Woodworkers Resource Video Blog

Cast Iron Router Table

2008-11-04T02:12:05Z

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If you're shop space is sacred like it is for most of us, then pay attention to this video review.

Some stationary power tools are essential if you build furniture. And two of those tools in my book are the table saw and router table. However, having the room in the shop for a dedicated router table may not be possible for many.

So something that many do is to combine the two together to save space. The most common solution is to put the router table insert into the side extension table and use the table saw fence as your router fence as well.

This is a great idea and works for many folks, but if you want to take that to the next level then you may consider adding a cast iron router table to your table saw's extension wing.

Check out our review of installing a cast iron router table from Peachtree Woodworking Supply.

The video covers most points but in order to keep it short, I wasn't able to cover everything that I wanted. So what I've done to complement the video to write up a review that goes more in-depth. You can find that article here.

Watch the video then go back and read the article. If you have any questions or comments about the review, please leave them below.

Thanks,

Craig

Interview with Thomas Lie-Nielsen

2008-09-07T02:19:01Z

Thomas Lie-Nielsen

When people think of high quality hand planes, one of the first companies to come to mind for most is Lie-Nielsen Toolworks, and for good reason. Lie-Nielsen Toolworks has been turning out some of the best "Stanley" type hand planes for over 25 years.

However, over the last several years Lie-Nielsen Toolworks has been turning out a lot more than just hand planes.

In our fourth interview I have the opportunity to talk to the owner and founder of Lie-Nielsen Toolworks, Thomas Lie-Nielsen. We talk about:

What it was like to start a tool manufacturing company 25 years ago when woodworking hand tools weren't as popular.

The challenges they faced bringing chisels to the market.

Some of Lie-Nielsen's newest tools - Workbenches, Progressive Pitch Saws, Inlay Tools, Educational DVDs, and much more.

What a typical day is like for Tom Lie-Nielsen.

My own suggestion for a new product for Lie-Nielsen: You're gonna love this!

You'll even get to hear first hand what new tools Lie-Nielsen will be coming out with in the near future (I'm VERY excited about this one!).

And much, much more.

And of course we talk about The Woodworking in America Conference and the classes the Tom will be teaching:

Modern Tools: Tolerances and Myths.

How Modern Tools are Designed and Made.

Bevel-Up vs. Bevel-Down Planes (CLOSED).

Modern Tools: Tolerances and Myths (repeated session).

We'd love to hear your feedback, leave your questions or comments below.

In order to play the interviews you must have Quicktime on your computer. Click on the box below to download a free version of Quicktime.

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Interview with Adam Cherubini

2008-08-09T02:07:05Z

I had a lot of fun interviewing Adam. He's hilarious and extremely insightful about his craft. He wears many different hats: Period furniture maker, Contributing Editor for Popular Woodworking Magazine, writes on two different blogs, volunteers at Pennsbury Manor, and has a day "job" outside of woodworking.

Adam opens up about a variety of topics. He talks about being product oriented vs. process oriented when it comes to furniture making. There may be many more woodworkers who feel that way than we think (I'm one). Adam also explains why he chooses to build period furniture completely with hand tools (his reasons will probably surprise you!). We also get into a discussion on how the museum community is influencing the future of reproduction furniture making.

Our talk gets into how our forefathers had advantages over us when it came to the availability of different kinds of hand tools and what 18 century woodworkers lacked compared to what we have. Adam talks about how the hand tool market is lagging behind for cabinet makers vs. specialty woodworkers (such as chair makers), reasons why, and what he's doing about it

I also have to brag a little bit on Adam, he was recently selected by Early American Life magazine for its prestigious "Directory of Traditional American Crafts", in which a panel of judges (comprised of museum curators, dealers and other experts) reviews submissions and selects only the best. It's an honor bestowed upon only a handful of craftspeople each year.

Check out the interview and also hear Adam talk about the classes he will be teaching at this year's Woodworking in America Conference being held in Berea, KY.

To learn more about Adam, visit his two blogs:

Arts and Mysteries Blog
This is the blog that Adam writes that compliments his column in Popular Woodworking Magazine by the same name.

AdamCherubini.com
This is Adam's personal website where people can commission him to build period reproductions and purchase his hand tools.

And be sure to read Adam's column, Arts and Mysteries, in each issue of Popular Woodworking Magazine.

Note: In order to play the interviews you must have Quicktime on your computer. Click on the box below to download a free version of Quicktime.

To download, right click on the image below (or control click for Mac users) and select "Save link as"

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Interview with John Economaki of Bridge City Tool Works

2008-08-09T01:54:59Z

John Economaki is the Founder and President of Bridge City Tool Works - a company that has been responsible for producing some of the finest heirloom quality hand tools for over 25 years. John is also heavily involved in the design process of some of Bridge City Tool Works most innovative tools. A great example of this is the brand new Jointmaker Pro.
Unless you've had your head in the sand over the past couple of months, you've undoubtedly heard of this tool. There has been a lot written about it, both pro and con. Before you pass judgment on this new tool by what others are saying, you owe it to yourself to hear about this amazing tool from John himself.

Listen as John tells about his past as a designer/woodworker and how he started Bridge City Tool Works. We also get into a conversation about the Jointmaker Pro, where John discusses many of the concerns that some people may have about this new tool. And of course, we talk about the classes that John will be teaching at this year's Woodworking in America Conference. And if you want a firsthand look at the new Jointmaker Pro, John assures me he will be bringing one to the Woodworking in America Conference. Trust me, you won't want to miss out on this.

After listening to the interview, come back and check out some of the incredible videos that we talk about during our interview. While you're on the Bridge City site, be sure to check out John's Blog

Also, if you would like to read the review mentioned during our interview by the independent forum member (which is from the Festool owners group) you can read it here.

Jointmaker Pro
     Introductory Video
     Texture and Decorative Cuts
     Cutting Dovetails

HG-1 Honing Machine
How-To Video

Note: In order to play the interviews you must have Quicktime on your computer. Click on the box below to download a free version of Quicktime.

To download, right click on the image below (or control click for Mac users) and select "Save link as"

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interview with Michael Dunbar

2008-08-09T00:09:39Z

This is an audio recording of the interview I did with Michael Dunbar. Michael, along with his wife Sue, are owners of the The Windsor Institute , the only school in the world dedicated to teaching the art of building Windsor chairs. He has single handedly been responsible for the revival of building Windsor chairs, an art that was almost lost.

Michael and his staff have also worked with many tool makers to improve the specialized tools involved in the making of chairs. His enthusiasm for Windsor chairs and for hand tools comes through loud and clear during our interview.

I know you're going to enjoy listening to Michael talk about how he got started in woodworking, The Windsor Institute, and what he will be teaching at this year's Woodworking in America Conference. After listening to the interview come back and check out The Windsor Institute's website to learn more about all the different classes that are available, and while you're there, be sure to catch up on what Michael is writing on his blog .

Note: In order to play the interviews you must have Quicktime on your computer. Click on the box below to download a free version of Quicktime.

To download, right click on the image below (or control click for Mac users) and select "Save link as"

Click To Play

Building a Bookcase Part IV

2008-06-10T21:12:34Z

In this episode we look at attaching a fixed shelf by two different methods: Biscuit Joinery and with a Stopped Dado Joint.

Next, we look at different ways to reinforce our shelves so they won't sag under the weight that's put on them. We also talk about a cool program that can calulate for you, based on information you put in, whether your shelves are strong enough to support what you intend to put on them.

Finally, we look at how to cut the rabbit joints into the side pieces for the back to fit into so you end up with a nice, clean looking fit.

Questions or comments? Leave them below and I'll get back to you!

Thanks so much for watching, we hope you enjoy!

Here's the link for the Spagulator program mentioned in this episode.

Building a Bookcase Part III: Installing Molding

2008-05-23T20:44:51Z

In this episode of the Woodworkers Resource Video Podcast we're continuing the topic of building bookcases. This time we look at cutting and installing crown molding on our bookcase.

We will show you how to use simple off the shelf crown molding you can find at most "BIg Box" hardware stores to really dress up your bookcase.

Ever had problems getting tight joints when installing crown molding? I'll show you a simple way to get perfect looking miters every time!

If you would like to be notified when new episodes come out, sign up for our newsletter at:

www.WoodworkersResource.com

And as always, if you have any questions or comments, leave them in the comments section below and I'll respond just as fast as I can.

Thanks for Watching!

Craig Stevens

Building a Bookcase Part II: Face Frames

2008-05-15T20:42:35Z

Part II of our Building a Bookcase video series covers the topic of face frames. We talk about ways to construct face frames (mortise and tenon, and pocket hole joinery) along with things to consider when figuring out what size your face frames need to be.

We'll even show you how to make sure your face frames fit your bookcase perfectly every time.

Thanks for watching!

Craig Stevens

Building a Bookcase

2008-05-13T02:41:35Z

In this episode we're going to be looking into building simple bookcases. In this first part, we look at different joinery methods to construct our bookcase. We'll talk about advantages and disadvantages of using butt joints, rabbits, and pocket hole joinery to construct bookcases.

Coming up in part II, we'll be looking into constructing face frames and ways to make sure that they fit perfectly, everytime.

If you would like to be alerted to when we release new episodes, simple go to our website and sign up to receive our newsletter. Just for signing up, you'll receive a special "Bonus" from us as our way of saying, THANKS!

www.WoodworkersResource.com

Craig Stevens

Woodshop Safety for Kids

2008-05-05T02:23:55Z

Marc Spagnuolo, aka The Wood Whisperer, came up with the idea for the first week in May being designated 'Woodworkers Safety Week'. So, to commemorate this first annual event I thought I'd come up with a video on shop safety. But, I felt that there was a lot of information already out there on shop safety for adults but not enough for kids.

In talking with some of my woodworking friends on this subject, I learned that most were not comfortable with kids being in their shops because of safety concerns. Granted, there are extra precautions that must be taken when kids are present, but don't let this keep you from introducing woodworking to your kids, grandchildren, or even the kids up the street. And if you're a parent or grandparent who doesn't have a lot of knowledge around woodworking, but your kids have an interest, don't let fear of them getting hurt keep you from teaching them.

It is up to us as adult woodworkers to pass our knowledge down to those that show interest. If we don't, who will? Our schools? Doubtful. Find a child to nurture and teach what you know. Don't be afraid to let them in because they "might" get hurt. How did you learn?

Here are somethings to keep in mind when working with kids in your shop:

Make sure all your power tools are unplugged. That way you don't have to worry about it.
Make sure that all the blades on your power tools are covered or lowered so they're not exposed to little fingers.
Stick to hand tools in the beginning no matter how old the kids are. They need this foundation anyway.
Don't leave your kids unsupervised in the shop no matter how comfortable you are with their knowledge, maturity level, or skill. Accidents can and will happen.
Using hand tools like hand saws can wear kids out quickly. Watch for this, step-in and help out during these times. When kids (and adults) get tired, mistakes are more likely to occur.
With that last point being said, however; don't do all the work for kids just because YOU CAN! Let them do the work they can, and be willing to let them make mistakes on their own. This one is tough for us parents, trust me, I know.
First and foremost, make it fun for them! Let them have some say into what they build. There are only so many bird houses a kid can make.

The video that we shot on shop safety for kids is not all encompassing, not even close. But, it will give you some good points to help you get started. My hope for this video is take it will make you more comfortable with having kids in your shop and for your kids to have a good and safe time with you.

If you have any questions or comments about the video after you've viewed it, just leave a your comment below the video.

Enjoy!

References mentioned in the video:

Safety Glasses for Kids

What to look for in a good hand brace drill and where to find them

For more information on teaching kids woodworking, check out our book,

Rover Bits: Forstner Bits on Steroids

2008-04-03T03:38:58Z

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Rover Bits are like a forstner bit, an auger bit, and a spade bit wrapped up into one. Ever tried to use a forstner bit in your cordless drill? How about drill straight into a nail embedded in a piece of wood with any bit without damaging it?

Watch this video to see what amazing things you can do with Rover Bits.

To learn more about these bits visit our website at:

www.WoodworkersResource.com

Craig Stevens

P.S. Just to let you know, I have no financial part with Bad Dog Tools. This is strictly a demonstration video of a cool product that I though you might find a need for in your shop.

Jool Tool Sharpening System

2008-03-11T22:19:17Z

Here's another video from our trip to The Woodworking Show in Atlanta, GA. In this video we get a look at a very innovative tool to sharpen your your woodworking tools, the Jool Tool.

My good friend Rob interviews the CEO of Jool Tool, Anie Piliguian, about how this sharpening system works.

We were sure impressed with the speed and ease that the Jool Tool can put a razor sharp edge on cutting tools.

Check the video out and let me know what you think about the Jool Tool.

Craig Stevens

Turning a Finial Out of a 2 x 4!

2008-03-05T04:06:09Z

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Here's another interview that we got a chance to do at the this years The Woodworking Show in Atlanta, GA.

In this video we interview Mark Sillay. Mark is a member of the Georgia Association of Woodturners. He also teaches at John C. Campbell Folk School in Brasstown, NC.

Mark uses a unique grind on his spindle gouge and shows how he sharpens it. If you've never seen the Jool Tool sharpening system, you're going to be impressed. We have a whole separate interview with the CEO of the Jool Tool in an up coming interview.

After sharpening his spindle gouge, Mark proceeds to cut a very delicate finial out of a piece of 2x4! You gotta see this to believe it.

Enjoy!

Craig Stevens

P.S. If you're having trouble viewing the video check to be sure you have Quicktime 7 on your computer. It's FREE

Interview with Jim Heavey of Wood Magazine

2008-02-25T23:01:23Z

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Here's the second interview we did at The Woodworking Show in Atlanta, GA. This interview is with Jim Heavey of Wood Magazine. Jim tours the country teaching at woodworking trade shows for Wood Magazine.

Jim's job is to conduct workshops that teach woodworking skills such as how to cut and install crown molding, building small jewelry boxes. installing cabinets, and everything in between. Jim also is there to learn what woodworkers want to see in Wood Magazine. So, if you're at one of the many woodworking shows that Jim works, look him up and let him know what you would like to see more of in the magazine.

Jim is also one of the nicest guys you'll meet, and extremely knowledgeable. I really enjoyed talking to him. If you have anything that you'd like me to pass along to Jim about Wood Magazine, leave a comment below or email directly at: contactus@woodworkersresource.com

I hope you enjoy this interview.

The Woodworking Show: Atlanta 2008 Part 1

2008-02-10T22:12:44Z

Here's the first episode of several to come on our time at the Woodworking Show in Atlanta, GA. In this episode we give you a taste of what it's like to attend one of these events. You'll see booth after booth of vendors showing their products to thousands of interested woodworkers, seminars that teach skills, and deals being made on every corner. We also picked a few vendors that had some really cool tools to show case in our videos. In this first video, we bring you Alex from Carter Products, makers of innovative products for your band saw.

If you're interested in finding out where and when the next Woodworking Show will be in your area, simply click on the link below:

The Woodworking Shows 2008

For more information on Carter Products including the Stablilzer Guide or the Band saw Guide Conversion Kit that are featured in this video, click on the Carter Products Logo below: