer, internet and handbooks for tools :)

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

As a newbie I don´t think I'm the right person to answer that …. but none the less
I will try to give my humble opinion.

Read, read, read, ask, ask, ask, learn, learn, learn and the best way is of course to have a master of the trade with good teaching skills by your side :) Not many of us have that opportunity but you can take short classes, read books see video's, and exchange knowledge and ideas with other woodworkers and when you think you have the knowledge of one thing on the hard disk
in you brain, then practice and practice again and again and again. Every time you gain new knowledge you still have to work with the old skills. Keep on trying to make things a new way, even when you think you have a full proven way of doing it.

Wow that was a mouthful and I still have to figure out if it works …. LOL … but I have been told so many times here on LJ and in my own country that is how you expand your skills ….. so I guess we have to believe them … :)

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

On my big journey through the internet I stumbled on The Woodwhisperer, Charles Neil and Tommy T-chisel on you-tube, among others, and many of them had their own website/homepage to go to and a lot of them have links of interesting/related links box. One day I had seen a few of Woodwhisperer´s video´s I thought, " what is this Lumberjocks link and what is behind it" .... after all I had seen the link on other great woodworkers site too … so one day…. well I had to try

......wow was that an eyeopener to see so many beautiful projects in one place. So after having been lurking through all the 12-13000 projects a year was gone by and I finely joined LJ :) and have never looked back since. I still look at other sites, don´t worry :) but such a warmer welcome and finer people I have never seen on other forum sites.

What is it that keeps me coming back several times a day? ..... beside its a very well build site, that is very easy to use, with an exceptional number of extremely well made projects and blogs
then it is you LJ´s for being who you are. It doesn't matter if you are a professional or a newbie like me you are always willing to share both knowledge, histories and life experiences with each other and always helping if someone needs it.

This social thing of hearing about members visiting each other, Lumberjock picnics /meetings/ shows is fantastic. Maybe you are crazy but finer people to hang out with can't be found on any corner :)

I´m proud to call you my friends even though I haven´t meet you yet :)
Thanks for being who you are and for keeping on making LumberJocks the best site to join.
 
#248 ·
Great interview, Miss Debbie! With a great friend to many too! Dennis has been a wonderful friend and inspiration to so many people here on LJ's and I can say for myself he has helped me many times with his friendship, knowledge and humor. Thanks Dennis for sharing this bit of yourself with all of us! Lumberjocks wouldn't be the same without you! :)

Sheila
 
#268 ·
Napaman

This interview with Napaman is from our May/June 2011 issue of our LumberJocks' eMag



1. How did you first get started working with wood?
I began my wood working in 1982--in the 7th grade…when I signed up for the Woodworking class at Venado Middle School. The teacher Mr. Diederich was great…and I still consider him my favorite teacher of all time and a big influence on my own teaching (although I am a Social Studies teacher). His class was welcoming…focusing on safety and fun, he made it great for all levels as he had beginning and advanced students all at once…I took the class as many "tri-mesters" as possible…and then again in high school, but for only one year there.

Then NOTHING for many years…until we bought our house 6 years ago…then we started looking at some nice outdoor furniture--and I said to my wife…"Hey--let me spend the same amount on tools…and you will have a set of furniture and a lot more!" I have the tools…and I am proud to say the furniture is collecting (although not as nice) in the back yard.



2. What was it about woodworking that initially caught your interest, enticing you to get into it at the level you are now?
The initial interest was the middle school class…but I think in my "re-birth" to wood working it has really been Lumberjocks that has kept me going…I joined when it was much smaller and you could post a project and it would stay on the front page for a couple days! Getting a chance to interact with skilled, caring woodworkers from all over the world has probably kept me going longer than with other hobbies…I have started so many hobbies over time--but with LJ's I have kept it going…I think my desire to post my project when it is done keeps me going…



3. Tell us a bit of history of your journey from that beginning to where you are today
Well I told the history a bit already…but my level…I think I am moving away from the "beginner" label…lol…I have a hard time considering myself any better since I see so much talent out there…but I have learned a lot in the last 5 years. I still want to be able to repeat some work…it seems like every time I build something I don't get to repeat those skills-at least not on the same project.



4. What inspires you regarding wood creations?
I am inspired by everyone and everything. I love looking at all the great work…which seems to get better and better on LJ's…I love scrolling through work and finding new projects to try…I love the pieces that have some design element--art in it…But it was a year and a half ago I started looking at every boat project--which gave me the bug to look into boat building…now I am building a 20 foot sail boat! If you would have asked me five years ago whether I would be building a sail boat big enough to take my family…I would have said no way…but I am now…slowly, but I am looking forward to summer for it to really take off when I have more time.



5. What are the greatest challenges that you have met along the way?
Time. I seem to block myself from going out in the shop when I only have an hour…since I am a teacher I admit I do get big blocks of time…so on the "regular" weekends or after work I actually never seem to get moving…looking ahead to vacations when I have a longer block of time-so all that time back fires on me compared to someone who has less time (excuses excuses!)

…also CONFIDENCE…I still have to think everything through-even straight cuts on my table saw seem to take me way too long…because I seem to over think everything--from a safety standpoint I know this is good…but the lack of confidence seems to block me more than anything…I wish I could just relax and enjoy the problems more…see them as challenges and new opportunities to learn--ironically that is the way I teach--but I can't convince myself to enjoy the learning curve when it comes to my own learning.



6. What is the greatest reward that you have received from woodworking?
By far it is the improvement…from where I started I do see progress…if you look at my first projects to some of the things I am completing now. I love the fact that I have become more of a problem solver…as a teacher you see a lot of woodworking programs getting cut out of schools-and from my experience this is a huge mistake…the problem solving and critical thinking skills demanded in woodworking can be carried over into so many other disciplines…I guess this improvement is both a tangible and personal gain…I just wish my gains would come faster!



7. What is your favourite tool that you use for woodworking?
My shopsmith. Well this is more than one tool…but for me in my small shop and my humble start with only a few tools…the purchase of my Shopsmith took me from nothing to a real shop overnight…although SS has its critics…for me it has been huge and the overriding reason why I am still going…

8. What is your favourite creation in/for your woodworking?
Last summer my wife and I built the Trellis/Deck Bench. I am really proud of this. It is completely of my own design…which had been bouncing around in my head for several years. The design It solves many problems…when the vines grow up it will provide nice privact…and it really adds to the space. I love how the bench solved the strength issue--in the space I could not have dug holes for trellis posts…so the sandwich 2×4 technique I came up with really gives it strength and looks good!



9. What tips would you give to someone just starting out or currently struggling with woodworking?
Don't give up. Ask lots of questions. Buy good tools…the saying I have seen here is so true in my experience: "Buy the best you can afford." I tried starting with cheaper tools, but what is the point if they don't work. I still shop bargains but I try to go with better brands as much as possible.

10. How did you find LumberJocks and what is it that keeps you coming back?
I found LJ's by luck…I had just rec'd my first issue of Popular Woodworking and there was one tiny paragraph about a side table contest…I loved the site immediately and it really opened up a whole new world to me. I really don't believe I would have kept up the woodworking without LJ's…seriously…it has served as such a good resource for inspiration, knowledge and good people. I find myself wanting to share my work with the LJ community as much as my own family!

_Thanks again to Napaman for taking the time to do this interview!
 
#281 ·
Patron

This interview, with Patron, is from the June-July 2011 issue of the LumberJock eMag


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

as a kid , head high to a dinner table

i would walk under them and wonder why the stain and finish
would stop at the edge , and not continue underneath .
the bottoms and inside edges had glue and stain fingerprints
and score marks from tooling left un-sanded and rough.
screw heads not set or the slots all rounded out
looked real shoddy and rushed .
this started me checking things out more thoroughly for quality work .
like a little inspector grading furniture and house construction details .

growing up both in mexico and the US alternately ,

and seeing furniture shops where hand made was the norm .
and some well made and some very tacky built pieces ,
i began to appreciate the difference in quality .
in mexico the standard stain was coffee and wax ,
and is still used for 'rustic' pieces exported to this day .

traveling around the states in those years ,

houses were still built by a crew of two or more ,
all the work still done by hand too ,
with crosscut and rip saws hammers and hand planes .

then the cabinets were built right on site

by trim carpenters with whatever was left over

the skill saw made it's entrance ,

and the 'contractor' had one to speed the work up
one man cutting and the rest nailing
till then all bracing was inset diagonals at the corners .
then evolved to flat bracing dadoed to the faces of the studs
and chiseled out with chisels and hammers .

then plywood came into use

and walls were reinforced at the corners
with full sheets without the need for bracing
a big speed advancement in construction .

crews could move from house to house
in sub-developments doing just their 'specialty ' work
form work , framers , siding , roofers , stairs
'wallboard' a new idea came into being , flooring , trim .
cabinet shops began supplying the homes
with finished kitchens and bathes .

an 'industry' was born .



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

my father was a vet from the 'great war' studying art in mexico
he and my mother divorced early ,
his dream then was to sail around the world in his own sailboat .
i didn't know him too long , but his name and his dream all that passed to me .
i began to dream of faraway places and people (national geographic stuff) ,
and started reading boat building books , knowing i would never have the moneys to buy a boat .
so figured i better learn how to make one .
and sent out to fend for myself . dish washing in greasy spoons all i was qualified for .
and worked for $5 a graveyard shift , and 1 hamburger a night . $30 a week my pay , my room $22.50 a week .
hitchhiking around the country in those years seeking sanctuary ,
(and staying one step clear of the law) i got to move up to ditch digging ,
as the contractors wouldn't hire me as i had no 'experience' .
and in a borrowed suit (what a sight) was interviewed for a job as a 'runner'
on wall street , which i got on the condition i come back in a better suit .
the two CEO's i talked to (think 'trading places" with don ameche and dan acroyd)
told me i was the 'the most important man in america' as wall street was 'the backbone of america) .
i took important papers around to all the major banks and insurance companies
to be signed by presidents and CEO's and returned to 63 wall street Johnson and Higgins insurance brokers .
sometimes with a hand cuff to an attaché case to my wrist , the only time i was paid to wear them .
well when they wanted to send me to classes to become an accountant and send me to south america
as i spoke spanish that did it for me , i quit and moved to a cold water flat in the bowery in the village (grenwich)
and got a job washing dishes at the 'bitter end' bar , and made grilled cheese sandwiches for mary ,
of 'peter , paul , and mary' who sang there off and on , bob dylan and i were both 'poets' then
and because of our mutual interest in arlene were rivals for her attention .
she chose bob mitchell who owned 'the fat black pussycat' coffee house instead ,
and went to spain with him , and gave him the clap , saving both bob and i for later fame .

i wound up in NYC at 17 and answered an add for work

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

well having started in mexico amidst artists and musicians and poets (think 'on the road' by jack karouac)
and learning to smoke pot from my mother , i tried my hand at dealing , but was a terrible dealer ,
as i let the customers 'test' the goods first , resulting in no sales , but many 'friends' .
wound up getting busted at the border in arizona with an ounce of smuggled pot ,
and got probation and was sent to nevada to do my three years probation
which i broke going to mexico to help a friend start a 'youth hostel'
and had a vision of hiding for the rest of my life , which i didn't like .
so i bought a suit and came back and walked into the sherifs office in reno and turned myself in .
wound up in a federal penitentiary for 1 1/2 years as a plumber
and fought to be let into the carpentry class as that had always been my dream .
with the help of the instructor Mr Morinaga that was made possible my last 6 months there .
i became the 'shop foreman' after the first month .
we learned hand tools and speed jigs for them ,
then power hand tools and their jigs .
then machinery and their jigs for 'production' work .
and built 'mock' houses and roofs .
from cement to turn key , every thing to build a complete building .

long story short .

i became the 'vocational trainee' of the year and got a pen and pencil set
and got to have turkey dinner with the warden
and watch 'orka the whale' as our special reward .
and could listen to music after 10 when lights out happened everywhere
except for us .

buy now i was in the 'honor' wing and had my own key to my cell

as i was getting ready to leave Mr Morinaga told me to turn my back
at work in the street work i had been trained to do ,
as others would see what i could do and take my work in the future .
and went to say goodbye to my teacher and mentor ,
and told him that yes , that was the way of the world .
but it had taken me all those years and prison to finally get to learn my trade ,
and that i would go and shout it from the rooftops ,
if i could help even one person to not have to struggle as i had done .
if i can't stay in front of my own students , then i have no business being in that position .
reading , looking at old movies and checking out doors , floors ;and furniture .
and boats of course , having spent 10 years in florida working with cuban boatbuilders
who worked all by hand , they taught me hand work , and i taught them modern tools .
i am still friends with many to this day .
old 'pros' are the hardest to teach , as they insist on doing what got them by so far.
the works of masters in all the venues made me open to the idea
that if these men could do some of these great works ,
that i could give it my best to do so too .

my art parents ad study gave me the ability to do and try new and innovative things



4. What inspires you regarding wood creations?

the grace of a sailing ship

the changing visions of Escher's work
the simple japanese art forms
green and green
a cathedral with lofty arched ceilings
knowing all the stones were cut to wooden patterns
all the manufactured things we use in everyday life
from gears for machinery
to engine blocks to cast stoves
all started as wooden 'plugs'
and molds made from them
by pattern makers with skills akin to machinists
just the beauty of wood as it gives it's enduring gift



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

learning to be and believe i could be worthy of the work i was asked to do

and finding my own abilities to step out of the mold of others ideas about woodworking
and letting the wood and buildings dictate their own needs and beauty
changing preset ideas to allow the path to lead in the final work

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

the gift that the good Lord has given me

others get the finished work
but in my heart and in my hands
i have the gift that is mine and it gets added to and grows with each new work



7. What is your favorite tool that you use for woodworking?

on job sites just about any tool i may need

if one breaks then find another
or change the work to suit the tools still working
or buy another even a cheap one
to finish the work as ordered and on time

in my shop i have 4 table saws from a uni-saw to cheap table tops

all can be used for different cuts with or without jigs
5 band saws all with different blade widths
no adjusting guides just buy blades by the 1/2 dozen
and change as needed takes minuets and i'm back to work
3 jointers from 8" to 4" each for different size of wood
3 planers from 10" to 20" again different size wood needs
air vacuum and routers and sanding and spraying

all my tools for work flow so i don't have to stop

and mess with changing them over
and lose momentum and interest

and tons of hand tools

for that hands on time or some forgotten step

8. What is your favorite creation in/for your woodworking?

as a 'carpenter' walking around in a full size building

and being part of it's 'birth'

as a woodworker not asking anyone what style cost or time i have

making boxes has always been my 'relax'
as it is just as demanding and teaches so much
on a personal level



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

don't limit yourself to 'conventional or established' thinking

stop look and listen ask study observe

but follow your heart

if you make a mistake
fix it and learn
if you take the wrong turn
back up and take the other road
be adaptable

some of my best ideas

come from the way the scraps fall around the tools

don't be shy
all the wood has a place in some project
you just need to be open to it when it is time



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

my younger brother suggested that i needed to use my new computer

to do more than write e-mails and said google 'woodworking blog sites'

what's a blog says i

just try it says he

well lumberjocks was the first site listed
so i clicked it
and well the rest is history as they say
i have never looked at another
unless someone posts a link to them

none of which i found as friendly or as awesome as LJ's

and i will admit LJ's is my 'provenance' store room for all my work
(which i do tutorials about to prove i did them
and not just took credit for them)
and i get the chance to share and teach in a fashion
for all the 47 years in this business
and all the work i have done
my name appeared only once
as i was off to the next work
as others stayed and somehow got the credit
(i still have yet to see any of their work elsewhere)
(and bang heads) with woodworkers of all ages and talents

here i have the chance to rub elbows

the thing i like most i guess
is that all our work is shared
and we aren't competing with each other



Thank you, Patron, for this interview, for all you do for this site, for the world of woodworking, and for life in general!
 
#320 ·
Lew

This interview, with Lew, is from the July 2011 issue of the LumberJocks' eMag.



1. How did you first get started working with wood?
My first recollection of woodworking was playing with Lincoln Logs. The smell of those pieces and creating a structure seemed to satisfy something in me.


2. What was it about woodworking that initially caught your interest, enticing you to get into it at the level you are now?
Making things has always been part of my mindset. At the end of the day, when there are visible, tangible results there is a feeling of great satisfaction. All three of my paying, lifetime jobs were working in areas where, at the end of the day, it was difficult to see any progress.

3. Tell us a bit of history of your journey from that beginning to where you are today
At a very young age, my grandmother bought me plastic models. Taking all those pieces and ending up with a finished item was one of my happiest memories. As I got older, making things from wood seemed a natural progression. My grandfather had a workshop full of homemade power tools. He was always making or fixing things. He inspired me to take the Building Construction Vocational Course in high school. My destiny was to become a carpenter and build homes. The US Navy changed all that. When the Vietnam War started, I enlisted to be a Seabee. Turned out they need Electronics Technicians more than they needed carpenters. Using the Navy electronics training, I spent the next 36 years working in electronics and computers- 33 of those years were as a teacher in a Vocational School. Although it was not woodworking, it provided the income to buy tools and machines to pursue my hobby.


4. What inspires you regarding wood creations?
More and more it is the natural beauty of wood. The feel of the grain, the aroma when cut, the visible lines of its growth and the inclusion of the natural characteristics that nature created. For me, all these things add to the beauty of a project.

5. What are the greatest challenges that you have met along the way?
Impatience!! Working in electronics and computers really destroyed with my perspective of time. My training taught me to think in nano seconds and everything happens instantly. This is a real paradox because teaching kids a new skill requires an infinite amount of patience. It was easy for me, in the classroom, to train those kids- repeating the steps as often as necessary to achieve success. However, when alone in the shop, there is a quick reverting to an "instant result" mentality. I must keep reminding myself that it is the journey and not the destination that provides the greatest pleasure- although I do not always listen.


6. What is the greatest reward that you have received from woodworking?
The greatest reward for me is seeing a completed project come together and used for its intended purpose. A recent project was for my brother-in-law's church. It was nice to know someone thought enough of my abilities to trust me with that responsibility. Even nicer to know how pleased they were with the results.


7. What is your favourite tool that you use for woodworking?
Maybe the lathe, but it is difficult to pick a single favorite. Right now, I am making more rolling pins. At first glance, these look like a lathe project, yet they require the use of just about every power tool in the shop. The real magic- when the Celtic Knot appears- happens on the lathe. The lathe does provide almost instant gratification and an outlet for more creativity than many of the other tools.


8. What is your favourite creation in/for your woodworking?
We really like to cook and making items for the kitchen are my favorite projects. Pepper grinders, saltcellars, sugar bowls, cutting boards and rolling pins all add to the enjoyment of cooking. However, if you ask Mimi she would say it is her china closet. The first "real" piece made in my basement shop and the one cut in half to get it up the stairs. Another valuable lesson learned!


9. What tips would you give to someone just starting out or currently struggling with woodworking?
Read, ask questions, and use the Internet for research. Each of us learns differently- some by reading, others by watching, and still others by simply trying it on their own. Lumberjocks has provided a source for just about every learning style. If you are having difficulty or just want to learn something new- it is here!

10. How did you find LumberJocks and what is it that keeps you coming back?
It was by accident while searching for information on how to use a skew chisel. The site was is addictive. At first, it was easy to keep up with the projects and posts- commenting on most of them but now there are so many great projects, ideas and information just scanning new entries really keeps me busy.


Thanks, Lew, for taking the time to do this interview!
 
#321 ·
Lew, I totally enjoyed reading this interview and looking at your wonderful projects. It sounds like you have had an interesting life and I loved reading about it. You are a fine Lumberjock and I'm glad that I have gotten to know a little more about you.

MsDebbie, these interviews are great - keep 'em coming.
 
#334 ·
Purplev

This interview with PURPLEV is from the August 2011 issue of the LJ eMag.



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

My first few projects (spread over several years) were out of necessity for some tables/cabinets/shelvings for personal use that required custom dimensions, and custom features. It wasn't anything much to look at, just some plywood cut with a circular saw and screws holding it together. no glue, no intricate joinery, but it did what it was built for and did it well.



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

It wasn't really at the beginning but when I started planning for projects that would actually be more visible I unintentionally adopted the concept that would stick with me from that moment on which is "I can do this better" which of course is a very general principle and personal to each.

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

As I was saying, it all started from necessity, and soon my eyes opened a bit too wide. As I was looking around I could see how I would eventually build everything around me - full kitchen, dining set, bedrooms sets, living room set and the list goes on. I always did want to build my own house, but I think that one would have to remain a dream.

I started researching online and at local libraries for reading materials and videos about building anything and everything from building houses, kitchens, flooring, furniture, boxes, bending wood and whatever I could lay my hands on (FWW has a good selection of videos for these for those are might be interested). I also started accumulating machinery and tools to help with making everything I would want to make and it felt like being trapped in a cycle of sorts, trapped in an addiction of woodworking and a race for knowledge.

Using techniques I would pick up from books and articles I then started incorporating those into whatever project I was working on. My motto is to push myself beyond my comfort level and beyond what I am familiar with in order to learn, expand my abilities, and develop experience that I would otherwise not have. Sure, the first (and second… and third…and…) time around won't look like picture perfect and I will surely complain about it but at least there is something to complain about and something to improve upon as opposed to nothing at all. Another thing that I know from other fields is that unless you actually do something you won't find your weak spots and what needs improvement as in theory everything comes out just perfect.

For lack of time, seasonal and other limitations my biggest challenge these days is project and time management, trying to condense as much project progress into small segments of time without losing focus on the big picture. This also made me reevaluate my woodworking goals and I think (and this may very well change over time) that I will have to put aside my aspirations to building an entire household and divert my focus to taking up on smaller projects (size wise). I also feel at times that by driving myself to bigger goals I've acquired too much (tools), but now that I have it, it would be a shame to give it up. If I had to do this all over again I would probably stick to more hand tools and less machinery that means less space requirements, and just the same results (for me).

And this is where I am today, trying to focus on what projects to do and what projects NOT to do, finding the time to allocate to shop time and finding the personal motivation drive to get in the zone. Incorporating something new in each project and use the least amount of electricity while doing so.



4. What inspires you regarding wood creations?

A project or a blog on LJ, or a flow of grain in a board. A very precise and clean joint, or an idea of a custom build for something unusual or not-found-in-stores. structures and shapes in nature also can really inspire me in many ways - not always in ways that makes me want to replicate, but they form ideas that generate into other ideas that grow into something else.



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

Cut wood square! no really - it's not that easy. the only way I deal with this is practice practice practice - and have proper body and saw orientation which is interlinked with practicing it with handsawing, and sneaking in on cuts on power saws (which allows me to assess misalignments before it's too late and adjust to it before it's cut too short).



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

For me it's seeing my progression from piece to piece.

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

This is probably unusual, but since I ended up building and having a proper workbench later in the game, my workbench is my delight in the shop. I have many moments now that are "oh, I can do THIS with my workbench that I never could before… so much easier than trying to hold the piece with my toes, knees and teeth!"



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

I like making tools the most which is ironic because I would then try to incorporate the "I can do this better and nicer" for things that are out of sight, and not really meant to be pretty. this also takes away the time that I could potentially use for making things that ARE for show and ARE woodworking projects. But since I am not running a production shop, and don't have to conform to efficiency and deadlines it allows me to 'do it once and do it right' and with more comfortable and better looking tools the overall woodworking for hobby is more fun and I have a feeling people here can relate.



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

It's hard giving general tips as woodworking is so vast and tips are usually very specific but if looking back I would say, slow down and don't buy into the 'he who has the most tools wins' slogan that only serves the suppliers. what I learnt a bit too late is that most woodworking machines are great IF you are running a production shop and need to generate a lot of identical parts and fast, but for a hobby nature they mostly just serve as space takers and time consumers (maintenance) and their effectiveness level drops significantly.



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

As I was trying to improve my skills, and searched online for woodworking related materials I came upon Marc Spagnuolo (The Wood Whisperer at http://thewoodwhisperer.com) who is a great guy, with a great personality, that delivers just as great content woodworking. In one of his blogs he mentioned some discussion that was taking place on LJ, I came to check it out and never left. I can't put my finger on it, and honestly I don't really care to find out cause that might ruin some of the magic LJ has, but I like coming here to see how fellow LJs are doing with their woodworking or in general. I like the fact that we can share and be a part of each other's developments in the projects, get new ideas, see how some things are done, discuss how things should be done, assist where needed, and see the project that could be overseas come to fruition. no bounderies, no politics, no religion, nothing to stir up differences except the tools of choice and the nature of the projects we partake in. We are all the same people. Shalom (which stands for "hello","goodbye",and "peace" in Hebrew)!

Sharon

Thanks Sharon for taking the time to share your story with us.
 
#352 ·
degoose

This interview with degoose is from the September 2011 issue of our eMag



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

Well Ms Debbie, quite a few years ago, we needed a wall unit, for the TV, in a house we had just bought… it was an older house and we wanted solid timber furniture… well, the pieces I liked, we could not afford and what we could afford, we really did not like… so I said to my wife, "If I had a router, I could build us a unit…. what is so hard about that…" Little did I know just what I was getting myself..



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

I have always been interested in timber furniture, the colour, the grain, the almost sensual feel … smooth and soft and still living…. I knew I wanted to be able to make furniture and items from wood… I just didn't know how…



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

I never had the time or money, or the know how to make my own…So I went to the library and started reading about how to make furniture…and am proud of being self-taught.
So from that rather naive beginning, reading magazines, buying books and watching every woodworking/home improvement show on TV… yes the TV was in the Unit I built… It has since been replaced as well as a few houses along the way…Each house was sold to buy a bigger workshop… with a house …I made a mistake of telling friends what I was doing and they all wanted something built… so each time I sold a piece, I took the profit and bought another tool….and learnt how to use it..It certainly has not been any easy road… but then if it was easy everyone would be doing it…
I keep learning and I try to keep improving my skills and I think it shows in my work..

4. What inspires you regarding wood creations?

My early inspirations came from watching Norm Abrams and David J Marks… now I am inspired by some of the wonderful woodworkers on Lumberjocks.
Again I have a large collection of books including David Savage's latest… "Furniture with Soul" and Darrell Peart's "Greene & Greene.. Design Elements for the Workshop." from which I draw inspiration
I am particularly taken with Asian inspired design and have some projects in the works with this theme..
I seem to be moving towards culinary woodwork… woodwork for the kitchen/dining rooms.



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

Initially, my greatest challenge was not having any training or knowledge, so it was reading and watching… the second thing was the fact that I had no tools… apart from the router that I told my wife I needed to make furniture… a little knowledge can be a dangerous thing.. I though I could do everything with a router…..I had to borrow a circular saw to start with…
Now I own a fully equipped workshop…



6. What is the greatest reward that you have received from woodworking?

I think the recognition I have received on this site from all the members … teaching my first class online and this request for an interview…

End Grain Cutting Board Class

7. What is your favourite tool that you use for woodworking?
Well I would have to say the Router…lol… but seriously I do not have a favourite tool… I love all my toys.. er… tools equally…

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

I would have to say that my most favourite project was the curved weave trivet.



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

Number one tip would be have fun and play safe…enjoy your woodworking journey.
Do not be afraid to ask questions,
Do give everything a try… even if it is not great … it will be…keep trying..

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

I lucked out while using Google… I lurked around for a while before joining… I think that many of us keep coming back because it is overall a very friendly, helping, sharing and caring website.. I know I have made many many friends on here and many of them keep inspiring me…and I believe I have a lot to share…so I will be here as long the members want me..
It is amazing… I can not think of a time before LJs…



Thanks to degoose for this interview and for all he does here at LumberJocks.com
 
#387 ·
Cajunpen

This interview, with Cajunpen, is from the October 2011 issue of our eMag



1. How did you first get started working with wood?
I can remember being about 8 or 9 years old and building my first scooter. All of the older guys will remember the old scooters - taking an old pair of the iron roller skates that used to "clip" to your shoes. Put two wheels in front and two in back. A piece of wood for the bottom, joined by a 90 deg. board for the riser and handles attached. Man what fun! I've been fascinated and involved with woodworking since that time.



2. What was it about woodworking that initially caught your interest, enticing you to get into it at the level you are now?
The feeling that I got from taking a plain piece of wood and making it into something of beauty OR usefulness struck a chord in me that has resounded all these years. For example my first project, using real tools, like a table saw, bandsaw, etc. was at about 10 years old. I had access to a woodworking shop. With help I built a toolbox for my Dad. That really confirmed for me that this was something that I would always love doing.
Fast forward 54 years and I'm still in love with woodworking. I've actually gotten a little better at it, but am still in awe of some of the work displayed on the LJ site.



3. Tell us a bit of history of your journey from that beginning to where you are today
I did a little woodworking on and off my whole life. In the early 70's I built my first little shop. I had very meager tools to start with, mostly hand tools like a circular saw (still have it), electric drill and a few hand tools. I started doing small projects and found that the smaller projects were more fulfilling for me.
I began accumulating tools in the late 90's and have amassed quite a collection of woodworking tools, including a couple of "techie" type tools, like the Ringmaster and Carvewright. I have worked in my shop intermittently for the past 25 years, actually going as long as 8 months between trips to the shop. Since I retired in 2010 I have been into the shop at least once a day, most days I'm in there 4-5 hours (I think my wife enjoys my time in the shop).



4. What inspires you regarding wood creations?
The fine Craftsmen and women on the LumberJocks site is my biggest inspiration. I have learned so much just watching the work of some of the Master Craftsmen that we have here.
I love everything about woodworking - just the smell of wood in my shop in the morning is inspiring. The ability to take a piece of a tree and milling it into a piece of lumber, and then taking that piece of lumber and turning that into something that is not only useful, but if done with patience and care, can be an object of beauty, just amazes me. Taking a concept into the shop and walking out with a beautiful jewelry box, or clock is just the most relaxing thing that I can think of doing. I wish everyone had the woodworking bug.



5. What are the greatest challenges that you have met along the way? (and how did you overcome them)
My greatest challenge has always been a lack of space. I have a 10×22' shop, but I really should have built a 14×22' (but that's a whole new story that involves a Fig tree!) I have overcome, for the most part, my space limitations by making most of the tools mobile. I roll everything to an open space in the shop and work from there. The only exception is the Tablesaw and Bandsaw.

(Cajunpen's Workshop)

6. What is the greatest reward that you have received from woodworking?
My greatest joy is taking a piece that I have crafted in my shop and handing it to someone, as a gift, and watching the expression on their face. If I've done my job in the shop correctly - you will see a great smile and that makes it all worthwhile for me. I have not tried to sell any of my pieces yet and as long as I can afford to keep buying the wood and giving it away (to my family mostly) I will be happy to do just that.



7. What is your favorite tool that you use for woodworking?
I'm not sure that I have a "favorite", but if I do, it will be the Lathe. The lathe is the only tool in my shop that provides immediate satisfaction, at least for me. I only wish that I had the abilities of some of my LJ brothers and sisters.



8. What is your favorite creation in/for your woodworking?
I have not thought much about which is my favorite project, but if I had to pick one it would be the Pen Case Storage box that I made this year. It is one of the few projects that I have made that was "for me".



9. What tips would you give to someone just starting out or currently struggling with woodworking?
Someone just starting out would be wise to join the LumberJocks Community. There is a world of experience available for the asking. I have yet to find a LJ person that is not willing to offer help when asked. The next thing that I would suggest is that they learn woodworking safety and practice it like a religion. Buy the best tools that you can afford and read, read, read, read. There are a wealth of Woodworking videos available that were not available in the beginning for me - Newbies should take advantage of the free resources.



10. How did you find LumberJocks and what is it that keeps you coming back?
It's been awhile since I found the LJ site and I don't recall for sure how I found it - but the Community and people are what keeps me coming back. It's strange, but I've got Friends (at least I consider them friends) here that I've never met or spoke to. Lumberjocks is just a endless source of woodworking knowledge - there for the asking.

Thanks to Cajunpen for taking the time to do this interview.
 
#394 ·
Mafe

(This interview with MAFE is from the November 2011 issue of our LumberJocks' eMag)



Will you please give me the hammer Mads?
Without thinking I grabbed the hammer and gave it over to my grandfather, and also the little box of nails that I had spent the evening before pulling out of some old boards, then straightened on a piece of metal and finally put in little tins with two drops of oil in each and then the little shake that I can still hear like a sweet music from the past.
We stood on a ladder at his farm, were working on a solar powered shower made from a old living room heater painted black and put in a box with a glass plate on top. This provided my grandparents with free showers in the warmer season for years; the only thing important was that you went there at the moment when the water had the right temperature so a look at the sky and the sun was needed when you were in the mood for a shower. Of course no soap or only a special organic one on occasions since the shower was in the vegetable garden next to the greenhouse he had built from old windows from a farm they were tearing down nearby.


It was not written in the cards since my grandfather was a naval commander and by the way worked for five years in Washington DC, but he took an early retirement and lived my grandparents' common dream of becoming organic and self-supplying, bought a farm and planted little Christmas trees on all the fields so when they woke up twenty years later they lived in a forest. People around must have thought my grandfather was mad when he moved in because he made a sign for the house saying 'Skovly' that in Danish means "in shelter of the forest", but years after they understood. He made the sign on a piece of rough cut wood and made the letters with ship rope, and in this way he linked the past to the future in a really poetic way that I did not understood before today.

In the old chicken house he made a wonderful little workshop, the reason he choose this little room even he had a farm with a big barn was the fact that the boiler for the barn was in that room and so he could get hot by the waste heat at winter when he was straightening nails for the summer projects, restoring old windows with his homemade putty knife or whatever he did until my grandmother called and he crossed the gårdsplads to come in the kitchen for fresh brewed coffee and a piece of homemade cake.
I was not allowed to use his tools, but this place made a lifelong impression in me.


A train rushes by on the station, my friend is wearing zebra striped trousers and have little elastics in his hair, me in a pink blazer jacket and Lewis, between us a huge ghetto blaster made of plywood, so big that it had wheels under since it could not be carried, breakdancing as we wait for the train to come.
But what has this to do with wood?
Ok, another day two weeks earlier my friend Viggo and I had just finished building a amplifier, we had bought all the parts and from a diagram made the Circuit boards and the rest was just to welder the components in place, a tape recorder had been taken apart and the needed pieces selected and finally two big speakers had been attached, and kapauuu 'burning down the house', no there we no fire but burning down the house where played in the room, so loud that the roof almost fell of his room. Do I need to say we were proud, so we called his uncle who had a carpentry shop in the center of Copenhagen and made an appointment to go there, he was as always kind and wished us welcome. It was three generations carpentry making high-quality work for the finest hotels and other estimated clients. We spend some days there, building the boxes for our ghetto blaster, the only demand the uncle had was that we made drawings first so we could cut the wood into the right sizes in first cut. Since I was the son of an architect and loved to draw this was no problem for me so soon we had placed all the joints at the right places and could calculate the individual pieces to create a list of boards, once the uncle had seen it he said go ahead. The carpenters at the carpentry was always nice and helpful, but we preferred to do as much as possible ourselves, but when it came to setting up the machines there were always someone with a open eye to help us, now as adult I am really impressed by the patience and the kindness of these men. We loved to be at the carpentry, especially the big working room where all the carpenters had their wall cabinets with their personal tools and when there were breaks we would sit on top of the benches and they would tell stories, to sit there with the smell of coffee mixing with the smell of wood, surrounded by wood and projects in progress listening to the stories and looking with a smile on my lips at my friend Viggo and then at our project, our project, here in this room, with these wonderful men - what more could life ever bring me.


On the table in my at that time beginning to look like a workshop basement room was a big box full of old tools, I had taken the decision to make myself the shop I always dreamed of having, not a shop full of expensive fancy tools but a shop full of wonderful tools, tools with a heart and a soul, my dream was to make a place where I would get this feeling of being home, the feeling of history, the presence of all those hands that had touched the old tools should be everywhere in the room, and it should be possible for me to make whatever I wanted so the needed tools should be there. I had a girlfriend who some years before gave me a Festool plunge cut saw and the table for it and since the shop is really small I decided to use this system for the basic parts since it can all be stored away easy and the same table used for saw and router. I also bought their worktable since it can work with the saws and router and then it is easy to move if needed, but I never moved it, just made a shelf for storage under and filled that up with stuff so it now is excellent for planning and so due to the weight.


Back to the story Mads, I had bought these tools and now had to make the planes into a working stage, it was some wonderful old wood planes and also some metal planes - what do one do? The internet! And this was how my LJ adventure took off, and my workshop became a reality thanks to inspiration and help from wonderful people all over the planet.
And my tools? Yes I got just about all I need for doing whatever I want now, my plane selection grew to the absurd not because I wanted to collect, not because I needed that, but simply because I found it interesting to learn and try new, and then later I can sell out one day if I get tired of looking at all that iron, for now I enjoy to pick the plane I feel suited for the job, and then try to imagine the hands that have used it before.


The shop? Still small, but I succeeded my goal, I smile each time I go there, I feel the tools, not just see them, their patina and their previous owners are speaking to me, and so a little symphony are going on there when the smell of shaves are mixed with these souls and the sound of a razor sharp plane iron runs through the wood - hmmmm once again 'what more can one man dream of'.


I had to retire due to a neck operation that left me with chronic pains, migraines and a messed up nerve system that feels as if it is burning and buzzing also this affects my mental balance sometimes so I can be really low after a period of pain. On these days I also go to my workshop, not to work, this is impossible, but I just pull out my stool, place my feet on the workbench, light up my pipe and sit quietly there for half an hour enjoying the atmosphere, the smell of sweet tobacco mixed with wood, a wonderful cup of espresso in my other hand, and then I say to myself 'what more can a man dream of'.


Life becomes what we make it, a little sticker on a red heart from a Danish supermarket when I was a child said 'smile to the world, and the world will smile to you' - so this I try and I have gotten so many smiles back in my life, and lately here on LJ that my heart can't stop dreaming - thank you all.


Perhaps I was not precise in answering the questions, but I hope it explains why I am here.
My history of health can be read here in an old blog: http://lumberjocks.com/mafe/blog/21095

Best thoughts and thank you for taking your time to read my words,
Mads

(And thank you, for taking the time to do this interview for us.)
 
#429 ·
Lee A. Jesberger

This interview with Lee Jesberger is from the December 2011 issue of our LJ eMag

Gesture Sleeve Art Event Pleased


Lee: "This is like taking a test! I didn't study for it, so I'm going to have to wing it."

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

As a teenager I worked for my father's plumbing business. I was exposed to the various building trades. I always seemed to gravitate to the carpenters and the cabinet makers. Between that and wood shop in school, I realized it appealed to me very strongly.



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

When I was about 10, my parents inherited some very fine 18th century furniture. The pieces included a dining room table set and chairs, a couple of high boys, a Hepplewhite style sideboard, and a federal style secretary. I was mesmerized by the decorative carvings and inlays. I remember laying on the floor, studying the ball and claw feet on the chairs, trying to figure out how they were made. The carvings on the high boys were also very appealing to me, although the size of them intimidated me.



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

When I was 14, I started buying tools with the money I was making from working for my father. My first machine purchase was a craftsman radial arm saw. It really angered my father that I bought it without checking with him. I seems I should have asked him if it was okay to take over part of the basement for woodworking. It wasn't long before I was building vanities for his plumbing business, as well as furniture for the house. When I was 18, got hit in the eye with a steel pipe, while goofing around with some friends. I had no insurance to pay for the required surgery, and had been working for a contractor, which didn't pay very well, so I decided to go into business for myself.

Since I wasn't a licensed plumber, and I had a strong interest in carpentry, I figured I would start a construction business. For that, it was a simple matter of paying a fee to become a licensed general contractor. I got away from woodworking for a while, as I built up the construction business. Surprisingly, it didn't take long to get some very high end work. As the general contractor, I was able to do some of the woodworking required for the jobs. I bought a shopsmith and most of the accessories to accomplish this. Eventually my wife kicked me out of the basement, so I built a 24' x 48' shop in my yard. Just prior to finishing the shop, a project I had bid on about six months earlier came through. It was a large residential renovation, which included a large amount of cabinets and furniture. As always, one thing lead to another, and before long, I was doing more cabinet work than construction. That was by choice. It was far more rewarding to me to build furniture in my yard, than to drive to a construction site.



4. What inspires you regarding wood creations?

I would have to say the work of others has always inspired me the most. Seeing what other woodworkers are capable of never ceases to amaze me.

5. What are the greatest challenges that you have met along the way?

As I mentioned, I started the construction business when I was pretty young. Convincing clients to hire a 20 year old guy to renovate their house was pretty difficult. On one occasion, I went to a potential client's house for the initial meeting. After I entered the house, the husband stood by the open front door. I patiently waited, wondering why he wasn't coming in. I finally asked what he was waiting for. He said, my father, he's coming, isn't he? I asked why would my father be coming. He said, You're the contractor? Needless to say, I didn't get that job. I overcame this by getting older. What I really did was to go buy a luxury car, and made sure the clients would see me in it. If a person appears successful, most people assume you know what your doing. Surprisingly, that really did make a big difference.



6. What is the greatest reward that you have received from woodworking?

Personal satisfaction from creating something, in addition to being respected as a craftsman. Somehow, that means a lot.

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

DUH? Ezee-Feed systems. There is something very gratifying in using a tool that you designed and manufacture, especially when it makes your life easier.

[http://lumberjocks.com/LeeJ/blog/17789]

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

See # 7.

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

So often I see the equipment that other woodworkers are using, and while I realize that not everybody can run out and buy the best of everything, I would suggest they buy quality tools. Often the problems aren't due to the woodworker, there due to poor quality tools they're trying to do high quality work with. There is so much more enjoyment to be had working with tools and machines that aren't fighting you every step of the way. This is supposed to be fun, after all.



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

Doing research for my own woodworking website, I came across LumberJocks. The reason I keep coming back is for the inspiration I get from the other LJ's. Not only are they fine craftsmen that I can learn a lot from, they are also very fine people.

Thanks, Lee, for taking the time to take this test.. I mean do this interview._
 

Attachments

#430 ·
Lee A. Jesberger

This interview with Lee Jesberger is from the December 2011 issue of our LJ eMag

Gesture Sleeve Art Event Pleased


Lee: "This is like taking a test! I didn't study for it, so I'm going to have to wing it."

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

As a teenager I worked for my father's plumbing business. I was exposed to the various building trades. I always seemed to gravitate to the carpenters and the cabinet makers. Between that and wood shop in school, I realized it appealed to me very strongly.



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

When I was about 10, my parents inherited some very fine 18th century furniture. The pieces included a dining room table set and chairs, a couple of high boys, a Hepplewhite style sideboard, and a federal style secretary. I was mesmerized by the decorative carvings and inlays. I remember laying on the floor, studying the ball and claw feet on the chairs, trying to figure out how they were made. The carvings on the high boys were also very appealing to me, although the size of them intimidated me.



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

When I was 14, I started buying tools with the money I was making from working for my father. My first machine purchase was a craftsman radial arm saw. It really angered my father that I bought it without checking with him. I seems I should have asked him if it was okay to take over part of the basement for woodworking. It wasn't long before I was building vanities for his plumbing business, as well as furniture for the house. When I was 18, got hit in the eye with a steel pipe, while goofing around with some friends. I had no insurance to pay for the required surgery, and had been working for a contractor, which didn't pay very well, so I decided to go into business for myself.

Since I wasn't a licensed plumber, and I had a strong interest in carpentry, I figured I would start a construction business. For that, it was a simple matter of paying a fee to become a licensed general contractor. I got away from woodworking for a while, as I built up the construction business. Surprisingly, it didn't take long to get some very high end work. As the general contractor, I was able to do some of the woodworking required for the jobs. I bought a shopsmith and most of the accessories to accomplish this. Eventually my wife kicked me out of the basement, so I built a 24' x 48' shop in my yard. Just prior to finishing the shop, a project I had bid on about six months earlier came through. It was a large residential renovation, which included a large amount of cabinets and furniture. As always, one thing lead to another, and before long, I was doing more cabinet work than construction. That was by choice. It was far more rewarding to me to build furniture in my yard, than to drive to a construction site.



4. What inspires you regarding wood creations?

I would have to say the work of others has always inspired me the most. Seeing what other woodworkers are capable of never ceases to amaze me.

5. What are the greatest challenges that you have met along the way?

As I mentioned, I started the construction business when I was pretty young. Convincing clients to hire a 20 year old guy to renovate their house was pretty difficult. On one occasion, I went to a potential client's house for the initial meeting. After I entered the house, the husband stood by the open front door. I patiently waited, wondering why he wasn't coming in. I finally asked what he was waiting for. He said, my father, he's coming, isn't he? I asked why would my father be coming. He said, You're the contractor? Needless to say, I didn't get that job. I overcame this by getting older. What I really did was to go buy a luxury car, and made sure the clients would see me in it. If a person appears successful, most people assume you know what your doing. Surprisingly, that really did make a big difference.



6. What is the greatest reward that you have received from woodworking?

Personal satisfaction from creating something, in addition to being respected as a craftsman. Somehow, that means a lot.

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

DUH? Ezee-Feed systems. There is something very gratifying in using a tool that you designed and manufacture, especially when it makes your life easier.

[http://lumberjocks.com/LeeJ/blog/17789]

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

See # 7.

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

So often I see the equipment that other woodworkers are using, and while I realize that not everybody can run out and buy the best of everything, I would suggest they buy quality tools. Often the problems aren't due to the woodworker, there due to poor quality tools they're trying to do high quality work with. There is so much more enjoyment to be had working with tools and machines that aren't fighting you every step of the way. This is supposed to be fun, after all.



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

Doing research for my own woodworking website, I came across LumberJocks. The reason I keep coming back is for the inspiration I get from the other LJ's. Not only are they fine craftsmen that I can learn a lot from, they are also very fine people.

Thanks, Lee, for taking the time to take this test.. I mean do this interview._
I really enjoyed reading this and learning more about you, Lee. I think it helps so much for us to see what others have had to overcome in order to be successful. You are so talented! And besides that, you are also a nice guy who helps others along the way through this forum. Thanks for your friendship and inspiration to all of us!

Sheila :)
 

Attachments

#451 ·
Helluvawreck

This interview with Helluvawreck is from the January 2012 issue of our LJ eMag.



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

From the time that I was born, in 1950, until I was ten years old my family lived in an old two story house that my grandmother owned. In the cellar, where the heating system was, there was an old work table and on the walls were a few simple hand tools. They were apparently forgotten years before by someone in the past because they didn't belong to my father nor did my father work with tools much anyways. As near as I can remember there was a claw hammer, a carpenter's hatchet, a handsaw, a bit brace with a few bits, an old egg beater drill, a few screw drivers, a few chisels, a couple of planes, and maybe a few others but not many. They were all a little rusty. When I was about eight years old I began to play around with them as best as I could. With no one to teach me I managed to build a few crude things like simple boxes, a crude sling shot, and a few other things. When I was around ten I built a pretty crude soap box car that my brother and I played with. We moved into another house across town and my grandmother rented the house to another family. She let me take the tools with me and I put them in the cellar room in that house. A year or so later I went to the seventh grade and they had a shop class that I went to so at least I received some proper training at that time for 9 months.

I also had a cousin who was also my best buddy and his daddy was a mechanical engineer who had graduated from Georgia Tech. My cousin's grandfather owned a local hardware store and lumber yard that had been in business since the 1880's. Both the store and the lumber yard were really old time affairs and I loved to go there with Barney, my cousin and friend. Barney's father ran the lumber yard and Barney had to help his father at the lumber yard most every Saturday and I was fortunate enough to be allowed to tag along since me and Barney were usually together many of the weekends at one or the other's house anyways.

The lumberyard was a fascinating place to me because it had once been run by an old steam engine and it was still there but wasn't used anymore because the lumber yard had been changed over to diesel engines before I was born. The lumber yard had a small woodshop, a small mechanics shop, and a small blacksmith's shop. Barney was mechanically inclined and could do a little bit of everything so I learned quite a lot from him. Barney's daddy also had a good many tools at his house so Barney and I were able to do quite a bit together at his house whenever I was there. So this is another way I got started early with tools at about the same time.



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

In addition to learning from first hand experience that many useful items could be built from tools and wood I acquired a love of fine antiques that had been built by expert craftsmen of prior generations. Both of my grandmothers were antique lovers and so was my mother and most of my aunts and uncles. Early on I was around antiques in my own home and whenever I went to visit relatives nice antiques were also in their homes. A love of antiques was just a natural thing to pick up from all of them. We were not wealthy people and many of these antiques were passed down from generation to generation and there was this fact also that made me a lover of antiques since they had a history of their own. Naturally anyone who loves antiques and has also done the least amount of woodworking is going to admire the antiques and the craftsmen who made them and also to study how those items were put together and the reasons they were pleasing to the eye.

Whenever my mother went to visit the local antique stores I would go right along with her. One of her favorite dealers was a company called Adams Antiques and it was owned by a man and wife. My mother and I were fond of the Adams and, best of all, Mr. Adams had a small wood shop where he restored furniture. Whenever we visited them he would take me into his woodshop and show me what he was working on and, of course, I asked him a great many questions. He didn't have anyone working for him because the volume wasn't there to support it so I never had the opportunity to actually work for him.
Looking back I wish that I would have offered to work for him for free if he would teach me what he knew. My favorite antiques were clocks, guns, and primitive country furniture. I also liked a lot of the country furniture that had been on many of the old plantations. Even though I was just in Jr. High and High School I actually acquired a few pieces of my own.

My mother actually became a dealer herself for a while and also had a small gift shop in a small two story house. I setup a small shop in one of the bedrooms upstairs and it was my job to refinish and repair whatever pieces that I was able to if they needed it. The rest of the pieces that needed fixing we would take to Mr. Adams. He would always answer any questions that I had so that helped me a lot.

So, I would say that this exposure to antiques, the love of antiques, and being able to actually work on some of them caught my interest in woodworking and caused me to love it too.

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

Well I suppose that I've already been doing some of this in answering the previous questions so I'll try not to repeat myself. In addition to being somewhat of a woodworker, Barney was a good self taught mechanic because he loved cars and worked on them all throughout high school. I helped him all that I could because I like cars too and actually owned an A model coupe that I worked on occasionally. These experiences taught me a little about mechanics which would come in handy later on.

During my latter years in High School my father, who was not a woodworker, along with a small group of men (not woodworkers either) started a manufacturing company to manufacture furniture for the mobile home trade. My father went on to acquire the whole company in the coming years. His plant manager was a man that had grown up on a farm and had become a very good carpenter and Jack of All Trades. He had built a number of houses from the ground up, including plumbing, heating, and electrical and was a hard worker. My brother and I went to work in my father's business and Richard was our boss. He taught my brother and me the meaning of hard work and we worked very long hours and learned all that we could from Richard. We respected Richard a lot. The company took off and grew and we were eventually turning out as many as 3,000 tables a week for the mobile home trade and rental and retail stores and eventually got involved with some consumer products such as KD entertainment centers and wall units. Along with these products we became involved with supplying nursing homes, motels, and hotels with furniture. My brother and I always worked on the factory floor and were directly involved with the machinery and production.

After a few years I went on to college and my brother stayed on with the company. My training in school was mostly in the sciences, mathematics, and mechanical engineering at Georgia Tech. After 2-1/2 years at the University of Georgia and 2-1/2 years at Georgia Tech in Mechanical Engineering I had become married and had two daughters and had to withdraw from school for financial reasons. For the next 6 months I went to machinist school and planned on going back to college and working my way through as a machinist. I never went back to school, however, and went into the family business instead. We lost the first company about 1984 due to a three way law suit that we were found innocent of in a court of law but the law suit had already devastated our company and we lost the company as a result. I went to work for another company and my brother formed our present company shortly thereafter. I soon went to work for my brother and earned back my stock through hard work and long hours. We made nursing home and hotel/motel furniture and other products related to the wood industry. By 1992 we were mostly involved with architectural molding and millwork which is what we do today. I suppose that our plant is around 180,000 sq ft and we have five Weinig molders as well as a finger joining line among various other pieces of equipment.

So for the last 35 years I have been in the furniture and millwork industry. I have spent much time in production but my primary duties have been in the maintenance and engineering end of the business. For all of that time I have had a machine shop in the plant. I was the molder setup man for nine years and also ground all of the molder knives and made all of the templates, jigs, and fixtures. I also designed and built several large production machines from scratch for the plant over the years. I have always had a deep and abiding love of woodworking. However, my brother and I were both workaholics and so we devoted ourselves to our business and didn't have a lot of time left over. I haven't had nearly as much time for the last 40 years to pursue my hobby as I would have preferred. What little time I have been able to spend in hobby woodworking over the years was done in what I would call stolen moments here and there. Most everything that I built over those years were things for my family other than a couple of kitchens that I built and installed for other people. I also did some remodeling on our home.

I enclosed my carport about 6 or 7 years ago and built my little shop at home. For the last 3 years I have been able to pursue my hobby nearly every weekend. This pretty much brings me to where I am today.



4.What inspires you regarding wood creations?

Over the last 50 years I have grown a deep and lasting love for tools and wood. I bought my first set of tools 40 years ago just after my wife and I were married and I still have everyone of those tools. I also have grown a deep admiration for the craftsmen who have learned how to work with tools and wood to create all of the beautiful creations that they have made. I have come to realize that there is a very close relationship between a craftsman and his tools and the wood he works with. These two, the wood and tools, along with his mind and heart and soul come together to give rise to all of the beautiful things the craftsman brings forth. After all of these last 40 years I would like to pursue this craftsmanship so that perhaps I might be able to leave behind some beautiful things to my family and loved ones when I leave this earth. This is what inspires me to keep going in the pursuit of craftsmanship and wood creations. I suppose you could say that after 50 years of working around and with wood I have come to the point where I now want to learn how to be a craftsman myself.

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

The greatest challenges that I have faced over the years is that I have had to learn nearly everything that I have learned in this business on my own. This is the way it has been for both me and my brother. Richard was with us for only 5 or 6 years and he knew very little about woodworking. His background was building houses so he knew enough to get the company going but not a lot about the furniture manufacturing business. No matter what challenges I have faced over the last 50 years I would say that what has overcome them, along with my faith, was sheer determination to do what was necessary to overcome them and just plain old hard work. I have also learned that these same things will go a long way into turning you into a good woodworker if that is what you put your mind to be. Even if you are like me and are getting a late start in life it is never too late. Desire, determination, and hard work will get you there.



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

I would say that it would be the satisfaction of seeing your skills improve commensurate with the time that you put into it. I really believe that practice makes perfect. You will never reach perfection, of course, because perfection is the total lack of flaws. A perfect thing is something that has no flaws. We are not flawless, our raw materials are not flawless, our tools are not flawless, and our concentration is not flawless. We can always get better at what we do but we will never get close to perfection. This is a good thing because we will always have something higher to aim at as long as this is so and it will always be so. Seeing your skills improve day by day is a source of satisfaction and a great motivator. It's very rewarding.

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

I love all of my tools, especially my hand tools. I have had some of my hand tools for 40 years. I bought my first set of tools 40 years ago not long after my wife and I got married and I paid $1000 for them which was a lot of money back then. I still have every one of them and I've been collecting tools ever since.

I've been carving on the weekends for a little over a year. Based on what has occurred I would have to say that my carving tools are my favorite tools but I would not be able to select my favorite carving tool. I love them all.



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

I would say that so far it is my second green man which is the larger of the two. It is the last thing that I finished carving about a month or so ago. I have been working on my shop more or less ever since. I think my shop was becoming jealous of my woodcarving.



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

First of all and above all else I would say don't ever become a workaholic no matter how important your work is. In my opinion it should never be more important than your family and you should think of yourself as well. If woodworking is something that you love and want to pursue then devote some time to it. Don't wait until you are in your 50's to build a shop and devote significant time to it. I worked in an open carport until I was around 55 before I closed it in. My woodworking was done in what I call stolen moments. If you do this, you will only be stealing from and cheating yourself and you may never have time to become a craftsman even if you want to be one.

The sooner you start off the better off you will be. Woodworking takes a fair amount of tools even if you are just a hand tool woodworker. Tools cost money and purchasing the tools that you need and setting up a shop takes time. If you want the hand tools and all of the stationary and portable power tools as well then so much the more time. It's better to start out early. Start with what you have and add to it. Sooner or later you will have a well equipped shop if you stay at it. Time flies when you are having fun. You will have a shop before you know it.

Struggling with woodworking is the name of the game. If you don't have to struggle with it then woodworking or anything else similar is probably not worth pursuing. Be happy in your struggling. Progress takes time so be patient. It will come to you. I believe that the skill will improve according to the time and effort that you put into it. You will gradually get better each time that you make something new or at least most people will do so. Read books about woodworking and take some courses if you need to. Join a woodworking club if there is one near you. Take some classes on the internet. Go to woodworking shows whenever they are close enough so that you can see all of the newest tools and techniques. Get to know other woodworkers in your area. If you are really lucky you will know an experienced woodworker who will be your mentor and take you under his wing.

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

I occasionally go searching on subjects related to woodworking and I accidentally stumbled across Lumberjocks on one of these searches. I became a lurker for a while and then I finally joined. According to my statistics I've been a member of Lumberjocks for about 532 days.

First of all, I enjoy coming to Lumberjocks. I like the people; I like to look at the shops and all of the projects; I like all of the information that you can find on here; I like to be able to ask for help and advice on something and not having to wait very long at all before someone helps you out with the information that you need. I think that it's fun to read a lot of the blogs and forum posts that are here.

I also love to interact with the various people that belong to Lumberjocks. There are all kinds of people here; Lumberjocks are a very diverse group of people and a great many of them have a lot of know how and woodworking talent. From the projects you can see that there are a lot of fine craftspeople here - both men and women. Lumberjocks is a great motivator for someone like me who wants to become a craftsman himself. I'm just a beginner at craftsmanship and I really respect and admire all of the wonderful craftspeople that are here and all of the beautiful things that they create. The craftspeople that are here don't put you down if you're not at their level. No, they don't at all. If you want to become a craftsman yourself they will help pull you up and teach and motivate you to become one.

One other thing that I love about Lumberjocks is that it's a place where you can get to know some of the members on a personal level and actually become friends with some of them. I have a acquired a number of friends on Lumberjocks and I love to come here and communicate with them, interact with them, and read about what they are up to.

Lumberjocks is just a great woodworking community no matter how you cut it.

MsDebbie, I sure have enjoyed this interview and I was humbled by your asking me to do it. I hope that I have not been too long wended and boring. Nevertheless, these thoughts were on my mind. Thanks, MsDebbie, and thank you all for reading it.

And thank YOU for sharing your story with us - as well as your woodworking expertise. I do love your "Green Man"!!
 
#469 ·
Mot

This interview with Mot is from the February 2012 issue of our LJ eMag.


1. How did you first get started working with wood?
I started working with wood, playing with scraps and off cuts, around my dad and his projects. He used to build boats. Sailboats and power boats. When I was quite young, he and my brother built a small tunnel hull hydroplane. It was just for a 15HP motor, but my brother and I terrorized our local lake, in that boat, for years! Dad was always fiddling with wood. He was always building a jig for this, and a fixture for that. He undertook most projects around the home. Dad used to do everything, from finishing our basement, to building things to make his life easier. He was mostly a "fixture," guy. We skied, so he built ski racks in the garage. He built supports for our camper, racks for walls, shelves for the basement storage, counters and cabinets for his dark room. He did it all with a circular saw, a jigsaw, and saw horses. So I got started working with wood, seeing that my dad just made what he wanted, out of wood.



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

I'd like to say that I was captivated by the process, or even the outcome of woodworking, but really, it's all about the tools.

[Mot's Workshop]

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

My personal woodworking journey started in the R/C airplane world. I was living in Portland, Oregon and passed by a local hobby shop. I went inside and got some really, really, really bad advice. This lead me to purchase a plane kit and radio that essentially equated to taking two $100 bills and throwing them out the window of a moving bus. Well, perhaps hitting my head against the window in the process. I was so troubled and annoyed that I searched for and found a local modeling club. I contacted the club, arranged for lessons and got started on a model building and flying journey by a very generous man. It was through this club, that I met the man that really introduced me to fine woodworking. My friend, Steve, taught me how to build planes from scratch. He was a Scale Masters competitor and built the most marvelous planes from scratch. He helped me take it from a hobby to a finer skillset, to a passion.

When I returned to Canada, the first house that I looked at purchasing, had a basement shop in it. It was a perfect space to "tool up," and continue learning more woodworking. I started tooling this shop up but soon realized that I was no longer in the same model airplane environment as I was in Portland. There just wasn't anyone around, playing to the level that I wanted to, and the ones that were here seemed to resent level of obsession to detail. Notice I didn't say level of attention to detail. It was an obsession. So I moved to thinking about other forms of woodworking. I just didn't know what I wanted to do. My wife and I, started having kids, and that was the point where my experiences opened the doorway to the type of projects that I engage in now. My first project, the worlds most expensive "Time Out," bench, lead the worlds most expensive cradle, followed by the worlds most expensive turned bowl, the worlds most expensive bookcase, and so on. Lumberjocks know how that happens. It's the dreaded disease called TAS. Tool Acquisition Syndrome. And that is where we are at today, Bob #2 once stated, "When do you think your shop is going to reach critical mass?" …more tools than space to use them. I'll let you know when I get there.



4. What inspires you regarding wood creations?

Inspiration comes from the projects, skillset, talents and creativity of the work I've seen done. Most of that comes from projects I've seen online, and more specifically, on Lumberjocks. These days, though, I look at the multitude of projects with awe and wonder, and not so much with inspiration. My skillset and experience have been left behind by the vast talents and efforts laid forth by the Lumberjocks community.


_

5. What are the greatest challenges that you have met along the way?

My greatest challenge in woodworking has been my relatively low frustration threshold. A problem that used to lead me to accept mistakes as design elements, rather than just fix them. You see, mistakes that aren't picked up by the eye, are still picked up my eye, because I made them. They always bug me. I've had to challenge myself to stop, rethink, re-examine, and redo. I used to just push forward, losing more time, getting more frustrated, and settling for an outcome that was less than I had set out to achieve. I've overcome this by realizing that I'm not a production shop. This isn't how I make my living. This is my hobby. If it's not bringing me joy, then why am I doing it at all? So, put it down, shut the lights off in the shop, and do something else for a day. It's very easy to come back and redo that piece, or figure a way to compensate for the mistake, when I'm not in a mood to dance a fandango on the entire project.

"A "must read blog entry by Mot, re: mistakes!

6. What is the greatest reward that you have received from woodworking?

I think the greatest reward was my father showing off a built in bookcase that I made for him, to everyone he could grab off the street. It wasn't a spectacular effort on my part, but he was just so proud that I had done it for him. I was in my late 30's and didn't really realize that accolades from my dad still had significant meaning to me. He always told me, children from 0 to 12 look at their fathers like they are larger than life itself. From the time they are 12 to 20 they look at them like they are, perhaps, the biggest idiots to walk the planet. After 20, they feel like dear old dad has learned something and start looking at him with a magnified level of respect again. However, by the time they are 30, dad is an idiot again. He told me this when I was 30…perhaps after I took all his ladders away. Regardless, his appreciation for the effort made me look at him like he was larger than life…again.



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

My favorite tool is the one that I'm currently using. Except for my drill press. I hate my drill press. I look for ways to NOT use my drill press. If it was lighter, I'd get rid of it, but as the back pain that I achieved by lugging it into my basement shop got better about last Thursday, I don't feel like reliving that dream! Seriously though, the tool that keeps me coming back is my Nova DVR-XP lathe. It's hard to get too much excitement out of drilling a hole, or cross cutting a board, or ripping something. But turning? You can take any piece of wood from the scrap pile, chuck it, and make something…or nothing. It's instant gratification woodworking that produces some of the coolest looking pieces and some of the most ridiculous looking ones. And it makes for a good laugh at the $2,500 pen you just made…and lost.



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

My favorite creation was really nothing special, but it did involve doing some things that I had considered by hadn't tried. At Lumberjocks, there was a challenge to make something from a 2×4. I made a segmented turning bowl. What made it my favorite is that I used a really old, dry, ratty, econo-stud, and made a cool looking bowl. I was able to use my miter saw, tablesaw, jointed, planer, drum sander, bandsaw, and lathe to make it. It was my favorite. The only unfortunate part of it was, that it was brittle as dry balsa wood and it didn't survive long and had no purpose other than to try out segmented turning, participate in a challenge, and use a boatload of tools.



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

The only advice I can really give, based on my own experiences, is ask questions. Don't be afraid to receive criticism and make sure you learn from it. Don't be afraid to challenge yourself a bit and don't be afraid to put your work out there for comment. If you want to get better, you will have to. Woodworkers, more than any other collective I've experienced, love to tell you how they did it. They love to share their tips, tricks, jigs, methods, mistakes, creations and stories. Listen. Most of us are absolutey full of it, that's the fun part. Occasionally, even the most bombastic of us says something worth remembering.

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

I've been around Lumberjocks so long, that I can't remember how I found it. I probably showed up based on participation in some other woodworking forum. I kept coming back because the community just didn't tolerate the internet phenomenon of the keyboard tough-guy. Other sites had constant flaming. They had constant negativity that seems to infect discussion forums of any and every topic. They needed to be moderated. Lumberjocks has always been a self-moderating group. Lumberjocks, from the very beginning, seemed to attract people that were supportive, creative, and generous. Lumberjocks seemed to be where the people that just wanted to talk about woodworking, share their creations, ask and answer questions, just collected. We were the bottom of the funnel where the crap got hung up in the filter and what fell out the bottom was a spectacular group of people that just had a like interest and they seemed to check the BS at the door. It's what keeps me coming back. Of course all of the wonderful projects and information sharing as well, but the lack of having to sift through flame wars and assorted other anti-social behavior that existed everywhere else that I looked is probably the most significant.



Thanks to Mot for taking the time to do this interview._
 
#470 ·
Tom: Great to see you again. I hadn't heart your story before and It sounds like you have had lots of fun along the way.

Work safe and have fun. That's my motto.
 
#477 ·
PanamaJack

This interview with PanamaJack is from the March 2012 issue of our LJ eMag.



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

I remember, way back in the mid-60"s, watching my Grandpa Carl Fritz making what I call the old "School House" hexagonal type wall clocks. Sometimes I got to help in cutting the woods he used. Most times however he told me to just sit there on my own little chair and watch. Told me many a time that I could learn a whole lot by just watching, and I did. He was a machinist by trade and was retired when I really got to know him. He used mostly native, to Indiana, woods that I can remember in creating some really gorgeous clock housings. Curly Maple, Cherry, and Walnut! Can't say that to this day I have ever seen any made better. I have one at my home. I was amazed at my young age how tight the miters were. There was never any putty or any paint job to cover a loose miter! They just didn't happen. Perfect! I know today I cannot duplicate this feet in woodworking. I watched him for hours working his lathe on small projects. Today I am a self taught wood turner because as a kid I did learn a lot by just watching. I strive to duplicate my Grandpa's ability for woodworking each day I that I am lucky enough to be able to go out to my "office" or work shop.

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

I remember the smells of the wood when he was cutting, sanding or turning the many different woods he used. I even remember the smell of the Shellac finish he used for his wood projects. I love the smells of Cocobolo, Rosewoods and the likes of Sassafras woods in the air! Even the occasional turned pen made from a piece of wood procured from an old whiskey barrel!! :)



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

My history from the mid-60's huh(?). That's a long time. The 70's and 80's are a blur. I graduated from high school, went to and graduated from college. Got married in 1974, started a family in the latter part of the 70's. As the kids were growing up in the 80's and 90's I sort of forgot about much woodworking. It was all about raising the kids. In the mid 90's I started back into woodworking. In the mid to late 80's I was working for a lumber yard here locally. I started making several projects for them. I made a lot of their displays. For years I made a display deck or some feature item for a local radio station to be prominently displayed at our county fair. Most items had to be assembled on site or moved there by semi. Like when I made a 12 foot octagonal deck with built in railing and seats (1988). I remember that year because to make extra monies for the kids clothes I made over 200 6-foot treated picnic tables for the lumber yard! I made several other sizes that year. I made this really nice 52" round picnic table, with rounded benches, also. Anyway, it wasn't until the mid 90's that I started making wood working things for myself. Made some cabinets and nicer things. Went to a couple of craft shows and so forth. It wasn't until spring 2007 that I got the idea, and monies, to further my life in woodworking. I bought a (Jet) JWL1236 lathe off eBay for cheap. (Actually came from a friend, but that's another story.) It was in really rough shape as it had been in a barn for about 10 years, so the first thing I had to do is to strip the rust and overhaul it. That took about 6 months and a lot of muscle. Now looks fairly new, about the time that I am going out to buy something a little smaller, a mini lathe is going to be delivered within the next two weeks!



4. What inspires you regarding wood creations?

Wood, I love it. Every piece of wood is unique, and so to should be the outcome of anything made from it. I am amazed by the sheer numbers of different woods from all across our great planet. I have now made pens from more than 107 different spices of wood. Having said this, I have made many pens from other things as well. I recycle many things. When I got started making pens I had to find things unique. (I have often said that it I can cut it with a woodworking tool, I'll turn it into a pen.) I go to places like Goodwill and flea markets to see what treasures I might find. I use old butcher blocks or cutting boards, I've procured plastics and aluminum items that I incorporate into pens. I worked retail for nearly 40 years…I found a great use for the credit card I had for that company…You guessed it - a pen! I found a whiskey barrel at a flea market last year…a whole one and promptly turned it into 475 pen blanks!



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

Cost of equipment for making a pen and having kids in college at the same time. That is why it took me about 30 years to do what I love to do. First I had to get my kids raised up! You have to have saws: a table saw, a band saw, a scroll saw and with logs you have to have a chain saw. You need a drill and a drill press, sander and grinder to keep the tools scary sharp and so forth. Then you need a lathe. I figured out that my first pen that I made was in the neighborhood of $1800.00. All used machinery at that. Of course after looking at the list of tools you will find that unless you break or mess up a tool, the 2nd pen will cost only about $3-4.

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

Amazingly as I stated above I am semi-retired after about 40 years in retail. Basically I am still in retail, and for the most part I am dealing with a lot of people that I have dealt with for all these years. That is my satisfaction. To help people with what they want or need. To deliver on a promise and like always back it up.



7. What is your favorite tool that you use for woodworking?
It has got to be my tablesaw! It is though the table saw that all great woodworking starts. (you can quote me on that)

8. What is your favorite creation in/for your woodworking?

One of the projects I have listed on my LumberJocks is a Dolphin Jewelry Box. I showed one in the project section, but in fact there are two of them. The one shown was one I made for my daughter. I presented it to her as a present on her adoption of three great little kids that really need a break in their life..and that is to find a Mom that cared about them. I made another box, that is a reverse image of the one shown for my wonderful wife, come July 13th of 38 years. Much to her surprise on our 37th.



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

Whether I talk about pen turning or any other type of woodworking it's about the same. Don't give up. Keep at it. It takes a while to learn the tools of the trade. If you get frustrated, just ask someone. Don't stop the creative want or desire. If ever I have had a question for anyone on LumberJocks, they are always glad to help you out. Like most, I find by teaching someone on how to make a pen, I become a better penmaker myself. Same goes with cabinet making or other form of woodworking.



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

Same answer as above. When I need help a few years ago, y'all helped me out!
Always learning, means there's always questions that will need answering. This is the place there some will help you.
We are family here on LumberJocks.

--------
Thanks to PanamaJack for taking the time to do this interview for us.
 
#478 ·
Jack, that was a great interview. I really did enjoy hearing about your experience with your grandfather and all of the other experiences that got you into woodworking. It sounds like your grandpa was a fine woodworker and a giving man to quietly teach you many of the tricks of the trade. Thanks for sharing your thoughts and I feel like I now know you a little better.

Msdebbie, thanks; it was another great interview.

helluvawreck aka Charles
http://woodworkingexpo.wordpress.com/
 
#483 ·
Spoontaneous

This interview with Spoontaneous is from the April 2012 issue of our LJ eMag.



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

I grew up in an orphanage from age 6 until I graduated high school and there was never any introduction to woodworking, art or craft. The exception that probably set the course, was one day the Superintendent of the orphanage showed me a walking cane crafted from burnt matchsticks made by someone in prison. I got it in my head that one day I wanted to try that (not the prison thing), and since then I have made a few canes from matchsticks and even toothpicks… so it must have had an effect.
The first wood project that I remember ever making was a very small 'jewelry' box for my girlfriend when I was 19 years old. I had no tools so I bought a Xacto knife, along with the dimensioned 'hobby wood' they sold. The wood was already 3" wide and you could buy it in different thickness.. all the way down to veneer thickness. The hobby store also had ¼" square dowels and I laid them up sort of like brick… or log cabin fashion. The ends actually came out looking like 'box joints' but by not gluing certain pieces I was able to incorporate a hidden 'drawer' for ear ring posts. I used veneer in between the layers as needed and left them out when I wanted more depth. I used an old found soldering iron to burn an acorn into the top. The things we do for girls !!



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 like working with my hands (they seem to be more capable than my mind) and as a kid (and now) I loved spending my time exploring the woods, climbing trees, building forts and the such. I think it was a natural outgrowth (pun intended) to be drawn to working wood.
I suppose what has kept me 'in' over the years is an appreciation for the characteristics of wood. The colors, grain, textures …and that wood is somehow 'alive' even after it is dead.



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

I just remember spending a lot of time at the bookstore looking at the woodworking magazines and books. I remember specifically a book (I still own) by Donna Meilach 'Creating Small Wood Objects', which was full of pipes, boxes, turnings, sculptures, etc. I bet I've looked through that book a thousand times since. So much variety and creativity, …it was like pouring gasoline on the fire.
From that point on I really just did woodworking in spurts every few years… turned bowls for a spell, made some boxes, canes, marquetry, and one piece of furniture (using the word loosely). A couple of years ago I decided to mess around with making spoons for a while. I still make, and want to make some other projects, but the tools I have now are well suited for spoons.



4. What inspires you regarding wood creations?

Everything! And I mean that in the most literal sense. I see an ear ring and I think, "that would make a great clock". I see a pattern or texture on fabric and think "what a great coffee table". That sort of thing… I call it 'transference'.
Words or phrases that create visual puns are a favorite inspiration. 'Bullfrog' ..gives you a frog's body with a cow's head. And the play on words seems to be endless.
Of course, another limitless source for inspiration are the projects of other woodworkers, artists and designers. I see so many projects on LJs that just blow me away. It is easy to get (and stay) inspired by all the 'eye-candy' that is presented on the project pages. A certain wood combination, an elegant table design or mesmerizing pattern all just seem to fire off the brain's synapses.



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

Money, time, and tools. No, I take that back. The greatest challenge for me has been the lack of ability to 'focus'. With an attention span that barely lasts as long as a flash of lightning, I tend to get 'bottle necked' …a lot. I get so many ideas in my head (and on paper) that I struggle to see one idea through to completion before being distracted by the next idea. I would go for years without making a thing (or at least 'finishing' a thing).. and then there would be a small spurt of activity, and again…. nothing.
I literally have stacks of papers and sketchbooks full of ideas for all kinds of projects: clocks, boxes, canes, sculptures, furniture and of course, spoons.
It wasn't until I began to just focus my attention on one area (spoons) that I was able to have any consistency in completing any projects. Somehow, narrowing the 'canvas' has allowed me to not be overwhelmed by all of the ideas. In creating spoons I can usually complete a project within a couple of hours or a couple of days …and be on to the next.



6. What is the greatest reward that you have received from woodworking?

I suppose the greatest 'tangible' reward was winning the National Pipe Carving competition back in 1991. It was the only pipe I had made (other than one incorporated into a walking cane) and I didn't expect to have a chance but entered on a 'whim'. I received $500 and 15 minutes of very limited local 'fame'.
The 'intangible' rewards have been more lasting, more significant for me. The greatest one happens to be two-fold. First, woodworking has given me an endless creative outlet. A way to express myself…. A way to explore the creative process and see what comes about. The second reward is the peace of mind, the 'in the moment' presence of watching something new take form. I enjoy those occasional moments when something shows up while I am working on a piece, and I smile to myself because I see the piece taking off in a unexpected direction. Woodworking allows me that certain immersion where the mind is quieted. Time becomes warped.



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

I'm going to cheat and mention two tools. I have owned my Foredom for maybe 25 years. It is called upon to do most of the work. I have replaced the brushes a couple of times and the flexible shaft once (I loaned it out) and other than that it has been relentless. And I don't even oil the thing.
A little over a year ago I managed to buy a Grizzly 14 inch band saw. It has given me the gift of speed (relatively speaking). I used to cut the wood with a pruning saw the best I could and grind down to the desired shape. The band saw gives me a head start.



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

I hope I haven't made that one just yet …but so far, I think my favorite piece was a matchstick cane with a carved duck head. The briar wood duck head was threaded onto the cane shaft which was partially hollowed. The head unscrewed from the cane and when inverted, became a working pipe. The ebony beak would hinge open to accept a pipe stem that stored inside the cane. I took it to a friend in Australia back in the early nineties.



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

Have fun! …and keep at it. Try not to compare your work to someone else's.
What I can say as true is that I have NEVER had one single project turn out the way I wanted or planned. Never happens…. and this used to frustrate the heck out of me and many times brought me to a screeching halt. Somewhere down the line I stopped resisting, and actually embraced 'not knowing' how something would turn out.
I think it is important to enjoy the process and not be so hung up on the end result. Let someone else 'judge' the piece while you are on to making something else. Some of the spoons I've made I really don't like, but oftentimes, they are the ones to sell quicker. Go figure. So, I say… just do the woodworking for the sake of doing.



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

The heck if I remember how I found the Lumberjocks website, but I have certainly been enriched by it. There have been three areas of interest in my life that have all share a common quality.. flying, gardening and woodworking. The quality they share is that all three seem to attract people that are willing to share their knowledge freely.
I love that the woodworking community is ALWAYS inclusive. Inclusive in that 'tips and tricks' are shared, and also that the love of working with wood is shared, and others are encouraged to join in. I am not familiar with any other woodworking site on the internet where that spirit of camaraderie and support is more prevalent.
The amount of information and advice posted is virtually unlimited. I find encouragement, knowledge and ideas to be abundant. And the willingness of LJs members to share is remarkably refreshing. I certainly have gained from it.



Thanks to Spoontaneous for taking the time to do this interview.
 
#497 ·
Roger

This interview with Roger is from the June 2012 issue of our LJ eMag.



1. How did you first get started working with wood?
I will try and paint this picture, but, it is a bit long, and I appologize for that. I do like to talk. :)
When I was 10, we moved from Brookpark, Ohio, to Lorain, Ohio in 1965. We moved next door to my Mother's sister, Aunt Vern, who was married to her new husband, Herman. We called him Uncle Herm of coarse. He actually had 2 shops. One in his garage, which was a very small area, I know he had a workbench there, and on the other side where his cars were parked, he probably had some sort of saw for cutting down large lumber to be able to take the cut lumber to that small side of the garage, or, his basement shop, where he did all his finish cutting, assembling, & possibly finishing, (he might have done that outside in the garage). He was a really great craftsman, and always building something. I remember watching him,but I never really "helped" him build anything, but, I sure soaked in everything he wanted to share with me. Back then, I had a better memory. (haha)
After a year, when I went on to middle school, (then, it was 6, 7, and 8th grade), where there was a class called, wood shop, yes, wood shop, I know, I'm old. Very sad they don't have that class nowadays. After getting into wood shop, and building a few projects which I can't remember all of them, except for a book shelf, and a plastic letter opener, (I still use the letter opener today). I was really intrigued by this fun thing of making something out of something else, and that went hand-in-hand with my Uncle Herm. So I started spending more time with him, still just watching, and listening to him, and soaking every word he had to say about whatever it was he was talking about. Again, my memory then was like a sponge. I enjoyed all my time when I visited him. I realized later in life just how special those moments were.
Sleeve Gesture Font Finger Thumb


This next little bit is a very sad part of my life, but, I feel it is important, and it is part of the story.
Now, it is 1969. I am now 14. My older brother, while serving our country in the U.S. Army, and, who was a very young man, age 21, was killed by a drunk driver.

Sleeve Elbow Font Wrist Tattoo


He leaves me this high tech, many components, stereo equipment system (Onkyo) Back then, many folks know how many components I'm talking about. I'll just say, big and, lots, (including a reel-to-reel tape player). At this time, I didn't know really what to do with them, so they pretty much stayed in storage for a few years. Now, it's 1971, and I'm 16, (boy, to be that again) For my birthday, Uncle Herm makes me a cabinet (which I still have today, it is in my shop holding a few shop tools), to hold the collection of LP albums that I had begun to collect, now that I am listening to the Doobie Brothers, Creadence Clearwater Revival, The Beatles, etc., and a lot of good old stuff from Dean Martin, (my Dads favorite), Frank Sinatra, and many others (I'm very diverse when it come to music, except for most rap, that I'll call crap). With all that said, now I remember all those components in storage. I dig em out, and it hits me: I need to build a cabinet to house all of these fine stereo components. I could build it to fit on top of the LP cabinet Uncle Herm made me.

Wood Rectangle Wood stain Varnish Hardwood


And that right there, was my first real wood project. I think it was about 4'long, 2' deep, and 4' tall. I really don't remember the exact sizes. I don't have any pics of it, and don't even remember what happened to it, unfortunately, but, it was pretty nice. Now I realize I need something to cut this plywood, so I bought my first power tool, a circular saw, by Craftsman. This cabinet was made from 3/4" plywood, and quite large, and painted black, it was made to fit right on top of Uncle Herms cabinet. He "schooled" me all the way on the build. He also showed me how to install hardwood edging on those ugly plywood edges. Part of his schooling included me purchasing my second hand tool, which was a Stanley block plane. (insert pic 4) I still have that tool today, and am finally figuring out how to use it.. Thanks to many fine folks here on Lumberjocks.. haha

Block plane Plane Wood Rebate plane Bumper


2. What was it about woodworking that initially caught your interest, enticing you to get into it at the level you are now?
My interest in woodworking really began between age 10 & 14 from my Uncle Herm. Since those early days, my actual woodworking has been a lot of years of on and off actual woodworking, because, going back again, when I turned 16, I got my drivers license, purchased my 1st car from money I earned on my paper route, and found a job working at a gas station, and later, also at a golf coarse. This is where I began to NOT woodwork. Being young, with jobs and being mischievious, I didn't have any time for woodworking. Note that I always had it "on the back burner" of my little brain for many years. This evolution of my woodworking really didn't begin full force (if ya wanna call it that), until about 15-20 years or so ago, when I subscribed to Shop Notes, Wood, &Woodsmith magazines. So I've done a whole lot of reading, but, not a whole lot of building until these last 10 or so years. I am not afraid to say that I am still learning. And, it is still fun.

Bookcase Furniture Shelf Book Publication


3. Tell us a bit of history of your journey from that beginning to you are today
I have taken a few classes that were spread out over many years, which involved hand and power carving, building cabinets, and a few about turning. I am pretty much self taught, and learned a lot from a good friend of mine, and, don't forget this very thing I'm typing into, the computer. I really haven't made many projects that I personally would call a lot over these years, again, because I'm pretty laid back. I feel like I will be getting into it more and more in my years to come. Like my profile says, I'm a dabler of all, and a master of none.

4. What inspires you regarding wood creations?
I get inspired by just about anything. I love life, and all the beauty that nature has to offer. Along with so many talented people in the world. I think that many of them have an influence on "kick-starting" my brain. I enjoy looking at projects from all sorts, and it gives me ideas from their ideas. I would never use anyones design or concept without altering it in my own personal way. I hope that makes sense. I did used to draw a bit when I was young, and, I really enjoy just about any kind of anything artistic, wood, iron, etc., related. My wife gets into fairies, fantasy world stuff, and things like that, so I did a few things for her fairy room. I'm sure there will be more to come. Does that answer this question? I get lost in my head sometimes.
Picture frame Plant Wood Interior design Houseplant


Flower Building Wood Art Twig


5. What are the greatest challenges that you have met along the way? (and how did you overcome them)
For me, the biggest challenges have been to learn how to maintain, tune, and just take care of all the tools involved in woodworking, and of everything I own. I have never been blessed with large quantities of money, so, I've learned how to get by with what I have, and what I can afford. I could never, still can't, afford, or even justify the high cost/s of some of our equipment we need for this great hobby. I have always had my share of the mechanics of how things work, how they come apart, and how they go together. I never have been afraid to try to fix anything. I always do some (a lot), of research on whatever it is I am about to mess with. I have been very fortunate with things that I've done. The old saying of "knowledge is power" is a sure thing.

6. What is the greatest reward that you have received from woodworking? (personal or tangible)
The greatest reward of woodworking for me is being able to imagine something, take a pile of something (wood), and make it look like whatever it was you pictured in your head. I woodwork as a hobby, and get great feelings of raw pleasure when a project comes together for myself, or more importantly, for someone else. You have to love the elated looks of anyone who is on the receiving end of a project. That is a thing of pure beauty, being adult and/or children alike, and will never ever be forgotten.

7. What is your favourite tool that you use for woodworking?
This would be a close race between my jointer and my band saw. When I lay a rough cut piece of anything on that jointer to joint the face, that wood comes alive. The band saw is another, when I resaw a board, it opens for that amazing book match of beauty. That's what I mean by the the beauty of nature. Sorry how small this piece of Walnut is, but, I had it handy.

Wood Table Flooring Floor Rectangle


8. What is your favourite creation in/for your woodworking?
Being that I haven't done a whole bunch of things, this would have to be the table & chairs set that I made for my 2 little Grand Daughters for Christmas of 2011. My Daughter tells me they love their table that Pap made them, and that makes me feel so good. In fact, at the advice of a fellow LJ'er here, I added a poem that I attached to the underside of the table for my Grand Daughters to put in their keepsake box. I'd like to share that here…
Furniture Chair Table Wood Rectangle


Face Hair Smile Head Furniture


The Kitchen Table by Roger Kavanah

The kitchen table
Means a lot to me
It's where our Family
Will meet daily

We will eat many meals
All of us together
They will all be great
No matter
What the weather

We all will sit
And play, and talk a lot
It's times like these
Won't be forgot

We may write a letter
to whom we love and miss
With many heartfelt words
We will remember this

Make much laughter
And many good things
Around this table
You all will bring

All good things
You are all able
To bring around

The Kitchen Table 2011
I believe the kitchen table should be a gathering place for all families. This is where we would always talk, and chit chat about everything. I also believe this is a place for teaching and a learning practice for young and old. Not only do you eat some good home made meals, but, you really get to know each other as an individual. That's my 2-cents on this subject.

I am hoping to make many more things as they continue to grow.

9. What tips would you give to someone just starting out or currently struggling with woodworking?
My 1st, and I feel the most important thing that comes to mind is to learn all you can about the tool you are about to use. Follow all the safety procedures. You should know the components of all your tools, and how they function. If you don't know what the tool is capable of, you are asking for trouble. Be sure to have the utmost respect for those powerful devices of all sorts. Watch and listen to experienced people, young & old alike. We all learn from one another. I am learning things from many of these youngsters coming to life in woodworking, here on LJ's and across the web.

10. How did you find LumberJocks and what is it that keeps you coming back?
I found these many great pages of fine artisans and craftspeople over 600 days ago, while doing what I do a lot, surfing the web, looking for information about woodworking. I think the pages of Lumberjocks is the best thing since ice cream. When you think how big the world is, how many talented, creative, and influential people (men, women, and children alike), there are, it is truely amazing to be a part of it all. I don't feel I have a whole lot to offer, but, I sure like learning and sharing information about this wonderful world of woodworking. I hope to have many more projects in the future to share with everyone, because, as Arnold Schwarzenegger once said: "I'll be bauk"

(Thanks to Roger for taking the time to do this interview for us!)
 

Attachments

#498 ·
Roger

This interview with Roger is from the June 2012 issue of our LJ eMag.



1. How did you first get started working with wood?
I will try and paint this picture, but, it is a bit long, and I appologize for that. I do like to talk. :)
When I was 10, we moved from Brookpark, Ohio, to Lorain, Ohio in 1965. We moved next door to my Mother's sister, Aunt Vern, who was married to her new husband, Herman. We called him Uncle Herm of coarse. He actually had 2 shops. One in his garage, which was a very small area, I know he had a workbench there, and on the other side where his cars were parked, he probably had some sort of saw for cutting down large lumber to be able to take the cut lumber to that small side of the garage, or, his basement shop, where he did all his finish cutting, assembling, & possibly finishing, (he might have done that outside in the garage). He was a really great craftsman, and always building something. I remember watching him,but I never really "helped" him build anything, but, I sure soaked in everything he wanted to share with me. Back then, I had a better memory. (haha)
After a year, when I went on to middle school, (then, it was 6, 7, and 8th grade), where there was a class called, wood shop, yes, wood shop, I know, I'm old. Very sad they don't have that class nowadays. After getting into wood shop, and building a few projects which I can't remember all of them, except for a book shelf, and a plastic letter opener, (I still use the letter opener today). I was really intrigued by this fun thing of making something out of something else, and that went hand-in-hand with my Uncle Herm. So I started spending more time with him, still just watching, and listening to him, and soaking every word he had to say about whatever it was he was talking about. Again, my memory then was like a sponge. I enjoyed all my time when I visited him. I realized later in life just how special those moments were.
Sleeve Gesture Font Finger Thumb


This next little bit is a very sad part of my life, but, I feel it is important, and it is part of the story.
Now, it is 1969. I am now 14. My older brother, while serving our country in the U.S. Army, and, who was a very young man, age 21, was killed by a drunk driver.

Sleeve Elbow Font Wrist Tattoo


He leaves me this high tech, many components, stereo equipment system (Onkyo) Back then, many folks know how many components I'm talking about. I'll just say, big and, lots, (including a reel-to-reel tape player). At this time, I didn't know really what to do with them, so they pretty much stayed in storage for a few years. Now, it's 1971, and I'm 16, (boy, to be that again) For my birthday, Uncle Herm makes me a cabinet (which I still have today, it is in my shop holding a few shop tools), to hold the collection of LP albums that I had begun to collect, now that I am listening to the Doobie Brothers, Creadence Clearwater Revival, The Beatles, etc., and a lot of good old stuff from Dean Martin, (my Dads favorite), Frank Sinatra, and many others (I'm very diverse when it come to music, except for most rap, that I'll call crap). With all that said, now I remember all those components in storage. I dig em out, and it hits me: I need to build a cabinet to house all of these fine stereo components. I could build it to fit on top of the LP cabinet Uncle Herm made me.

Wood Rectangle Wood stain Varnish Hardwood


And that right there, was my first real wood project. I think it was about 4'long, 2' deep, and 4' tall. I really don't remember the exact sizes. I don't have any pics of it, and don't even remember what happened to it, unfortunately, but, it was pretty nice. Now I realize I need something to cut this plywood, so I bought my first power tool, a circular saw, by Craftsman. This cabinet was made from 3/4" plywood, and quite large, and painted black, it was made to fit right on top of Uncle Herms cabinet. He "schooled" me all the way on the build. He also showed me how to install hardwood edging on those ugly plywood edges. Part of his schooling included me purchasing my second hand tool, which was a Stanley block plane. (insert pic 4) I still have that tool today, and am finally figuring out how to use it.. Thanks to many fine folks here on Lumberjocks.. haha

Block plane Plane Wood Rebate plane Bumper


2. What was it about woodworking that initially caught your interest, enticing you to get into it at the level you are now?
My interest in woodworking really began between age 10 & 14 from my Uncle Herm. Since those early days, my actual woodworking has been a lot of years of on and off actual woodworking, because, going back again, when I turned 16, I got my drivers license, purchased my 1st car from money I earned on my paper route, and found a job working at a gas station, and later, also at a golf coarse. This is where I began to NOT woodwork. Being young, with jobs and being mischievious, I didn't have any time for woodworking. Note that I always had it "on the back burner" of my little brain for many years. This evolution of my woodworking really didn't begin full force (if ya wanna call it that), until about 15-20 years or so ago, when I subscribed to Shop Notes, Wood, &Woodsmith magazines. So I've done a whole lot of reading, but, not a whole lot of building until these last 10 or so years. I am not afraid to say that I am still learning. And, it is still fun.



3. Tell us a bit of history of your journey from that beginning to you are today
I have taken a few classes that were spread out over many years, which involved hand and power carving, building cabinets, and a few about turning. I am pretty much self taught, and learned a lot from a good friend of mine, and, don't forget this very thing I'm typing into, the computer. I really haven't made many projects that I personally would call a lot over these years, again, because I'm pretty laid back. I feel like I will be getting into it more and more in my years to come. Like my profile says, I'm a dabler of all, and a master of none.

4. What inspires you regarding wood creations?
I get inspired by just about anything. I love life, and all the beauty that nature has to offer. Along with so many talented people in the world. I think that many of them have an influence on "kick-starting" my brain. I enjoy looking at projects from all sorts, and it gives me ideas from their ideas. I would never use anyones design or concept without altering it in my own personal way. I hope that makes sense. I did used to draw a bit when I was young, and, I really enjoy just about any kind of anything artistic, wood, iron, etc., related. My wife gets into fairies, fantasy world stuff, and things like that, so I did a few things for her fairy room. I'm sure there will be more to come. Does that answer this question? I get lost in my head sometimes.
Picture frame Plant Wood Interior design Houseplant


Flower Building Wood Art Twig


5. What are the greatest challenges that you have met along the way? (and how did you overcome them)
For me, the biggest challenges have been to learn how to maintain, tune, and just take care of all the tools involved in woodworking, and of everything I own. I have never been blessed with large quantities of money, so, I've learned how to get by with what I have, and what I can afford. I could never, still can't, afford, or even justify the high cost/s of some of our equipment we need for this great hobby. I have always had my share of the mechanics of how things work, how they come apart, and how they go together. I never have been afraid to try to fix anything. I always do some (a lot), of research on whatever it is I am about to mess with. I have been very fortunate with things that I've done. The old saying of "knowledge is power" is a sure thing.

6. What is the greatest reward that you have received from woodworking? (personal or tangible)
The greatest reward of woodworking for me is being able to imagine something, take a pile of something (wood), and make it look like whatever it was you pictured in your head. I woodwork as a hobby, and get great feelings of raw pleasure when a project comes together for myself, or more importantly, for someone else. You have to love the elated looks of anyone who is on the receiving end of a project. That is a thing of pure beauty, being adult and/or children alike, and will never ever be forgotten.

7. What is your favourite tool that you use for woodworking?
This would be a close race between my jointer and my band saw. When I lay a rough cut piece of anything on that jointer to joint the face, that wood comes alive. The band saw is another, when I resaw a board, it opens for that amazing book match of beauty. That's what I mean by the the beauty of nature. Sorry how small this piece of Walnut is, but, I had it handy.

Wood Table Flooring Floor Rectangle


8. What is your favourite creation in/for your woodworking?
Being that I haven't done a whole bunch of things, this would have to be the table & chairs set that I made for my 2 little Grand Daughters for Christmas of 2011. My Daughter tells me they love their table that Pap made them, and that makes me feel so good. In fact, at the advice of a fellow LJ'er here, I added a poem that I attached to the underside of the table for my Grand Daughters to put in their keepsake box. I'd like to share that here…
Furniture Chair Table Wood Rectangle


Face Hair Smile Head Furniture


The Kitchen Table by Roger Kavanah

The kitchen table
Means a lot to me
It's where our Family
Will meet daily

We will eat many meals
All of us together
They will all be great
No matter
What the weather

We all will sit
And play, and talk a lot
It's times like these
Won't be forgot

We may write a letter
to whom we love and miss
With many heartfelt words
We will remember this

Make much laughter
And many good things
Around this table
You all will bring

All good things
You are all able
To bring around

The Kitchen Table 2011
I believe the kitchen table should be a gathering place for all families. This is where we would always talk, and chit chat about everything. I also believe this is a place for teaching and a learning practice for young and old. Not only do you eat some good home made meals, but, you really get to know each other as an individual. That's my 2-cents on this subject.

I am hoping to make many more things as they continue to grow.

9. What tips would you give to someone just starting out or currently struggling with woodworking?
My 1st, and I feel the most important thing that comes to mind is to learn all you can about the tool you are about to use. Follow all the safety procedures. You should know the components of all your tools, and how they function. If you don't know what the tool is capable of, you are asking for trouble. Be sure to have the utmost respect for those powerful devices of all sorts. Watch and listen to experienced people, young & old alike. We all learn from one another. I am learning things from many of these youngsters coming to life in woodworking, here on LJ's and across the web.

10. How did you find LumberJocks and what is it that keeps you coming back?
I found these many great pages of fine artisans and craftspeople over 600 days ago, while doing what I do a lot, surfing the web, looking for information about woodworking. I think the pages of Lumberjocks is the best thing since ice cream. When you think how big the world is, how many talented, creative, and influential people (men, women, and children alike), there are, it is truely amazing to be a part of it all. I don't feel I have a whole lot to offer, but, I sure like learning and sharing information about this wonderful world of woodworking. I hope to have many more projects in the future to share with everyone, because, as Arnold Schwarzenegger once said: "I'll be bauk"

(Thanks to Roger for taking the time to do this interview for us!)
Great interview.

Lee
 

Attachments

#510 ·
Richgreer

This interview, with richgreer, is from the July 2012 issue of our LumberJocks' eMag.


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

I was raised on the family farm and was actively involved in farm work from the time I was physically able. I particularly enjoyed the "working with wood" projects on the farm. We were often building, modifying or repairing calf pens, corncribs, wagon racks, etc. My Grandfather was quite talented and taught me many basic lessons about using hand tools properly. We only had one power tool at the time, a heavy, clunky, hand held drill.


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

The first thing that enticed me about working with wood, as a boy, was working with Grandpa, whom I loved very much. After he died (I was 13), I continued to do the much of the carpentry work on the farm and I really enjoyed the challenge of finding the optimal way to design something. I seemed to have a knack for it.

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

I left the farm to go to college. After college, I pursued a career as an actuary. Any interest in working with wood had to be put on hold for quite a while as I dealt with the demands of my career and raising our two sons.

I've always been handy at minor things around the house and did some modest projects (e.g. Adirondack chairs) but I did not do any serious woodworking until 1998, the year I was transferred to Iowa. In Iowa I was in the later phase of my career and my work was less demanding and our sons were on their own. We also bought a home that was well suited to having a shop.

I started with a 10' x 12' shop and a used ShopSmith. I reconfigured the shop twice and it is now 17' x 22' and I have plans to make it even bigger. I still have the ShopSmith, but it is only used for very limited applications.

A second significant year was 2007 when I retired and had more hours to put into woodworking. From then until now, I probably spend about 20 hours per week in the shop during the fall and winter seasons.


4. What inspires you regarding wood creations?

I am most inspired by the beauty of the wood itself. I do almost all of my own design work and I stress designs that show off the inherent beauty of the wood. More than most, I work with exotic woods. However, due to the cost, they are usually accent pieces on projects made primarily of less expensive wood. Even with domestic wood, I seek out wood with beautiful grain.

I do both flat work and turning. To me, they are radically different aspects of woodworking. I really feel like an artist when I turn. Working with my own designs in flat work makes me feel more like an engineer looking for perfect joints and a creative design.


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

I have supervised other volunteers on some big projects for my church. I found supervising some volunteers very challenging. From now on, if I need some help on a church project, I have a few specific people I will ask. I will never again issue a general invitation for people to help.


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

I spent almost a year working on numerous projects for my church. We completely renovated the chancel area of the church with 9 new pieces of furniture, a new communion rail and new end panels for the pews. Several projects were solo acts I did alone and others were team projects that I supervised. Pardon my lack of modesty, but my greatest reward is just seeing how beautiful it is every Sunday morning. I relish the joy from knowing I did a good job for my church and my God.


7. What is your favorite tool that you use for woodworking?

I have lots of tools and each tool serves a particular purpose. At any given point in time, my favorite tool is the tool that will do the best job at the task before me.

If you want a more specific answer, my Festool Rotex 150 sander is high on my list of favorite tools. It's permanently connected to a dust extractor and always near my primary work area, ready to go. It gets a lot of use.


8. What is your favorite creation in/for your woodworking?

If I had to identify one project as my favorite creation, it would be the communion rail. It is curved and I had to deal with difficult joints and cutting some precise arches. From a technical perspective, this was my most challenging project to date. It really came out great. The red oak I found for this project is stunning and the design shows off the wood beautifully.


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

Patience. I work slowly and I intend to always work slowly. I pause and think often. I do mock ups with cheap lumber to test how something will work before I do it with the real lumber. For a tricky task, I usually practice on scrap wood first. I avoid any project that has a deadline that could force me to work faster than I am comfortable with. I don't enjoy woodworking when I am rushed and enjoying what you are doing is what it is all about.

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

I tripped onto LumberJocks when perusing the Internet. I genuinely appreciate LumberJocks and all the great advice I have received. I am a seasonal woodworker. I am much more active, both in the shop and on LumberJocks in the fall and winter months. Spring and summer are more focused on my other hobbies, baseball and antique tractors.


Thanks to richgreer for taking the time to do this interview.
 
#529 ·
William

This interview with William is from the August 2012 issue of our LumberJocks' eMag.
(Note: William's projects were hijacked earlier this year and photos and descriptions are not what was originally posted.)



1. How did you first get started working with wood?
I got started in wood work by accident I guess you'd say. I was struggling to find something to keep myself busy that I could handle due to health problems. I lucked up and acquired access to a huge shop. I had no idea what to do with it though. So with just basic tools, and the suggestion of a friend, I started building bird houses. I hated it.
Then, I guess it was about five years ago now, my wife said she was going to buy me a scroll saw for my birthday. My immediate reaction was, what in the world was I going to do with a scroll saw? Well, I came home and looked on the internet and seen what you use one for and decided to give it a shot. A love was born. I've been scrolling ever since and my projects have gotten bigger and bigger, more detailed, more elaborate, and of course, better.


2. What was it about woodworking that initially caught your interest, enticing you to get into it at the level you are now?
Well I told you how I got started scrolling. I started out with simple designs. I worked from free patterns off the internet. Somewhere along the way though, these simple patterns started boring me. I wanted more. I searched far and wide on the internet, but kept coming back to one website, called Wildwood Designs. The photo of the projects there amazed me, but I had doubts as to if I could ever do that level of work.
At the time, I was working with the Ryobi scroll saw my wife had bought me. I could do those simple projects, but if you tried to do anything with any kind of detail in it, it just wasn't good enough tool. I used that saw until the bearings were near falling apart in it. Then I went on a search for a different model. I wound up with a Delta. It is an entry level Delta, but it is heads and shoulders above the Ryobi. After working on that Ryobi for so long, the Delta made me feel like I could scroll anything, and I have about tried to do just that. Soon enough, I was picking any pattern I thought I'd enjoy and cutting it.
I guess it was that Wildwood Designs website that kept me at it. I was determined to cut those kinds of projects. I just had to get enough skill and a tool good enough to do it with.


3. Tell us a bit of history of your journey from that beginning to where you are today
Well, as I said, I started out building bird houses. I still hate building them. I got to a level though that I did built a birdhouse some time ago for a Lumberjock contest that I actually enjoyed building. It was modeled after a childhood memory if mine, the Mississippi Queen riverboat. It hit me while building that bird house, that, while I don't claim to be no wood working master, I had reached a level that I was comfortable tackling pretty much any project I felt like doing.
This got me to thinking about what brought me to that level. It was nothing more than staying at it. I have had times since I started wood working that I thought about quiting it. What else would I do though? This is basically a hobby for me that keeps me active so I don't wither away. I tried many things before wood working, but nothing has kept me going like this. Even on days that I cannot walk, I sit in my wheel chair and look on the internet, or in wood working magazines, searching for my next project.


4. What inspires you regarding wood creations?
The WOW factor. I have done many projects, from the most simple, to some that others think are impossible. The ones I love though are the ones that make others say, "WOW".
It isn't just about others though. My favorite projects are the ones that make me go WOW while trying to wrap my head around how to do them. If I have to scratch my head to figure out a project, then that's the project for me.


5. What are the greatest challenges that you have met along the way?
Money. When I started scrolling, as I said, it was with a piece of crap Ryobi. I dreamed of an Excaliber, or a Dewalt. I still haven't gotten that. I do have a Delta though that I have modified to fit my needs better than the most expensive tools on the market today.
Then there's all the other tools I use. If you walk in my shop you would think that I'm a rich man to be able to afford such a fully equipped shop. You'd be badly mistaken. The main thing that's helped me build up all the great tools that allow me to do what I do is patience.
I started out in this journey like a lot of people, thinking I can't do this or I can't do that because I need this tool or that tool. Aling the way though, since I didn't have it, I made do with what I did have and eventually, I had this tool or that and more. Let's take for example, my table saw operations. I rip my lumber on a fully restored antique Craftsman saw that I traded a riding lawn mower for. It is extremely accurate thanks to the incra system that was on it when I got it. I crosscut on a Ridgid saw that I recieved from a kind lady. All I paid for it was she wanted me to build her a potato bin.
I could write a lengthy post in and of itself about my tools and how I got them. However, to make this story shorter, between yard sales, trades, and refurbishing antique tools on my own, I have a shop that one could build pretty much anything in, and I don't have nearly what one would think in it.
So, to overcome my lack of funds for my hobby, I just kept busy and doing what I do and it all came to me in good time.


6. What is the greatest reward that you have received from woodworking? (personal or tangible)
The ability to give back. Back some time ago, when I was confined to a wheelchair, my kids were not going to have a Christmas one year. Through the generosity of some people, they had something under the tree that Christmas morning.
Somewhere along the way, I started making rocking toys using my scrolling abilities. The first year I made these, a preacher friend of ours told me of a family with two small kids who were going to have nothing for Christmas that year. I looked in my front room at a rocking train and a rocking motorcycle and thought to myself, oh yes they will. I have given to various families every year since. I never actually meet the people. I do it through a couple of different churches so I can remain anonymous with it. It is such a great feeling though to know that a man in my health, can still make some kind of difference in another's life.


7. What is your favourite tool that you use for woodworking?
Since I'm a scroller at heart, definately the scroll saw.
While my main saw is still my Delta, I now take any opportunity that may arise to get other scroll saws. I now have a second Delta that I have put up just in case something happens to the Delta on my work table. I have two 16" direct drive Craftsmans and a 13" direct drive. I have a somewhat restored 1940s era 24" Craftsman. Also, I have a 25" scroll saw that I built myself.


8. What is your favourite creation in/for your woodworking?
You may not believe it, but my favorite creation to date has nothing to do with scrolling.
My favorite creation so far has got to be my 16" shop made band saw. I say this for a couple of reasons. It was the first shop made tool I ever built and that set me off for the better part of this year so far building shop made tools. That has been a diversion in my wood working journey that has been quite enjoyable. Also, it is the only project I've done that was a collaboration effort with help from two other Lumberjocks. That made it very enjoyable for me to say the least.
Also, the band saw was a hard project. It was over two months in the making and there were times that I wondered myself what in the world I had gotten myself into. For the first time since I started wood working, I was not sure we could complete it. When it was done though, my band saw works flawlessly and it was well worth every minute of work put into it. To this day, every time I flip the switch to turn it on, I am so proud of it.


9. What tips would you give to someone just starting out or currently struggling with woodworking?
Never give up. There will be mistakes. It's called design changes. There will be split wood towards the end of projects that cannot be fixed. It's called fancy firewood. There will be head scratchers. They are called personal challenges. There will be finished projects though that complete strangers look at and compliment how nice it is. THAT, my friends, is called time to smile with pride and say, "I built that".
When all else fails though, remember that most wood workers are a generous lot of folks. If you need advice, ask. I, and most other wood workers, will advise and assist in any way we can. I like to call this one, the brotherhood of wood workers.


10. How did you find LumberJocks and what is it that keeps you coming back?
I found Lumberjocks through a fellow Mississippi lumberjock. I wanted to try my hand at a lathe and seen one reasonably priced on Craiglist. I went to buy it and met Luke. He told me about Lumberjocks. I joined up and almost immediately found friends here.
To tell the truth, I see some of the arguing and certain things that I allow to get under my skin form time to time and think about leaving Lumberjocks. Then I think about it though and put it into perspective. When you assemble as many people as we have on Lumberjocks into one location, even on the internet, there are going to be minor uproars now and then. I am an adult though. I can overlook it, ignore what bothers me, and carry on. Besides, usually before I can commit to leaving this site, I complete another project that I just cannot wait to come show off to my Lumberjock buddies.


Thanks, William, for taking the time to do this interview for us.
 
#553 ·
Sheila Landry (Scrollgirl)

This interview with Sheila Landry is from the September 2012 issue of our LumberJocks' eMag


1. How did you first get started working with wood?
Many years ago when my children were small, I used to do sewing projects to earn extra money for the household so that I could be a stay at home mom. One of my favorite things to design was mohair collectible teddy bears. For the bears, I designed not only the bear itself, but the costumes and many props that I included with them. Many of them required wood items, such a sled, a drum, or maybe even a tambourine for a gypsy bear. My friend Cari introduced me to scroll sawing so that I could make these items for myself. By crafting them myself on the scroll saw, they would be unique and enhance the quality of my bears. Cari's dad was also a great help, as he was an engineer and had lots of tools and equipment. He used to allow us to use his shop and we learned how to use many of the basic tools. The more we learned, the more we wanted to know. Soon it became a favorite past time of ours. We also enjoyed decorative painting and began cutting wood pieces for our painting needs. We loved to go to the lumber yard and pick up their drop offs out of the garbage bin. The guys who worked there thought we were crazy, until we started bring their 'garbage' back all painted. They saw what we could make of it and were pretty impressed. Soon they were calling us if they had a load for us to take. We would thank them by bringing them coffee cake!



2. What was it about woodworking that initially caught your interest, enticing you to get into it at the level you are now?
I love the versatility of working with wood. There are so many creative ways that you can shape it into beautiful things. Scroll sawing in particular is fascinating to me because by the processing of removing bits and pieces of the wood, you are able to create incredibly intricate objects.
Seeing the level of work here on Lumberjocks really is inspirational too. The first time I browsed the projects, it was like visiting a wonderful woodworking museum! There are so many projects here that range from simple to very complex. I thought it was great too that no matter which level of woodworking people do, many are willing to share their knowledge and techniques with others through classes and blogs here. Knowing that there is always someone to help takes much of the fear out of trying something new. I think people are more willing to try different things and advance their skills because they know if they get stuck, help is just a post away.



3. Tell us a bit of history of your journey from that beginning to where you are today
It has been quite a journey from that first time I used a scroll saw to the present. Shortly after learning, I began having small 'craft showings' from my home a couple of times a year to help with expenses when my children were small. This allowed me to be a stay at home mom and be with them throughout their early years. I began by making a few things that I sold to friends and family members to decorate for the holidays and give as gifts. Once, I had made a gift for a friend to give to her sister who was in the hospital. When she presented it to her, a couple of nurses had seen it and wanted to see more. I decided to make a sample of several items, have a home craft show, and then allow people to place orders for them. That would allow me to purchase minimal materials and also if people wanted specific colors, etc. I would be able to accommodate them. The first showing I had, I sent out six post cards to those nurses who were interested, telling them to bring their friends if they wished. I set up a couple of rooms in my house as showrooms and tagged everything and printed out order forms. Not only were there sewing items, but there were lots of painted wood items as scrolling led me to learn more about painting and I loved doing that.
The response was incredible. I think in that first show I had orders for over $8000 of merchandise! You can imagine I was busy filling orders for the next few months with two small children! Unfortunately, I had underpriced my things and really didn't make much profit from all that work. That is one of the reasons I like to share my journey with others through my blog. I like to let people know not only of my successes, but also my mistakes in hopes that they will learn from them and have an easier time than I did.
Those early shows were a lot of work, but they led me to meet up with two gentlemen in the area who owned their own scroll saw pattern company called "Scroller." They lived five minutes from me and through word of mouth, they called as they were looking for someone to add painting instructions and color into their designs. It was with them that I met the people from Creative Woodworks and Crafts Magazine (in 1997) and began my long relationship with the magazine.
Scroller is no longer owned by Scott and Roy, and was sold long ago (in 1998) to Winfield Creations, which focuses on mainly larger yard art type patterns. I still wholesale my patterns to them currently.



4. What inspires you regarding wood creations?
I like many types of scroll sawn designs, but some I feel are a bit 'busy' for my own taste. While the huge and complex clocks are really nice, I prefer to do something that is a bit simpler. Back when I began scroll sawing, I used to love the Victorian style of decorating. Seeing intricate pieces in antique stores was really an inspiration for me to recreate the same type of pieces on the scroll saw. I suppose this was the beginning of my own designing.
Over the years, I evolved somewhat and as I got to 'know' different wood a bit better, I sometimes prefer to allow the wood to dictate the design rather than the other way around. I find that the more interesting the grain or figure of the wood, the less complex I make the design. On some projects, you need to just allow the wood itself to be the focus, not the design.
Becoming a designer as a profession took many years. The transition from crafter to professional designer was a long one for me and I pretty much learned the ropes along the way. There is more to designing than just drawing a picture. Besides that, you need to learn software (I use all Adobe products in my designing), photography, woodworking techniques and you also need to know how to explain things so that others can effectively reproduce the project. There is no shortcut to learning these things. I was fortunate that the great people at Creative Woodworks and Crafts magazine were willing to help me along. In essence, they were my teachers.



5. What are the greatest challenges that you have met along the way? (and how did you overcome them)
I hate to admit it, but when I began woodworking over fifteen years ago, I think that being a woman was one of the biggest challenges that I encountered. Woodworking was traditionally a man's area, and while there were some great women that pioneered woodworking techniques for us girls (like Diana Thompson, who designs wonderful compound cut patterns) they were few and far between. In the beginning, it was difficult to have respect from many woodworkers.
I remember a particular incident that I had at one of my first shows that I did with Scroller. The guys went to lunch and I was left at the booth. A couple of gentlemen came up and asked when 'the guys' would be back because they had a blade question. I told them I was one of 'the guys' and I would try to help them. They looked at me doubtfully and with some coaxing I got them to ask me the question. I loved the look on their faces when I was able to answer them intelligently and I actually think I helped them out. I think they were shocked that a woman would know such things.
I also used to like when I demonstrated scroll sawing at some of the shows. It was as if people couldn't believe a girl (and a blonde to boot!) could operate a scroll saw. The other women were really interested, too. I used to tell them it was no more dangerous than using a sewing machine (which it isn't) and by assimilating it to something they could relate to, I think I brought a lot of girls on board. Over the years, I sold a lot a scroll saws to women (indirectly) and I hope to think that I helped the industry grow a bit in that area.



6. What is the greatest reward that you have received from woodworking? (personal or tangible)
It is difficult for me to list all the benefits I have enjoyed because of my woodworking. Besides the obvious ability to make a living doing something that I love, I believe the friendships and people that I have met ranks the highest. So many of my customers have become my friends. I love the way that woodworkers are willing to share their love of what they do and it is an instant 'ice breaker' when you first meet someone. Besides my customers, I have met many people in the industry and in businesses who have shared information with me and helped me become successful. Learning from each other is a very valuable experience, as I said before.
Because of woodworking, I am living a life that is full of creativity, challenges and fulfillment. While many people really dislike their jobs, I feel so fortunate that I am able to make a living doing something that I love so much. I wake up every morning thankful for the life I have and I do what I need to do to protect it. While I realize that many people would not like to do what I do on the scale that I do it, for me it is a dream come true and I am happy to be able to contribute to the craft as much as I can.



7. What is your favourite tool that you use for woodworking?
Of course it is the scroll saw! I love it because it is such a wonderfully versatile tool and there is very little else you need to get started in working. You can make most scroll saw projects from start to finish using just the saw and perhaps a drill press and sander. You don't need a large shop or lots of room (I run my business with my partner Keith out of our 1 bedroom place here!)
Besides the basic safety rules, there is a very small learning curve in using a scroll saw, too. Just about anyone can sit down and start scrolling - even children (supervised, of course!) Because scroll saws use very small blades, there is also less chances of having accidents. While it is possible to cut yourself on the blade, there is kind of a joke among the scroll saw people that in order to cut off a finger, you would need to work hard at it. Using a scroll saw is very much like using a sewing machine. If you break it down, all you are really doing is following lines to remove tiny pieces of material, one bit at a time. The results can be beautifully intricate fretwork, or wonderfully fun contemporary projects like word art and even functional items such as bowls and baskets.



8. What is your favourite creation in/for your woodworking?
That's like asking which of my children I love the most. I tend to switch back and forth from projects that are quite difficult and delicate to some that are fun and easy. One of my favorite projects of all time is my "Wright Inspired Candle Tray" which I designed in a Art Deco style. It was also one of the most challenging. Contrary to what many believe, cutting straight lines on the scroll saw is much more difficult than those flowing and curving designs. The Wright tray required many hours of strict concentration on my part not only to keep the lines straight, but to keep the corners sharp and crisp. I think it is one of my nicest pieces.



9. What tips would you give to someone just starting out or currently struggling with woodworking?
I think the most important thing to do if you are just starting out or struggling is to find a place to network and ASK QUESTIONS!
You would be amazed at how many wonderfully talented and skilled people are willing to share information regarding their skills. Books and tutorials are helpful too, but nothing beats hearing from others' experiences and learning through the challenges that they have already met - and conquered. One of my favorite quotes is by John Donne - "No Man is an island entire of itself."

A second bit of advice that I would give is that you need to give things a bit of time before giving up. Many people are impatient these days. We live in a world of instant gratification and expect results immediately. However, many of the skills that woodworking requires take years to develop and refine. It is only by hard work and dedication that you are able to achieve success. In my mind, there is no such thing as 'instant success.' Things worth doing require time and patience and sometimes many failures before being able to call oneself a success.

I am sometimes asked "How can I become a successful pattern designer?"

When asked this question, I don't really know how to answer. It has taken me years of hard work, learning, dedication and yes - failures - to be at the point in my business I am now. I guess I really must love what I do or I would have given up a long time ago.

I think to be successful in anything, you have to have a pure love of what you are doing. You can't watch a clock or expect to 'get rich quick' or achieve success by counting the hours you are working each day. It has to be a part of you from deep within.



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

I was sent to this site by Steve Good, who is a great asset to the scroll saw community. Steve has a daily scroll saw blog in which he shares patterns, information and ideas on scroll sawing. I was looking for ways to expand my business and Steve thought that I would enjoy all the things that Lumberjocks had to offer.

When I joined up, I noticed that we had the ability to create blogs. I have never done blogs before but I enjoyed writing enough and I thought it would be a cool way to get to know some of the members here. I never imagined that I would be able to write over 800 blogs (with almost 900,000 reads! Maybe when I reach a million, I will get a t-shirt or coffee cup?!)

I remember when I wrote that first blog over two years ago I felt kind of silly. Who after all would want to read about what I was doing here in my little place in Bangor, Nova Scotia? When I first hit that 'post' button, I was kind of scared. But what did I have to lose? Soon I received some nice replies and they just keep on coming. Through the blog I have made many wonderful friends from all over the world. It is as if we are having a cup of coffee together in the morning to start our day.

Writing each day quickly became a habit for me. In my daily blog, I like to share what it takes to run a small business. It isn't just drawing and running to the bank to cash the checks. There are negotiations, creative slumps, decisions on marketing, accounting and many other aspects that I encounter regularly that I like to share with others. By doing so, I hope to help people see what is involved in not only establishing a business, but keeping it going in these difficult economic times.

I realize that every day isn't full of excitement. On those days I try to offer an inspirational saying or humorous cat pictures on my blog to entertain and inspire people - or just to make them smile. Life hasn't always been easy for me, and I have learned that focusing on positive things and having a positive attitude is a wonderful way to overcome many of the adverse things in this world. I call it 'pink cloud living.'

I come back because of all the wonderful positive feedback I receive from people, and also because of the great friends I made here. There are days when I just don't have a lot to write about and think about skipping a day, but when I do, people come looking for me with emails and private messages. Apparently some have come to expect my morning writings and miss them when I am not there. That is kind of nice.

I have received countless letters from others saying that something I said or did, or even some of the quotes that I post have helped people through some difficulty that they were having. That alone is reason to come back. If I can help even one person, than my time here is well spent.

In closing I want to thank everyone here at Lumberjocks for making this forum possible for all of us to share our love of woodworking. Without it, I certainly don't think that I would be where I am today regarding my business, or my life. Having a place to meet people from all over the world is an amazing privilege. I know I will keep coming back as long as you will all have me.

Thanks to Sheila for taking the time to do this interview as well as her 800+ blogs!
 
#554 ·
I love the frankness and being open to what you really encountered in answering those questions in this interview. Congratulations! All the best and more success to come! Keep it going Sheila.

Deb, Thanks for featuring Sheila.. Time for us to know a bit of her that were not included in her blogs. Actually, most of the questions raised are those questions in my mind that you had enlightened. Keep it going.

More power to Lumberjock!
 
#581 ·
dbhost

This interview with dbhost is from the October 2012 issue of our Lj eMag.



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

A:) While I came back to woodworking in my late 30s, I have been working with wood since I was about 5 years old when my grandpa gave me a Cub Scout knife for Christmas. I took immediately to carving rockets, bugs, faces and other items into small bits of wood, limb pieces that came off the trees on our property etc… I loved wood shop class in Jr. High and High School.


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

A:) My dad is a woodworker, my grandpa, my great uncles on back as many generations back as family records go. I guess you could say it is genetic. I was raised to believe it is better to build than buy if you have the capacity.


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

A:) From the beginning carving with that old Cub Scout knife, which I still happen to have by the way, until now, my woodworking has grown in fits and starts. I was very active in woodworking, and wood shop until I got out of high school, and then a 20 year dry spell until I actually married my lovely wife in 2007. The interest never left, but she is very supportive, and actually likes what comes out of the shop. She has helped me hunt for the bargains, put up with the wood chips in my pockets, and even given me ideas for projects. I have a long way to go still, but sometimes, it's not the destination that is the whole point, but rather the journey itself right?


Q:) 4. What inspires you regarding wood creations?

A:) In college I studied art, and engineering, I am a devout Christian, that has lived in Texas and Arizona for the last quarter century. I take my influences from classical arts, architecture, industrial design, religious themes, and of course Southwestern / Mexican Rustic themes. Aside from that the online communities I am involved in such as Lumberjocks have given me great inspirations, and helped me to set some pretty lofty goals!


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

A:) Working in a garage based workshop in a suburban setting in Texas means that I am within close proximity to my neighbors bedroom walls, and it is HOT. I have been running air conditioning as long as I can to cool the shop down, and THEN run the power tools for as short of a period as I can. I use hand tools to the best of my ability. So much so that my jointer is getting lonely… My current project is wiring a sub panel and circuits in the shop, and insulating the walls. That has been years in the making and I am excited about getting it finished.


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

A:) There are so many rewards to being a hobby woodworker, but for me probably the greatest is knowing I am carrying on and hopefully passing down a great family tradition.


Q:) 7. What is your favourite tool that you use for woodworking?

A:) I tend to get a little grief because I have a shop full of cheap tools, but I have to say that the title of favorite tool is a toss up between my Ryobi BT3100-1 table saw setup, and my Central Machinery 12×36 cast iron lathe… The lathe is more fun to use, but the table saw is really the heart of my shop…. It's so hard to pick a winner between those two!


Q:) 8. What is your favourite creation in/for your woodworking?

A:) I have to say still, the simple Cross Mantle Clock that I made as an anniversary gift for my wife. It's pretty straight forward construction, but it is so beautiful to look at, and I really put my heart into every single piece I make for her…



Q:) 9. What tips would you give to someone just starting out or currently struggling with woodworking?

A:) I would contradict the guys that have dropped a ton of money into top dollar iron and tell them don't worry about having the biggest or fanciest tools. Use what works best for you, and enjoy the process. Now mind you, my advice is pointless for a pro, but for a hobby woodworker, this is supposed to be fun right? Get advice on what you are doing, and don't rush the project. Rush jobs come out bad and are no fun. You don't see guys going out to go fly fishing and try to rush to catch a couple of fish so they can go right back to work do you? Enjoy it, and if you can, enjoy the process with a friend or family member…


Q:) 10. How did you find LumberJocks and what is it that keeps you coming back?

A:) I stumbled on here during a visit to The Wood Whisperer site. I keep coming back because of the people, and the projects I see completed here. This site has about the busiest completed projects section of any woodworking site I know of…


Thanks to dbhost for taking the time out of his busy schedule to do this interview. (Good luck with the re-doing of your shop!)
 
#588 ·
Grizzman

This interview with Grizzman is from the November 2012 issue of our eMag



1. How did you first get started:
When i was in high school i took a shop class that i fell in love with; i have always enjoyed making or fixing things and this class opened up my world to wood working. I made three things that year, one was a large trunk -like box; it was made from plywood that I stained and gave to my mother; the second thing I had made was a cutting board, and the third thing was a table made from 2×4 and it had a tile top. I gave that to my sister and she still has it to this day. That was my beginning and it sorta fell off at that point and i didnt get back to wood working until i was in my late thirty's and then the journey really started to take off.


#2. What initially caught your interest?
What caught my interest at first were the power tools. I was exposed to utilitarian type of woodworking at first; I was involved with maintenance where i worked and made things like shelving units and office type of furniture; the miter saw and the router were my first tools then i purchased a bench top table saw. i thought i was really set; little did i know there was a whole different world of wood working yet to be discovered.

#3. Tell us about your history
So from the point of my beginning to where i am now has been quite an unexpected trip; as i stated above i had three major power tools, my shop consisted of a small bedroom that was free to use. It was very small, maybe 6×10, and if I tried to do any project that had any size to it, oh was that a challenge, the room was so small. Luckily for me I had not been exposed to what a real shop was suppose to be like or i would have been so depressed, but the winds of change were blowing and i was going to experience true happiness. This small shop was in my home in alaska and with my health changing and my wife's mother needing help, we packed up and came back to the lower 48. Two other tools i had were a compressor and a nail gun, i had traded a fellow worker a 44 magnum hand gun for the nail gun - that was a life changing tool, for when we got settled here in alabama, it was the tool that built my small empire here in the country.
We were at my mother in laws home which my wife had been raised in her whole life, a nice place on 2 acres, but as we soon found out, we needed our own place and as soon as possible, so it all began, and the first thing that happened was i ordered the materials to build my shop and my home. I had stacks of lumber everywhere, but the shop was the first thing i built. It's 22 by 32 with 10 foot ceilings. I had an electrician hang the lights and wire the place. I had planned where all the major tools would be located, so he wired 220 where i needed it and outlets about every 4 feet on all four walls; I have a 220 amp service to the shop, so plenty of room to expand if needed. I went to Montgomery to a delta dealer with 5,000 dollars in my pocket and i had a ball….i ordered my table saw, my 15 inch planer , my dust collection, a mortiser, and a scroll saw. They brought it and I set the table saw right in the middle of the room and placed everything else; I stood there and looked at my shop and i was in heaven…from an 8×10 room to almost 700sq feet…life could not be better.
I then turned my attention to the house, and with lots of help from our church family i was able to build us a comfy little 1200 sq foot home, and i had furniture to build, the whole shop to get set up and that is all i had to do, no worries of a job; i could not be happier. Any chance i had to collect old wood i took it. I was given a whole house to dismantle and salvage all the wood; the whole house was the old southern yellow heart pine, walls, floors and ceilings were 1×4 t and g , floor joists, ceiling joists, large beams, every window or door opening was a 5×5 on each side. I ended up using all the t and g for the inside of my home. so i collected wood from any source i could; when storms took down large red cedar trees, i had them milled and it went on and on, i now have wood stores to last through the millennium.


#4. What inspires you?
The main thing that inspires me in my wood creations is the wood, i think that it can be mixed and used together. I look at color and what is going on in each piece. I have over 80 projects now that were created since i have found lumber jocks and i have used hardwood with soft woods and really have no rules. I think that I've been blessed with the ability to make my creations and have my own style. I've had many comments from my buddies here that when they see my project that I have posted that they know its from me; so i guess i have my own style and its mostly on the rustic side, but i love wood. For me there are some spiritual connections and I feel fortunate to have been blessed with the ability to use what God has created, and its a part of who i am now, anytime i go somewhere, i look at the wood and how it was used.


#5. What challenges have you met along the way?
The challenges i have met along my journey is learning everything that is available to enhance my wood work. I learned that wood working was done mainly with hand tools, and all that is involved with that is just mind blowing. When i see carvings from days gone by, things made by wood working artists, shows me there are so many paths here, even though most of what I do is from power tools. If I could go back and start over, i could have leaned heavily on the hand tool side. I love and enjoy the power tools as they are needed in today's world where things are fast paced and they're a blessing to help us create, but i would really enjoy a slower time where the use of hand tools would let you really become more connected to the wood then power tools allow. But all wood workers have there preferences.
The other challenge is learning all the different types of joinery and for me that is going to be a long one; I still have many things to learn there and what is most enjoying about the use of joinery is just going to it. I use all the resources available to learn how to do different types of joints and where there best to be used, i just jump right in and work at it until i have it.

#6. What has been your greatest reward?
My greatest reward that I have gotten from my woodworking is the love that has come back to me from those who have gotten something that I have made for them. Of coarse I have many pieces of furniture in my home that I have made and I see it every day, and I'm fortunate to have been able to do that, so seeing what i have made is enjoyable, but the best reward is knowing I've made someone happy with what I have given them.

#7. What is your favourite tool?
The most favorite tool for me is my planer. I use old wood for most of what I do and when I first started wood working, i was using the old southern yellow heart pine. It was dirty and dark and no way to tell what it really looked like. When i ran the firat piece of it through the planer, I was like a kid in a candy store…to me its one of the most beautiful woods ever, and so seeing wood revealed from going through the planer is the best.


#8. What is your favourite creation?
I have many wonderful things I've made that have lots of wood in it to show off, but the one piece that I have made is my headboard. I've always wanted a huge headboard made with logs and beautiful wood, and another favorite wood for me is red cedar. My headboard is made from cedar logs and cedar wood that I glued together to make the center piece of the bed. This i get to see every day and it has art work from my sister and there is a story from the bears that are on there, and any time i have someone new see my home, i have to explain the headboard.


#9. What advice would you give to new woodworkers?
Well I think the first thing I would tell them is to reach for perfection in there work. Whichever route they take with wood working, whether it be hand tools or power tools, whether it be carving or making decorative boxes, strive to do your best. Of coarse there will be mistakes and they will look back and find every little flaw there is, and that is good, if it drives them to do better.
Lumberjocks is to me the best resource there is for learning wood working. Whether it's learning to make dovetails or how to do certain joinery, its all here. Look at the best projects that you like, study how they made it and how they used the woods. Every person has their own style, likes and dislikes, but with as much that is available here, you can learn it all; send PM's to those you like and ask questions, and dont give up. Wood working is fun and it's something that takes time to learn and feel comfortable with. Some take to it right away - its a given talent - and others sometimes struggle, but if you really want it, work for it until you get it. Sometimes your wood will make it, other times you just put it in the stove and start over, but don't give up until you're happy with it. It takes time and experience. It's a journey, enjoy it along the way, and don't be in a hurry. So many things to learn; it's so much fun and when you have made that piece that took many hours of patience and newly learned skills, you will have achievement, and you're one step further to a life time of learning. That is one of the best things i love about wood working, so many things to learn.


#10. How did you find LumberJocks.com?
i found LumberJocks doing a search for a wood working project, and it took me to someone's gallery. To me it was like finding the holy of hollies of wood working, the MECA, a gold mine. For days i looked and looked at all the projects and was amazed at what i saw. I could not believe I had found so much talent in one place. And then i had the guts to post in a conversation, and from there on, it was one of the best finds ever. I've made friends that i never would have made otherwise, and I've learned more here than I could have anywhere else. I come back because of the people I know and the class of wood working that is here.
When i joined there were 8,000 members, and we have gone from that to where we are today, over 51,000 members. If you really want to learn, this is the place and if you need inspiration on a new project, you will find it here, regardless of the bumps and bruises along the way; I love LumberJocks.
~Grizzman

Thanks to Grizzman for taking the time to share his story with us!
 
#589 ·
Super interview Bob
I'm glad your here ,I'm privileged to call you my friend .Thanks for all of your input on LJs your always on a good steady course of positive comments and wonderful "Grizz style" projects, keep em coming buddy.
 
#614 ·
gfadvm

This interview with gfadvm is from the January 2013 issue of our LJ eMag.



1. How did you first get started working with wood?
I got started in WW because I needed a new indoor activity. I made bits and spurs for many years until the saddle shop where I sold them closed due to the death of the owner. I thought that I might enjoy WW even though I had zero experience and no WW tools.



2. Tell us a bit of history of your journey from that beginning to where you are today
I bought a Ryobi tablesaw and mitersaw and attacked some piles of scrap. I made some stuff for our house that my wife deemed acceptable. After my dad died I salvaged a bunch of lumber from his barn and made some tall folding chairs. They were a lot of fun and to my suprise, people wanted to buy them! I have always insisted that my hobbies pay their own way so this inspired me. I bought more/better tools as I sold more chairs and built jigs, router table, sleds, etc. I found Lj when looking for WW information and I've been hooked ever since. I am a total beginner and everything I know about woodworking, I learned on this site.



3. What inspires you regarding wood creations?
The projects posted inspire me to try to improve my skills. My greatest challenge has been trying to create quality
projects without having a lot of expensive tools. The solution seems to lie in setting up all my tools to maximize their accuracy (and practicing on a lot of scrap).

For some reason I really enjoy working with difficult or "flawed" woods. I try to let the wood dictate what it wants to be and have become addicted to building boxes. I can't explain my fascination with boxes but I think it is because they are always an exercise in problem solving.



4. What is your favourite tool that you use for woodworking?
I honestly don't have a favorite tool but I am definately a "power tool guy".



5. What is the greatest reward that you have received from woodworking?
There is something very satisfying about starting with a log and ending up with a decent project.



6. What is your favourite creation in/for your woodworking?
I have a real fascination with wooden hinges and live edges thanks to all the help and inspiration I have received from my fellow LJs.



7. What tips would you give to someone just starting out or currently struggling with woodworking?
As far as advice for newbies to WW, I am hardly qualified but I would say don't be afraid to try new things and ask advice from others. I bred, raised, trained, and showed reining horses for many years and I find a lot of parallels with WW: If you are going to better yourself you have to constantly challenge yourself and not be afraid to make mistakes and accept help from other people who are successful.



Thanks to Andy for taking the time to do this interview and for sharing his story with us!
 
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