Replies

1. 
   hammer1 | Mar 29, 2011 11:41am | #1

   Pattern grade is for making patterns, obviously enough. It can be many species. Generally it's just tight, even, straight grain. Stability is the important issue. Patterns can be made for many purposes. There used to be a lot of pattern makers in New England in the many manufacturing industries that are no more. Shoe manufacturing was a big one. Lumber for the patterns would depend on the intended use. Quarter sawn may be stable in width and length but may not be stable enough in thickness. Whether it or other sawing methods were a consideration would depend on the application of the pattern.

   A friend was a shoe pattern maker. He would give me his worn out rasps which seemed like brand new, to me. I think maple was the primary choice. As the industry slowly closed, he found work in China, teaching the trade, actually made some serious money, came back to the USA and now owns a wine shop. My mother in law was a hand stitcher for Bass shoe, she would do the prototypes for new models, working out the fit  and processes before production. Many kids in Maine grew up playing hockey in the many ice arenas built by donations from Henry Alfond, the owner of Dexter shoe. Most of the rural areas where shoe shops and their attending suppliers have closed, left the towns without a major employer. The various trades that were so prevalent are now just a memory.

1. 
   DonStephan | Apr 01, 2011 08:43pm | #2

   Thanks for taking the time for a lengthy but interesting reply.  Even if its not quartered/rift, it likely will be more attractive than the stock available at the neighborhood lumber yard.

2. 
   pamlstano | May 03, 2011 02:04am | #3

   I am impressed to read about your friend. If i find the adress of your friend shop then i surely visit it. Hope that i will find some unique products over there.

1. 
   DonStephan | May 03, 2011 08:30pm | #4

   Really working hard to imbed web page for SEO optimization.