Getting to Work

Well there is nothing to do but get to work. I spent quite a lot of time riving and splitting the log into manageable pieces. I remember it not being as hard when I first went to Country Workshops. Perhaps this was due to using what I would call "perfect" wood. Any way after getting most of the log split, I have indeed ended with enough wood for six chairs, Hurray! I believe I actually have 14 fronts and 16 rear posts- but if I have any failures on the bend, then I may not have enough. (Bending was something that was really an eye opener the first time I did it. ) I also have plenty of rungs rough shaped and will be spending some time to "3/4" them as I call it. This is where you make sure they are fairly straight and shaped to a 3/4" square. I will do them all this way before moving on. I am right now in the middle of squaring the posts and rungs, as is evident by the photo above.

One thing I keep telling myself is to slow down and enjoy the work. I am excited to be actually building something, and find myself working to reach a goal every day. I sometimes forget that the process is the most fun. Yes it will be exciting to have the chairs when done, but as is often times the case- getting there is the most fun.

I hope you enjoy what I right, and let me know if you have any question.

Have a great day.

First things first.

Hello to all.

I am a part time woodworker with a full time job. What this means is I only get into the shop on weekends or for a hour or two during the week. But that does not stop me from loving what I do. About six years ago I bought a book that looked really neat called " The Chairmakers Workshop" by Drew Langsner. I can always remember watching PBS as a kid, and would not miss an episode of "The Woodwright Shop". I knew I have a love for woodworking, but did not understand what it was that drew me to it. After spending quite a bit of money for some woodworking equipment, and building a few things I still had not made a connection to what I found so calming about woodworking. Well, after reading Drews book cover to cover several times, the light bulb that was a flicker, started to glow brightly. Looking back at the PBS shows it was right there in front of me all the time. It is that connection between the tree and the woodworker. Somehow knowing that within that log is the product you want to create. Then taking the journey to get there! I also understand now that it is more about the hands and the process than the machinery used by many woodworkers. Let me say I do not have anything against those that love thier woodworking with large machines, I am sure the passion for them is the same as it is for me.

Knowing what it is that I love about woodworking, has allowed me to focus some of my efforts and desires. I went to the Country Workshops, and spent a glorious week with Drew, learning a great deal more about chair making than any book can every teach. Sense that time I have created a dozen or more stools, that I gave away as Christmas presents. But I have wanted to do chairs, so about a year ago I started that journey. I found a small mini mill about 2 counties away, and purchased a Walnut Log large enough to have parts for 6 chairs. This is where I begin my blog. I hope to have updates on a regular basis.

Well, enough for today - I will post soon.