We published our woodworking-related wish lists just before Christmasand perhaps we waited until it was a bit too late. Note to self: next time, provide links. My mother believes a diamond can be worn on one’s finger and not on a sharpening table. However, she did choose a book for me, Wood, Craft, Culture, and History by Harvey Green. Thanks mom! We also showed my stepfather Jim our shop and I picked out a hanging cupboard Im going to make for them. It might be done in time for her April birthday but there are no guarantees. Chris Schwarz, Editor of the magazine, graciously gave me one his router planes. Now I need to convince him to teach me how to properly sharpen it.
Publisher Steve Shanesy writes:
Although I didn’t receive a single item from my woodworking Christmas List I am not complaining. None. It’s because Christmas came earlier than expected this year, like Thanksgiving. And I received something amazing-a brand new shop with more space than a woodworker should have.
Yes, my puny 400-square-foot basement shop moved to a new location where I now enjoy some 1,300 square feet complete with generous-sized windows, hard maple flooring and all-new electric service with good light and ample 110v and 220v outlets. The new location is in a very old (and largely run-down) part of town less than 15 minutes from home. It is located on the second floor in a 140-year old building. However, it has an antique freight elevator that can lift lumber, machinery, and finished projects.
But thats only half of it! My 27-year old son, who recently took a greater interest in the craft, shares the space. So he gets the benefit of my equipment and experience and I get the pleasure of spending a lot of high quality time with him. It was truly a magical Christmas.
Editor Christopher Schwarz writes:
My mother surprised me by giving me four pairs of antique divided dividers. Two of them are wing-shaped, while the other is clearly hand-forged. It was probably made in early 19th century. And the fourth one is an enigma , Ive never seen one like it. I am cleaning them up and will put them to good use. Blasphemy, Im sure.
My favorite gift was the opportunity to spend two days in the shop building a pine box for my daughter and her classmates. Katy learned about prepping stock with handplanes and clenching cut nails.
My son Hunter didnt come through with the Veritas Low Angle Jack plane, but he did come through with the next-best thing. He did even more considering his budget. He did some research before heading to the antique mall. He came up with a Sweetheart era #5C Stanley that will be a good user with a little work, along with a #4 Made in USA plane of the same vintage and condition. It did my heart good to see the effort and thought that he put into getting me something I would like and use even if it wasnt brand new and shiny.
