Issue 454
Issue 454
Sharp Thinking
I like to sharpen things — knives, axes, chisels, plane blades, drill bits — and I have for a long time. It is something that I learned to do as a young person, working with grinding wheels and oilstones. When I started woodworking, I learned a bit more, purchased a whole set of sharpening stones, and proceeded to put super-sharp edges on all sorts of items (and gained the benefit of using truly sharp tools).
At some point, I became aware that a lot of woodworkers find sharpening not only annoying, but also a bit baffling. Which is understandable — as my friend Ian Kirby points out, sharpening is metalworking, not woodworking. In some ways, I wonder if it is a bit like sanding … something that woodworkers will go to great ends to avoid, and then not bother to learn the most effective way to do it.
So I am asking you all: When it comes to sharpening your tools … Are you good at it? Do you enjoy it? Avoid it?
Give it to me straight; I can take it!
Rob Johnstone, Woodworker’s Journal
Today's Woodworker
-
Marco Terenzi: Maker of Miniature Tools
Marco Terenzi makes miniature woodworking tools that are fully functional.
Tricks of the Trade
-
Measure the Cut, Not the Bit
Here’s a tip I’ve learned from many years of routing: when you prepare to make a cut, always cut a test piece first, and measure the result to evaluate your bit setting.
-
Laminate Your Finishing Table
I covered the outfeed table of my table saw with plastic laminate. It not only helps workpieces slide over it more easily during sawing, but it also makes an ideal surface for finishing small projects.
What's In Store
-
Hitachi Unveils Three Cordless Brushless Finish Nailers
Packed with features, plus smaller and lighter batteries, these three cordless finish nailers require no compressor or hose.
Q & A
-
What Woods Make Up Inexpensive Asian Furniture?
What are the usual suspects for wood options on mass-marketed Asian furniture?
Reader's Project Gallery
-
Double Porch Rocker
I built this rocker for donation to Sacred Heart School’s Gala later month. It is a fundraiser for the school where my wife works.
Feedback
-
Tips on Moving “A Lot of Stuff” from a Shop
Readers share that they, too, have “a lot of stuff” in their shops, plus tips for moving it.
