Friday, December 28, 2007

GAS Alert


I was digging through a pile of old woodworking magazines today and came across the very first on I bought when I took up woodwork. Surprised me how many years I've been doing this (although not THAT many!)
And as I flicked through a few pages I noticed a familiar theme for hobby woodworkers. One that I have noticed on a few woodwork blogs I keep an eye on. And that is the old cry "when I have enough tools and a dream workshop I will start producing stuff".
When I took up woodwork it was to make my own furniture - custom sized to fit my home, built to a higher standard than the rubbish we see in shops and made for less money. And it is way to easy to become distracted from that original goal and become a "tool head". You know, if only I had (insert latest tool release here) I could make that table we want. And we are all guilty of this.
Be honest - how many tools do you REALLY need to make a worthy project? Take a moment to take stock - do you really need 6 routers and 9 smoothing planes........... ;)
It is too easy to be distracted - get in that workshop, sharpen a few tools and MAKE something.
Now pass me that Axminster catalogue......... ;)
Philly

Sunday, December 23, 2007

Merry Christmas


Arghhh!! My worst Blogging month ever!
December has been a crazy month - I've been rushing around like a fool all month and time has just disappeared. I've got lots of ideas flying around my head and look forward to a few days off to get my feet back on the ground so I can get back on track.
Some new plane designs are on the books as well as my latest model.
I've even had some good furniture ideas - I miss making furniture and will be getting stuck in for 2008. And Project Norris needs some time spent on it, too!
But now is the time to relax, have a glass of your favourite tipple and spend time with the family.
Merry Christmas to you all!
Philly

Thursday, December 06, 2007

Where is he?


Thanks to those who have enquired of my health - yes, I am healthy and very much alive ;)
Actually, we've been to Euro Disney on holiday. And survived.......
And then came straight down with a cold. I'm just about over it but it has made for a pretty miserable week.

So - my little review of the Veritas small Plough is out there for anyone who dares to read it. A nice plane, as metal planes go ;)

Just started using a new batch of Beech. Real nice - dense, clean and straight. Pics soon.......
Cheers
Philly