Replies

1. 
   9619 | Feb 18, 2010 01:56pm | #1

   Steve,

   I watched Phil Lowe's video last night.  I second your motion.  It really is well done, easy to understand, and nice to watch.    

   Your point about sharp tools is quite interesting.  Talking to a person about sharpness is often like two ships passing in the night, because the two of you have different understandings of what "sharp" really means.  The fact that you both know the definition of the word make you both believe you are understanding what each other is saying.  

   One really "learns" more about what sharpness really is when one comes across tools that work better than your own.  AHA!!!!!!  Wow, that plane sure does cut well.!!!!!!     But even then, a sharp blade in an unfettled old Stanley won't cut so good.   A sharp blade in a well fettled old or new plane still may not cut well if the user has no idea what he is doing.   To me, "sharpness" is far less important than knowing how to use a tool, and knowing how to fettle a tool, not just the blade..    

   But, of course, I agree with you.  Sharpness is important.

   Have fun.

   Mel

2. 
   GEide | Feb 18, 2010 07:07pm | #2

   Now Steve.. you're just too kind. Glad you enjoyed the video... It was really great working with Phil. He makes it all look easy.

1. 
   SteveSchoene | Feb 18, 2010 09:23pm | #3

   I took a basic carving class from Phil some years ago, and have seen him at other presentations a time or two.  I've always been imporessed by both his skills with the wood, and his skills at presenting that "how to" to others. 

3. 
   londonjoe40 | Feb 19, 2010 01:02pm | #4

   The video on Cabriole leg video was very informative. I am a strictly hand tool woodworker and I have one question. How can I rough cut the profile with hand tools? Phil Lowe uses a bandsaw that speeds the process considerably but I don't have that luxury. I appreciate any suggestions.  

1. 
   SteveSchoene | Feb 19, 2010 01:32pm | #5

   Probably the easiest way is to use a bow saw with similar width blade. With lots of practice it wouldn't take all that much longer..    

   In desperation you could use a panel saw to kerf the outline of the leg and then chisel off the wood between the kerfs.  I'm not aware of that being done in the period, though that method was used to cut the curves under some cabinet plinths. 

   You can, I suppose, use a spring pole lathe, or you can recruit an apprentice to turn a large wheel to keep your lathe spinning.  

   Ultimately, though you need to find a walnut tree to fell, and someone to work on the other end of the pit saw.