I used to create detailed carpentry plans on the computer. Hyper-accurate measurements and every possible angle. I even considered switching to SketchUp for 3D views, as advocated by so many books… But I never saw a computer on those carpentry shows. Does Norm Abram use a mouse? Maybe, but you’d never know. So despite myContinue reading “Being a Luddite with Carpentry”
Author Archives: widgetwood
My Etsy Marketplace is Online!
Hey, a banner day! My Etsy Marketplace for selling Bourbon Bottle Lamps is UP! widgetwood.etsy.com I have eight lamps online for sale so far; expect others to be added. I’m also happy to sell them directly, and I entertain custom orders. The ‘Lamps’ page will always include links at the top in case you forget.Continue reading “My Etsy Marketplace is Online!”
You Know Where To Put the Cork*
Back to bourbon bottle lamps… Building the bottle hardware that fits the top of the bottle isn’t always straightforward. I try to use as much original material as possible to retain the spirit of the brand. Place a piece of painter’s tape on top of the bottle’s top for easier drawing. Use a ‘center scribe’Continue reading “You Know Where To Put the Cork*”
Why So Many Shoes?
I’m sure that’s what they think at “The Container Store“. But alas, they’re not for shoes…. Many of you commented on my workshop organization. Thanks! But like everything else, that was only possible through trial and error. What works for me? Clear polypropylene shoe boxes: You can see through them, they stack well, and they’reContinue reading “Why So Many Shoes?”
Workbenches: The Extras
I referred to “special features” in my earlier ‘Basics‘ blog posting. Well, we’ve waited long enough so here we go! These features fall into three groups: clamping, alignment, and safety. Clamping provides a means to more easily hold your materials. Alignment allows you to more easily align the work to ensure you have good angles.Continue reading “Workbenches: The Extras”
Psst… Wanna buy a lamp?
A small diversion… Interested in purchasing a lamp? Well, I finally made that a wee bit easier…. The ‘Lamps‘ page now includes a “Purchase a Lamp” link that opens a lamp order form. The page and form includes the date bottles (and lamps) were last added so you’ll know when to check for a newContinue reading “Psst… Wanna buy a lamp?”
Workbenches: The Basics
I have a number of workbenches in my workshop: large, mobile, tool-specific, …. And even so, it always seems I need more space. I have three basic tables: My large, stationary table that I built years ago. It’s just shy of 4′ x 8′ and includes a ton of storage on the lower shelf. Included:Continue reading “Workbenches: The Basics”
The Flexible Workshop
Though I’m fortunate to have a large workshop space, I’d still be constrained by not having enough room to position my larger tools in unobstructed floor positions. My solution? Wheels! Specifically, rolling mobile bases and caster kits. The mobile bases can support large, heavy, “stationary” tools when properly adjusted / modified. The caster kits canContinue reading “The Flexible Workshop”
Wood 101: Not all wood is the same
Hey, guess what? Different types of wood react differently to sanding, staining, and finish. Seem obvious? Sure! But clearly overlooked in my case 😦 My ongoing Salon table build has been going great! The cuts went well, the joints fit, it’s the right size, and it’s super-smooth after sanding. What could go wrong? Maple IContinue reading “Wood 101: Not all wood is the same”
I drilled the LAWS, and the LAWS won!
Well, it had to happen sooner or later. After 9 well-drilled lamp-cord holes I managed to crack a LAWs bottle. Why? Different type of drill-bit? Maybe. Too much plastic wrap and tape causing the bottle to get hot? Probably not. Drilling too close to the bottom of the bottle? Likely. There’s nothing worse than aContinue reading “I drilled the LAWS, and the LAWS won!”
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