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Woodworking sayings and proverbs...

13K views 36 replies 22 participants last post by  woodbutcherbynight 
#1 · (Edited by Moderator)
You know them, things like "measure twice, cut once" and "f__k with the ancients and get blocked". Let's put a list together. Got any pithy, snarky ones to share?
 
#7 ·
Here are a few examples of Irish expressions pertaining to woodworking

It's leaning on the Ballycallan side - meaning it's not plumb

As tight as a tail on a cat - meaning a good fit has been achieved

We're on the pig's back - meaning things are going well.
 
#14 ·
back up to DKV…only if the carpenter manages to get out of town after the check clears but before the walk-through. and who would be the "ancients"?

anyway, I'll contribute…"close enough for government work…nail it".

and a saying that pretty much applies to anything when things really go wrong, "shut her down Clancy, she's pumping mud". I think that is a water-drilling or oil drilling thing…I'd suggest you do not stretch that to the bar scene. just saying…
 
#16 ·
I never did mind the little things.
It seemed like a good idea at the time. = in Iraq
You can run, you'll just die tired! = in Iraq
Go to hell? In case you have not noticed we are in hell moron, what you want me to sit in the corner? = in Iraq
For the love of Moses and all the prophets what are you doing? Talking them to death? = in Iraq
When you shoot do you actually aim or are you using the Force? = in Iraq
I have one method, shoot first, shoot some more then ask the questions. = in Iraq
Rules of engagement? What we are playing checkers dumbass? = in Iraq

In Iraq means I said it on the radio while in Iraq, and was written up for it of course

The one comment that got me a serious reaming from the Base Commander:
Moses, Elijah, and all the prophets you need to use the toilet? Now? What do you propose? Calling a time out? Your Mother did drugs while she was pregnant with you didn't she?
 
#17 ·
A few from my Dad, who built homes on speculation for many years.

"Caulk and paint cover a multitude of sins."

"Plumbing is a bastards trade." (He had a plumber notch triple floor joists that were put in place to support a mortar bed for a slate entryway when he was building our family home. The plumber insisted it was the only way only to have my Dada show him a simple alternative that required no cutting. The plumber was good enough to repair the joists with steel fish plates.)
 
#19 ·
Nail 'er where she's to.
Boatbuilding expression.
When a piece of planking is bent onto a hull and clamped tight to the frames (to), you can drive the boat nails. You never drive them if she ain't "to". They'll work loose.

That's f**k all in a big ship.
Never my attitude but an old expression none the less.
 
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