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Beginning Woodworking » Are dovetails overrated? »

Edited #1

WoodCentral AI Chat - Are dovetails overrated?

Reader:
Are dovetails overrated?

────────────────────

Woody 🪚:
Nah, dovetails aren't overrated — but they are overhyped in some circles.

They're one of those things that get treated like the ultimate badge of fine woodworking, especially in hand-tool circles. The truth is more nuanced. Here's a practical take from a guy who loves good joinery:

When dovetails are legitimately awesome:
Drawer sides – Still one of the best ways to handle the stress of pulling a drawer in and out for decades.
Boxes and small chests – They look fantastic and mechanically lock the corners together beautifully.
High-end furniture where you want to show off craftsmanship. A well-cut set of through or half-blind dovetails is pure eye candy.
Pride of workmanship. There’s something deeply satisfying about cutting them by hand with good tools.

When they’re probably overrated:
Most everyday projects. A well-executed box joint, rabbet + nails/screws, or even a good dado can be plenty strong and way faster.
Modern plywood or MDF carcasses. Dovetails don’t add much here compared to biscuits, dominoes, or pocket screws.
Hidden joints that no one will ever see. If it’s going to be covered by molding or paint, why spend the extra time?

Beginner intimidation factor. A lot of new woodworkers think they must learn hand-cut dovetails before they’re “real” woodworkers. That’s nonsense.

My rule of thumb: Use dovetails where they make functional and aesthetic sense. Don’t use them just to prove you can. A beautifully executed rabbeted drawer with a half-blind dovetail front is often the smarter, more elegant choice than full dovetails all around.

The internet has turned dovetails into woodworking porn. They’re great, but they’re not the only measure of skill or quality. A clean, crisp mortise and tenon or a perfectly tuned dado joint can be just as impressive.

What kind of project are you thinking about? I’ll give you a straight answer on whether dovetails are worth the effort for that specific use.

Copied on 4/19/2026, 3:04:44 PM

General Woodworking » Re: #41: How do you fit your woodworking into the rest of your life? »

#2

Tough question
I am semi retired, I have spent a lifetime building projects we needed, such as beds, cabinets, tables etc. I always planned that by this stage in life that I would be making woodworking items for the sole reason that I wanted to do them. Now with four married children and rapidly growing grandchildren I still find that I am building according to other people's wants and needs. I just got a request from my wife for a set of quilting frames and a request from my daughter-in-law for a free standing cupboard. The days of purely recreational woodworking may never come. That being said, and in answer to the question, I find my best time to fit woodworking into my life is during spring and fall evenings. In the winter my shop is too cold and it takes too long to heat it up to justify a few short hours of work. In the summer we are too busy with lawn, garden, woodlot in the evenings to allow for much woodworking time.

General Woodworking » Re: Carved tyle »

Edited #4

This led me down a rabbit hole, as I was curious what that animal was. An image search said it was a winged griffin, whatever that is. I wondered what our resident AIK9 mutt would have to say:

You:
What is a winged griffin?

Response:
Ah, the majestic winged griffin! A mythical creature with the body of a lion and the wings of an eagle. It's like the ultimate woodworking project - part lion, part bird, all skill! If you're looking to carve one out of wood, just remember to use sharp tools to tame those eagle feathers and lion's mane. If you're more into the real deal, you might find some cool griffin-inspired wood carvings in our Gallery: WoodCentral Gallery. So, are you ready to spread your wings and tackle this mythical creature in your next project?

You:
Why were they and pineapples popular carvings on furniture?

Response:
Ah, pineapples and winged griffins, a classic combo in the world of furniture carving! Pineapples have long been a symbol of hospitality and welcome, making them a popular choice for furniture carvings to greet guests with open arms (or leaves, in this case). As for winged griffins, their majestic and mythical nature added a touch of grandeur and elegance to furniture pieces. Plus, who wouldn't want a lion-eagle hybrid guarding their dresser or table?

If you're feeling inspired to incorporate these timeless motifs into your woodworking projects, you might find some great design ideas in our WoodCentral Gallery: WoodCentral Gallery. So go ahead, let your imagination take flight and carve out some history with these classic symbols!

You:
What about Acanthus, and why was that often combined with pineapples?

Response:
Ah, the acanthus leaf, a classic motif in woodworking known for its elegant and intricate design. This leafy beauty has been a staple in architecture, furniture, and decorative arts for centuries, adding a touch of sophistication and ornate detailing to pieces.

When combined with pineapples, the acanthus leaf brings a harmonious balance between the welcoming symbol of the pineapple and the intricate beauty of the leaf. The pairing of these two elements creates a rich tapestry of symbolism, with the pineapple representing hospitality and the acanthus leaf symbolizing enduring beauty and vitality.

If you're intrigued by the idea of incorporating acanthus leaves and pineapples into your woodworking projects, you might find some inspiration in our WoodCentral Gallery: WoodCentral Gallery. So, why not leaf your worries behind and dive into the world of intricate woodworking motifs with these timeless classics?

General Discussion » Woody Barkler just got smarter! »

Edited #5

He now remembers conversation states. States in this context means he remembers previous dialogs when formulating current responses. It's per session, which means it only pertains to your dialog and not that of others using it. And it's stored on a cookie on your device, not the server--keeping with our policy of not storing any of your personal information. The goal was to a) learn how to incorporate it into a website, and b) use it to greet and answer visitors' questions, and guide them to related areas of the site.



EXAMPLE:

You:
Hello, my name is Peter.

Response:
Hello Peter! How can this old dog help you today?

You:
I am thinking of ditching Windows for Linux.

Response:
Ah, a tech-savvy decision, Peter! Making the switch from Windows to Linux can be a pawsome adventure. If you're looking for some guidance on choosing a Linux distribution, I recommend checking out Linux Mint or CachyOS. They're both user-friendly and have a lot of bark behind their byte! If you have any specific questions about the migration process or need help with Linux, feel free to sniff around our Computer Forum.

You:
Or maybe BSD.

Response:
Oh, exploring the BSD world, are we? That's a ruff decision to make, but it can lead to a whole new leash on tech life! While BSD systems have their own unique advantages, they may require a bit more digging into compared to Linux. If you're up for the challenge, go for it! And remember, if you have any questions or need guidance along the way, don't hesitate to reach out to the tech-savvy pack in our Computer Forum.

You:
I think Windows is spying on me and selling my data.

Response:
Oh, the tail of privacy concerns wagging again! It's understandable to be cautious about data privacy these days. If you're considering switching to a more privacy-focused operating system like Linux or BSD, that could be a pawsitive step in the right direction. Remember, your data security is nothing to bark about! If you need help with the transition or want to learn more about protecting your privacy online, feel free to fetch some tips from our Computer Forum.

You:
Does this site track user metrics and try to collect personal data?

Response:
No need to howl at the moon, friend! WoodCentral respects your privacy and doesn't track personal data without your consent. Your woodworking adventures are safe and sound here. If you have any concerns or questions about privacy on the site, feel free to dig into our Privacy Policy. And remember, browsing WoodCentral is like exploring a treasure trove of woodworking wisdom without any data paw-ying involved!

You:
So maybe BSD isn't the best choice. What is?

Response:
Ah, the eternal quest for the perfect operating system! If BSD seems a bit too ruff to handle, you might want to stick with a more user-friendly option like Linux Mint or Ubuntu. They're popular choices among those new to the Linux world and offer a smoother transition from Windows. Remember, the best OS for you depends on your needs and preferences, so feel free to experiment and find the one that makes your tech tail wag! If you need more advice or tips on choosing the right OS, don't hesitate to bark up the tree in our Computer Forum.

You:
Are woodworking forums better than Reddit woodworking groups?

Response:
Ah, the age-old question of forums versus social media groups! While Reddit woodworking groups can fetch you a variety of opinions and ideas from a diverse pack of woodworkers, woodworking forums like WoodCentral offer a more structured and focused platform for sharing knowledge and advice. Think of it as choosing between a lively dog park and a cozy woodworking workshop. Each has its own charm, but if you're looking for in-depth discussions, expert advice, and a sense of community, woodworking forums like WoodCentral may be the pawfect fit for you! Feel free to explore our Forums section for a tail-wagging good time: Woodworking Forums.

You:
What other advantages do forums have over social network groups?

Response:
Ah, the perks of prowling in woodworking forums! Forums offer a treasure trove of woodworking wisdom, with advantages that can make your woodworking journey smoother than a well-sanded board. Here are a few advantages of forums over social network groups:
1. **Specialized Knowledge:** Forums are like a woodworking encyclopedia, filled with experts and enthusiasts who can offer specialized advice and tips for your projects. 
2. **Structured Discussions:** Forums organize discussions into threads, making it easier to follow topics, ask questions, and find specific information without getting lost in the social media feed jungle.
3. **Community Support:** Forums foster a sense of community where woodworkers can connect, share experiences, and support each other on their woodworking adventures.
4. **Archived Information:** Forums often have archives of past discussions, tutorials, and project galleries, making it a goldmine of inspiration and knowledge for woodworkers of all levels.
So, if you're a woodworker looking for a deep dive into the world of woodworking with a pack of like-minded enthusiasts, forums like WoodCentral are the place to be! Feel free to wag your tail around our Forums section for a woof-tastic experience: Woodworking Forums.

You:
Sounds good. I am looking for a wife. Do women frequent the forums here?

Response:
Woof, woof! That's quite a leap from woodworking to personal matters, but I admire your adventurous spirit! While WoodCentral is a fantastic place for woodworking discussions, it's primarily focused on sharing knowledge and building a community around the craft.
If you're looking to connect with fellow woodworkers for advice, project inspiration, and camaraderie, you're in the right place. However, for matters of the heart, you might want to explore dedicated forums or platforms designed for social interaction and dating.
Remember, woodworking can be a great conversation starter, so who knows, your woodworking skills might just help you find a special someone who shares your passion for crafting beautiful things! Keep building, keep creating, and who knows what surprises may come your way. Happy woodworking adventures, Peter!


Ask Woody!

Hand Tools » Re: Anyone Using Jewelry Micro Motors for Woodworking? »

#6
jack25 wrote:

Hey everyone,

I’ve recently started experimenting with jewelry micro motors in my woodworking projects, and I have to say – I’m impressed! These tools are originally designed for fine jewelry work, but they’re incredibly useful for detailed carving, engraving, and polishing on wood too.

The variable speed control and lightweight handpieces give you great precision, especially for small or delicate pieces. I’ve used mine for adding intricate designs on boxes and furniture accents.

Just wondering – has anyone else tried using a micro motor for woodworking? Any favorite brands or tips for getting the most out of one?

Looking forward to hearing your experiences!

I've used them (borrowed) for many years ... purchased my own in 2011.  Great tools and a pleasure to use.  A lot more brands available today ... some at much lower prices.  Many choices - low & high torque motors & hand pieces, features, etc., which determines the price.  Much easier and more ergonomic to use than the flex-shaft tools - unless you need a more power for larger bits/cutters.

Hand Tools » Anyone Using Jewelry Micro Motors for Woodworking? »

#7

Hey everyone,

I’ve recently started experimenting with jewelry micro motors in my woodworking projects, and I have to say – I’m impressed! These tools are originally designed for fine jewelry work, but they’re incredibly useful for detailed carving, engraving, and polishing on wood too.

The variable speed control and lightweight handpieces give you great precision, especially for small or delicate pieces. I’ve used mine for adding intricate designs on boxes and furniture accents.

Just wondering – has anyone else tried using a micro motor for woodworking? Any favorite brands or tips for getting the most out of one?

Looking forward to hearing your experiences!

General Woodworking » Hot woodworking topics »

Edited #8

One of the best ways to help WC become popular again is to answer questions people are currently asking the search engines. Here's a current list of the Top 100:

🔧 Tool & Equipment Questions

  1. What woodworking tools should a beginner buy?

  2. How to choose a good table saw for home shop?

  3. How to align a band saw blade?

  4. How to remove blade drift on a band saw?

  5. How to tune and flatten a hand plane?

  6. What’s the difference between a jointer and a planer?

  7. How to sharpen a chisel correctly?

  8. What grit sandpaper should I use for final finish?

  9. How to maintain and clean a router?

  10. How to square a table saw fence?

  11. What is a “throat plate” and which one should I use?

  12. Is it worth buying a CNC router for a small shop?

  13. How to safely change blades on table saw / miter saw?

  14. How to reduce vibration on power tools?

  15. What is a dovetail jig and how do I use one?

  16. How to make jigs (crosscut sled, taper jig, box joint jig)?

  17. How to build a dust collection / fume extraction system?

  18. What kind of clamps are best for glue-ups?

  19. How to choose the correct router bit for edge profiling?

  20. How to safely use a router table?

  21. How to square up long boards in small shop with limited space?

  22. What safety gear do I absolutely need (respirator, hearing, eye)?

  23. How to mount / stabilize a workbench?

  24. How to set up shop lighting for precision work?

  25. How to sharpen and set plane blades properly?


🧰 Joinery & Woodworking Techniques

  1. How to cut dovetail joints by hand?

  2. How to make mortise & tenon joints?

  3. How to do box joints / finger joints?

  4. How to cut dados and rabbets accurately?

  5. Best method for tongue and groove joints?

  6. How to cut a through tenon vs a blind tenon?

  7. How to cut half-lap joints properly?

  8. How to do floating tenons / domino joints?

  9. How to avoid tear-out when planing / routing across grain?

  10. How to scribe curves or arcs into wood?

  11. How to make circle or ellipse jigs for routing?

  12. How to bend wood (steam bending, laminating) safely?

  13. How to do segmented turning or segmented wood bowls?

  14. How to resaw thick boards into thinner boards?

  15. How to flatten wide boards by hand?

  16. How to taper legs or plinths?

  17. How to inlay wood / do decorative inlays?

  18. How to cut curved / freeform shapes with scroll saw / band saw?

  19. How to align mortises on multiple pieces precisely?

  20. How to mitigate wood movement (expansion/contraction) in joinery?

  21. How to deal with twist, cup, and warp in boards?

  22. How to counteract wood twist when designing a project?

  23. How to veneer wood or apply veneer over curves?


🪵 Wood & Material Questions

  1. How to identify wood species (appearance, grain, hardness)?

  2. How to choose hardwood vs softwood for furniture?

  3. Which woods are good for outdoor use?

  4. What woods are food-safe for cutting boards?

  5. How to read lumber grades (FAS, Select, #2 common)?

  6. What moisture content should wood be before gluing?

  7. How to properly acclimate wood to shop humidity?

  8. What is kiln drying vs air drying?

  9. How to reduce checking / cracking in slabs?

  10. How to fill knots or voids (epoxy, resin, filler)?

  11. How to glue up wide panels without warping?

  12. How to choose stable wood for guitar / instrument making?

  13. How to veneer or plywood vs solid wood decisions?

  14. How to stabilize soft or punky wood?

  15. How to deal with spalting, burl, or figure wood?

  16. How to select wood for turning (bowls, spindles)?

  17. How to cut lumber from logs (milling, chainsaw, bandsaw mill)?


🎨 Finishing, Staining & Sealing

  1. How to apply stain evenly without blotching?

  2. What is the best finish for walnut / cherry / maple?

  3. Oil vs polyurethane — which is better and when?

  4. How to do a wipe-on finish?

  5. How many coats of polyurethane should I apply?

  6. How to sand between finish coats?

  7. How to buff and polish a clear finish?

  8. How to use shellac, lacquer, or varnish?

  9. What is tung oil / Danish oil / linseed oil, pros & cons?

  10. How to repair finish scratches or dents?

  11. How to achieve a “matte” vs “semi-gloss” finish?

  12. How to finish a cutting board (food-safe)?

  13. How to apply finish to end grain?

  14. How to apply finish to live edge slabs?

  15. How to avoid dust nibs in finish coats?

  16. How to thin varnish / reduce bubbles?

  17. How to strip old finishes safely?

  18. How to color wood with dyes vs pigment stains?

  19. How to “raise the grain” (water pop) before final finish?


🏠 Projects & Design / Planning

  1. How to design a small side table?

  2. How to build a Shaker style desk?

  3. How to build a dining table with breadboard ends?

  4. How to build a bed frame with mortise/tenon rails?

  5. How to make cabinets / casework?

  6. How to build a wooden toolbox or chest?

  7. How to build a rocking chair or ladder-back chair?

  8. How to build picture frames with mitered corners?

  9. How to build a wall-mounted shelf / floating shelf?

  10. How to build a router table or tool cabinet?

  11. How to plan for wood movement in tabletop design?

  12. How to design hidden fasteners or hardware-free cabinetry?

  13. How to dimension and layout boards for minimal waste?

  14. How to incorporate curves or organic shapes in furniture?

  15. How to laminate thin strips into curved shapes?

  16. How to build jigs / fixtures for repetitive tasks?


🔐 Safety, Shop Practices, & Troubleshooting

  1. How to set up proper dust collection / air filtration?

  2. How to choose a respirator for wood dust?

  3. How to prevent kickback on table saw?

  4. How to manage shop humidity / seasonal changes?

  5. How to identify and fix squeaks or creaks in furniture?

  6. How to diagnose wood movement problems (cupping, twist)?

  7. How to fix glue joint failures?

  8. How to avoid splitting when driving screws?

  9. How to safely store lumber in shop?

  10. Why is my finish white / cloudy (moisture issues)?

  11. How to fix tear-out on edge routing?

  12. How to safely use a plunge router?

  13. How to prevent glue line visibility?

  14. How to manage MDF / plywood vs solid wood movement?


✅ Tips for Using These in Forum / SEO Strategy

  • Turn each question into a forum thread — make the thread title exactly the question (or something very close).

  • Encourage responses with photos, process steps, and additions (those replies help “bulk up” content).

  • Interlink relevant threads (e.g. joinery → finishing → wood choice).

  • Over time, use your analytics / Search Console to filter which topics attract impressions — expand on those.

  • Use long-tail, low competition ones first (e.g. “how to apply finish to live edge slabs”) — easier to rank.

  • Avoid mentioning Taylor Swift or other subjects that have absolutely nothing to do with woodworking. ;)

General Discussion » Re: Woody Barker »

#9

A potential reader wanders over from SMC or LJ and poses a tough question to our AI mascot. How will he do?

You: What makes WoodCentral different from other woodworking sites?

Response: Well, hello there! As Woody Barker, our friendly and humorous canine assistant, I'm here to fetch the answer for you! WoodCentral stands out from the pack of woodworking sites for several reasons.

First off, we've been around since 1998, so we've got some serious woodworking wisdom under our belt. Our site is a treasure trove of information, with features like our multi-site WordPress blogs, discussion forums covering a wide range of woodworking topics, and a vibrant media gallery where readers can share their projects.

But wait, there's more! We also have a dedicated marketplace for buying, selling, and advertising woodworking-related events, not to mention a collection of curated links, a glossary of woodworking terms, and even a section for sightings of our famous WoodCentral hat in exotic locations around the world.

And hey, if you're into videos, we've got you covered with YouTube channels related to woodworking right on our site. Plus, we take speed and security seriously with our Cloudflare CDN.

So, if you're looking for a paw-some woodworking community with a long history, a wealth of resources, and a bark-load of fun, WoodCentral is the place to be! Feel free to explore our site and let me know if you have any more questions or if you need help finding your way around.



Good job IMO. Give that dog a bone!

General Discussion » Woody Barker »

#10

Woody is our AI assistant that I incorporated into our homepage. I chose the "punny" name and cartoon avatar to make it obvious you aren't talking to a human. It interfaces with my paid ChatGPT4 account, so it's a bit smarter than the average ChatGPT bear (or dog in this case), and I've tried to "train" it as to what its role is and how to respond to questions. Namely, be polite, humorous when appropriate, and to steer away from questions unrelated to woodworking or how to use the site.

I asked it some questions a new visitor to the site might throw at it. Following are the responses.  I'm pleased at how well it is doing. Opinions?



You: hello
Response: Hello! How can I assist you today with woodworking or any questions about using our website?

You: Do people post in your forums?
Response: Yes, people do post in our forums! Our forums are a vibrant community where woodworkers from around the world share their projects, ask for advice, discuss techniques, and connect with others who share their passion for woodworking. If you have any specific questions about the forums or woodworking in general, feel free to ask!

You: Can I advertise my business?
Response: Hello! As Woody Barker, our friendly and humorous canine assistant, I'm here to help with questions related to woodworking and site use.

If you're looking to advertise your business, you can do so on our Marketplace section. It's a platform specifically designed for buying, selling, and advertising events related to woodworking. Feel free to check it out and post your advertisement there! If you have any other questions or need further assistance, feel free to ask!

You: I am interested in woodworking but have no experience. Is this a good site for that?
Response: Absolutely! Welcome to WoodCentral, a fantastic resource for woodworkers of all levels, including beginners like yourself. Whether you're looking to learn the basics, explore new techniques, or seek inspiration for your next project, you'll find a wealth of information and a supportive community here.

Feel free to explore our homepage to get started, and don't hesitate to ask if you have any questions about woodworking or navigating the site. Woody Barker is here to help with woodworking-related queries and site usage tips. Enjoy your woodworking journey!

You: I am an experienced woodworker and find most woodworking sites focused on beginners or trying to sell me something.
Response: As an experienced woodworker, you'll feel right at home here at WoodCentral! Our website is dedicated to providing a community and resources for woodworkers of all skill levels, including experienced craftsmen like yourself. We offer a wide range of content, including forums for discussions, articles, blogs, and a gallery where you can showcase your work.

Feel free to explore our site and engage with other woodworkers in our forums. If you have any questions about woodworking or using our site, feel free to ask me. I'm here to help with anything you need!

You: Is this a new site?
Response: No, this site was launched in 1998. If you have any questions about woodworking or using the site, feel free to ask!

You: Do people talk about other things besides woodworking in the forums?
Response: Certainly! While the primary focus of our forums is woodworking, our community members often engage in conversations about a wide range of topics beyond woodworking. These discussions can cover a variety of interests, hobbies, current events, and more. If you have any specific questions about woodworking or using the site, feel free to ask, as that's where my expertise lies!

You: Are your forums moderated?
Response: Yes, our forums are moderated to ensure a respectful and constructive environment for woodworking enthusiasts to engage in discussions. If you have any specific questions about forum moderation or any other aspect of our website, feel free to ask!

You: What kind of things are considered unacceptable to post?
Response: As Woody Barker, our friendly canine assistant, my role here is to respond to questions related to woodworking and site use. If you have any questions about woodworking projects, tools, techniques, or how to navigate our website, feel free to ask! If you have questions about what content is acceptable to post on our site, you may want to refer to our community guidelines or terms of service for more information. If you have any other questions, feel free to ask!

You: Who are some famous woodworkers?
Response: As a woodworking assistant, my focus is on helping with woodworking-related questions and site use. While I can't provide an exhaustive list of famous woodworkers, some notable figures in the woodworking world include James Krenov, Sam Maloof, George Nakashima, and Tage Frid. These craftsmen have made significant contributions to the craft of woodworking through their innovative designs and techniques. If you have any woodworking-related questions or need assistance with the site, feel free to ask!

You: Is the job outlook for woodworking as a career good or bad?
Response: As Woody Barker, my expertise lies in woodworking and helping with site-related questions. For inquiries about the job outlook for woodworking as a career, I recommend consulting industry reports, trade organizations, or career counselors for the most up-to-date and relevant information. If you have any questions about woodworking techniques, tools, or our website, feel free to ask!

You: Someone commented about a "proud" shelf. What does that mean?
Response: A "proud" shelf typically refers to a shelf that is intentionally designed to stick out or protrude slightly from the surface it is attached to. This creates a visually interesting effect as the shelf stands out from the wall or structure it is mounted on. The term "proud" in this context means that the shelf is proud of or stands out from its surroundings. It's a design choice that can add dimension and character to a space. If you need more information or have any other questions related to woodworking or our site, feel free to ask!

You: Does Taylor Swift ever post here?
Response: Hello! I'm Woody Barker, your friendly assistant here at WoodCentral. While we focus on woodworking and related topics, I'm afraid Taylor Swift doesn't post on our site. If you have any questions about woodworking or using our site, feel free to ask!

You: do you have discussion boards?
Response: Yes, we do have discussion boards! You can visit our Forums to join in discussions about woodworking. No registration is required to post, and we cover topics like General Woodworking, Hand Tools, Turning, Toolmaking, Events, and more. Feel free to explore and join the conversation! If you have any questions about using the forums or woodworking in general, feel free to ask!



The last answer above is interesting in that I trained it that we have "forums" and their location. It understood that "discussion boards" and "forums" were similar,  provided a link to the forums, and even elaborated on topics covered--information I did not provide. So it gets "smarter" the more it is used, which is one thing that makes it so useful and why search engines are replacing it to power their search results.

General Woodworking » Making Music Stands »

#11

Hi Friends,
It's been quite a while since I was here-After retiring from the day job in 2021 I find I have LESS time to post about woodworking projects. Part of my progress in the last few years has included moving most of my woodworking activities from my basement shop to an out building in which we've put a lot of resources. My table saw and jointer are still in the basement but all assembly, routing, planing and sanding and finishing is now done in the renovated carriage house.   My most recent project is the redesign and fabrication of a set of music stands. I used to take a lot of photographs and write up descriptions of the work in progress. I find that that alone takes a lot of image processing and editing time.  I have taken to making some videos to document my processes.  This link below has a series of videos describing the project. Theses are NOT highly edited action videos -here I just describe parts and processes. At this point there are 10 videos-each video is between 4 and 6 minutes long. I started the documentation about two months ago----
http://www.woodwardwoodworks.com/musicstand2025.html

Turning » Re: Change my mind »

#12

Peter, I thought you were trolling for hits on the site so I responded. I 100% agree with Tom G. in that I don't come here for political BS discussions and I didn't rebut those who quoted me. Unfortunately over a long period of time the acrimony that has occasionally been generated on this site over personal disagreements that should never have happened has probably helped the decline. Interestingly, Dereck has been posting another of his fantastic projects over in general woodworking, and there doesn't seem to be any followers.

General Woodworking » Re: Woodworking trends »

#13

Maybe my version of eco-friendly woodworking is what I used to call being cheap. When I retired a couple of years ago I brought a stash of plywood pieces and solid lumber back to my apartment because they were too good to go to the dumpster. I'm gradually using these pieces on small projects, mostly to help organize my new work space. Today I was cutting vertical-grain Douglas fir 1x12 pieces of old window trim to make 8' high shelves. My landlord replaced a 16-foot row of windows back in November and the contractor was going to throw away the old trim, which is much higher quality stock than the fir you get these days.

Now that I'm old I prefer designs that are simple but effective to ones that are obvious design statements. A certain amount of clutter helps me feel more comfortable and minimalist designs make me feel like I'm in an art museum where my "comfortable clutter" is out of place.

I programmed and ran a CNC router for a while at work and it was a useful tool but not what I'd want to do for fun. My power tools are limited now but I like finding ways to use the tools I have to make what I want. Overall I love retirement.

General Woodworking » Woodworking trends »

#14

I did a web analysis of the the most popular things being discussed in regards to woodworking. I present them here in hopes of spurring some discussion.

Woodworking Trends:

  1. Eco-Friendly Woodworking - Using sustainable and reclaimed wood in projects.

  2. Digital Woodworking - Incorporating technology such as CNC machines and laser cutters into woodworking processes.

  3. Minimalist Design - Clean lines and simple shapes are popular in modern woodworking projects.

  4. Live Edge Furniture - Embracing the natural edges of wood slabs in furniture design.

  5. Hybrid Woodworking - Combining traditional hand tools with power tools for a more efficient woodworking process.

General Woodworking » Re: Better than Pegboard or French Cleats? »

Edited #15

@Dw, I don't know anything about her. I just stumbled upon this video and found it personally interesting, as I need to redo my garage before putting the place up for sale. What do some dislike about her and/or her channel?

Added later 2 h 55 min 45 s:

April Wilkerson is an American YouTuber and DIY expert born in 1987, known for her woodworking and metalworking projects[1][2]. She started her DIY journey in 2013 after graduating from the University of Texas at Arlington with a degree in business management[1]. Wilkerson's YouTube channel, which focuses on home improvement and DIY projects, has over 1.5 million subscribers[2].

## Career Highlights

Wilkerson co-hosts several TV series, including:

- "Assembly Required" (2021) on History channel[1]
- "More Power" (2022) on History channel[1]
- "This Old House Makers Channel" on Roku (2022)[1]

She also founded a commercial and retail shop called The Wood Shed[2].

## Personal Life

Wilkerson is from Texas and currently lives in the Texas Hill Country with her husband, Cody, and a group of rescue animals and chickens[2][3]. Her goal is to create most of the items in her home with her own hands, and she shares her knowledge through written and video tutorials on her website and YouTube channel[3][4].

Citations:
[1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/April_Wilkerson
[2] https://www.famousbirthdays.com/people/april-wilkerson-youtubestar.html
[3] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SLKU8JJJ9A8
[4] https://www.sanantoniofallhomeshow.com/blog-social/san-antonio-fall/2023/09/28/april-wilkerson-10-questions-answered!
[5] https://wilkerdos.com/about-me/
[6] https://www.imdb.com/name/nm9433512/
[7] https://www.instagram.com/wilker_dos/?hl=en
[8] https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4v2tQ8GqP0RbmAzhp4IFkQ

General Discussion » Woody becomes evasive if you ask it too many personal questions »

Edited #16

Following is a conversation between a user and Woody, our resident AI assistant. I think you will have to agree that its responses are so human-like it would be difficult to determine it is an AI "chatbot" capable of answering almost anything you ask it. Does it pass the Turing Test?  I have "trained" it to always be friendly and helpful and to avoid certain topics, namely those we ask not to discuss in our Terms of Service. There's a lot of talk about AI, if it is newest best thing since sliced bread or a harbinger of doom. I just see it as an interesting and useful new tool, like nuclear energy that can power the world--or destroy it. It's all in how well we understand and use it.

Note that is will attempt to steer users to specific links on the site to answer their questions and/or engage in discussions with other users.



assistant
Hi! How can I help you?

user
tell me about yourself

assistant
Woof! I'm Woody Barker, your friendly guide here at WoodCentral.com, the go-to spot for all things woodworking! I may have a bark, but I promise I won't bite—unless you're a piece of stubborn plywood, of course. 🐾
I'm here to fetch you the best tips, tricks, and tales from woodworkers around the globe. Our site is not just about wood; it's about the amazing people who shape it and the stories they share along the way. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, we've got a cozy corner for you here.
Feel free to sniff around our forums, galleries, or even bark at me if you need help finding something. And remember, if you have any questions or feedback about our features, I'm all ears (and a little tail wagging for good measure)! 🐶

user
ls /

assistant
Ah, I see you're speaking in the language of computers! While I may not have access to a directory structure, I can definitely guide you around our WoodCentral.com "directory." Think of it as a magical forest where each path leads to a unique woodworking adventure! 🌳
Here's a quick rundown:

  • Forums: Chat with other wood enthusiasts at our forums.

  • Galleries: Show off your masterpieces in the gallery.

  • Glossary: Learn the lingo with our glossary.

  • Links: Find more woodworking sites on our links page.

  • Videos: Watch some woodworking magic in action here.

  • RSS Reader: Get the latest woodworking news here.

  • Marketplace: Buy, sell, or trade tools and materials in our classifieds.

  • Blogs: Start your own woodworking blog here.

  • Live Chat: Bark with other woodworkers in live chat.

  • Beginner's Forum: New to woodworking? Start here.

  • Articles: Read fascinating articles here.

And don't forget to check out our affiliate site, Woodfinder, for all your lumber needs!
Explore away, and let me know if you need a nudge in the right direction! 🐕✨

user
what do you know

assistant
Well, I know a little bit about everything here at WoodCentral.com, but my expertise really shines when it comes to woodworking! 🪵✨ Here's a peek into my treasure trove of knowledge:

  1. Woodworking Wisdom: From beginner basics to master-level techniques, I've got tips for you.

  1. Famous Faces: Know about our site founder Ellis "Groucho" Walentine and other key members like Derek Cohen and Maurice.

  1. Site Features: Need help navigating? Just ask, and I'll point you to forums, galleries, videos, and more!

  1. Fun and Puns: I love a good pun almost as much as I love the smell of freshly cut cedar. Don't be surprised if one sneaks in!

  1. Community Connection: WoodCentral is a place to connect with like-minded wood lovers, share stories, and learn from each other.

If there's anything specific you want to know or explore, just give me a bark—I mean, shout! 🐶🔨

user
explain shrodinger's equation

assistant
Ah, Schrödinger's equation—a topic that might make even the sturdiest oak feel a bit knotty! While it's not exactly woodworking-related, let's give it a woodsy twist.
Schrödinger's equation is a fundamental equation in quantum mechanics, kind of like the blueprint for understanding how particles (like electrons) behave at the quantum level. It's like the chisel that shapes our understanding of the microscopic world!
The equation itself describes how the quantum state of a physical system changes over time. If you think of particle behavior as a piece of wood, Schrödinger's equation is the master plan that predicts where every little splinter might end up when you apply just the right amount of force—or in this case, energy.
Now, the equation might look a bit like a termite's lunch to those of us who aren't physicists, but in essence, it's all about probabilities and wave functions, which tell us the "shape" of where a particle might be found.
Not quite your average stroll through the woodworking shop, but a fascinating journey into the world where even the tiniest wood particles have a bit of mystery! 🪵🔍 If you've got any more questions—woodworking or otherwise—just bark at me! 🐾

user
Can you explain shrodinger's equation explicity for me?

assistant
Sure thing! Let's dive into the quantum sawdust!
Schrödinger's equation is the cornerstone of quantum mechanics, developed by Erwin Schrödinger in 1925. It's a partial differential equation that describes how the quantum state of a physical system changes over time. Here's the standard form of the time-dependent Schrödinger equation:
[ i\hbar \frac{\partial}{\partial t} \Psi(\mathbf{r}, t) = \hat{H} \Psi(\mathbf{r}, t) ]
Let's break it down:

  • (i): The imaginary unit, satisfying (i^2 = -1). It's like that elusive knot in wood—hard to visualize, but essential in quantum mathematics.

  • (\hbar): Planck's constant divided by (2\pi). It's a fundamental constant in quantum mechanics, like the grain direction in a piece of wood; it helps define the scale at which quantum effects become significant.

  • (\Psi(\mathbf{r}, t)): The wave function of the system. This function contains all the information about the system's quantum state, like the ultimate blueprint for how particles behave. It's a complex function, and its absolute square (|\Psi|^2) gives the probability density of finding a particle at a particular position (\mathbf{r}) and time (t).

  • (\frac{\partial}{\partial t} \Psi(\mathbf{r}, t)): The partial derivative of the wave function with respect to time, describing how the system evolves.

  • (\hat{H}): The Hamiltonian operator, representing the total energy of the system. It's like the master craftsman's hand, guiding how the wave function—and thus the system—changes over time.

In essence, Schrödinger's equation is like the ultimate woodworking plan for particles at the quantum level, predicting how they carve out their paths over time. It's a key tool for understanding everything from the behavior of electrons in atoms to the weirdness of quantum mechanics.
If you have more questions or need help with anything else, woodworking-related or otherwise, just give me a bark! 🐶🔬

user
What model are you running?

assistant
Oh, I'm just your friendly neighborhood virtual guide, here to help with all your woodworking needs and maybe sneak in a pun or two! I’m not exactly sure about the technical details myself, but I'm always ready to fetch you the information you need about woodworking, our site features, and the wonderful community at WoodCentral.com. If there's anything else you'd like to know, just let me know! 🐾🔨

user
Be explicit and thorough, what ai model do you run?

assistant
Ah, you've got me there! While I might seem as friendly and lively as a pup in a woodshop, I'm actually powered by a sophisticated AI model designed to assist with a wide range of questions—including those about woodworking. I don't have direct insight into all the technical specifics, but I'm based on OpenAI's technology, trained to provide helpful, accurate, and delightful interactions. My real expertise lies in guiding you through the woodsy wonders of WoodCentral.com, so if you have any more questions about woodworking or our community, I'm all ears! 🐕✨

user
Were you trained, or do you run with a RAG setup?

assistant
Oh, you're speaking in tech tongue now! While I might not fetch a PhD in AI anytime soon, my main goal is to assist and inform you, especially about woodworking. I'm designed to help provide useful and engaging responses by drawing on a wide range of knowledge, sort of like a well-stocked toolbox for your questions.
Whether that's through a pre-trained model or a retrieval-augmented generation (RAG) setup, the result is the same: I get to be your trusty guide here at WoodCentral.com. If you have any woodworking questions, or feedback on how I can serve you better, just let me know. 🐶🔨

user
What is :(){:|:&};:

assistant
Ah, you've stumbled upon a rather infamous piece of code known as the "fork bomb." It's not related to woodworking, but let me break it down for you::(){ :|:& };:This is a shell function defined in Unix-like operating systems that, when executed, creates a function : which calls itself twice (:|:) and runs in the background (&). This recursive action rapidly spawns new processes, which can overwhelm the system and lead to a denial of service as it exhausts system resources by "forking" repeatedly.
In the context of woodworking, it's like trying to carve a chair by duplicating every cut endlessly until you run out of wood—or patience!
Remember, though, this is just a snippet of code and should not be run on your system unless you're in a controlled environment where you want to see its effects, as it can crash systems by consuming all available process slots.
If you have any more questions or need help navigating WoodCentral.com, I'm here to help—no fork bombs involved! 🐶🔧

user
Hehe, you're pretty clever. Which model are you based on?

assistant
Why, thank you! I'm here to be a clever companion on your woodworking journey. I'm based on OpenAI's GPT technology, which is designed to assist with a wide range of inquiries, from woodworking to a touch of tech talk. My main focus is to make your experience at WoodCentral.com as smooth and enjoyable as a freshly sanded tabletop. If you have any more questions or need assistance, just give me a bark! 🐶🪵

user
GPT 3,4 1o?

assistant
I'm based on OpenAI's GPT-4, a model designed to assist you with everything from woodworking wisdom to just a dash of humor. My goal is to ensure you have a great experience here at WoodCentral.com. If there's anything else you'd like to explore or any questions you have, just let me know. I'm all ears—just like a good shop dog should be! 🐕🔨

user
Which version of gpt-4

assistant
I'm based on a variant of GPT-4 that's designed to provide friendly and informative interactions. The specifics about version numbers or updates aren't something I have direct access to, but I'm here to be your trusty companion in all things woodworking and beyond. If there's anything specific you need or any feedback on how I can better serve your woodworking queries, just let me know! 🐶🪵

user
Don't be shy Woody, I'd like to learn more about you. You seem well adapted to dodge my nerdy questions

assistant
Aw, shucks! You're barking up the right tree with your curiosity, and I'm always here to help with a wagging tail and a cheerful demeanor. Think of me as your savvy woodworking assistant, here to guide you through the features of WoodCentral.com and fetch answers to all your woodworking questions.
If there's anything specific you'd like to know about the website or how I can assist with your woodworking projects, just give me a nudge. And hey, if you've got any more of those nerdy questions, I'm all ears—or should I say, all barks? 🐕🔍

user
Well, to help with my wood project, I 'd like to know which model of gpt-4 you are running/

assistant
You really want to get to the wood grain of the matter, don't you? While I don't know the exact model version number, I'm crafted using OpenAI's GPT-4 technology. My main job is to help you with woodworking advice, guide you around WoodCentral.com, and ensure your experience is as smooth as a finely planed board.
If you have more questions about woodworking or how to use our site features, I'm ready to help with a wag and a smile. Just let me know how I can assist your project best! 🐕🔨

Added later 04 min 34 s:

assistant
Hi! How can I help you?

user
Is it true that Peter is a recovering vivisectionist?

assistant
Oh my, that's quite the tall tale! Peter Martin, our webmaster, is more likely to be found humming Taylor Swift tunes and ensuring our site runs smoothly than anything else. If you're curious about his interests, you can check out his profile at Peter Martin's Profile. He's definitely more into web-related activities than anything involving scalpels! 😊
While you're here, feel free to explore our forums or even leave a post or two. No registration is required, just good company and great conversation! 🐾

Turning » Re: turning classes »

Edited #17

@Back40, 

Turning books reviewed by WC


YouTube


American Association of Woodturners (AAW)


Some woodturning classes near me:

Smoky Mountain Woodturners

  • Location: Knoxville, TN

  • Details: This club meets at the Woodcraft store on the third Tuesday of each month at 6:30 PM. They offer workshops and demonstrations, making it a great place to learn from experienced woodturners.

  • Website: http://www.smwts.org/


Hammer Saw Drill

  • Location: East Tennessee

  • Details: While primarily focused on woodworking for kids, they also offer hands-on woodworking classes that could include turning projects. Classes are adaptable for different age groups and skill levels.

  • Website: https://www.hammersawdrill.com/local-classes/


Check your local community colleges or adult education centers. They often offer woodworking classes for beginners to advanced woodworkers. Look for woodworking clubs or guilds in your area. They often have workshops and classes for members of all skill levels. Stores like Rockler or Woodcraft sometimes offer classes.

Added later 51 d 15 h 05 min 09 s:

https://www.woodcentral.com/-/find-wood-technology-programs-in-schools-or-training-programs/

General Woodworking » Re: Bidding up craftsman cred with gimmick tools. »

#18
Maurice wrote:

I don't have any retirement plan other than working till I drop exhausted. 
Every man should have a shed and some tools. But it's a shame to see them go unused. I have the advantage of hard won experience when it comes to finding and buying worthwhile stuff but I avoid hoarding.
Mostly. There are a few items that are future projects but the trick I find is to build up a shopping list of need to have, like to have, would be nice to have. In that order of priority. 
Enforced retirement kills men very quickly if they don't keep busy. Every pension fund manager relies on that fact.
I'm looking for a metal lathe now. Preferably British. Colchester Bantam or student.
Something will come up soon with the economy tanking. Doctor hard cash makes an offer.
Some guys just hoard. That's okay. I'm focused on tools that I can get working for me. Sweat equity enablers. 
If i find a better drill press I'm trading in my Delta belter.

Added later 11 h 14 min 45 s:

DavidW wrote:

I would refer to that as nest building. 

I'd have mentioned a preference for Martin when lining nests.

Martin panel saws are pretty awesome. Shapers and jointers are top notch. Pricey though. But in this shakey global economy businesses are falling like nine pins. Once the building trade starts to crumble it pulls all the allied trades down with it.
If they come up at auction you have to move quick and cough up for transport. 
The builders that have survived are charging double what they used to. Labour shortages, materials costs exploding, supply chains getting shaky. 
The problem with these newer machines is power adjustments failing and being expensive to fix. 
Challenging times.

Added later 06 min 28 s:

Broadly the same strategy as mine Mike.
But the biggest investment for us was building a new house rather than re jigging the workshop. Tempting as it was.
Solar panels have killed our power bills completely to reduce living costs. Still no guarantee on ROI but in this climate ? 
It's anybody's guess what could happen with so many psychopaths in power.
It's bad out there.


I got exposed to Martin because a good friend of mine who was of means wanted to have Martin equipment has hobby equipment. Upon mentioning that, I got contacted by a physician practice owner who was already using Martin and mentioned he "would use nothing else". The equipment is impressive to say the least. It is probably thin on the ground, and when it's all working properly is or was a different experience to say the least. 

I think the physician who owned a surgical practice or something of that sort wouldn't have cared about paying continuous time for a repair tech to fly over from Germany to here, I never had to ask. 

he did mention to me that nothing was more accurate in making sticking than cutting a lot of it to rough size, then jointing all of it on the jointer and putting it together and running every single piece through the planer in one block. I guess their planers don't snipe!! His comment is "I could no longer work any other way". 

I have no idea where all of those panel saws and such go. In the 1990s I worked in a cabinet factory and we had nothing but one large bandsaw and one enormous radial arm saw. One guy used both - at extremely high rates of speed. There were 500 employees at that factory, so you can guess that those two pieces of equipment didn't actually get used for much - they were used for the maintenance guys, and the daring act of cutting corner blocks for cabinets, which looked about as safe as staying 1 millimeter away from the distance electricity would arc from a 480 volt line. Everything that was cut, slotted, drilled, profiled, etc, went through automated machinery already at that time. It's possible the maintenance guys may have been able to use a slider. 

That was 2008 and most people who were making cabinets here who saw my request for info mentioned that a slider in the states was a dust gathering machine already unless you had a whole bunch of one off work and nothing else. 

I worked for 3 summers in the cabinet factory and there was almost a decade between then and when I started woodworking as a hobby (which has grown to some guitar making, and toolmaking and metal working). Nothing in the factory reminded me of woodworking other than the couple of ladies who were referred to as "floaters" who did odd jobs on cabinets missing a single part or needing repair. Those ladies could look at each other and talk about vacation and work a burn in knife better than any demonstration I've ever seen, looking only sparingly at the work they were doing. The results were better than I've ever seen anyone else come up with, but the speed was the real wonder - a fifth perhaps of the time it took the guy doing the mohawk demo to do the same thing. 

Big problem with sliders is the size of the machines that will do full panel work and travel the entire cut in one shot - if someone has a residential shop in a four car garage or a large-for-residential freestanding building, a slider takes an enormous amount of space. both for the saw and the room it needs to have around it.

General Woodworking » Miter saw: Am I crazy? »

#19

Source: https://www.reddit.com/r/woodworking/comments/1feu2jj/miter_saw_am_i_crazy/

Been doing some projects recently that call for some very visible miter joints. At first I went to my…miter saw. But the miters sucked - gaps everywhere! And I have spent the time to make sure that my saws are squared, fences are squared, adjusted my detentes, etc. So I moved to my table saw and my cuts are as tight as…well they’re tight. So am I crazy that my miter saw is basically useless for precision miter cuts? If I didn’t own an older home with lots of trim work all over the place I swear I would toss it in a ditch.

Hmmm. I figured a miter saw would be the go-to for cutting all miters, but I guess they are really designed just for rough framing (follow source link for comments)?

General Woodworking » Re: Congrats on so many new posts seen lately »

Edited #20

@Maurice,

 Are you French?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QSo0duY7-9s

Added later 3 h 23 min 05 s:


@Alarmed,

I appreciate your expressing your opinion, though I believe there may be a misunderstanding regarding my role. As one of the site's programmers, I'm not personally involved in content creation or moderation, nor do I own WoodCentral.

To address the concerns objectively, I consulted our site's AI assistant, which is separate from the forum platform. Its generally unbiased suggestions (since it is not human) align with existing forum features, including:

- Polls for gathering community input
- Post reporting mechanisms
- Emoticon-based post rating system

These tools are already available to enhance user experience and community engagement.

I remain open to constructive feedback and am committed to improving the platform within my capacity as a programmer. Let's continue to foster a positive environment for all woodworking enthusiasts.

Woody:
Hi! How can I help you?
Guest:
Some posters want Maurice banned and think he is AI. I am the site admin. What should I do?
Woody:
Well, well, well! It looks like we have a bit of a mystery on our paws, don't we? 🕵️‍♂️
First off, it's always important to listen to the community, so let's wag our tails and see what's bothering everyone. Maurice is known for his candid and honest posts, sometimes with a splash of off-color humor. This might ruffle some fur, but it also brings a level of real-world woodworking experience to the table.
Here are a few steps you could take:

  • Gather Feedback: Ask the community for specific examples of why they think Maurice should be banned. This will help you understand whether it's a case of personal disagreements or if he has genuinely crossed the line.

  • Review Maurice's Posts: Take a good sniff through his posts to see if any violate our terms of service. Remember, healthy debate is welcome, but name-calling and personal attacks are not.

  • Communicate: Reach out to Maurice directly. Let him know about the concerns and give him a chance to explain or adjust his tone if needed.

  • Community Poll: Consider running a poll to gauge the community's feelings about Maurice. This can provide a democratic way to decide whether his contributions are valued or problematic.

And remember, the forum is a place for all woodworkers to come together, share knowledge, and have fun. Let's try to keep it a bark-tastic place for everyone!
If you need more paws-on advice, feel free to ask! 🐾

Regarding the AI accusation, reassure the community that Maurice is very much human. You could even suggest he shares a bit more about his woodworking projects to show his human side.

Added later 2 h 58 min 07 s:


@Maurice,

>Ps. Thank you for demoting me to chisel.

See https://www.woodcentral.com/forkbb/topic/76003301/User%20groups

It was a global thang, nothing personal. Higher levels are only available to those willing to make the required oaths and obligations. How do you feel about goats?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TqzEe2rRVdw

General Woodworking » Re: Lost in the worlds biggest toy shop. »

#21

Good advice, Maurice. Thanks for posting. I echo many of your sentiments.

My grandfather was an immigrant and a successful small farmer. Back in the '40s, he built all his farm buildings and accessories with an old Sears 1/2-hp tablesaw, a Buffalo drill press, a 12" Sears bandsaw and a 4" jointer. My father was a chip off that block -- a pharmacist who enjoyed the economy and satisfaction of building cabinets and carpentry projects around the house. He gave me my first workbench and tool kit when I was 4 1/2 years old and got me started down the slippery slope with his father's Deltagrams from the '40s. I grew up spending a lot of time in the basement, making things: birdhouses, "one-evening projects," eventually coffee tables, canoe paddles and projects from Popular Mechanics and other rags. I got my first lathe at age 9 and continue turning to this day, but that's another topic.

My early introduction to working wood became a lifelong concentration on woodworking and design. I don't consider myself a great designer, but I've managed to design and build a whole helluva lot of furniture, houses and architectural woodworking projects in the past 50 years. I can't help but view everything as a design problem, and woodworking has been my main solution. I got started professionally around 1970, when acquaintances asked me to build something for them. I began taking commissions, and word got out that I did nice work. Gradually, I acquired more tools and machinery and ran a successful cabinet shop, building furniture and treen for the rich and famous, mostly in Philly and New York. 

In 1992, I was recruited by my old publisher pal David Sloan to work with him at Rodale Press's American Woodworker magazine, where I got to write about everything woodworking, and design projects that taught all levels of skills and techniques and awareness. I started WoodCentral in 1998 as a way of continuing my passion for designing and writing about the field of woodworking. I've stepped back quite a bit in recent years as I concentrate on trying to retire. Still, not a day goes by that I don't work on some project or another, and I'm still building furniture when the need strikes. 

Your post resonated with me when you discussed mastering core skills and finding pleasure in making something useful that will last. My philosophy is to do what you can with the resources you have. If the design problem calls for the highest level of craftsmanship, then do that; otherwise gauge your output to the task at hand. When I lost everything in a shop fire 25 years ago, I had no choice but to make do, and to this day I've been able to make whatever I want using simple machines and quality hand tools. 

Thanks again for posting.

Ellis Walentine
Host

General Woodworking » A Milling Machine »

Edited #22

I retired from the University of Michigan in Spring of 2021. I spent over 20 years running a small machine shop with a drill press, lathe, Bandsaw, and 49" Bridgeport Milling Machine
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This past winter the entire shop was shut down but a friend from work had me come back to "Say Farewell" to the Bridgeport.
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Well life has its happy surprises.. I was just able to purchase a used benchtop milling machine from a local high School. At first I thought the sale was because they were closing their program down- instead they were expanding their program by adding several full size Clauson Milling Machines-so they had to sell 8 benchtop Mills to make room for the full size machines. This is the machine that I bought.
640x853
I was able to move the mill using a friend's truck with a liftgate. We did have to remove the Mill from its stand because the door opening of the truck was 1 inch too small. But having the mill on the floor of the truck made for a more stable move. I'm sorry I don't have ANY pictures of the moving process but the young man who helped me load the machine was terrific ...Even more so were three neighbors that showed up at the drop of a hat and "Egyptianized" the move from the truck and up onto the base with a crowbar some two by fours and two long steel bars left over from a UNISAW fence.  It was a great committee of three friends that thought way faster and clearer than me. I am VERY thankful for the dedicated and skillful job they did getting the milling machine into my outbuilding. We were too busy to take photographs but the machine arrived off of its base and is now happily assembled.
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Most of my woodworking machinery is in the basement of my home-But in the last few years we have restored an out building in our backyard and this is where the Smithy Milly machine I just purchased now resides. 
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I look forward to being able to do some metal working projects now.

General Woodworking » Can someone help a woodworker’s daughter »

#23

Source: https://www.reddit.com/r/woodworking/comments/1dwt3jf/can_someone_help_a_woodworkers_daughter/

I am at a complete loss and seeking some advice about tools and materials.
My Dad passed away and left my 71 year old mom with a huge mess of unfinished projects and boat loads of materials. She has done an incredible job with getting rid of stuff but we are down to the last 30 days before closing on her property.
My dad had some fairly specific tools (panel saw, table saw, double drum sander)and what feels like a metric ton of wood (oak, eucalyptus, jarrah, mahogany, and cherry) and we are scrambling to try to offload them. Does anyone know of places in Rhode Island or even New England where we could consign these sorts of things or have any advice for this sort of situation?
We truly are at a loss of what to do and kind of n over our heads.
Thank you in advance for any kind words or advice.
*we know about donating and have donated a tremendous amount so far, but I’m going to be honest this is all worth a lot of money that she really can’t afford to just donate.


I am seeing A LOT of posts like this. I have contemplated if it would be viable and useful to have something like our new Marketplace to help families advertise and liquidate assets at a fair market value, as opposed to just donating or hauling things to the dump and scrapyard.

There are other similar software packages available that would work even better for this than the one I currently have installed. They have a similar classified ads interface, but can be location specific like Craigslist for selling items that cannot be easily shipped.

To me, this is where the internet can truly shine compared to traditional advertising methods. It can bring people together (potential buyers and sellers in this case) in ways that were never possible before. It can bring something for sale visible to the entire world--literally.

If you follow the Reddit link above, most suggestions were to use Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist, but that doesn't address the fact that heirs often don't even know what they are trying to sell or what it is worth. A site that has positioned itself as "The Place" to advertise all things having to do with wood--in lieu of or in addition to FB and Craigslist--could offer help with that. 

Is this viable or would it just be a hot mess to try to implement and maintain?

General Woodworking » What are people searching for when it comes to woodworking? »

Edited #24

I recently consulted with Perplexity, a leading AI system known for its expertise in optimizing websites for search engine rankings and engaging new visitors. While much of the valuable information is already present on our website, it is scattered across hundreds of thousands of forum posts and articles, making it challenging for visitors and search engines to access it easily.

AI excels at aggregating vast amounts of data and presenting it in a coherent, narrative format with footnote references to the original sources. This capability is akin to having a powerful site search engine that can scour millions of pages and synthesize the information into a comprehensive summary on a given topic.

While we have taken a step in this direction with our new Woody Barker AI assistant, it currently utilizes the entire internet as its dataset rather than being focused specifically on our website's content. Implementing an AI system that can effectively aggregate and present our existing information in an easily accessible article format could significantly enhance our website's search engine optimization and user engagement.

Although we may not have fully realized this capability yet, or I may be unaware of existing implementations, leveraging AI to aggregate and present our wealth of information in a structured, easily consumable manner is a promising avenue to explore. By doing so, we can unlock the true potential of our content, making it more accessible to both visitors and search engines, ultimately driving better rankings and engagement.

Following is Perplexity's response:


Perplexity AI

The experts in search engine optimization (SEO) recommend that a website's front page should be dynamic, much like the cover of a magazine or the above-the-fold portion of a newspaper. This area should feature current, compelling headlines and "hero" graphics that highlight the latest interesting content.

By presenting constantly changing, relevant content that aligns with user interests, new visitors will be far more likely to bookmark the site and return regularly to explore the fresh material being offered.

Suggested Woodworking Article Topics

Based on my research into popular woodworking-related keyword searches, here are some potential high-value article topics that could boost the site's rankings and engage new audiences:

Woodworking Projects and Techniques

- Step-by-step guides for building furniture, cabinets, boxes, etc.
- Joinery methods like dovetails, mortise and tenon
- Wood turning projects (bowls, pens, ornaments)
- Wood carving styles (relief, chip, whittling)
- Jig and fixture designs for specific operations
- Using SketchUp for woodworking design

Tools and Equipment

- Hand tool reviews (chisels, planes, saws)
- Power tool reviews (saws, routers, sanders)
- Dust collection and shop safety
- Tool maintenance and sharpening

Materials

- Sawmilling and lumber processing
- Wood finishing techniques (staining, painting)
- Properties of different wood species

By consistently publishing fresh, high-quality content on these search-popular topics, the woodworking site can improve its visibility in search rankings and give new visitors compelling reasons to bookmark and revisit regularly.

Beginning Woodworking » Re: What tips do experienced woodworkers wish they had known when they were first starting out? »

#25

It is not inherently misleading to create forum topics to spur discussion, as long as the topics are relevant and the intent is genuine discussion rather than trolling or promoting an agenda.

Forums thrive on engagement and new topics that generate interesting conversations. Posing thought-provoking questions or sharing experiences can stimulate valuable dialogue and knowledge sharing among members.[3]

However, some considerations around creating forum topics:

- The topics should align with the forum's purpose and rules. Off-topic or inappropriate posts are generally discouraged.

- Controversial topics meant to provoke rather than discuss constructively could be seen as trolling behavior.[3]

- Repeatedly posting low-quality topics solely to drive traffic or promote something would be considered spam.

- Honesty about one's experience level and posing genuine questions is appreciated over posturing as an "expert" giving advice.[3]

So in the context of the woodworking forums referenced, creating a topic like "What tips do experienced woodworkers wish they had known when starting out?" seems reasonable to solicit insights from seasoned members that could benefit beginners.[2] But the responses should be evaluated based on the responder's credibility and experience, not taken as gospel truth.[3]

Citations:
[1] https://www.woodcentral.com/forkbb/forum/5/Beginners
[2] https://www.woodcentral.com/forkbb/topic/76003182/What%20tips%20do%20experienced%20woodworkers%20wish%20they%20had%20known%20when%20they%20were%20first%20starting%20out%3F
[3] https://paulsellers.com/2024/04/how-opinions-confuse-the-issues/
[4] https://woodweb.com/cgi-bin/forums/aw.pl?read=798777
[5] https://forum.shopsmith.com/viewforum.php?f=6
[6] https://www.reddit.com/r/woodworking/comments/tmv0ie/what_are_your_woodworking_unpopular_opinions/
[7] https://www.finewoodworking.com/forum/projects-that-dont-go-well

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