Issue 299
Issue 299
Old Dog, New Tricks
Last week, I learned how to use a CNC router. As a bit of an old-time computer geek (I was an early adopter on both the Commodore 64 and Atari 800s – eight-bit computers were the bomb), I was confident that I would eventually get the hang of it, and sure that it would be a rocky path at the beginning. At the end of the day (well, three days if someone was counting), I was able to make the machine do what I wanted – mostly. Tool-path-wise, there are more Rubicons to cross, but I am eager to do so.
But, as my workshop efforts often do, this raised a question in my mind. Is CNC routing right for home shop woodworking? Is it cheating, or just the natural next step for technology in a shop? I am thinking that you might have an opinion … and I would like to hear it. And, as always, if you send me a piece of your mind, it will likely end up in our Feedback department so that other woodworkers can benefit from your offering.
Rob Johnstone, Woodworker’s Journal
What's In Store
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Makita RT0700C Compact Router
The RT0700C Compact Router from Makita, at 7-7/8″ long and 3.9 lbs., is actually the size and weight of many laminate trimmers.
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Hart HH21HSS Smooth Face Hickory Framing Hammer
Among the Hart® Hammers is the HH21HSS 21 oz. Smooth Face Hickory Framing hammer.
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Creative Wooden Boxes from the Scroll Saw
Carole Rothman is back with her second book on creating items with a scroll saw that look like they came from a lathe, router or band saw.
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Williams & Hussey Model 154CE Molder
Williams & Hussey has recently added a new 154CE molding machine which, like the model 206 and 209 molders, can mill straight, round top and elliptical moldings.
Tricks of the Trade
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Lining Your Drawers
It can be difficult to get a good fit when cutting velvet, velour, or felt to use as a lining for the plywood bottom of a drawer.
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Hand Scraper Jig
If you have a lot of scraping to do, flexing the steel will likely result in some dog-tired fingers.
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Color Code Your Drill Bits
Drill bit manufacturers usually stamp the diameter of the bit on the upper part of the shank, but after a while the drill chuck wears the numbers off.
Today's Woodworker
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Jeremy Grubb: Making Showstoppers
When Jeremy Grubb starts a woodworking project, “I’m normally just trying to push out a showstopper,” he said.
Q & A
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To Bleach or Not to Bleach (My Floors)?
The stains are extensive and very dark but I really want to try and “save” the old wood.
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How to Refurbish an Heirloom Tool Chest?
Should I have someone repair the veneer and replace missing parts like a puzzle, or leave it alone?
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How Do I Hide the Hinge Barrel Mortise of a Rule Joint?
How do I avoid the notch if I want to countersink the entire hinge?
Industry Interviews
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FEIN “Wrote the Book” on Multi-tools
Despite the recent glut of multi-tool manufacturers, FEIN is determined to continue leading the pack.
Feedback
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What’s Springing Forth from Your Shop?
Last time out, Rob asked what you’re building in the shop this spring. Here’s what we heard from some eZine readers.
Reader's Project Gallery
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Multiple Tables
Here are a few different table projects I’ve made.
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Torii Gate Bookcase
Well, my wife insisted that I build her a bookcase based on a Japanese theme or design. So I dreamt up this item which is based on a Torii gate.
