Reply by Don K.

Jeff.while I agree with all you say…..I also believe there are “Ways” to be critical…Like you, I find VERY little to say in a negative way to ANY piece posted. Most are so far above my skill level they belong in a museum.

But I also think of it like this…we are all woodworkers…and all at different skill levels, some are just starting out…and others are true masters. But BOTH are just as proud of the piece they made…or they would not have posted it for all to see.

When I was young and playing around in my dads shop…some of the stuff I made was nothing more than a small kid playing at being a woodworker. But my dad never tore a piece apart (and not saying thats what you are saying), or said anything negative about it. But he would say things like “Thats really nice Don…you know….if you did this…or add this…this piece would really pop”

As a beginning woodworker who thought the world of his dad….if he had been negative toward my work, I probably would have never picked it up. I try and remember this and did/do the same with my son….and do the same with anyone who ask my opinion on a piece. I will say nice things about it…AND mean them…but if I think it could use a little “Something extra” I will say so for what it’s worth.

I think people and members want to be nice…and not hurt someones feelings…and understandable so. But I think if it is done in a “Constructive way” there is nothing wrong with it. As I said…I have seen some real masterpieces here….and I have seen some beginning woodworkers who posted simple plywood boxes to hold up their TV with…but he was probably JUST as proud of his plywood box as the man who spent months making his master piece.

So…for his skill level,(Master, mid level or beginner) he DID do a good job…and I tell them so and try to help them by encouraging them to do even more and better work.

-- Don S.E. OK