Why was Craftsman purchased by Stanley Black & Decker (SB&D)?

What we saw through our research was, in both perception and aspiration to buy the brand, people covet Craftsman products, and everybody has a Craftsman story! So we knew the brand was extremely powerful. The challenge for Craftsman over the past number of years has not been brand recognition — it’s been lack of broader availability. So, when Sears decided to shop Craftsman around, we saw it as a great opportunity for us to really take something that has such great history as an iconic brand — especially here in the U.S. — and capitalize on bringing that to life with new retail partners and a more meaningful road map of product development that we felt could truly make Craftsman even stronger than what it has been for the past 90 years.

SB&D and Craftsman share a long heritage in manufacturing hand tools and accessories. How are the two brands benefiting one another?

Craftsman’s legacy of quality and value as an iconic brand is a great fit for our overall brand strategy (at SB&D), because that’s what we want to deliver: really good quality tools at an attainable value to the end user. On the SB&D side, we’re able to capitalize on our 175-year pedigree of product history, engineering and innovations and bring that to Craftsman on this next generation of tools. What Craftsman gives us in return is the ability to expand into categories like gas-powered outdoor equipment that we haven’t participated in before. That’s a huge opportunity for us.

Surely the past 18 months have been demanding, in terms of Craftsman’s transition to SB&D and preparing to launch some 1,200 new products. How has the process gone, and why was Craftsman ready to take on a challenge of this magnitude?

SB&D invested a lot into Craftsman from the get-go — $900 million — and moved quickly into building out a team to help us bring the brand to life for our retail partners. We knew that we could develop the right product strategy and bring products to market quickly in 2018. We think we’ve hit the nail on the head here by aligning strategically with Lowe’s, Ace and Amazon. It’s taken a lot of work from a great team, but we couldn’t be more excited about where we’re at right now and where we’re headed.

Please speak to Craftsman’s “Made in America” commitment. How do you address Craftsman customers who have difficulty accepting that while some products are made in America, they may contain materials and components that are sourced globally?

Craftsman has a deeply rooted history of making tools here in the U.S. We’re dedicated to continuing that tradition, and it’s a big commitment at SB&D, too. So, whether it’s manufacturing Craftsman tape measures in New Britain, Connecticut, metal storage out of Sedalia, Missouri, portable plastic storage or knives and blades in Cheraw, South Carolina, or the new cordless, brushless technology that we’re bringing to life in Charlotte, North Carolina, that’s just the start of the journey. We believe that we can manufacture here in the U.S. while meeting our goal of delivering great quality at the right value to Craftsman end users.

We source raw materials globally for two reasons: when those products are not available here in the U.S. or when it’s not really viable for us to purchase that material here for quality or cost limitations. If we’re building products in the U.S., we want to use raw materials that are made here, too. However, sometimes we have to look externally if, for instance, the certain steel that we need for our tape measures isn’t available or cost-effective to obtain here.

How many of the new 1,200 products are available at Craftsman retailers now? How long do you anticipate it will take to bring all 1,200 products to stores?

About 30 items in our Craftsman “next generation” line are currently available at Lowe’s and Ace stores. In the September/October timeframe, Lowe’s will be completely resetting about 250 stores to carry all 1,200 new Craftsman products. More products will be coming to market from our key retail partners in November/December, including Amazon, for a heavy holiday promotion.

Lowe’s will begin to reset all of its 1,700 stores next year for all of the new Craftsman tools. About 2,800 Ace outlets have been carrying Craftsman products since around 2010, and they’re going to continue to carry Craftsman, too. We’re working with Ace right now to transition them into the “new” Craftsman line, with products such as gunmetal chrome (mechanic’s tools) and metal storage.

Will Craftsman products continue to be sold through Sears stores for the foreseeable future?

Sears Holdings, under the 2017 purchase agreement, will continue to sell Craftsman products in the versions they have today in their stores. What (SB&D/Craftsman) is really focused on is the “next generation” of Craftsman that we will be launching outside of Sears Holdings outlets, through Ace, Amazon and Lowe’s.

Will the “new” Craftsman continue to honor lifetime warranties on Craftsman tools purchased at Sears stores prior to 2017? For instance, can an older, damaged Craftsman socket or screwdriver be replaced at Lowe’s and Ace? Or must the customer return it to a Sears store instead?

We recognize how important the warranty is to the Craftsman customer, and we are committed to honoring all past Craftsman warranties. For instance, Lowe’s will honor all valid lifetime warranty returns regardless of where the Craftsman product was purchased, so long as that Lowe’s location has an equivalent Craftsman replacement to offer. Otherwise, customers can always call the Craftsman Customer Care line at 888-331-4659 and a Craftsman associate will be ready to help.

Is the Craftsman brand stronger now than it was prior to 2017?

We believe it is! Craftsman has always been a coveted brand, and with our new strategic retail partnerships and outlets, our customers will be able to buy Craftsman tools more easily. With Stanley Black & Decker’s manufacturing expertise, we’re bringing a robust road map for Craftsman to continue making quality tools at the right value that offer features users really want. That’s going to make Craftsman even stronger for the next 90 years.

Learn more about Craftsman products by clicking here.

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Tim Inman: Old Sol is the enemy. Sunlight (specifically UV light) will fade your colors unless they are sun-fast/light-fast pigments. Even if they are, UV will ultimately destroy the paint binders holding them on the birdhouse. A good UV paint/coating will help longer, but not forever. I think you would be happier bringing the house in when the wrens leave for the season. Or, enjoy it and just be ready to repaint once in a while.

Chris Marshall: Ned, you’re on the right track to use an exterior primer and paint as opposed to a clear wood finish — as Tim points out, paint stands up to the elements better than varnishes would. But, nothing lasts forever, especially in the sun. Buy a good quality house paint and, if possible, locate the birdhouse where it will get some amount of daily shade. That will help, too.

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It’s made of plastic, and the tapered end is fashioned to an angle less than 90˚ so this spacer will fit even better into corners. To use it, I set a short straight bit or dish-carving bit (shown here) just shy of the work surface. Then, sweeping the jig over the protruding edge banding, dowel, etc., trims it neatly flush.

– Barry Chattell
Salt Spring Island, British Columbia

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– Doug Thalacker
Mt. Pleasant, Wisconsin

The post A Reminder about Unplugging Safety appeared first on Woodworking | Blog | Videos | Plans | How To.

The 5.5-lb. Inflator can be powered by a DeWALT lithium-ion 20V MAX* or FLEXVOLT® Battery, a 12-volt DC car outlet (a DC cord is included) or a standard 110-volt AC wall outlet. (Battery, charger and AC adapter are sold separately.) Dual inflation modes allow for either high volume inflation or deflation or high pressure inflation, providing a maximum pressure of 160 pounds per square inch.

A digital gauge with auto-shutoff enables users to pre-set the unit to the required pressure through an easy-to-use interface. In addition, a threaded chuck provides secure connection to accessories or air valves, while an LED light helps illuminate the task at hand. An on-board accessory storage compartment makes the included high pressure nozzle, Presta valve adapter, inflator needle and a high volume tapered nozzle easy to access. For added durability, the Inflator also features a high pressure-capable rubber hose and heavy-duty rubber feet.

Storing the Inflator won’t take up much space: it measures 5.2 in. wide, 11.9 in. long and stands 9.8 in. tall.

Available for pre-order now and shipping next month, the versatile 20V MAX* Corded/Cordless Inflator (item DCC020IB, bare tool only) sells for $99, and it will be available wherever DeWALT products are sold. DeWALT provides a three-year limited warranty, one-year free service contract and 90-day money-back guarantee.

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Some of the answers from the flood of responses we received are included below. – Editor

“When I retired, I knew two things. 1. I needed to have a hobby and 2. I wanted to work with wood. Once I sat down at the scroll saw and created an intarsia project of a cat, I was hooked. That was in January of 2011. I have been scrolling ever since. I got involved with the NorthStar Scrollers. We have some incredibly talented scroll saw artists among our membership.” – Katie McBride

“I just purchased my new scroll saw. I saw Carole Rothman’s article in your magazine and contacted her. She gave me information on blades and many other useful tips on how to get started. As of now, I’m still learning the various techniques of scrolling.  I’ve been a woodworker for over 20 years and am excited about adding a new skill and working on some new projects.” – Carol Johnston

“I had just read your article about scroll sawing and wanted to share with you a picture of a mini grandfather clock I had made for my parents a few years ago. I have two scroll saws (one was inherited), and I love to make unique Christmas ornaments for family and friends. Unfortunately, I don’t have the time, like I used to, but every now and then, I will sit at the scroll saw and make a few ornaments as gifts for the holidays.” – Karen Pane

“I never really had much of an interest in it until a few years ago. I wanted to make something personalized with a friend’s name as a Christmas gift. I decided to try the scroll saw I’ve had for years and rarely ever used. I quickly discovered that it took practice before I could get good at, it but I persevered.  I am an accomplished woodworker, but now my favorite thing to do is scroll sawing. What I love most about scroll sawing is there are so many things that can be made in a short amount of time, you can personalize things with people’s names or inspirational sayings, and it doesn’t take much wood for these projects so you can use some beautiful wood that might be too expensive for larger projects.” – Lori Scott

“My impressions: 1. The scroll saw is the safest power tool in the shop. 2. While working, you can sit down and still achieve great results. 3. Cost of materials is very inexpensive. 4. Most projects can be completed in one day. 5. Patterns can be changed to make a gift very personal. 6. Use of the Scroll Saw has got to be the most relaxing thing you can do. On the negative side: You can only keep so many projects.” – Walter Fink

“I have been scrollsawing for about 10 years now and find when I can no longer make furniture for lack of places to put it, I can make nice things that people love.” – William Rosevear

“I just used my scroll saw to cut a piece of plexiglass for a picture frame. I had complete control, and there was no chipping. It felt much safer than doing it with a table saw, and I didn’t need to sandwich it.” – Bill McGeehan

“Woodworking has been my hobby for almost 50 years. In that time, I have built a comprehensive workshop featuring most of the mainframe power tools that one might expect in a home workshop.  About 15 years ago, I bought my first scroll saw. Early in my hobby I built furniture and other home projects with my standard woodworking tools; once I started scrolling, my focus shifted to wood in various art forms. My main workshop is now is used to support my scrolling activity.  With the cost of wood it is nice to be able to purchase rough-cut lumber and process it into a form to be used on the scroll saw.” – Ron Ostromecki

“We have two scroll saws and they are my main instruments of wonderfulness. I cut out custom patterns in both singular and multiple quantities. We are always looking for new hints, discussion and ideas to share.” – Cathy Hurley

“I have built furniture projects, shop projects. I am finishing up another table. But scrolling is becoming my favorite. After this table is finished, I will be doing mainly scroll saw projects. The rest of it is just not fun anymore. Could be age. I just want to have fun, I guess.” – Berta Moreton

“I have owned and used scroll saws on and off since I was in my teens, and I’m currently 68. A scroll saw was my first power tool; it was also my most recent purchase. I have been involved in many aspects of woodworking as a hobbyist, from furniture making to toys. I find scrolling a satisfying aspect of woodworking. The relatively short duration of most projects can make it seem like a welcome break from a long, involved project. Scrolling can also provide a way to enhance the larger projects. One of my favorite projects was a jewelry box I built for my wife. I used the scroll saw to make an inlay and to inlay a monogram into the inlay.” –  Bill Murphy

“I scroll saw every day (nearly). I make decorative wood art plaques of all kinds of logos. It’s a great hobby for me as it helps me forget my pain while I’m at it. I’m a disabled Vietnam veteran and 100 percent unemployable. Scrolling is my life. I really enjoy it and people love the projects I produce. My motto: ‘scroll till you scroll no more.’” – Sammy

“I suffer from primary progressive multiple sclerosis. And to be honest, if I couldn’t do scrolling, I would surely be worse. I just read an article where they reckon your mood has a lot of influence on your disability. I guess that’s why I love my scroll. When I am in front of it, time flies. My late husband introduced me to the saw; we owned a JET. Since then, I bought myself a Hefner. Best buy ever. So yes, I scroll and taught my (now 20-) 13-year-old to do the same. She already cut us all a Christmas gift.” – Bernadette Langley

“Love it. I am 70 years old. Found that a lot of woodworkers move to scrolling as their age and health make them leave larger, heavier and strength-required projects.” – Ray Schwartz

“The answer is ‘absolutely’! I own two DeWALT DW788 Model 1. If I would upgrade, I would go with a Seyco ST21 or an Excelsior 30-inch.  I’ve been scrolling for the past 15 years, and 80 percent of my woodworking time is spent scroll sawing! The main thing about scroll sawing is that you basically need a drill press and a scroll saw and you are set.  No more other big tools except if, like me, you pursue the love of wood further and then you need the rest. Scroll sawing is my therapy session! Until last year, all my projects were for presents for family and friends, but I started to go to craft fairs and the interaction with people is really fun. I’m including some of the projects I’ve done with my scroll saw over the years.” – Christian Poupart

“I bought a scroll saw a couple of years ago. I use it mostly to make toys and wooden jewelry. Fretwork does not appeal to me.” – Rufus Rose

“I began scroll sawing several years ago when I volunteered at my local ToyMakers, Inc. Until then, I had never owned or operated a scroll saw. I never felt the need for one as my cabinet and furniture making didn’t require one. However, I now spend more and more of my time making toys and such, which require a scroll saw.” – Ed Blomme

“Most of my woodworking is done on a scroll saw; I have a small Delta and a big DeWALT, which I use most of the time. Much of my work is Christmas items which I sell at craft fairs. But I also make small toys and other small items. The scroll saw works just fine for those items. The other tools are just adjuncts for me. Making smaller items also saves shop space by not having to store large pieces of wood or large spaces to maneuver large items such as furniture. With the small items I can spend a few minutes and finish a piece and not have to spend a lot of time fitting, gluing and clamping, etc. Finishing is also quicker and easier with the small items. It has been a very good hobby for me for the past twenty years.” – Elmer L. Bigham

“I have a DeWALT 788 scroll saw. I enjoy scrolling and marquetry. I like challenging projects, not something that is whimsical or ‘cute.’” –Ray Nelson

“I’ve owned an RBI scroll saw since the early ’80s. It  doesn’t get daily use, but it’s there when I need it. I don’t consider myself a scroll saw expert by any means. Over the years, I’ve used it on a number of cuts it would have been more difficult to make with another tool. Some of my items have had positive cuts (a solid cutout was made), others have used negative cuts (the piece from which the cutout came was used, the actual cutout wasn’t).” – Bill Fernald

“I have just begun scrolling in the past year. I used larger shop tools in the past. I find that they are very efficient and easy to use. I really enjoy the time that I use my saw and have good success to this point. I am preparing to make all of my family’s Christmas presents this year.” – Joseph F. Pawlowski

“I use scroll sawing often when I need clean and precise parts. The cut is very smooth, and the detail can be very precise. I use my table saw for straight and longer cuts.” – Martin Vanderspek

“Scrolling is a great way to make things like chess pieces and three-dimensional items such as animals and that sort of thing. I also use mine to cut patterns. I would recommend having one in your shop if you have room.” – Gary Martin

“Yes, I scroll saw. I have two saws, a Porter-Cable 12 inch (my first) and a JET 22-inch (my current favorite). The old saw still get some use. Been enjoying scrolling for around 10 years. This is my latest cut from a Steve Good pattern.” – Robert L. McAllister

“I own a scroll saw; one was given to me from a church member. She upgraded, and she makes amazing Christmas ornaments.” – Tammy Bernshassold

“My opinion of the scroll sawing is that it is a unique part of the woodworking hobby. I have done a bit of it and had fun doing it.” – Bob Bacho

“I have had a DeWALT for several years, and it is most useful in making wall plaques, etc. In some ways, it compensates for my not having a band saw.” – Anthony Magarello

“I restored my father’s 1942 Craftsman cast-iron scroll saw and have enjoyed using it for intarsia.” – Don Feller

“I have had a scroll saw for 15 years. Of all the machines I have, it is my favroite machine to use. Right now I am using both the CNC machine (making the frame) and scroll saw (cutting the puzzle) to create a picture puzzle.” – Bob Smith

“I added a scroll saw to my shop about a year and a half ago when I wanted to make some decorative cornices for our porch. My first attempt but turned out OK as long as you don’t look very closely.  I figured, it’s a porch not a wall hanging. I have since made several more projects and, like all my tools, have adjusted to my learning curve. But most importantly, I showed my wife how to use the scroll saw and she has taken quite the shine to it and also feels safe operating it versus the more powerful machinery.  She is much better than I as she is very patient with detailed work.  This also gives us time in our shop together working on like projects.” – Larry Williams

“I have been making scroll saw bowls, vases and dishes for the past few years. The ability to combine woods for different looks makes the scroll saw very interesting to use.I never got used to turning and leaving so much wood on the floor. The scroll saw alleviates that concern.” – Thomas J Stump

“I occasionally make some not-too-fancy things with our scroll saw. I use it because it can be done in the house, while the woodshop is in the barn and can get too cold or hot and sweaty.” – Doug Mansor

“I started scroll sawing in December, 1999 and have never stopped. I joined SAW, Scrollsaw Association of the World.  Through this organization, I was instrumental in starting the NorthStar Scrollers in Bloomington, Minnesota. I often wonder what my retirement would have been like if it were not for scroll sawing? First of all, I have met the greatest people in this world of sawing. Personally I have found sawing to be challenging, relaxing, rewarding and addictive. Our challenge today is to get young people involved with this activity.” – Carol Bengston

Of course, there’s always the naysayers … – Editor

“I own a scroll saw and use it only when necessary, not for scroll saw projects.  I’ve seen some very intricate and artful pieces done by some very talented people, but the projects always look passe and outdated.” – Henri Lodewyck

“I own a scroll saw, but only because I got it at a price that borders on theft. I meant to learn to use it, but there wasn’t ever time. I’m a turner, and there are just so many ideas I want to execute!” – Barry Saltsberg

“I own a scroll saw. Would love to have time to use it. Personally, I think the rise in digital CNC/laser products will displace a lot of scroll saw use. The hardware cost is comparable to the cost of power scroll saws and open source versions of the software for processing/producing the images and controlling the hardware is free. Add to that, that the result is ultimately reproducible, and I think you have a winning combination.” – Dave Braun

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