Derek Cohen (in Perth, Australia)
Well, yes if you want to make the handtool look obvious, you need to add some typical design elements that are best done by hand and try to put a bit of "schwung" into it.

Then there are of course the hidden clues, like the rough backboards, the gaping shoulderlines on the inside, the secondairy wood like pine, all those things you see in antique cabinets.

And then there are the subtle clues like Brian described, the wood choice, how the wood is used, the panel thickness etc.

Kees, this is what I have difficulty accepting. Or perhaps I am misunderstanding your argument.

I do understand that furniture in the past (to which we are referring) was built without the need to thickness all board to the same dimensions, such as when making panels. I know and accept this because I have done so enough times in the past to be familiar with the process (in the days pre-thicknesser/planer). The different board thicknesses do not show on the outside.

The inside of this table ..

... is referenced by the outer edges. Inside is a multitude of thicknesses ...

I also understand that one will take less care with other areas that are not seen. Even on drawers that are carefully made and have the most precious dovetails at the front, sizing and gaps on the rear dovetails may be ignored of lesser concern ...

But .. but ... but ... what has this to do with a "hand tool look"?

I think that we need to stop talking about a "hand tool look" and instead ascribe the warmth you are seeking to be a function of design and construction rather than construction alone. The signs of building quickly/efficiently by hand that are evident on the inside of a carcase are not welcome on the outside - there they are simply "sloppy" to me.

A piece that is well made using hand tools imparts a subtle variation in line, and this is charming, and for myself it is a desirable feature, however the warmth you speak of I believe comes from the design, per se. Take that dining table of yours: Your table is very angular, all straight lines. What could you do to soften this? Would it change if you planed the top with a hand plane?

I'm going to continue this conversation in a post of its own since I wish to illustrate this argument with an actual build. I am finishing off design preparations for the next piece, and I hope to post this soon.

Regards from Perth

Derek