The American Craftsman Workshop Update Sept '09

Great to see you back on line :-)) I have a question for you: Will lacquer alone pop the wood on a nice piece without any other treatment?

-- Debt is nothing more than the 21st Century's form of slavery.

Very interesting. Thanks for the post!!!!

-- Only the Shadow knows....................

I love the bases on those cabinets. When you post more pics, if you have any Sketch-up designs of those I’d appreciate seeing those :)

...I could almost hear those paddles dipping into the water… A great post Todd! I like the way you built a table to replace a table you were working on, good style! I also like how you use a mover’s blanket when working in a customers house!

-- Never board, always knotty, lots of growth rings

Great photos , thanks for posting—

-- rob

Nice work as always.

I have a nice sharp marking gauge…....first time I used it, I scratched the wrong edge…......havent used it since

Again…..beautiful work as always

-- http://www.furnituremann.ca/

Topamax – Lacquer alone will make the grain pop. Many of the projects with figured wood in my portfolio have nothing other than lacquer on them and the grain just sprang to life as soon as the first coat went on. I usually use a satin or dull finish, but going glossy will create a deeper look to the finish. This would be similar to an automotive finish.

Jimi C – I may have to share some of my sketch book as I have not yet learned how to use Sketchup. I have it in my computer but I lack the time.

Kindlingmaker – I have a great reputation as a remodeling contractor built on simple acts like showing up on time, protecting floors and furniture as I work, and cleaning up after myself. This is a gold nugget for everyone and is one of the secrets to success.

-- Todd A. Clippinger, Montana, http://amcraftsman.com

Todd , I enjoyed the update. I`v never been to Montana to see its beauty so thanks for the glimpse.

Your projects look great, I really like the bench. I wana try one, one day. I really like the Q/S tables. I Q/S about 300 bd ft white oak yesterday for a bedroom suit.
Looking forward to learning about the toners, Keep up the great work.

The window base and the vanity base looks great I like that design.

-- Mike, Bruce Mississippi = Jack of many trades master of none

I’m not a fan of Oak, but that QS top and legs just look GOOD! I also like the design of the bath cabinets – very elegant.

looks like you had a good weekend to balance out things! thanks for the update.

-- When in doubt - There is no doubt - Go the safer route.

I agree with you PurpLev. I am not a fan of oak but the QS is nice looking. But for this project I am just dealing with an existing situation.

You will notice that none of my projects are made of oak. If you want to add some wow factor I think it helps to use something other than oak. It is not a bad wood, it is simply overused in my opinion.

-- Todd A. Clippinger, Montana, http://amcraftsman.com

Thanks for the update. I really enjoyed your bench video too. Lots of good stuff to think about.

-- Travis (http://www.scrollsawgoodies.com)

Thanks for your update on projects you have been working on… I especially like the 10 hour table finish you made out of Poplar. I always hate the green tint you get out of the wood but after all it is used for painted woodwork. ANy tips or tricks on that finish you would like to share?

I am also jealous of the float trips down my favorite rivers. Mom said it’s been hot up there so it must have been great on the floats.

-- Glen

I used the stain first and applied a seal coat. Then I added the dye as a toner and sealed that in with my finish coats. It turned out really nice.

I am a huge fan of ML Campbell’s MagnaMax. It is waaay more durable than the previous pre-cats that I had been using. I was previously using Sherwin Williams T77-F37 and T77-F57. The MagnaMax is so durable that it acts similar to a post catalyzed finish. It is very suitable for table tops and cabinets in wet locations such as kitchens and baths.

-- Todd A. Clippinger, Montana, http://amcraftsman.com

Thanks for the post. I’m reeeaaally looking forward to the info on toners.

-- Rich, Seattle, WA

I am downloading video at this moment:)

-- Todd A. Clippinger, Montana, http://amcraftsman.com

Welcome back!...and I envy you for your great break. That is a fine bench and deserves it’s spot amongst the Stickley’s…Great stuff…Im looking forward to your reviews and videos

-- Woodworking.....My small slice of heaven!

Congrats on the reputation Todd. It’s amazing how little competition there is when you know what you’re doing and pay attention to the simple details:-)) Thanks for the info on lacquer.

-- Debt is nothing more than the 21st Century's form of slavery.

Todd,

Looking forward to seeing this video as I do all of your videos so far!

Handi

-- Jimmy "Handi" Warner, http://jwarner75.etsy.com, http://handisworkshop.blogspot.com

Got video loaded into the computer but I have to go back out to the shop:P

-- Todd A. Clippinger, Montana, http://amcraftsman.com

Hey Todd, Welcome back.

My gosh, you are such a class act. Thanks for sharing.

Looking forward to the video,
Steve

-- Stevethepeeve -- I'm no rocket surgeon

Good to see your work, Todd. I still haven’t found time to get to billings yet. Maybe this fall. I really like the color on the tables. You do fine work, buddy.

-- Thos. Angle

Todd, glad to see the update. Looks like you’ve had a real busy summer but took some time out for enjoyment. Your work is fantastic and I too look forward to the video on toners.

-- Jerry--A man can never have enough tools or clamps

Good one Todd.

-- Grumpy - "Always look on the bright side of life"- Monty Python

Hey Todd
Glad to hear there is so many positive things going on with you.

-- Jim from Heirloom Woodshop Southern Oregon