Eastern Massachusetts Guild of Woodworkers Website Changes Blog

Updates for March 2026

Vincent Valvo — Tue, 31 Mar 2026 20:42:28 GMT

Updates during March 2026:

The TWIG session Open Discussion was uploaded uploaded to the TWIG Sessions link under the GUILD VIDEO LIBRARY sidebar tab.
Two videos were uploaded to the to the GUILD VIDEO LIBRARY: the Jim Russell presentation on Hide Glue and the Dave McCormick presentation on Making Challenging Projects.
Pictures of Dave McCormick's March 14 presentation on Challenging Woodworking Projects were posted to the slideshow by Tom Shirley.
Dan Sichel has resumed his column The Woodworker's Bookshelf with a new review as mentioned.
Andrew Davis and Walt Henry representing the the Cape Cod Group provided an update on their Mach proceedings.

March meeting slide show addition

Tom Shirley — Sun, 22 Mar 2026 21:49:47 GMT

Added photos to the slide show for Dave McCormick's March 14th presentation.

Also removed Mike Micelli's presentation photos.

Downloaded February 8 2025 Guild Video presentation Hide Glue by Jim Russell

Vincent Valvo — Wed, 11 Mar 2026 16:08:39 GMT

The video is found under GUILD VIDEO LIBRARY.

Added Feb 2026 TWIG Session - Workbench Type, Setup, and Accessories

Vincent Valvo — Tue, 17 Feb 2026 13:26:50 GMT

Found under GUILD VIDEO LIBRARY sidebar tab and then TWIG Sessions.

Changes and additions made Feb 1, 2026

Vincent Valvo — Mon, 02 Feb 2026 02:50:59 GMT

February 2006 articles for Featured Piece of the Month, Bevel Cut, and Measure Twice, Cut Once have been updated as usual at the beginning of every month in season.
The Guild Video Library has been updated to include Annais Kapsales' January 10 presentation on A Woodworker's Philosophy of Woodworking and recent TWIG sessions Layout Tools and Methods. Videos can be found by clicking the GUILD VIDEO LIBRARY sidebar tab and then the associated sublink. You must be logged in for access.
Pictures of Annais Kapsales' presentation were added to the Picture Slideshow below.
The review of the tour of C.B. Fisk has been added to the Tours and Field Trips webpage under the ABOUT US sidebar tab.
Seen below is the article Treasure or Trash? that was reprinted from the EMGW January Newsletter.

Added C.B. Fisk visit to Tours and Field Trips Webpage

Vincent Valvo — Wed, 14 Jan 2026 04:00:52 GMT

Nov. 8, 2025 tour of C.B. Fisk by tour leader Brian Pike. A review by Vincent Valvo was added to the Tours and Field Trips webpage.

Added a hidden Mission Statement to try to improve search engine exposure

Tom Shirley — Tue, 06 Jan 2026 23:53:38 GMT

In an attempt to increase search engine awareness of our site and what we do I added a "hidden" set of text to the bottom of the page. To do this I used a Custom HTML Gadget. The text is contained in the following HTML. To edit it the HTML will have to be edited directly.

Mission

</summary>

<p>

The Eastern Massachusetts Guild of Woodworkers (EMGW) is a non-profit organization dedicated to the promotion of excellence in the woodworking community through the sharing of information in the art, technique, and business of woodworking. We aspire to these goals in order to promote and foster interest in our craft for both the aspiring and skilled woodworker.

</p>

</details>

Modified the slideshow

Tom Shirley — Mon, 29 Dec 2025 22:23:37 GMT

Added photos from the December meeting featuring Mike

Mascelli and removed the picnic photos. The homepage was edited to reflect these changes.

Added Projects with Scrap Wood to the TWIG Video Library

Vincent Valvo — Wed, 10 Dec 2025 02:48:12 GMT

This was the session for Dec. 2025

Added TWIG video session for November 2025

Vincent Valvo — Sun, 23 Nov 2025 20:15:26 GMT

Getting Started with Hand Tools is the title.

CB Fisk OrCB Fisk Organ company

Tom Shirley — Fri, 21 Nov 2025 20:48:43 GMT

Added a set of phots from the visit to the slide show. This pushed the Reader Hardwood photos out of the sideshow.

The homepage was edited to show the new photos.

Updated the Member Map

Tom Shirley — Thu, 20 Nov 2025 20:09:57 GMT

A new layer of data has been added to the map. The data was downloaded from Wild Apricot on 11/20/2025

A new document has been created in the Map File Google Drive folder that gives step by step instructions on how to update the map

Added video of November meeting and organ making tour of C.B. Fisk

Vincent Valvo — Sun, 16 Nov 2025 22:50:34 GMT

Access via Guild Video Library > Monthly Meetings with Presentations

Added October 2025 TWIG meeting the TWIG Guild Video Library

Vincent Valvo — Sat, 15 Nov 2025 05:09:14 GMT

Added October 2025 TWIG meeting the TWIG Guild Video Library.

Title of the Video is Sharpen This by Chris Schwarz.

BOD page edits

Tom Shirley — Tue, 04 Nov 2025 21:40:04 GMT

Made some formatting and alignment changes while adding Mike Bossin as VP.

October Meeting Photos

Tom Shirley — Mon, 20 Oct 2025 21:06:08 GMT

A set of photos of the October meeting were added to the slide show. The Auction photos were removed from the slide show.

TWIG Sessions archive link is updated through August 2025

Vincent Valvo — Sat, 16 Aug 2025 00:42:07 GMT

The TWIG Sessions archive link under EMGW Guild Video Library tab has been updated to provide video sessions through August 2025. You must b logged in.

Slide show changes - Add Picnic, remove Curved Surfaces

Tom Shirley — Mon, 23 Jun 2025 21:13:34 GMT

A set of photos was added to the slide show to record the 2025 picnic.

This pushed out Mickey Callahan's Curved Surfaces photos.

Readers Hardwood Supply Tour updated

Tom Shirley — Mon, 09 Jun 2025 18:22:32 GMT

Photos of the tour have been added to the slide show and a "Review" of the tour has been added to the Tours & Field Trips page.

Posted Nominations for EMGW Board of Directors 2025-2026

Vincent Valvo — Wed, 21 May 2025 03:03:52 GMT

As per Jeff Clunie, Chairman of the EMGW Nomination Committee, the results of the nomination period for the 2025 - 2026 program year are stated below:

Pursuant to the by-laws of the Guild, the Nominating Committee has performed the requirements for conducting a nomination process for the four offices to be voted on by all active members of the Guild. The nomination process was officially closed on May 20, 2025 and the following individuals were nominated for the offices to be filled:

President: Robert Carver, Incumbent, Program Committee, Measure Twice, Cut Once writer, Feature Piece of the Month contributor

Vice President: Andrew Davis, Incumbent, Bevel Cut writer, Feature Piece of the Month contributor, Guidebook for Novices

Secretary: Tom Shirley, Incumbent, Co-Website Admin, Feature Piece of the Month contributor

Treasurer: John LeJeune, Incumbent

The election will be conducted at the next Guild meeting scheduled for June 14, 2025. In order to cast a vote, a Guild member must be in attendance at the June 14, 2025 meeting. The results of the election will be announced at said meeting and posted on the EMGW website.

Added a Tours & Field Trips page and menu tab

Tom Shirley — Tue, 20 May 2025 17:32:26 GMT

A new page called Tours& Field Trips has been added to contain all details about past and future tours and field trips.

A new menu entry was crated in the About Us menu tab.

Posted May 2025 Feature Piece "Buggy Wheel Restoration" by Dick Belanger

Vincent Valvo — Wed, 30 Apr 2025 01:56:04 GMT

We are always looking for unusual pieces to feature. This one is no exception. It seems Dick is a magnet for these one-of-a-kind pieces.

And don't think this is as simple as it may seem. This project comes with needed craftmanship, requiring laminated curves and turning, The buggy wheel restoration project article is an easy read and something you probably haven't ever been involved with before. Here's your chance. Take a look at Buggy Wheel Restoration.

Click Dick Belanger to send your comments.

Removed Tribute to John George and the EMGW Mentor Program

Vincent Valvo — Tue, 29 Apr 2025 16:18:58 GMT

Member Joe Frank lives in Somerset, MA, a short drive to southern Rhode Island. Joe joined several years ago as a novice. He needed a mentor and found one. John George stepped up.

Joe works full-time so his availability with John was limited. With a couple years lost due to Covid, John mentored Joe for almost four years, one evening a week at John's workshop in Hopkinton, MA. As Joe's craftsmanship progressed they continued their mentorship program building other pieces. Joe was elated to be mentored by John. But like all of us, Joe was surprised when John died suddenly last fall. Joe felt the need to extol his mentor and write about his experience. To learn more about their mentorship arrangement, read Joe's article A Tribute to John George and the EMGW Mentor Program. To contact Joe for more details, click Joe Frank.

Removed Guild Gear from Home page

Vincent Valvo — Tue, 29 Apr 2025 16:14:57 GMT

Guild Gear

Ken Zoller has received interest in ordering another allotment of EMGW hats and work shirts. Pricing will greatly depend on how many items we order so get your orders in soon. Shirts will likely cost between $35 and $50 and hats $15 - $20 depending on volume and shipping. Once the order is ready to be placed, Ken will have definite pricing. Arrangements can be made for payment and delivery.

If any of you are interested, contact Ken Zoller for details (cost, sizes, quantity, timing, etc.) and/or order placement.

Updated title header of the monthly meeting slideshow

Vincent Valvo — Tue, 29 Apr 2025 14:03:22 GMT

Added header for April 12 2025 monthly meeting photos.

Add new Guild Video Library feature - TWIG videos. TWIG and Monthly meeting videos are archived.

Vincent Valvo — Tue, 29 Apr 2025 01:37:02 GMT

Twig Sessions is access from Guild Video Library > TWIG Sessions. The Feb and March TWIG sessions were uploaded to YouTube.

The Monthly Meeting with Presentations dropdown link lists what used to be the only videos. The April meeting with Mickey Callahan was uploaded to YouTube .

Added Mickey Callahan's Curved Surfaces to the slideshow

Tom Shirley — Thu, 17 Apr 2025 19:53:19 GMT

Added 8 photos slides of Mickey Callahan's curved Surfaces presentation to the slideshow folder. I also moved a copy of the first slide of the CNC phots to the Previous Monthly Meetings folder and removed the Jim Russell photos from the slide show.

Added to Guild Video Library the March 2025 meeting with Paul Cavalloro presenting "CNC Routing"

Vincent Valvo — Tue, 15 Apr 2025 23:14:12 GMT

CNC Routing

Paul Cavalloro

March 9, 2025

Added new Resource website link "British and Irish Furniture Makers Online"

Vincent Valvo — Fri, 11 Apr 2025 03:22:20 GMT

Resources > Links > Website > British and Irish Furniture Makers Online

Posted April 2025 MTCO article "Make a Model" by Rob Carver

Vincent Valvo — Tue, 01 Apr 2025 05:02:36 GMT

As we know, the use of best practices is a golden rule in whatever field we are in. Perhaps it is the uppermost rule during design and development. Rob's essay, while having an intellectual knowledge of this lesson, was reminded by one of those practices by a podcast he listened to. Briefly, a woodworker was asked to make something unique. How to conceive the look, feel, and stability was key. The value of making a full scale model was crucial to the outcome while maintaining that step in the set of best practices. Click to read Make a Model.

Posted April 2025 Bevel Cut article "New Woodsmart Digital Chisel" by Andrew Davis

Vincent Valvo — Tue, 01 Apr 2025 04:57:21 GMT

Andrew is always on the lookout for new tools he finds worthy of writing about and sharing with the guild. This month he brings another find. So, revel in Woodsmart's market release of this one of a kind tool revealed in New Woodsmart Digital Chisel.

Posted April 2025 Featured Piece for April 2025 titled "Tiger Maple Sideboard" By James Vieira

Vincent Valvo — Tue, 01 Apr 2025 04:49:58 GMT

James Vieria is a relatively new member joining in 2021. Clearly as evidenced by his Featured Piece, James brings to the guild a considerable expertise. You can see his interest in the work of James Kenov. His design is subtle and elegant, fresh and simple but requiring the know-how experience to combine his tiger maple, birdseye maple, maple plywood, and cocobolo into an assembled stunning piece.

In his writing, James outlines his motivation, process, and includes a few tips along the way. I'm sure you will find this article worthy of your time. I've read it a few times and each time I enjoy it more. Have a treat, reading Tiger Maple Sideboard.

You can contact James here.

Published the April 2025 edition of The Woodworkers' Bookshelf by Dan Sichel

Vincent Valvo — Sat, 29 Mar 2025 17:51:19 GMT

This review is much shorter than recent ones. That is intentional so as to highlight that shorter articles or notes on an interesting resource on woodworking are welcome. Please share what you are reading or seeing online that would be of interest to other Guild members. Easy to submit – just email Dan Sichel or see him at a Guild meeting!

In the meantime read Dan's April book review. As Dan describes, the book is an amusing treatise on sharpening saws and other tidbits called Set and File, A Practical Guide to Saw Sharpening by Matt Cianci, Lost Art Press, 2024.

Moved the Brush Bench Project summary to the Projects Page

Vincent Valvo — Mon, 24 Mar 2025 18:50:28 GMT

The Brush Bench Project description can be found under the About Us tab dropdown list and selecting Projects.

Added CNC photos to the slideshow

Tom Shirley — Mon, 17 Mar 2025 19:55:54 GMT

Added photos from the CNC demonstration to the slide show. I also removed photos for the Patarea presentation.

Modified the homepage to reflect these changes.

Added March Newsletter changes to the homepage

Tom Shirley — Sat, 01 Mar 2025 16:26:27 GMT

Modified the homepage to match the updates sent in the March Newsletter.

New Video: Rule Joints and Finger Joints by Matt Wajda May 11, 2024

James Russell — Tue, 18 Feb 2025 10:58:34 GMT

Rule Joints and Finger Joints: Matt Wajda May 11, 2024

Added Jim Russell's Hyde Glue photos

Tom Shirley — Mon, 17 Feb 2025 22:28:59 GMT

Added photos of Jim Russell's Hyde Glue presentation, taken by Lunda Smith. 7 Photos.

Also removed the Dan Faia photos from the rotation

Posted February 2025 MTCO article "Raking Light is Essential" by Rob Carver

Vincent Valvo — Thu, 30 Jan 2025 03:47:22 GMT

Raking Light is Essential

by Rob Carver

Another outstanding essay comes from the desk of Rob Carver. A little history, a light physics, a little philosophy, a little examination, a little alliteration, and a little woodworking make this a lot of good reading. The whole is greater than the sum of its parts. Enjoy your reading Raking Light is Essential.

You can reach Rob by clicking Rob Carver.

Posted February 2025 Featured Piece article "A Workbench to Last a Lifetime" by Ed O'Neil

Vincent Valvo — Thu, 30 Jan 2025 03:39:06 GMT

A Workbench to Last a Lifetime

by Ed O'Neil

A woodworker has a lot of loyalty for tools that work for them, especially the workbench. A woodworker is at home behind their workbench but for Ed, after decades of using his original workbench and developing new skills for furniture making, the time had come to make a new home.

This is a story of designing and building a workbench from scratch. Ed provides considerable detail, tool choices, resources, and copious pictures for anyone interested in replicating his efforts. As you can see it's an appealing, sturdy, and functional workbench. The story is a perfect example of a Featured Piece by detailing the motivation, wood species, design issues, construction, overcoming pitfalls, lessons learned, wrap-up, finish, and acknowledgements. Read A Workbench to Last a Lifetime.

You can contact here Ed O'Neil.

Posted February 2025 Bevel Cut article "Woodworking Establishment Clause" by Andrew Davis

Vincent Valvo — Thu, 30 Jan 2025 03:26:57 GMT

Woodworking Establishment Clause

by Andrew Davis

Perhaps it's because of the new year. Perhaps it's because Andrew has been traveling to foreign lands and has grasped a more global view. Perhaps he's just tired of debating or hearing about the debates before us woodworkers. Or perhaps he's simply run out of Bevel Cut topics to discuss. In any event, Andrew has become a peacemaker.

Andrew's mission is an attempt to put our woodworking differences aside. This article is a request about acceptance to an ideal. It's your turn to abide. Please read Woodworking Establishment Clause to understand Andrew's noble cause. Woodworkers of the Guild Unite! (And if you have ideas for a topic, please send them to the leading contender for the EMGW Peace Prize.)

Andrew welcomes your feedback.

Woodworking Tip for February 2025 -- Permanent Wax Finish by Joshua Shapiro

Vincent Valvo — Thu, 30 Jan 2025 03:22:52 GMT

Woodworking Tip for February 2025 -- Permanent Wax Finish by Joshua Shapiro

Updated The Bench Brush Project status

Vincent Valvo — Mon, 27 Jan 2025 03:41:05 GMT

Bench Brush Project (formerly Dustpan and Brush Project) Update.

Uploaded the January 4, 2024 video presentation to the Guild Video Libarary

Vincent Valvo — Thu, 16 Jan 2025 02:44:35 GMT

Presentation was delivered by Michael Patrick Wheeler.

Uploaded MTCO article for January 2024 "Never-Ending Debates" by Rob Carver

Vincent Valvo — Wed, 01 Jan 2025 16:54:10 GMT

Never-Ending Debates

by Rob Carver

Debates are rampant in woodworking. You know, they are the age old issues of pins first vs. tails first, hand tools vs. power tools, and so on. These issues are first-world preferences. Rob puts his stamp on this topic. He's not here to make a choice. He's here to get some work done. Read some wisdom from Rob's shop with Never-Ending Debates.

You can reach Rob by clicking Rob Carver.

uploaded Bevel Cut article for January 2024 "Screw Tech" by Andrew Davis

Vincent Valvo — Wed, 01 Jan 2025 16:47:02 GMT

Screw Tech

by Andrew Davis

Let me get this information right out there. Andrew's use of the word screw in the title is not a verb.

I thought Andrews's epic October 2024 article called Butting Heads Over Screws (this can be found in the Resource archive on the website), was the piece de resistance for details about screws for woodworkers. But Andrew, ever the screwologist, presents a follow-up with more specifications on screw thread, type, point, and composition. You will have to pull out your copy of Butting Heads Over Screws and append this article to it for a more complete treatise. Read Screw Tech.and you will understand.

Andrew welcomes your feedback.

Uploaded Featured Piece for January 2024 "Serpentine Tables" by Dave McCormick

Vincent Valvo — Wed, 01 Jan 2025 16:31:20 GMT

Serpentine Tables

by Dave McCormick

Dave McCormick has graced the Featured Piece column once again. I choose my words carefully, because grace is the operative word. Dave and woodworker extraordinaire Phil Lowe had developed a wonderful relationship prior to Phil's death three years ago. Dave was inspired by Phil's classical woodworking techniques, took classes by him, worked on projects in Phil's workshop, and befriended his woodworking idol.

Dave's article chronicles a time when he was developing his skill set by taking an early course at Phil's Furniture Institute of Massachusetts in Beverly. We know from furniture pieces that Dave has built, a woodworking challenge is no stranger to him. While completing required activities of the curriculum, such as making a simple table, Dave saw a piece he could not deny himself. Take advantage of reading Dave's story called Serpentine Tables for a wonderful, graceful treat

You can contact here Dave McCormick.

Added a gadget for Guild Gear

Vincent Valvo — Sat, 28 Dec 2024 23:34:30 GMT

Work Shirt and Hat.

Member Map Updated

Tom Shirley — Thu, 26 Dec 2024 21:19:09 GMT

A new Layer has been added to the Member Map. 116 of 117 members are included in this new layer.

I also edited the homepage to reflect the map update.

Memership Field data clean up

Tom Shirley — Thu, 26 Dec 2024 21:12:58 GMT

In order to make the data export used to update the map cleaner and easier I made several data clean-up corrections. For example. I standardized the phone number fields to ###-###-###. I also corrected any State field to be 2 letter capitalized abbreviations.

After export there were 4 records that could not be mapped. I was able to fix three but on record does not have an address at all.

Updated the Tip of the Month for December 2024

Vincent Valvo — Mon, 23 Dec 2024 05:16:36 GMT

Woodworking Tip for January 2025 -- DIY Knobs

Uploaded representative pictures of the December 2024 meeting and presentation "Traditional Woodworking in the Modern Era" by Dan Faia

Vincent Valvo — Mon, 23 Dec 2024 01:49:21 GMT

Traditional Woodworking in the Modern Era

Dan Faia

December 14, 2024

Moved the Shave Horse documentation from the Home page to the Projects page.

Vincent Valvo — Thu, 19 Dec 2024 01:56:30 GMT

The Shave Horse Project began in September, 2024 and completed it in November, 2024. Twelve participants made their own shave horse.

Updated the Woodworking Tips of the Month Archive page

Tom Shirley — Tue, 03 Dec 2024 00:02:14 GMT

Added links to update the Woodworking Tip of the Month archive as of January 2025

Updated the Featured Piece of the Month Articles Archive page

Tom Shirley — Mon, 02 Dec 2024 23:45:35 GMT

I streamlined the HTML on the Featured Piece of the Month Articles page and then added links to the articles as of January 2025.

Updated the Bevel Cut Articles Resource page

Tom Shirley — Mon, 02 Dec 2024 20:56:30 GMT

Added links to the Bevel Cut Articles page for the September, October, November and December articles

Added entries to the Measure Twice, Cut Once Archive

Tom Shirley — Mon, 02 Dec 2024 20:48:58 GMT

Brought the

Measure Twice, Cut Once:

Wisdom From the Shop Articles Archive

page up to date as of January 2025.

Shave Horse Project group follow-up

Tom Shirley — Mon, 02 Dec 2024 20:30:36 GMT

The Shave Horse Project group followed up their initial meeting with a horse round up rodeo where seven horses returned to Ed Payne's shop. The build process and horse features were compared and discussed.

See more details and pictures

Posted Featured Piece of December 2024 "Walnut Box with Curly Maple Lining" by Bob McKee

Vincent Valvo — Sun, 01 Dec 2024 03:47:48 GMT

Walnut Box with Curly Maple Lining

by Bob McKee

Bob McKee has been a wonderful contributor to the FPOM. This is his 6th impressive submission. This month Bob describes his elegant walnut box with banding and a curly maple interior. The piece has a nice family story to go with it's creation. Open the Walnut Box article to get the details.

Feedback is welcome Bob McKee

Removed The Drum Maker | Rope Tension Drum | A Craftsman's Legacy links

Vincent Valvo — Sat, 30 Nov 2024 16:08:02 GMT

At the September 2024 meeting a presentation by Bill Whitney was performed. You can see a few representative pictures below. Click any of the following links.

This is the primary video that caught our attention. In this way you will get to see more details that the pictures cannot convey.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xN8kkjGS-98 (36:46)

Calderwood - Hellcats Drum Line [Showing the project overview, 10 snares, 2 bass drums] (7:48)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ltAceF9kQy4

Hellcat Drums - Maiden Voyage (short clip playing demo, 3 snares, 1 bass)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=80nPE3NLsTk (0:39)

Posted December 2024 Bevel Cut article "Remember the Asymptote!" by Andrew Davis

Vincent Valvo — Sat, 30 Nov 2024 15:59:53 GMT

Remember the Asymptote!

by Andrew Davis

Have you ever tried to make the decision to purchase a tool not based on the anticipated workload of a project? In this month's Bevel Cut article Andrew helps by walking through the logic involved in making that decision.

Read Remember the Asymptote! then add it to your woodworking binder for later reference.

Andrew welcomes your feedback.

Uploaded the Calderwood Percussions video presentation to the Guild Video Library

Vincent Valvo — Tue, 26 Nov 2024 00:35:18 GMT

Bill Whitney of Calderwood Percussions led the discussion and demonstration at his shop in Avon, MA of September 14, 2024.

Added pictures of November 2024 meeting with Mike Mascelli presenter

Vincent Valvo — Sun, 17 Nov 2024 21:37:15 GMT

Mike leads a demonstration on making a chair slip seat at Woodcraft Walpole.

Board of DIrectors add John LeJeune as Treasurer

Vincent Valvo — Sun, 10 Nov 2024 21:10:08 GMT

John Lejeune replaces the late John George for Treasurer as of November 9, 2024.

updated the Tip of the Month for November 2024, "Smoother Slide with Miter Bars"

Vincent Valvo — Sun, 10 Nov 2024 16:18:06 GMT

Woodworking Tip for November 2024. Smoother Slide with Miter Bars

Posted November 2024 MTCO article "Friction" by Rob Carver

Vincent Valvo — Sun, 10 Nov 2024 16:07:47 GMT

Friction

by Rob Carver

We all know about friction. It's the dry friction we are most familiar with but there are several types of friction. Friction was discovered by Leonardo da VInci although he didn't get credit (posthumously, of course) until the 17th century when his codices were discovered. Ever hear of the coefficient of friction? Leonardo didn't coin the phrase he merely described the ratio. While there are fun facts about friction and Leonardo, there are more serious sentiments about such a force.

Rob's article is less about history and science and more about the impact (not a pun) on human nature. Here friction is not a physical force in mechanics. Adding or reducing friction is a metaphor for slowing or increasing communication pathways, or slowing the pace of development or facilitating it. There is more in the article than this little intro, so click Friction. It's such a good read.

You can reach Rob by clicking Rob Carver.

Posted November 2024 Bevel Cut article "What a Grind Part 2" by Andrew Davis

Vincent Valvo — Sun, 10 Nov 2024 16:05:33 GMT

What a Grind Part 2

by Andrew Davis

What a Grind is the second installment of Andrew's series on Abrasives. Part 2 discusses more details on the manufacturers and types of sandpaper that you would use for specific projects.

This is a keeper to have handy when you have a sanding project. It's not about the correct grit. This is a fully researched compendium for purchasing and using sandpaper. There is more about what kind of sandpaper you should use, and names of the products for your searching pleasure when purchasing.

Read What a Grind Part 2 then add it to your woodworking binder for later reference.

Andrew welcomes your feedback.

Posted November 2024 Featured Piece article "Shop Made Glue-up Jig" by Steve Hoffmann

Vincent Valvo — Sun, 10 Nov 2024 16:03:19 GMT

Shop Made Glue-up Jig

by Steve Hoffmann

Readers may know that I am always looking for jigs and fixtures to be featured for this column. I love the creativity that comes with a jig or fixture because by definition it’s original. Steve Hoffmann's jig certainly qualifies.

Steve is a former EMGW president who has contributed Featured Piece articles in the past. This time it's a jig with drawings so that you might like to make one. Steve designed and made the jig to facilitate glueing the treads and risers of a staircase. While readers may not have a staircase project, they would find value in a jig that keeps parts in place during glue up with reproduceable outcome. Learn about about Steve's jig in his article Shop Made Glue-up Jig.

For more information, you can reach Steve at Steve Hoffmann.

Posted MTCO article for October 2024 "Multiple Identities?" by Rob Carver

Vincent Valvo — Tue, 01 Oct 2024 03:00:15 GMT

Multiple Identities?

by Rob Carver

Rob discusses the recognition and value that people can be many things. We members woodworkers are one thing, one category, one dimension of ourselves - woodworkers. Rob knows there is more to us as humans. It becomes evident when we meet over meetings, projects, or post meeting lunches. These gatherings when taken the opportunity enhance our understanding and shared interests, knowledge, backgrounds, and stories. Don't misunderstand this is not a Kumbaya story.

Rob writes to share a story that triggered this article of realizing the intrinsic value there is to get to know the other dimensions of others, not just the shared dimensions but also the different ones. Read Multiple Identities.

You can reach Rob by clicking Rob Carver.

Posted Bevel Cut article for October 2024 "Butting Heads Over Screws" by Andrew Davis

Vincent Valvo — Tue, 01 Oct 2024 02:57:36 GMT

Butting Heads Over Screws

by Andrew Davis

Like other members, I use screws a lot. Not necessarily in furniture I make, glue is go-to adhesive for that. But screws are widely used around the house in repair jobs and in the shop for jigs and fixtures. But when I want a special screw often I don't know the name of the screw head or drive, which is a problem if I need to discuss an issue with someone or Amazon. Now that issue is solved for me. What about you?

Keep this article handy. Eventually, you will find the article under the archive RESOURCE tab on the HOME page. But for now read this well organized article Butting Heads Over Screws. And, by the way, at the end of the article you get another Bevel Cut tree diagram of woodworking screws plus several helpful links.

Andrew welcomes your feedback.

Posted Featured Piece of the Month for October 2024 "Walnut Greene and Greene Bed" by Dave McCormick

Vincent Valvo — Tue, 01 Oct 2024 02:48:43 GMT

It is a pleasure to see another Dave McCormick furniture piece come our way. Dave has shown his desks, cabinets, and other furniture in this column. Also, Dave has presented more abstract pieces, especially when he contributed articles of his work using quilted maple. You can review those articles (December 2022 and January 2023) from the website archive by navigating to RESOURCES > Featured Piece of the Month. Dave's newest piece is very functional with accents, typical of Dave's work.

Dave recently visited the Gable House (links about the house can be found in the article) in Pasadena, CA. In it were Greene and Greene single beds. Dave liked them so much he took the challenge to make one with a couple considerable extra features. Dave's design was a G & G Queen-size bed with holly and sapele inlay on the head and foot board panels. Read about Dave's latest contribution called Walnut Greene and Greene Bed.

For more information, you can reach Dave at Dave McCormick.

Updated Tip of Month for September 2024 "Miter Bars for Miter Slots"

Vincent Valvo — Mon, 30 Sep 2024 00:21:51 GMT

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1tHJOJA-3he8r5K_D29XZ0ePlklXo1UdC/view?usp=drive_link

Added supporting information and links to the September 2024 Rope Tension Drum presentation

Vincent Valvo — Thu, 19 Sep 2024 21:07:04 GMT

The Drum Maker | Rope Tension Drum | A Craftsman's Legacy

Posted slideshow pictures of September 2024 presentation

Vincent Valvo — Thu, 19 Sep 2024 20:32:40 GMT

Bill Whitney of Calderwood Percussion Instruments on "Rope Tension Snare Drum Process and Demonstration"

Added pictures of BOD members to the Board of Directors page.

Vincent Valvo — Sun, 01 Sep 2024 17:32:37 GMT

Added pictures of BOD members to the Board of Directors page found under the ABOUT US tab.

Posted the September 2024 Bevel Cut article "True Grit Isn't What It Used to Be" by Andrew Davis

Vincent Valvo — Sun, 01 Sep 2024 16:50:57 GMT

True Grit Isn't What

It Used to Be

by Andrew Davis

Sandpaper is arguably the most common tool in the workshop. Having a smooth finish is desirable for most of your wood projects, even to the extent of using several different grits until the touch is perfect.

Despite the title of this Bevel Cut article, Andrew goes beyond grit. Andrew has done his research including other sandpaper characteristics, namely, abrasive type, backing, and abrasive density. So, before you purchase your next batch of sandpaper, refer to this article. You can become a true sandpaper savant by reading True Grit Isn't What It Used to Be.

Andrew welcomes your feedback.

Added September 2024 Featured Piece "Knife Hinges – Installation on a Small Cabinet" by Dick Belanger

Vincent Valvo — Sun, 01 Sep 2024 16:43:48 GMT

Knife Hinges –

Installation on a Small Cabinet

by Dick Belanger

Dick Belanger kicks off the first Featured Piece for 2024-2025. The article is a perfect beginning of the season because it expands the breadth of the mission of this column. It not only demonstrates wonderful craftsmanship of a furniture piece, but it outlines a process. As readers of this column know, the column is not exclusive of furniture pieces. Featured Pieces can be a jig, tools (or special use of a tool), story, or process/technique. In this case, the use of knife hinges is the featured focus.

Knife hinges have a reputation of being difficult to install properly. Dick, who is an EMGW mentor and a member of the Newcomer Committee, offered to write his article without having much experience using knife hinges. He was primed to write this stepwise installation process as part of constructing his cabinet. If his choice of hinges didn't work out, Dick would end up without a working article. But as you will read in Knife Hinges – Installation on a Small Cabinet, Dick has nothing but good things to say about knife hinges.

For more information, you can reach Dick at Dick Belanger.

Added a new Resource link "Woodworking Tips of the Month"

Vincent Valvo — Sat, 31 Aug 2024 00:49:55 GMT

Woodworking Tips of the Month - a list of articles of unusual insights, shortcuts, techniques, and savings submitted mostly by members.

Woodworking Tips of the Month can be found under the Resource tab on the Home page.

Added Guild Project Update - Make a Shave Horse

Vincent Valvo — Sat, 24 Aug 2024 02:55:33 GMT

Back in May and June invitations went out to join the Shave Horse Project. Several members participating in the project met in August at Ed Payne’s shop for an initial meeting. We had some good discussion about potential uses of a horse, and demonstrated the two basic traditional designs: German dumb-head and English bodger’s horse. Everyone got a chance to ride a horse and use a drawknife to begin shaping green and kiln-dried wood, and a few folks did some riving with a froe. Except for a few drops of blood from a splinter, there were no injuries and a lot of camaraderie. Participants left with numerous articles and plans, heading home to decide on the best style and dimensions for their own personal shave horse. The informal consensus seemed to favor the dumb-head design, and we’ll stay in touch to learn what people decide. - Rob Carver

Please email Rob at robert.carver@comcast.net with expressions of interest and questions.

Updated Tip of the Month for September 2024

Vincent Valvo — Sat, 24 Aug 2024 02:51:44 GMT

Use Gauze, not Cotton

Added a notice and picture of the Cape Cod subgroup

Vincent Valvo — Sat, 27 Jul 2024 03:43:36 GMT

Six of the eleven members of EMGW's Cape Cod subgroup met July 25 2024 at the home/workshop of Josh Shapiro in Chatham. We got a tour of Josh’s well-equipped shop which he assembled over the past 8 months, starting with an empty room. Josh buys used equipment exclusively and shared with the group his tips for buying equipment on Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and other venues. Contact Andrew if you are in or near the Cape Cod area,

Pictured from left to right are Steven Contin, Walter Henry, Andrew Davis, Josh Shapiro, Mike Walter, Rob Aronson.

New Video: Design - Influences and Process

James Russell — Fri, 26 Jul 2024 16:45:05 GMT

Design: Influences and Processes: Mike Roughan, Linda Smith, Michael Bossin and Marc Holland March 9, 2024

New Video - Japanese Hand Planes and Joinery

James Russell — Tue, 16 Jul 2024 13:37:21 GMT

Japanese Hand Planes and Joinery - Andrew Hunter - February 10, 2024

Updated the Slideshow showing pictures of past meetings during 2023-2024

Vincent Valvo — Wed, 10 Jul 2024 23:59:22 GMT

Pictures of the Show & Tell were displayed after the the monthly meeting intro pictures.

Archived all Featured Piece of the Month articles through June 2024

Vincent Valvo — Thu, 04 Jul 2024 19:58:29 GMT

Archived articles can be access by clicking Resources > Featured Piece of the Month Articles.

Archived all MTCO articles through June 2024

Vincent Valvo — Thu, 04 Jul 2024 19:48:43 GMT

Archived articles can be access by clicking Resources > Measure Twice,Cut Once.

Archived Bevel Cut articles for Program Year 2023-2024

Vincent Valvo — Wed, 03 Jul 2024 22:09:22 GMT

All Bevel Cut articles have been archived through the end of June 2024. The articles can be found under Resources > Bevel Cut Articles.

Updated EMGW Board of Directors for 2024-2025

Vincent Valvo — Thu, 20 Jun 2024 01:25:53 GMT

All Board of Directors were unanimously voted for 2024 - 2025 on June 8, 2024.

President: Rob Carver

Vice-President: Andrew Davis

Treasurer: John George

Secretary: Tom Shirley

Posted Show & Tell pictures at End of Year Party June 2024

Vincent Valvo — Wed, 19 Jun 2024 15:50:08 GMT

Show and Tell pieces were presented by some members of their recent work.

Posted June 2024 MTCO "Laminate for Stability" by Rob Carver

Vincent Valvo — Fri, 31 May 2024 17:06:41 GMT

Laminate for Stability

by Rob Carver

Who would use lamination to explain averaging and diversification? Before we go there, first understand that Rob’s article suggests a laminated board can be more stable and flatter with equal thickness across the board when compared to a solid hardwood board. While solid hardwood will move (expand, contract, cup, or twist), a laminated board will not. This would recommend using a laminated board when a shop-made fence is needed for a router table, drill press, band saw, table saw, or the like.

Consider the process for making a lamination board of a specific thickness. Several layers of a desired equal thickness are glued together. The likely scenario, however, is that some layers will be slightly over and some lightly under the desired thickness. While the individual thicknesses of those layers are likely not to be exactly the desired thickness, their average will approximate the desired thickness because the overs and unders will generally offset each other. In this case, averaging is an operation that removes noise.

But Rob goes further in typical MTCO fashion. Rob presents some natural world phenomena using this same concept of benefiting from averaging, such as, stock investments (stock diversification) and weather forecasts (averaging several models). And I can add another – generating a more accurate (stable) election poll by averaging several like models.

Laminate for Stability is a clever, thoughtful essay revealing a true MTCO dictum shared in woodworking and the greater natural world.

You can reach Rob by clicking Rob Carver.

Posted June 2024 Bevel cut "What’s a Product Life Cycle Anyway Redux" by Andrew Davis

Vincent Valvo — Fri, 31 May 2024 17:03:07 GMT

What’s a Product Life Cycle Anyway Redux

by Andrew Davis

Andrew revives his December 2017 Bevel Cut and adds some updates. The article presents the irony of the age of motorized woodworking tools, for example, table saws that continue to be marketed after years of of being released for purchase. At the left is a picture of a Powermatic 66 that was first sold in 1966 until 2008.

Compare that with furniture styles, automobiles, computers, telephones, other electronics, . There's nothing close to Moore's Law for woodworking tools. Read What’s a Product Life Cycle Anyway Redux for more on the subject.

Andrew welcomes your feedback.

Posted June 2024 Featured Piece of the Month "Bathroom Corner Cupboard" by Pat Kinney

Vincent Valvo — Fri, 31 May 2024 16:56:02 GMT

Bathroom Corner Cupboard

by Pat Kinney

Pat Kinney is a relatively new member. His introduction to the guild was interrupted by the pandemic so he received a somewhat fractured start. After having taken a recent course at North Bennet St. School he embarked on a project to make the bathroom corner cupboard for a half bathroom. The style suits his colonial home nicely.

Pat was fortunate to have a more experienced woodworker for assistance and direction. Still, there are many features in this piece that demonstrate Pat has arrived. Pat had to work with angled cuts, unusual glue-ups, bookmatching resawn panels, working with handplanes, fitting the door for a nice 1/16 inch reveal, and so on. Welcome to the guild, Pat. Thanks for contributing Bathroom Corner Cupboard.

Further information can be requested from Pat Kinney.

Added "President's End of Term Message - Looking Back and Forward" by Ken Zoller

Vincent Valvo — Thu, 30 May 2024 21:47:58 GMT

As my term as president of the EMGW ends, I wanted to report back to the membership about how the Guild has developed and improved over the past two years. As I thought about it, it became more and more clear that the Guild is all about the people in it. So here is a list of Guild accomplishments and some of the people responsible:

First, we have had a tremendous growth in membership. For a number of years, our rolls were in the 80 to 100 range. As I write this on May 20th, we now have 128 active members. Geographically, we are also widening our reach with several members from Rhode Island and a group on the Cape. Although word of mouth helps, our presence on the internet is likely our main drawing force. If you Google “Woodworking Club MA”, we are the first search result. Thanks to our great web team of Vincent Valvo, Jim Russell and Tom Shirley our website and social media has steadily gotten better with more features, links and information.

Second, again thanks to the tremendous work of Vincent, our monthly meeting reminder emails have been totally transformed into a full multi-featured newsletter. Please send him news and Featured Piece articles!

Third, at the urging of Jim Tartaglia, Vincent, Wyatt Mills, and Rob Carver (who became chairperson), we have developed the Newcomer Committee which reaches out to all new members and tries to make the process of joining a new group easier. The committee now also has Steve Hoffmann, Dick Belanger and Andrew Davis. An outgrowth of that has been our lunch get togethers after our regular Saturday meetings where long-timers and newbies can talk and answer questions.

Fourth, another new group started a few months ago – the Traditional Woodworking Interest Group (TWIG) after Wyatt Mills raised the idea and had a tremendous positive response. TWIG meets the first Tuesday of the month on Zoom.

Fifth, another sub-group has just started after an inquiry from someone traveling to the area. The Cape Woodworkers have had an initial meeting last month at Jim Viera’s house and are planning again for the end of June.

Sixth, Andrew Davis, editor of our Getting Started in Woodworking and author of the monthly Bevel Cut column had started the Tip of the Month feature on the website. This is a new endeavor so please send your ideas to Andrew.

Seventh, the Program Committee under Jim Tartaglia and then Rob Carver has provided a wide ranging set of Saturday morning meetings, utilizing both nationally known experts and Guild members. They and the rest of the committee, Howard Barnstone, John LeJeune, Neal Carey, Mike Roughan, Andrew Davis, Chris Haeni and Marc Holland have been hard at work for the 2024-2025 season. The committee also established great relations with two new meeting venue sites – Needham Furniture Makers and the Lowell Makes makerspace.

Sixth, we have expanded our connections with woodworking vendors – obtaining special discounts from Reader Hardwoods in Taunton and Barney and Carey Lumber in Avon. We also had donations – Mike Bossin’s idea - to the annual auction (helping auctioneer Jim Tartaglia and assistant Scott Brown) from the Woodcrafts in Woburn and Walpole, Reader Hardwoods, Barney and Carey and Lee Valley.

Seventh, last year we had two member-led group projects, Shaker stools by Steve Hoffmann and wavy cutting boards by Jeff Clunie. Their efforts were most appreciated by all those who participated, both for the woodworking and the social interactions. Looking back, for me the Guild project of making toys a number of years ago was where I truly became involved.

Eighth, under the guidance of Jim Russell, the video team (Mike Roughan, Marc Holland and Chris Haeni) is now a coherent group with new equipment and a standardized protocol for recording and “Zooming” meetings.

Ninth, the Furniture Interest Group (FIG) has continued to meet both virtually and in-person (at different members houses – thanks to you all!) the third Monday of the month under the continued guidance of past president Tim Holiner.

Tenth, after many years “in the red”, the Coffee Committee (Len Nyren and Don Fye) finally turned a profit at the April meeting.

Eleventh, 29 Guild members now can proudly wear their EMGW denim work shirts and seven also have logo hats. We also have hats as gifts for our paid meeting presenters. Graphic designer Linda Smith is currently working on improving our embroidery design. (As always, I’m always collecting names of those who want Guild gear, but it becomes pricey unless I have a large order).

Twelfth, the Executive Board (Me, V.P. Rob Carver, Treasurer John George, Secretary Tom Shirley) and the Web Co-administrators, Jim Russell and Vincent Valvo, have been working in the background. We have reorganized the Guild’s document and photo storage system, centralized a lot of procedures and have created written job descriptions to assist new officers and committee chairs. We now have privacy and cookie policies for the website. Our treasurer has been regularly updating the membership on our financial status. Lastly, the Board has purchased Officers and Directors and General Liability insurance policies so that we are more in line with similar groups across the country.

I’ve named a number of people but also want to separately thank Jim Russell who is stepping down after many years as our Web Administrator and also as our video supervisor and editor. Vincent Valvo and Tom Shirley as co-admins will share on-line communications such as website, newsletter, and social media as well as supporting the Executive Board in their pursuits.

I also want to thank V.P. Rob Carver who greatly expanded his contribution to the Guild by heading the Program Committee and Newcomer Committee this past year, neither of which are in the official VP job description. He has also kept us thinking with his monthly Measure Twice, Cut Once essays

I joined the Guild in 2014 as a new woodworker not knowing anyone. Somehow, I progressed from Coffee Committee to Program Committee, to Chair of that group, to VP and now President. Along the way I’ve made a number of good friends and met lots of great people. I’ve named just a few above.

As I step down from my official position (though not going anywhere), I urge you all to volunteer to share your knowledge and enthusiasm for woodworking with the group. The Guild is the people who share in the mission of contribution, improvement, and volunteerism.

If I don’t see you at the June meeting, have a wood filled summer!

Ken Zoller

Posted the June 2024 Tip of the Month - Carving Gouge Sharpening Jig

Vincent Valvo — Thu, 30 May 2024 13:43:32 GMT

Posted the June 2024 Tip of the Month - Carving Gouge Sharpening Jig by Ken Zoller.

Revised Tip of the Month Gadget

Vincent Valvo — Thu, 30 May 2024 13:42:13 GMT

To display the tip, click the image.

Invitation to Guild Project - Make a Shaving Horse

Vincent Valvo — Thu, 30 May 2024 13:41:02 GMT

Have you ever wanted to build yourself a shave (or shaving) horse? Rob Carver is looking for members interested in coming together to make one. We would convene just a few times, select a basic design, discuss construction issues, and then go off on our own independently to fabricate the parts and ultimately assemble the horses. At the end of the project, we can saddle up and hold our own rodeo. The entire project can be made from construction lumber and cutoffs that you probably have in your shop. Depending on interests and preferences of the participants, we can begin this summer or in the fall.

Please email Rob at robert.carver@comcast.net with expressions of interest and questions.

Uploaded pictures from May 2024 meeting at Lowell Makes with Matt Wajda

Vincent Valvo — Mon, 20 May 2024 02:00:00 GMT

Presentation was by Matt Wajda, who demonstrated the making of rule and finger joints.

Updated the Tip of the month for May 2024

Vincent Valvo — Mon, 29 Apr 2024 21:45:19 GMT

A Penny Saved is a Penny Earned

Posted the May 2024 MTCO article "Thinking in Three Dimensions" by Rob Carver

Vincent Valvo — Mon, 29 Apr 2024 21:35:30 GMT

Thinking in Three Dimensions

by Rob Carver

Beware. Brought to you as a public service, the word statistics or its variants appear in this article. Many of you are comfortable with that. Some are not. But the challenge of overcoming discomfort when improvements are needed is at the heart of Rob's message in his article.

Rob is just fine with statistics. It's something else he is working on in a more relatable world - woodworking. Read Thinking in Three Dimensions. Besides, you don't need to know anything about statistics.

You can reach Rob by clicking Rob Carver.

Posted thre June 2024 Bevel Cut article "Lessons in Metallurgy (for the Woodworker)" by Andrew Davis

Vincent Valvo — Mon, 29 Apr 2024 21:28:57 GMT

Lessons in Metallurgy (for the Woodworker)

by Andrew Davis

There is no April Fool's article here. This is a serious treatment about something that has concerned woodworkers when purchasing blades for hand planes to saw blades. Andrew lays out the issues when deciding the type of steel you want in your tools. Each type has its advantages and disadvantages. Andrew provides a broad explanation of the tool steels including a useful comparison. This is an article to add to your reference files. Read Lessons in Metallurgy (for the Woodworker) and then save it for later.

Andrew welcomes your feedback.

Posted Featured Piece of the Month for May 2024 "Carved Frames" by James Goodwin

Vincent Valvo — Mon, 29 Apr 2024 21:22:21 GMT

Carved Frames

by James Goodwin

This month brings a fun contribution by relatively new member James Goodwin. In his article, James introduces us to surface carving with a dremel. Superficially, the frames, especially when containing unlinkely subject matter as seen here. Birds with butts. But the more you read, the more you understand his work is an art form.

James gives a tutorial on how to take plain wood and produce this distinctive appearance. It helps to have a steady hand but when I saw him at the auction, James insists that patience is the key. Have a look. I don't normally describe Featured Pieces as cool but these frames are just that, and they're clearly Featured Piece worthy. Check out Carved Frames.

Further information can be requested from James Goodwin.

Provided information regarding the June End of 2024 meeting

Vincent Valvo — Mon, 29 Apr 2024 21:05:04 GMT

Details of the agenda: News, Elections, Show & Tell, and Complimentary Lunch were provided, including the required pre-registration process.

Posted pictures of the April 2024 meeting - EMGW Auction

Vincent Valvo — Sun, 14 Apr 2024 03:38:26 GMT

Posted pictures of the April 2024 meeting - EMGW Auction at Needham Furniture Makers.

Updated Tip of the Month for April 2024-Cutting Thin Strips

Vincent Valvo — Sun, 31 Mar 2024 21:20:58 GMT

Woodworking Tip

for April 2024

Cutting Thin Strips

Posted MTCO article for April 2024 "The Simplest Tool is the Best?" by Rob Carver

Vincent Valvo — Sun, 31 Mar 2024 21:03:54 GMT

The Simplest Tool is the Best?

by Rob Carver

Rob presents a mental exercise on the simplest tool for a woodworker. Think about your tool set. Consider those that are inexpensive. Measuring tape or ruler? Now consider those that are utterly simple to use. A pencil? We all know how to use it but it requires sharpening and if you use it like me, the eraser gets used up quickly. Sanding block? Just wrap your sandpaper around it and work it. I think we are getting warmer but it does require physical intervention. Is there anything cheap, without need of sharpening, electrification, or work but offers tremendous functionality without much of a rival? In other words, what is the simplest tool that is the best. Think about it before you treat yourself to Rob's favorite in The Simplest Tool is the Best? I think he's got something.there.

You can reach Rob by clicking Rob Carver.

Posted Bevel Cut article for April 2024 "Stop Wasting Valuable Shop Space" by Andrew Davis

Vincent Valvo — Sun, 31 Mar 2024 20:50:23 GMT

Stop Wasting Valuable Shop Space

by Andrew Davis

Workshop space is a premium. Who wouldn't like to have more space. You can fill it with more tools, left over wood shorts, or just spread out your too tight workshop and look even further for that pencil or mini measurement square that you misplaced. Knowing the market need for workshop space, Andrew, our intrepid purveyor and digital researcher, has uncovered a net space savings in the workshop located in or near the house while increasing considerable time efficiency at the same time. This novel approach bridges woodworking and cooking.

As seen in the picture to the left, Andrew reports that a combo table saw and heating element was developed by the Cuisinought company. It's called the CuisinSaw and has two models. Think about it. The heating element can be used to maintain your hot hide glue with perfect viscosity, allow for the perfect sand shading temperature, steam water for bending wood and, get this, cooking on a full-functioning cooktop. No longer will you delay eating a meal in order to finish a particular woodworking task. Dinner can be cooked and ready within steps. And no longer will your partner be upset with you arriving well after your meal has turned cold just to finish that last dovetail. With the CuisinSaw your dovetail and lobster tail would be finished at the same time. The applications are limited only by your imagination.

Check CuisinSaw's two models and other key information in Andrew's Stop Wasting Valuable Shop Space, the motto of Cuisinought's business.

Andrew welcomes your feedback.

Posted Featured Piece of April 2024 "Harvey Ellis Cabinet" by Dave McCormick

Vincent Valvo — Sun, 31 Mar 2024 20:48:55 GMT

Harvey Ellis Cabinet

by Dave McCormick

This is the second Featured Piece presented by the prolific Dave McCormick this year. Dave's Demilune Table was featured in September. No matter the complexity of the piece Dave decides to make, he has mastered the art and quality of his craftsmanship.

This exquisite Harvey Ellis cabinet was made from a design he made after viewing a picture of it in a Stickley catalog. That design grew to a full-scale drawing of most of the cabinet. Attention to the finest detail is something that Dave has come to behold and master. Beyond that Dave adds some detail of his own like the vertical inlay found in the cabinet doors.

Dave's straightforward description of his build process is clearly articulated amidst copious pictures that demonstrate step by step the workmanship one can marvel at. The cabinet is made from walnut and holly. If you are turned on by simply elegant work with various integrated features, you must read Dave's article on making a Harvey Ellis Cabinet.

Further information can be requested from Dave McCormick.

Added a TWIG page

Vincent Valvo — Tue, 26 Mar 2024 02:00:21 GMT

The page is found in the list under the ABOUT US tab.

Posted the "Design Inspiration and Process" slide presentation

Vincent Valvo — Thu, 14 Mar 2024 12:47:01 GMT

Posted the "Design Inspiration and Process" slide presentation from the March 2024 guild meeting.

Posted pictures of "Design Inspiration and Process" at MassArt in March, 2024

Vincent Valvo — Thu, 14 Mar 2024 01:53:37 GMT

Mike Roughan, Linda Smith, Mike Bosin, and Marc Holland Presents

"Design Inspiration and Process" at MassArt, Boston

March, 2024

Posted March 2024 MTCO article "Sharp as a Tack" by Rob Carver

Vincent Valvo — Thu, 29 Feb 2024 19:55:25 GMT

Sharp as a Tack

by Rob Carver

Some similes make sense. Many don't. Similes are used for comparisons and attempt to emphasize the comparison. Consider "light as a feather". Depending on the feather, if you want emphasis you could find things lighter than a feather like a crumb, a ladybug, or the obvious, air. How about "clean as a whistle". Some whistles are not clean at all. In fact, they can be pretty messy. Maybe it's the clean sound because whistles have few overtones. Consider "fast as the wind". Too bad the simile predates 1970 when U.S. National Hurricane Center developed the Hurricane scale with Categories 1 through 5. It could have been "fast as Cat 5".

Once a phrase catches on, similes are forever like "sharp as a tack". Who uses tacks anymore and what's the meaning of sharp? Read Sharp as a Tack.

You can reach Rob by clicking Rob Carver.

Posted March 2024 Bevel Cut article "New or Improved: An Age-old Dilemma" by Andrew Davis

Vincent Valvo — Thu, 29 Feb 2024 19:47:27 GMT

New or Improved: An Age-old Dilemma

by Andrew Davis

It always seems to come to this. Another decision to be made. If it's not an issue about the dimension of the piece, it's about the joinery, or perhaps, salvaging a part that's not exactly intended. I won't even go into the various possible finishes. There are a gazillion decisions to be made. Think of a piece or style you've never made before. What if it's about the price of a tool, whether it's worth the value? If it's a go then there's a decision where to locate it in the workshop. And that's where this intro meets Andrew's March Bevel Cut article.

The issue he poses is one that we all have encountered. What if a woodworker, after laboring over the research and deciding on the cost/benefit to purchase the tool finds that a newer and improved version appears in the ads? Hold off acting out. Instead read New or Improved? An Age-old Dilemma as Analytical Andrew reveals his decision options.

Andrew welcomes your feedback.

Posted Feature Piece of March 2024 "Shaker Style Cherry Coffee Table" by Tom Shirley

Vincent Valvo — Thu, 29 Feb 2024 19:46:03 GMT

Shaker Style Cherry Coffee Table

by Tom Shirley

Curly Cherry is such a dynamic species that it can be a centerpiece in any room. When Tom was asked by a relative to build a coffee table he had an opportunity to use his curly cherry stock. The design was his and a Shaker style was agreed upon. Knowing the functional use of drawers in a coffee table he decided to add a couple. Or did he? Take a look at the coffee table picture. The view is showing where the drawers should be. Did he forget to add the drawers? Did he decide that the curly cherry pattern was stunning enough? As you've experienced, woodworkers sometimes change the design based of unforeseen events but not necessarily in this case.

Tom writes about his process, pitfalls, joinery, and more. Given the number of mortise/tenon pairs the table couldn't be more sturdy. This is a very considered design and a terrific model to consider how to join legs, aprons, and drawer rails. Drawers rails? Check out Tom's Shaker Style Cherry Coffee Table. He does a wonderful job of drawing you into building his piece as though you are watching it happen in person.

Further information can be requested from Tom Shirley.

Posted March 2024 Woodworking Tip - March 2024 Tip Make Clamps Easier to Turn

Vincent Valvo — Wed, 28 Feb 2024 18:48:35 GMT

Posted March 2024 Woodworking Tip - March 2024 Tip Make Clamps Easier to Turn

Added EMGW's Privacy and Cookie Policy Page.

Vincent Valvo — Sat, 24 Feb 2024 07:38:17 GMT

The policy statement can be found und About Us tab with links found in the footer of each website page.

New Video - Guild Presentation Jan 24, 2024 Mickey Callahan

James Russell — Sat, 17 Feb 2024 22:48:09 GMT

Using Hand Tools to Finesse Power Tool Work - Mickey Callahan - January 24, 2024

Added a window to display pictures of Andrew Hunter's work and related activity and handouts.

Vincent Valvo — Mon, 12 Feb 2024 01:54:23 GMT

Handouts are PDFs that can be downloaded.

Posted slideshow of February 2024 meeting with Andrew Hunter

Vincent Valvo — Sun, 11 Feb 2024 23:15:37 GMT

Topic of presentation was "Japanese Hand Tools".

Posted MTCO article for February 2024 "Turn a Problem into an Advantage" by Rob Carver

Vincent Valvo — Wed, 31 Jan 2024 13:31:28 GMT

Turn a Problem into an Advantage

by Rob Carver

This month's article is special. Where else will you get a book review, movie review and a message about woodworking. Rob has run the literary gamut with this month's MTCO article.

If you don't know the story of the University of Washington (Udub to the Seattle locals) crew team back in the pre-WWII buildup, the boys were attempting to make the Olympics in Nazi Germany. With such an unlikely event, a book was written about that true story and recently a movie was released based on the book.

Rob hones in on the woodworking component of the story - the shell (regatta boat for you landlubbers). If you decide to see the movie, first read Rob's Turn a Problem into an Advantage. You will get more out of the effect the shell's design and materials had on the Olympic outcome as it is glossed over in the movie.

Posted Bevel Cut article for February 2024 "An Infeed Table Should be Your Friend" by Andrew Davis

Vincent Valvo — Wed, 31 Jan 2024 13:25:20 GMT

An Infeed Table Should be Your Friend

by Andrew Davis

In this month's article, Andrew wants you to know that you will never walk alone as you stand by your table saw because you've got a friend. So, with apologies to composers Rodgers and Hammerstein, Ben E. King, and Carole King, respectively, I had to get that off my chest. That friend is an infeed table.

As you know, outfeed tables for a table saw are much more prevalent than infeed tables. But think of a long board in excess of 6' or a plywood sheet. An outfeed table is required to catch the ripped board. But the same length stock has to start somewhere in front of the blade. Hence the need for an infeed table. If that isn't reason enough, read An Infeed Table Should be Your Friend. Andrews has more to sing about.

Posted Featured Piece for February 2024 "Wedding Arbor" by Don Cole

Vincent Valvo — Wed, 31 Jan 2024 13:21:37 GMT

Wedding Arbor

by Don Cole

It gives me great pleasure to bring this Feature Piece to your attention. Don's arbor was a project but more importantly it was a labor of love. Now I won't get wishy-washy for you hardcore woodworkers. But think of the work that went on to mill and build this arbor mostly alone. The arbor is really tall. When you see the pictures in the article with people nearby, you will see for yourself.

Don writes about building this piece and it's more involved than what you might guess. He leads you through the steps from design to choosing the raw boards, felling chosen trees, milling, joinery and all the details that will satisfy your woodworking questions.

But now for the softee part. Don built arbor for his daughter Katie and groom Jesse. It was the centerpiece at their outdoor wedding last summer. You can catch the feel of the work but also the feel of the ceremony and pride that Papa Cole had as Katie glowed under the arbor on her wedding day in Wedding Arbor. Featured Piece? You betcha.

Further information can be requested from Don Cole.

Posted slideshow for January 2024 meeting presentation "Hand Tool Finesse Work" by Mickey Callahan

Vincent Valvo — Sun, 28 Jan 2024 23:39:15 GMT

Mickey Callahan presented "Hand Tool Finesse Work" at Woodcraft Walpole for January 2024 meeting. Pictures were taken off Zoom video.

Posted January 2024 Bevel Cut "Fibonacci is Not a Pizza Topping - Redux" by Andrew Davis

Vincent Valvo — Mon, 01 Jan 2024 04:53:20 GMT

Fibonacci is Not a Pizza Topping - Redux

by Andrew Davis

What does a nautilus and the seeds of a sunflower have in common? Their structural arrangement follows the Fibonacci sequence of numbers. Andrew revisits his superb article from April 2020 on the golden ratio with emphasis on the Fibonacci Series.

The golden ratio is a proportion or scale factor when measured against another dimension (think length versus width). The golden ratio has been used as an aesthetic feature since Euclid discovered it around 300 B.C.E. It was used by Vitruvius, a Roman architect and author, whose treatise called De Architectura inspired others including Leonardo da Vinci, a devotee of Fibonacci, to draw the Vitruvian Man. Even the design of the Mona Lisa uses Fibonacci's Golden Spiral, which Andrew formulates in his article.

The golden ratio, like pi, is an irrational number so it's rounded to 1.618. But it provides utmost rationality, that is, aesthetic found in nature and used as a design rule for architects, artists, builders, and woodworkers. Treat yourself - not to pizza - but to an entertaining read of Fibonacci is Not a Pizza Topping - Redux.

Posted January 2024 Bevel Cut article "Allow Time for Acclimation" byRob Carver

Vincent Valvo — Mon, 01 Jan 2024 04:30:26 GMT

Allow Time for Acclimation

Rob Carver

Wood acclimation is an underemphasized preparatory feature to woodworking. Higher levels of moisture in lumber can lead to unwanted and unintended movement if cut too soon. Perhaps we overlook this issue due to exclusively obtaining kiln dried stock. But depending on certain species and how the stock was milled can raise the concern for acclimation. Certainly any air dried stock is an acclimation candidate.

Rob in this month's essay speaks more to this and another application for acclimation. As you know we promote the adoption of, and education and improvements in woodworking in an inclusive and integrated community. And that's were Rob leads us to in Allow Time for Acclimation.

Posted January 2024 Featured Piece "Outdoor Fire Table and Chairs" by James Goodwin

Vincent Valvo — Mon, 01 Jan 2024 04:28:36 GMT

Outdoor Fire Table and Chairs

by James Goodwin

James is a new member and answered the call for a Feathered Piece of the month in September. While James is a new member he is not a new woodworker. It didn't take him long to get the itch to contribute. His "piece" is a furniture set, including an outdoor fire table and chairs that he designed and built. The plumbing and burner came from a kit but James did all the woodworking in red cedar. Fitting the propane tank was a workaround. The chairs required special tooling and upholstery. In James writing, he is not shy about pitfalls and solutions. You will read about a well organized process with loads of pictures. Congratulations to James for participating in the process of contributing to the guild's community with Outdoor Fire Table and Chairs.

Further information can be requested by clicking James Goodwin.

Added a Member Help instruction to Add a Member Photo to their Member Profile

Vincent Valvo — Tue, 26 Dec 2023 02:48:01 GMT

This set of instructions can be found under the Member tab and clocking Member Help.

New Video - Mike Zwolinski's September Guild Presentation

James Russell — Wed, 20 Dec 2023 17:35:33 GMT

Starting and Running a Small Custom Furniture Shop

Posted pictures from December 2023 presentation "Grain Graphics" by Tom McLaughlin

Vincent Valvo — Sun, 17 Dec 2023 21:55:39 GMT

Presentation was made at Lowell Makes, Inc. a maker space in Lowell, MA.

Added a Member Help instruction "How to Subscribe to a Forum"

Vincent Valvo — Thu, 07 Dec 2023 04:50:12 GMT

Members > Member Help > How to Subscribe to Forums

Removed Text and Photos of the Schwamb Mill tour from the HOme page.

Vincent Valvo — Wed, 06 Dec 2023 16:12:03 GMT

Text and Photos have been moved to the Google directory.

Added a Member Help instruction to Print an EMGW Member ID Card

Vincent Valvo — Tue, 05 Dec 2023 04:31:16 GMT

Members > Member Help > How to Print My EMGW Member ID Card

Posted December 2023 Bevel Cut article "Woodworking Subspecialties" by Andrew Davis

Vincent Valvo — Thu, 30 Nov 2023 22:49:41 GMT

Woodworking Subspecialties

by Andrew Davis

Like other careers or hobbies, woodworking falls into varied specialties. Lawyers have constitutional, real estate, tax, marital, patent, and other specializations. Clearly, doctors are known for being specialists; just pick an organ for a short list. Even athletes have chosen to specialize in a certain sport. So, the thought came to Andrew after a recurring question was posed to him, to develop a list of woodworking specialties or subspecialties as he would call it. When you read his list, you are asked to add any that he didn’t list. So, I’d like to add marquetry and Japanese woodworking like Kumiko and Shoji to his list. Have a look. Can you add any more Woodworking Subspecialties?

Andrew welcomes your feedback.

Posted Featured Piece of December 2023 "Art Nouveau Clock" by Michael Bossin

Vincent Valvo — Thu, 30 Nov 2023 22:47:24 GMT

Art Nouveau Clock

by Michael Bossin

This is Michael's first Featured Piece submission. Among his other pieces, Michael designs and builds wall clocks (see his gallery at https://michaelbossin.com/). Many of us design our own pieces from another furniture piece, an outdoor scene, a painting or other subjective image that caught the maker’s eye. For this piece and other Art Nouveau clocks that he has designed and made, Michael was inspired by a book cover design in the “Glasgow Style” of the early 1900s.

Michael writes about his process starting from this inspiration and the intricate details that follow. There is more than meets the eye with this construction. And, apparently, Fine Woodworking Magazine thought so as well in its October 2021 issue. I hope Art Nouveau Clock is not the last submission from Michael.

Further information can be requested by clicking Michael Bossin.

Added a Content gadget "Print Your EMGW Membership ID Card"

Vincent Valvo — Mon, 27 Nov 2023 22:46:20 GMT

The gadget is located near the bottom of the Home Page.

Posted a slideshow of the Movember 2023 meeting pictures at MFA Boston

Vincent Valvo — Thu, 16 Nov 2023 18:21:13 GMT

Nov. 11, 2023 MFA tour of the Conservation Lab at the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston. Christine Sorti led the presentation "Conservation of a Torah Ark".

Posted November 2023 Bevel Cut article "Boxed In Redux" by Andrew Davis

Vincent Valvo — Thu, 02 Nov 2023 03:33:00 GMT

Boxed In Redux

by Andrew Davis

This month Andrew brings back a slightly updated Bevel Cut article from 2018. Yep, Andrew has been continuously been providing Bevel Cuts for quite a while. (Yay, Andrew!) If I didn't mention when he wrote the original, you might not have known there was such an article over five and a half years ago. But Andew comes clean in his introductory paragraph.

This article is revived due to ramifications to Andrew's surgically improved right hand. At present, typing and concurrent thinking are compromised. The article is a classic Bevel Cut. He expounds on the subject matter and asks the reader to decide about the value of it, in this case, Box Joints .

Andrew welcomes your feedback.

Posted November 2023 MTCO article "Growth Rings Tell a Story" by Rob Carver

Vincent Valvo — Thu, 02 Nov 2023 03:00:00 GMT

Growth Rings Tell a Story

Rob Carver

There are some titles of essays that speak exactly to the content. Growth Rings Tell a Story says it all succinctly. But just what is that story? And how does it pertain to us woodworkers? It's my turn to put forth a witticism. "When the going gets tough, the tough get going". Can trees experience character building?

You can reach Rob by clicking Rob Carver.

Posted November 2023 Featured Piece "Upholstered Couch and Chair" by Steve McKennaick

Vincent Valvo — Wed, 01 Nov 2023 15:53:36 GMT

Upholstered Couch and Chair

by Steve McKenna

Steve's work has been featured several times in this column. It's always good to see another piece from Steve. This month he actually presents two pieces - an upholstered couch as seen to the left and an upholstered rocking chair. Steve's woodworking business appears to be progressing nicely as evidenced by more pieces published here.

This brief article gets to the point, starting from 8/4 stock to final Upholstered Couch and Chair.

Further information can be requested by clicking Steve McKenna.

Posted a slideshow of the Ocober 2023 meeting pictures

Vincent Valvo — Fri, 20 Oct 2023 02:39:02 GMT

Tour of Shaker Village and Shaker Woodshop in Canterbury, NH

Posted pictures of October 2023 meeting at Shaker Village, Canterbury, NH

Vincent Valvo — Wed, 18 Oct 2023 17:30:00 GMT

Tour of the Shaker Village and Woodshop in Canterbury, NH

October 2023

Poste October 2023 MTCO article "Curing Takes Time" by Rob Carver

Vincent Valvo — Sun, 01 Oct 2023 04:47:03 GMT

Rob returns one-handed to write this self-reflective article. As most of you know, Rob was involved in a serious accident on the road. This required hospitalization, treatment, and ongoing recovery. Last time I saw Rob he was wearing a sling. Hence, his one-handed effort. But that did not compromise his report on the accident or his thoughtful advice, which you can read in Curing Takes Time. We all wish him well and based on recent conversations, Rob is back, one-handed for now.

You can reach Rob by clicking Rob Carver

Posted October 2023 Bevel Cut article "Is This Your Business or Hobby?" by Andrew Davis

Vincent Valvo — Sun, 01 Oct 2023 04:35:52 GMT

Is This Your Business or Hobby?

by Andrew Davis

When I meet someone who asks what I do, among other activities I say I spend time woodworking. The next question is, what do you make? Third question succinctly put is, is it a business or a hobby?

Last month we listened to Mike Zwolinski speak about running his business. But some of our membership have a business/hobby relationship. If it's a hobby, what type. If it's a business, what type? Andrew takes on this dilemma in his article Is This Your Business or Hobby? Andrew relies on finance and tax mavens at Lord Mishigass School for Economics for insights.

Andrew welcomes your feedback.

Posted October 2023 Featured Piece "Sunburst Cabinet" by Bob McKee

Vincent Valvo — Sun, 01 Oct 2023 04:33:49 GMT

Bob McKee is a frequent contributor to the Featured Piece of the Month column. This month Bob brings to our attention a delightful piece highlighting the door panels using a bookmatched sunburst design. But that wasn't enough. When the doors are open the sunburst design is seen inside the cabinet because Bob creates the same effect in the back of the cabinet.

Another nice feature is the top edge of the cabinet. Bob used a creative process for installing inlay and banding with the help of his "lovely old Stanley No. 46 skewed plow plane". This is a person who built a display cabinet, which was featured in this column last year, for some of his prized hand planes.

Perhaps the best part of making this Sunburst Cabinet, however, was his enjoyment. Bob seemed to surprise himself upon reflecting that the final work "pretty much" matched his original concept.

Further information can be requested by clicking Bob McKee.

Posted photos of September 2023 Meeting with presenter Mike Zwolinski

Vincent Valvo — Tue, 12 Sep 2023 03:09:07 GMT

Topic: Starting and running a small custom furniture shop

Posted pictures of Old Schwamb Mill tour

Vincent Valvo — Sat, 02 Sep 2023 21:31:12 GMT

Old Schwamb Mill Tour in Arlington on August 15, 2023

Posted September 2023 Bevel Cut article "Dovetails with ChatGPT" by Andrew Davis

Vincent Valvo — Sat, 02 Sep 2023 13:11:29 GMT

Dovetails with ChatGPT

by Andrew Davis

At the risk of adding another article about dovetails, Andrew presents, yep, another one. Many of you have already formed your opinions of pins first or tails first and your process is well regimented and religiously followed. But you can find a refreshing and comical approach to cutting dovetails if you understand the right language.

So, try navigating the high seas and treacherous times of buccaneer woodworking or perhaps you have discarded modern dovetail instructions as you prefer the Medieval approach to cutting dovetails. All it might take is to connect with the language that suits you. Allow Andrew to be your guide using AI techniques to convey the dovetail basics. Read Dovetails with ChatGPT.

Andrew welcomes your feedback.

All past "Bevel Cut" articles through June 2023 have been made available from the Resources tab on the website Home Page.

Posted September 2023 Featured Piece "Demilune Table" by Dave McCormick

Vincent Valvo — Sat, 02 Sep 2023 13:08:59 GMT

Demilune Table

by Dave McCormick

Dave kicks off the first Featured Piece of the season with his Demilune Table. The piece is loaded with features from many skill sets, including bricking, inlay, sand shading, veneering and stringing to name a few. Dave provides an orderly and succinct description that will be easy to follow with the aid of several pictures in the development process.

The piece was inspired by classes taken at Phil Lowe's Furniture Institute of Massachusetts, which triggered a collegial relationship between the two. In fact, it was at Phil's workshop where Dave took on this project. Dave made the Demilune Table as a tribute to Phil.

Further information can be requested by clicking Dave McCormick.

All past "Featured Piece of the Month" articles through June 2023 have been made available from the Resources tab on the website Home Page.

The Newsletter and website are open for Featured Piece contributions for the 2023-2024 season. Send me any questions or what you may have to me to engage in publishing your piece.

Remember this column is not necessarily dedicated to furniture pieces. Tools, jigs, processes, and other woodworking related themes are also relevant.

Added Slideshow of Old Schwamb Mill Tour

Vincent Valvo — Thu, 31 Aug 2023 03:34:41 GMT

August 15, 2023 in Arlington, MA.

Posted Spoon Carving Non-Guild Event at Needham Furniture Makers

Vincent Valvo — Mon, 28 Aug 2023 01:34:55 GMT

September 16, 2023
Needham Furniture Makers

Spoon carving on September 16th (one-day)

Show an updated guild membership card for a $15 discount off the normal price of $175.

For more information contact Hank Wyman at hank@needhamfurnituremakers.com.

Updated Archive Articles for Perpetual Novice articles.

Vincent Valvo — Sun, 30 Jul 2023 18:00:00 GMT

The Perpetual Novice archive is up to date as of June 2023.

The archive has been reformatted and linked to the EMGW Google Drive.

Updated Archive Articles for Bevel Cut

Vincent Valvo — Sun, 30 Jul 2023 17:30:00 GMT

The Bevel Cut archive is up to date as of June 2023.

The archive has been reformatted and linked to the EMGW Google Drive.

Updated the Featured Piece of the Month Resource Archive

Vincent Valvo — Thu, 27 Jul 2023 19:29:48 GMT

The Featured Piece of the Month Resource archive is up to date as of June 2023.

The archive has been reformatted and linked to the EMGW Google Drive.

Updated the Measure Twice, Cut Once Resource Archive

Vincent Valvo — Thu, 27 Jul 2023 19:27:16 GMT

The MTCO Resource archive is up to date as of June 2023.

The archive has been reformatted and linked to the EMGW Google Drive.

Updated Guild Projects for 2022-2023

Vincent Valvo — Thu, 27 Jul 2023 04:52:48 GMT

Project descriptions are found by clicking Projects from the About Us drop down list.

Added non-guild event 1st Annual New England Woodworking Competition

Vincent Valvo — Tue, 25 Jul 2023 04:23:39 GMT

Welcome to the 1st Annual New England Woodworking Competition

October 21, 2023

More information can be found under Upcoming Non-Guild Events.

Added link to Board of Directors Meeting Minutes of June 2023

Vincent Valvo — Sat, 01 Jul 2023 03:32:42 GMT

Link was added to Home Page tab Members > Bylaws and Board Documents

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1TsaH0uclEvl8ydIZJiqmDn0O9iEw1vmNd3KHng68ffE/edit?usp=drive_link

Add non-guild events at Needham Furniture Makers

Vincent Valvo — Wed, 21 Jun 2023 17:24:28 GMT

"Banjo Workshop" and "Splay Leg Step Stool"

Updated the Board of Directors for 2023-2024

Vincent Valvo — Wed, 21 Jun 2023 03:31:40 GMT

Home Page > About Us > Board of Directors

Posted a slideshow of the June 2023 meeting pictures

Vincent Valvo — Wed, 21 Jun 2023 02:36:25 GMT

The meeting/party was hosted by Ken and Tricia Zoller.

The meeting included business news, elections, Show and Tell, and lunch.

Posted random pictures of the June 2023 Meeting and Party

Vincent Valvo — Wed, 21 Jun 2023 02:35:05 GMT

The meeting/party was hosted by Ken and Tricia Zoller.

Posted the June 2023 Measure Twice, Cut Once article "Ask an Expert" by Rob Carver

Vincent Valvo — Thu, 01 Jun 2023 02:30:24 GMT

Ask an Expert

Rob Carver

There are no metaphors in this article. There are no hidden messages. No philosophical adages. Plain and simple, this is a straightforward message for all levels, any time, anywhere. This is must reading, if nothing else, as a reminder that we are in a community of shared expertise. After all, aren't we all students? Take a look at this well-written article Ask an Expert.

You can reach Rob for comments and additional information, by clicking Rob Carver.

Congratulations to Rob for another good year of thoughtful and motivational articles.

This will be the last Measure Once, Cut Once article of the membership year. All past MTCO articles will be available in the summer accessed from the Resources tab.

Posted Featured Piece of June 2023 "Carving Journey" by Ken Zoller

Vincent Valvo — Thu, 01 Jun 2023 02:26:30 GMT

Carving Journey

by Ken Zoller

Ken has contributed Featured Pieces in the past, beautifully constructed furniture. But due to circumstances you will read about, Ken has extended his talents to carving. He states he's a newbie carver, but just look at that three dimensional piece? Yep, the current EMGW president is humble too.

In his document, Ken wrote about his process beginning to end with lots of pictures. His education was supplemented by Mary May videos, a good set of chisels and gouges, and trial and error. And if that piece wasn't enough Ken displays other carvings in Carving Journey that will give you pause. How could he do all that as a newbie?

Further information can be requested by clicking Ken Zoller.

Much gratitude is extended to all contributors to the Featured Piece column. The articles have been motivating, educational, and impressive, very impressive.

This is the last Featured Piece of the Month article until the next membership year starting in September. All past Featured Piece articles from the past year will be added to the archive accessible from the Resources tab.

Remember this column is not necessarily dedicated to furniture pieces. Tools, jigs, processes, and other woodworking related themes are also relevant.

Posted June 2023 Bevel Cut article "The Track Saw Can Be Your Friend" by Andrew Davis

Vincent Valvo — Thu, 01 Jun 2023 02:23:05 GMT

The Track Saw Can Be Your Friend

by Andrew Davis

The track saw is generally and underrated tool. At least Andrew thinks so. And given his premise the track saw has considerable value, especially, when cutting 4' x 8' plywood sheets or rough slabs, which he does.

An article like this provides considerable valuable advice from a user you know. In fact, Andrew offers a check list of useful considerations if you are considering a purchase. Make up your own mind but The Track Saw May Be Your Friend.

Congratulations to Andrew for another good year of well researched and imaginative articles. Andrew welcomes your feedback.

This is the last Bevel Cut article until the next membership year starting in September. All past Bevel Cut articles from the past year will be added to the archive accessible from the Resources tab.

Uploaded a slideshow of photographs of the NBSS tour from Marc Holland

Vincent Valvo — Thu, 25 May 2023 03:21:41 GMT

North Bennet Street School tour in May 2023 of the Cabinet and Furniture Making Department and Violin Making Department

Poasted new online member discount from The Vintage Tool Shoppe

Vincent Valvo — Tue, 23 May 2023 03:06:46 GMT

The Vintage Toll Shoppe - Online

Eric Robinson of www.thevintagetoolshoppe.com is offering an ongoing 10% discount to EMGW members for online purchases. They sell quality vintage tools and the store is in NH, so there is no tax and shipping is included. Log into the website to navigate to the Special Member Discounts link under the Members tab for special online instructions to receive the 10% discount.

Posted new resource Northland Forest Products and discount

Vincent Valvo — Sat, 20 May 2023 02:31:19 GMT

Northland Forest Products - Kingston, NH

at 36 Depot Road Kingston, NH 03848.
(603) 642-8275 is direct line to the retail shop in Kingston for folks to call with questions or to help determine lumber availability and price. Ask for Derek or Gabbie for assistance and 10% discount with your up to date membership card. Northland Forest Products is a self serve 1^st come 1^st serve facility. Steve McKenna is a satisfied customer.

Posted new special discount offering - Barney and Carey Lumber

Vincent Valvo — Thu, 04 May 2023 16:10:50 GMT

Barney and Carey Lumber (https://www.barneyandcareylumber.com/), a new lumberyard to the Guild, is offering a 10% discount with an up to date EMGW membership card or a picture of it. The lumberyard also offers woodworking tools, supplies, and milling. Barney and Carey Lumber is located in Avon, MA.

Posted May 2023 MTCO article "Plan for Wood Movement" by Rob Carver

Vincent Valvo — Mon, 01 May 2023 04:15:48 GMT

Plan for Wood Movement

Rob Carver

Designing and joining wood pieces must account for seasonal wood movement. This we know. But just how much to allow is another matter. Rob leaves the science and math to woodworker and author Christian Becksvoort with a cited Fine Woodworking article. But there is more that can be said for wood movement by understanding inherent variability with sizes, species, and seasoning. And variability is the operative word, for it is used in other disciplines from Statistics to Stoicism.

Rob would like us to think about variability in a broader sense as you will see in the article Plan for Wood Movement. And when you return to woodworking be sure to understand variability. You don't want your joined wood to crack or stick.

You can reach Rob for comments and additional information, by clicking Rob Carver.

Posted May 2023 Bevel Cut "Is Clutter Part of Your Natural Workshop Habitat?" by Andrew Davis

Vincent Valvo — Mon, 01 May 2023 04:09:33 GMT

Is Clutter Part of Your

Natural Workshop Habitat?

by Andrew Davis

You think you have seen clutter? Wait until you see some examples in Andrew's article Is Clutter Part of Your Natural Workshop Habitat?

By the way, how would you rate your clutter? You see there is a EMGW standard being published in our community sure to spread across the land. Check out the Bevel Cut Clutter Analysis Grading System. Andrew has put in considerable research to fine tune his rankings, so take a look. Maybe you will see your workshop in one of the pictures or categories. It kind of motivates me to get out the broom.

Andrew welcomes your feedback.

Posted Featured Piece for May 2023 "Wavy Cutting Board Project" by the Wavy Cutting Board Project Team Led by Jeff Clunie

Vincent Valvo — Mon, 01 May 2023 04:02:08 GMT

Wavy Cutting Board Project

by the Wavy Cutting Board Project Team Led by Jeff Clunie

When is a piece a Featured Piece of the Month? I agree, it's somewhat ambiguous but maybe this article will provide some clarity. This Wavy Cutting Board Featured Piece is different, know doubt, but all of the Featured Pieces are different. This one, however, was a team based project that produced variations of the wavy cutting board as first described by project leader Jeff Clunie. The project a wonderful example of an enjoyable, learning activity yielding a well constructed, aesthetically appealing piece, where all participants designed their own unique wavy cutting board with Jeff's assistance. The article is compendium of each participant's perspective.

Everyone has a story to tell, some offering more detail than others. You will see pictures of the finished cutting boards and some pictures in process. Even if only one wavy cutting board were made, it would qualify as a Featured Piece. Read what the team in their individual words had to say about this project in Wavy Cutting Board Project.

Further information can be requested by clicking Jeff Clunie .

Updated the final 2023 Auction results.

Vincent Valvo — Sun, 30 Apr 2023 07:04:34 GMT

Auction was held at the Needham Furniture Makers facility.

New Video - Segmented Turning by Paul Schultz

James Russell — Tue, 25 Apr 2023 23:35:18 GMT

Segmented Turning by Paul Schultz - December 10, 2022

New Video Posted - Furniture Restoration Feb 11. 2023 Guild Meeting

James Russell — Sun, 23 Apr 2023 16:26:56 GMT

Furniture Restoration by Thomas Johnson - February 11, 2023

Posted pictures of the annual auction at April 2023 meeting

Vincent Valvo — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 16:29:18 GMT

The April 2023 meeting was held at Needham Furniture Makers in Needham. Attendees had a chance to mix and view the new facility for woodworking classes and available workshop space loaded with various new tools. The meeting was located in one of the meeting rooms near the spacious workshop area.

Posted April 2023 Bevel Cut article "Making a Putty Knife" by Andrew Davis

Vincent Valvo — Tue, 04 Apr 2023 16:15:38 GMT

I enjoy these articles when Andrew and other writers for the newsletter and website connect our woodworking endeavors to older times. That's what was intriguing at the January 2023 meeting at Handshouse Studios, Dan Sichel's paper on the nail's economic history of nails, or Andrew's previous Bevel Cut articles on the golden ratio and Fibonacci.

Here, Andrew in his not so obscure tradition of historical fantasy puts forth a connection to the putty knife, where we travel back to Baroque times to get some insight to this age old tool. It is ironic that as this article is being published, the creator of what we call a putty knife, would be 345 years old on April 1st.

Happy birthday to Maurithaus von Grof deGieskes. May he be partnered along Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Herman Doomer as recognized pioneers of the Dutch Golden Age.

Read about the untold story of Andrew's Making a Putty Knife.

Andrew welcomes your feedback.

Posted April 2023 Featured Piece "Ghost Dancers Cabinet" by Bob McKee

Vincent Valvo — Tue, 04 Apr 2023 16:13:23 GMT

Perhaps this cabinet by Bob McKee should be featured in October for Halloween. It certainly would qualify both for craftmanship and mystique.

Reading Bob's account of making his cabinet is thoughtful and engaging. I don't remember Bob's other Featured Piece contributions being so witty, imaginative, personal, and light hearted. There was no inclination of that, especially because of the alarming figures seen in the wood. It's a delightful read.

Also, noteworthy from the article is that Bob easily takes on woodworking challenges. Working with oily Cocobolo needed preparation before gluing. Veneering and installing Blum self-closing hinges were new to him. Even working without a detailed plan was novel. But not every new experience is thought to be repeated. Read Ghost Dancers Cabinet for more.

Further information can be requested by clicking Bob McKee.

Posted April 2023 MTCO essay "Learn Humility" by Rob Carver

Vincent Valvo — Tue, 04 Apr 2023 16:11:36 GMT

There must be something about humility. That character trait is highlighted as a virtue among all the great religions. Agnostics also value humility. As you may know, it's a constant process to keep one's ego in check.

Rob brings humility in the context of, what else, woodworking. As Rob writes, it is a topic among many woodworkers. The ability to achieve doesn't just require a magnificent skill set, there is something else to hone. Continue the journey of woodworking achievement by reading Learn Humility.

You can reach Rob for comments and additional information, by clicking Rob Carver.

Updated info about the 2023 Auction with Large Items donated for auction.

Vincent Valvo — Tue, 21 Mar 2023 02:53:13 GMT

A Delta Unisaw and Router Table with router have been donated. Auction is set for April 8th in Needham.

Removed he Guild Gear gadget offering an EMGW embroidered work shirt.

Vincent Valvo — Tue, 21 Mar 2023 02:50:39 GMT

The original Guild Gear gadget can be found in this list For Feb.1, 2023

Posted slides from March 2023 Meeting presented by Randy Wilkinson

Vincent Valvo — Mon, 13 Mar 2023 04:40:29 GMT

The March 2023 meeting was held at the First Unitarian Church in Worcester. After new member introductions and several members providing updates to guild activities as seen here, we were treated to an outstanding presentation on the topic of Wood Identification.

Added an update to the 2023 Annual Auction

Vincent Valvo — Mon, 27 Feb 2023 23:07:58 GMT

To be held on April 8th in Needham.

Posted March 2023 Featured Piece of the Month "TV Console" by Ed O'Neil

Vincent Valvo — Mon, 27 Feb 2023 22:48:46 GMT

TV Console

by Ed O'Neil

We are fortunate that Ed O'Neil decided to venture into writing a summary of his TV Console piece. Ed quickly caught on to the form and function of a Featured Piece of the Month document and submitted a wonderful example of a woodworker deciding to work on a specific piece, formulating a plan, acquiring the necessary stock, resolving pitfalls, learning new skills, and placing the piece in operation.

One of the skills was writing the document. Fortunately, Ed had taken pictures along the development path so he had all the ingredients to complete the summary. I'm grateful that Ed persevered through the processes, both woodworking and sharing his experience in this document. Check out Ed's delightful TV Console.

Further information can be requested by clicking Ed O'Neil.

Posted March 2023 Bevel Cut "Measure 9 Times, Then Measure Again" by Andrew Davis

Vincent Valvo — Mon, 27 Feb 2023 22:46:46 GMT

Measure 9 Times, Then Measure Again

by Andrew Davis

You are reading the correct column. Indeed, this is the Bevel Cut, not the neighboring Measure Twice, Cut Once column. And it must be said that Bevel Cut is not trying to outdo MTCO even though it stresses many more than two pre-cutting measurements.

Actually, this article is about reassessing Andrew's (and by extension your) measurement process - the tools he uses and the tools he might consider adding to his toolbox. The question remains, however. How many times does it take to measure before you cut?

Read Andrew's Measure 9 Times, Then Measure Again.

Posted March 2023 MTCO Essay "Hit the Nail on the Head" by Rob Carver

Vincent Valvo — Mon, 27 Feb 2023 22:44:00 GMT

Hit the Nail on the Head

Rob Carver

I figured at some point Rob would reveal his essay with this titular theme. And now we have it. It's a saying that we all know and, no doubt, have used in and outside woodworking. Rob gives a very nice interpretation of this common saying.

One doesn't need to know much about hammering to know what could happen if the nail head is not hit squarely. Because of the effect of hitting the nail not on the head, the title could have been "Think Twice, Hit Once", with apologies to the author. But, of course, "hitting the nail on the head" has nonliteral meanings. And that's why this saying is used so often.

Read all about it in Hit the Nail on the Head. May I say (and maybe give Rob an idea for another essay), that he nailed it?

Moved the link to Segmented Turning

Vincent Valvo — Tue, 14 Feb 2023 04:33:28 GMT

The Segmented Turning presentation outline by Paul Schulz and resource list is moved to the Resources tab.

The outline was part of the September, 2022 meeting.

Posted slideshow of pictures from February 2023 meeting

Vincent Valvo — Mon, 13 Feb 2023 02:45:05 GMT

Meeting took place at Thomas Johnson's workshop in Gorham, ME.

Added Guild Gear gadget

Vincent Valvo — Wed, 01 Feb 2023 18:12:29 GMT

After considerable interest, EMGW is offering to sell a work shirt complete with EMGW logo. Here is an opportunity to show your EMGW pride when you attend a class, woodworking show, demonstration, weddings, bar mitzvahs, etc. (but first ask your spouse/partner!).

We are soliciting interest in ordering these work shirts. After researching multiple sources, we will likely use Corporate Casuals in Concord, MA. The picture below is from a mock-up of our shirt. Available sizes range from “XS” to “6XL”.

Pricing will depend on how many items we order but likely between $35 and $50 per shirt including taxes, and shipping.

If you’re interested, please let Ken know how many shirts and what sizes you want by February 25. Once the order is placed, I’ll have definite pricing and we can arrange for payment and delivery.

Updated current guild projects status

Vincent Valvo — Mon, 30 Jan 2023 14:07:25 GMT

Projects are run by Steve Hoffman for the Stools Project and Jeff Clunie for the Cutting Board Project.

Posted February 2023 MTCO article "Fair and Square" by Rob Carver

Vincent Valvo — Mon, 30 Jan 2023 14:05:54 GMT

Fair and Square

Rob Carver

I really like this article. I'm interested in etymology although I'm not an etymologist by any stretch of the imagination. So when I read Rob's latest MTCO article, I enjoyed the research and the sometimes contradictory meanings of "fair" and "square". Clearly, in woodworking we use these terms often, especially square, which is the objective we strive for.

These terms outside woodworking can mean other things. Before the mid-20th century these words used separately had a positive, just, unblemished, righteous meaning. I remember my cub scout pledge was "to be square". But since then "fair" and "square" have largely been used as mediocre and old-fashioned, respectively. Are we woodworkers carrying on an idealized notion of "fair" and "square"? I don't want to be cynical by saying that this is a tiny but symptomatic example of degrading norms -- but I wonder. Outside of woodworking, what was once a compliment is evolving to be something to be avoided.

Read all about it in Fair and Square.

You can reach Rob for comments and additional information, by clicking Rob Carver.

Posted Bevel Cut article for February 2023 "ChatGPT" by Andrew Davis

Vincent Valvo — Mon, 30 Jan 2023 14:03:43 GMT

ChatGPT

by Andrew Davis

There has been a long line of Artificial Intelligent chatbots (natural language programs that can converse with humans) with Eliza being the most (in)famous surfacing in the mid 1960s. It became an academic sensation because the psychotherapy it was devised to produce fooled many knowledgeable members of the MIT student body. All it did was rephrase questions it was given as answers and was able to carry on a conversation much like a fortune teller would. The advancement was Eliza's perfect grammar, spelling, and sticking to the therapeutic matter.

Andrew writes about the newest AI phenomenon you may have heard about. ChatGPT is a general purpose chatbot answering any questions posed to it in any field of interest. For ChatGPT to work it was given 570GB of Wiki and other information as a knowledge base. However, in any user interaction, ChatGPT is not allowed to access the internet for anything new. So the question of its value is in the notion of machine learning. That is, how much will ChatGPT learn new information by interacting with users. Andrew gave it a shot in the field of woodworking. Read about Andrew's experience in ChatGPT about ChatGPT.

Andrew welcomes your feedback.

Posted February 2023 Featured Piece "Stickley Inspired Table" by Dan Sichel

Vincent Valvo — Mon, 30 Jan 2023 14:02:09 GMT

Stickley Inspired Table

by Dan Sichel

When you are a college professor you are no stranger to publishing articles. You may remember Dan published an academic article, that appeared on the EMGW website, about how the rarely ever changing nail can be used as a barometer for economic study. Here in the hallowed halls of EMGW, Dan can add a feather to his professorial cap with his newest post Stickley Inspired Table.

Dan appears to have the same attention to detail and finished workmanship in his Stickley Inspired Table that he must have with teaching the curriculum. His writing shows the natural woodworking progression from idea to finished product. It's a thoughtful, well built, and beautiful table that will stand the test of time and where he can sit and design another furniture piece, hopefully, sooner than his next sabbatical.

Further information can be requested by clicking Dan Sichel.

Moved the list of Board of Directors to a new page under the "About Us" tab

Vincent Valvo — Sun, 29 Jan 2023 23:55:29 GMT

The BOD gadget was moved to its own page under the "About Us" tab.

Posted slides from January 2023 Meeting presented by Handshouse

Vincent Valvo — Tue, 17 Jan 2023 23:31:13 GMT

Handshouse Studio, Norwell, MA

Posted January 2023 MTCO article "Kickback!" by Rob Carver

Vincent Valvo — Sun, 01 Jan 2023 19:14:56 GMT

Kickback!

Rob Carver

Just hearing the word sends shivers down my back. The point, as made by Rob, is to address the table saw with the expectation that kickback could happen. I can't say I go through the process every time. When when I am not cognizant of that possibility that's when kickback will occur.

But Rob's essay is not a cliche about the required preparation and the violence kickback can unleash. As the essay progresses, Rob reveals another clever twist of wordplay. Yep, read Kickback! to the end and you just might feel a bit of a jolt.

You can reach Rob for comments and additional information, by clicking Rob Carver.

Posted January 2023 Bevel Cut article "Tree Rings" by Andrew Davis

Vincent Valvo — Sun, 01 Jan 2023 19:07:31 GMT

Tree Rings

by Andrew Davis

This article about tree rings starts with an eye-catching news headline. Andrew reads the article about a methodology to date shipwrecks with the hope of identifying the wreck. The notion of tree rings surface, which leads to discovering the international periodical Dendrochonologia of peer reviewed articles of all things woody, especially growth rings.

Pieces of the shipwreck and the growth rings are analyzed microscopically. Voila, the age of the pieces put the wreck to be consistent with an 1849 shipwreck off the coast of Argentina. But there were other possible matches and thus could not conclusively make a match.

Spurred on by the recommended Dendrochonologia process Andrew writes about his experiments to determine the age of some of his furniture. You literally won't believe where this goes. Find out the results in Tree Rings.

Andrew welcomes your feedback.

Posted January 2023 Featured Piece "Quilted Maple Projects Part 2" by Dave McCormick

Vincent Valvo — Sun, 01 Jan 2023 19:04:31 GMT

Quilted Maple Projects Part 2

by Dave McCormick

As promised in last month's FPM article, this episode reveals more of Dave McCormick's Quilted Maple Projects. You may remember that Dave visited Highland Lumber and was impressed by the quilted maple boards he saw. He purchased a bunch thinking about what he can make with it. One project led to another, and another, and another, and so on. Feast your eyes on more pieces of Quilted Projects Part 2.

Further information can be requested by clicking Dave McCormick.

Add content gadget and link for Paul Schulz' Segmeted Turning Outline and links

Vincent Valvo — Mon, 12 Dec 2022 21:02:14 GMT

Segmented Turning

Paul Schulz provided his

outline with related links

from his December

presentation on

Segmented Turning.

Click Segmented Turning

for a view and download.

Posted December 2022 Bevel Cut article "Sales" by Andrew Davis

Vincent Valvo — Fri, 09 Dec 2022 18:51:30 GMT

Sales

by Andrew Davis

It didn't take long for the Sales and Marketing Departments of our retail economy to open the doors with all kinds of sales and promotions and discounts and free shipping. I'm sure you know that this is no more apparent than with the woodworking supply stores and their copious email solicitations. 'Tis the season.

In a uniquely Andrewsian way, our intrepid and uncompromising advocate writes about the contradictions he observes with his pet peeves and irritations, including a table of vendors and how they summarize their offerings. Read all about Sales.

Posted December 2022 Featured Piece of the Month article "Quilted Maple Projects Part 1" by Dave McCormick

Vincent Valvo — Fri, 09 Dec 2022 18:48:52 GMT

Quilted Maple Projects Part 1

by Dave McCormick

Dave McCormick continues to outdo himself. Having seen boards of quilted maple, not to be confused with curly maple (the difference is outside the scope of this intro; look it up), Dave decided this figure was too good to pass up. This revelation resulted in one project after another using quilted maple. In past months you have seen Dave's work presented in this column. Now check out a series of his work using this unusual wood species in Quilted Maple Projects Part 1. Yes, there is a Part 2 coming to a website near you next month.

Further information can be requested by clicking Dave McCormick.

Posted December 2022 MTCO article "Challenge Yourself" by Rob Carver

Vincent Valvo — Fri, 09 Dec 2022 18:47:05 GMT

Challenge Yourself

by Rob Carver

Rob has chosen the "Challenge Yourself" adage this month. It's a dangerous maxim to write about because it runs the risk of superiority. However, reading the article you will find that it's just the opposite. Rob writes about being motivated by others and the notion to challenge oneself is all about risk and self improvement. In woodworking it means taking on new projects and possibly failing. I would guess that we all consider projects to work on based on how reasonable the outcome will be. We all have our limits, but that limit could expand one challenge at a time. I think you will find this article enriching, if not motivational. Take a look at Challenge Yourself.

Added Stools and Cutting Board Projects to Projects page

Vincent Valvo — Mon, 28 Nov 2022 04:24:47 GMT

Preliminary information is provided.

New Video - Cove Cutting on a Tablesaw by Will Neptune

James Russell — Sun, 20 Nov 2022 20:33:18 GMT

November 2022 monthly meeting presentation Cove Cutting on a Tablesaw

by Will Neptune

Additional slide show video Slide Show of Cove Cutting Jigs used by Will Neptune

New Video - Coopering Curved Furniture Elements - by Matt Wajda - October 8, 2022

James Russell — Sat, 19 Nov 2022 12:57:12 GMT

Video of October's monthly meeting featuring

Coopering Curved Furniture Elements - by Matt Wajda - October 8, 2022

Reformatted the Featured Piece of the Month archive.

Vincent Valvo — Wed, 16 Nov 2022 19:49:10 GMT

The FPoTM archive found under Resources was corrupted. I converted the entries into 3 content gadgets with the hope that the formatting will stick. For all rows to be properly aligned, data in all columns are set to Tahoma typeface, 14 font size, Auto height, and Delete space before paragraph.

Posted pictures for the November 2022 Meeting with Will Neptune discussing "Cutting Coves on a Table Saw"

Vincent Valvo — Mon, 14 Nov 2022 03:50:00 GMT

Posted pictures for the November 2022 Meeting with Will Neptune discussing "Cutting Coves on a Table Saw"

Posted Featured Piece of November 2022 "ArtTalk with Steve McKenna" by Steve McKenna

Vincent Valvo — Tue, 01 Nov 2022 01:31:04 GMT

ArtTalk with Steve McKenna

by Steve McKenna and LexMedia

And now for something completely different...Steve McKenna, professional woodworker and multi-contributor to this column, has provided a closer view into his work. In this wonderful video Steve is interviewed about his work and provides considerable detail for woodworkers that covers his artistry plus his process. It's almost a how-to video for members to better understand, for example, the joinery for his exquisite rocking chairs. This ArtTalk with Steve McKenna, Furniture Maker, a LexMedia Production, is an excellent contribution to be a Featured Piece of the Month.

Further information can be requested by clicking Steve McKenna.

Posted Novermber 2022 issue of Bevel Cut "Finishing Frustrations Part II" by Andrew Davis

Vincent Valvo — Tue, 01 Nov 2022 01:25:58 GMT

Finishing Frustrations Part II

by Andrew Davis

Last month Andrew was not finished with Finishing Frustrations. Apparently, the frustrations are overflowing. I stand by what I said last month.

There is no argument for many woodworkers, their woodworking Achilles' heel is finishing. I always thought this last stage was ill named because you have to ask yourself, how many times does it take to restart "finishing" and fix problems before you are satisfied? Only the last attempt should be called Finishing, i.e., when you are FINISHED!...

...Relax and enjoy more laughs while commiserating with Andrew, this time with his sequel article Finishing Frustrations Part II.

Posted November 2022 issue of MTCO "Preparation is More than Half the Battle" by Rob Carver

Vincent Valvo — Tue, 01 Nov 2022 01:24:21 GMT

Preparation is More

than Half the Battle

by Rob Carver

Reading Rob's article this month, I realize preparation lasts longer than I expected. In fact, it's probably a lot more than half the battle. For me and especially for a new project, preparation starts with the first inkling of wanting to make a piece. I design cognitively for a while before putting anything down on paper or screen. I guess my thought about preparation was the first step immediately followed by the last step. Yep, two serial steps and you're done. Seems simple and efficient. Right? The concept here is that if you prepare well, the intended outcome is successful - don't skimp on preparation. But now I'm thinking, preparation continues until you say "Done".

What is your take on Preparation is More than Half the Battle?

New Video - Guild Meeting September 10, 2022

James Russell — Fri, 28 Oct 2022 12:59:55 GMT

Bandsaw Setup - by Ellen Kaspern - September 10, 2022

Posted slideshow pictures of October 2022 meeting with Matt Wajda

Vincent Valvo — Tue, 11 Oct 2022 00:41:06 GMT

Meeting was held at Lincoln-Sudbury H.S. with the presentation title " Bricking Curved Furniture Element."

Posted October 2022 MTCO article "Pay Attention to Proportion" by Rob Carver

Vincent Valvo — Sat, 01 Oct 2022 14:45:36 GMT

Pay Attention to Proportion

Rob Carver

When thinking about proportions...wait, let's stop there. Maybe you don't go around thinking about proportions. But it's in your face (literally, as per Leonardo) and figuratively around the world. It's not a thing you can touch but you can touch what has proportion. It's a characteristic for some, it's a relationship for some, it's a ratio for some. But, moreover, it's a principle. While it may be all Greek to some (ha, it's symbolized with the Greek letter phi), it's as ubiquitous as common sense and uncommon sense combined. It forms beauty, stability, moderation, balance. I'll leave it there. Rob has more to say. Read Pay Attention to Proportion.

You can reach Rob for comments and additional information, by clicking Rob Carver.

Posted October 2022 Bevel Cut "Finishing Frustrations " by Andrew Davis

Vincent Valvo — Sat, 01 Oct 2022 14:44:12 GMT

Finishing Frustrations

by Andrew Davis

When something goes wrong with finishing, the result can be a double whammy. Not only is the piece visually unappealing, sometimes it ruins the piece after laboring ever so carefully during it's construction. It seems that within the skill set of woodworking, such as cutting, drilling, carving, hand planing, dry assembly, gluing, measuring, and so on, finishing is one that is the black sheep in that family. So relax and enjoy some laughs while commiserating with Andrew in his latest article Finishing Frustrations.

Posted October 2022 Featured Piece article "A Coffee Table For M.C. Escher! " by Jim Allen

Vincent Valvo — Sat, 01 Oct 2022 14:42:42 GMT

A Coffee Table For M.C. Escher!

by Jim Allen

You may remember when President John F. Kennedy challenged the Aeronautics space community with the Moonshot Program, he said, "We choose to go to the moon in this decade and do the other things, not because they are easy, but because they are hard." Over the course of bringing Featured Pieces to you, I've been amazed how that quote can be paraphrased for woodworking. We all have our Moonshot Moments and as we develop our skills we reach for greater challenges. Here Jim Allen takes on a dizzying piece that fits that challenge. When you read his A Coffee Table For M.C. Escher!, you will be amazed and, hopefully, not too dizzy.

Further information can be requested by clicking Jim Allen.

Replaced Recent Website Additions gadget with a linkable graphic

Vincent Valvo — Fri, 30 Sep 2022 18:13:37 GMT

Clicking the graphic displays the recent additions on a new page.

Uploaded slideshow pictures of the Sept 2022 meeting.

Vincent Valvo — Tue, 13 Sep 2022 14:18:04 GMT

The featured speaker at the September meeting was Ellen Kapern, a graduate and instructor of N. Bennet St. School in the Cabinet & Furniture Making program and now a member of Charlestown Furniture Makers where she designs & builds custom furniture, built-ins and small objects. Ellen is an author and a blogger who has shown her work at various museums, art shows, and galleries.

The topic of the presentation was "Maintenance and a Band Saw Tune-up".

Posted Sept. 2022 MTCO article "A Poor Workman Blames His Tools" by Rob Carver

Vincent Valvo — Wed, 31 Aug 2022 18:15:55 GMT

Given the plethora of online series being streamed, the MTCO column is showing Season 2 Episode 1 A Poor Workman Blames His Tools written and starring Rob. This essay brings a thoughtful drama for introspective woodworkers to consider. Rob reveals a little about himself but enough to demonstrate that he knows about what he's talking. In this episode Rob gives some historical understanding of the titular proverb stated above. The plot expands into other fields of interest not only woodworking (although one could imagine the flying piece of wood that was miscut and thrown in disgust) and climaxes with insights taken from an obstinate computer student who could not imagine the problem he encountered was actually between the "chair and keyboard".

Posted Sept. 2022 Featured Piece of the Month "Build an Eli Terry Pillar and Scroll Clock" by Bruce Wedlock

Vincent Valvo — Wed, 31 Aug 2022 17:58:07 GMT

When we last left in June, the Featured Piece was a Bow Front Table Package consisting of an overall description, a working plan and a supporting SketchUp file of a Seymour Table. As we resume the series of Featured Pieces, Bruce Wedlock has provided another project for engaging members. Bruce offers a working set package of detailed instructions to build a replica of the popular Eli Terry Pillar and Scroll Clock.

This package is written and organized such that at various steps in the build process embedded links are provided to display external files providing more detail, dimensions, patterns/templates, sources for obtaining materials, and more. It's a clever method of following the instructions and accessing any needed external files on-line when it is needed.

Further information can be requested by clicking Bruce Wedlock.

Posted Sept., 2022 Bevel Cut article "Waxes for Furniture" by Andrew Davis

Vincent Valvo — Wed, 31 Aug 2022 17:56:35 GMT

If you have been interested in waxing your wood furniture, here's an article you will want to read. Andrew presents a study on various waxes and their costs, not to mention the results of his and published authors on the subject. This article is a keeper for when you are ready to try your hand. Click here for Waxes for Furniture.

Andrew welcomes your feedback.

Added Special Membership Discounts window on Home Page

Vincent Valvo — Wed, 31 Aug 2022 02:19:26 GMT

To view the discounts login in, then click Members, and then click Special Members Discounts.

Added window entitled "EMGW Projects 2022 - 2023"

Vincent Valvo — Tue, 30 Aug 2022 19:30:00 GMT

Steve Hoffmann and Jeff Clunie are making preparations to run a workshop project this Fall for guild members. The intent is to provide a program where new members can get to meet each other as well as some long-time members over a course of a few weeks and to work alongside them, learn new skills, share experiences and make nice projects to bring home.

It is anticipated that the workshops will be held during the day on weekdays, however, the location, time and other specifics will be determined once we have an idea of the number of people interested, their demography, availability, skill level, access to tools, etc.

Three different projects are being considered:

1. an articulated wooden toy dinosaur based on the book Animated Animal Toys in Woodby by David Wakefield

2. a wavy cutting board based on the Fine Woodworking article “A Unique Cutting Board” by Scott Lewis (May/June 2013 issue # pages 68 – 73).

3. a Shaker Stool (either a foot stool or a utility stool) with woven Shaker tape adapted from the books Shop Drawings of Shaker Furniture and Woodenware by Ejner Hanberg, Chairmaking Simplified by Kerry Pierce, and The Book of Shaker Furniture by John Kassay. (There is no need to purchase any of these books or magazines).

If you would like to learn more about these projects click EMGW Project 2022. You may also contact either Steve or Jeff to register your interest or ask questions.

Updated the Special Membership Discounts page

Vincent Valvo — Thu, 18 Aug 2022 18:40:34 GMT

Members should log in the website, then look under Members tab.

Added Social media Gadgets to all pages

Vincent Valvo — Mon, 25 Jul 2022 20:59:45 GMT

Facebook and Instagram icon links are made available.

Updated Archive Articles for Bevel Cut, Featured Pieces of the Month, and Measure Twice, Cut Once

Vincent Valvo — Wed, 13 Jul 2022 22:31:12 GMT

Updates are through June, 2022. Archives are Found under the Resources tab.

Updated EMGW Board of Directors for 2022-2023 season

Vincent Valvo — Fri, 24 Jun 2022 16:50:03 GMT

Ken Zoller, President (formerly V.P.)

Rob Carver, Vice President

Don George, Treasurer

Tom Shirley, Secretary (re-elected)

All candidates were elected unanimously.

Posted a slideshow of pictures by Brad Carr of Italian Joinery from the Dolomites

Vincent Valvo — Wed, 22 Jun 2022 01:22:56 GMT

Scroll down on the Home page for the slideshow.

Posted slideshow of June 2022 annual end of season meeting

Vincent Valvo — Sun, 19 Jun 2022 02:29:12 GMT

The June 2022 meeting included elections for Board of Directors, Show and Tell, and outdoor luncheon.

Posted June 2022 Bevel Cut article "Pet Peeves" by Andrew Davis

Vincent Valvo — Sat, 04 Jun 2022 03:38:33 GMT

Pet Peeves

by Andrew Davis

There is no shortage of pet peeves for most of us. Yet in such a personal activity like woodworking, especially those who work alone in their woodshop cave, there is no one else to complain to or about. For example, when you can't find the tool you are looking for, there's no one else to blame. But that doesn't stop Andrew from forming a list of his best woodworking pet peeves in this month's Bevel Cut article Pet Peeves. Send your favorite woodworking pet peeve to Andrew. Tell him he is not alone. Let the pet peeves roll.

This will be the last article before we resume formal activities in September. All articles this year will be made accessible via the archive later this summer. Thanks go to Andrew for his continuous supply of imaginative, comical, and succinct articles that lighten our day.

Posted June 2022 Feaured Piece of the Month "Bow Front Table Package Extraordinaire" by Jeff Clunie, Jim Russell, Ken Zoller

Vincent Valvo — Sat, 04 Jun 2022 03:34:03 GMT

Bow Front Table Package Extraordinaire

by Jeff Clunie, Jim Russell, and Ken Zoller

Last month the guild presented a 100+ page guidebook for beginners called Novices. This month brings another unusual but instructional Featured Piece of the Month. Jim Russell, Jeff Clunie, and Ken Zoller teamed up to build and provide comprehensive documentation of their self-chosen project - a Bow Front Table.

Each author built their own table using an earlier version the plans presented here. The documentation consists of three parts. One part is a description of their build process materials, tools, bricking, veneering, marquetry, knife hinges, magnetic push latches, and more. The second part is a detailed set of the plans with templates of the piece. If that wasn't enough the third part is a SketchUp file provided for your 3D visualization pleasure and interactive resource. If you don't use SketchUp but would like a copy (complimentary or higher model) read below.

You will be amazed by the craftsmanship, clarity of writing, supporting pictures, plans, and insights from this package. For those always wanting to delve into building or just learning about the construction of a bow front table you have three big reasons to start now.

Click Overall Description - This will display the overall descriptive document of the Bow Front Table.

Click Plan - This will display a set of detailed plans and templates.

Click SketchUp File - This will download a copy of the SketchUp file to your download folder. You might want to move the file to a friendlier folder. To use the file log into your SketchUp app and click the Open from device tab at the near the center top. To obtain a SketchUp model go to sketchup.com in your web browser on your Windows or Mac computer. Click the Products link at the top left of the page and select your desired product type. (The free model may no longer be supported.)

Posted June 2022 MTCO article "Sweep the Floor" by Rob Carver

Vincent Valvo — Sat, 04 Jun 2022 03:31:18 GMT

Sweep the Floor

Rob Carver

When someone takes on the responsibility to write monthly articles for the website, it takes a very thoughtful, observant person to continue to select a worthy topic. (Just ask Andrew Davis.) For example, how many of us who visited last month's wonderful tour of Old Sturbridge Village came away with something inspirational?

Rob noticed that in the OSV woodshop there were wood shavings on the floor and various other remnants of woodworking that were not cleared. One could chalk that up to the working nature of the woodshop and viewing it as theatrical scenery. Perhaps so did Rob but he took it a few steps beyond that. Rob saw the Zen in this common woodworking scene and writes another thoughtful, inspirational article that takes a subtlety and gives it meaning in the June MTCO article Sweep the Floor.

This will be the last article before we resume formal activities in September. All articles this year will be made accessible via the archive later this summer. Thanks go to Rob for his continuous supply of creative, thoughtful, insightful lessons learned that provoke consideration.

Added a slideshow of Tom Shirley's pictures of a sod house museum in Iceland

Vincent Valvo — Tue, 17 May 2022 02:01:33 GMT

Tom Shirley and his wife traveled to Iceland last June 2021 where they visited a traditional sod home museum in Glaumbær. In the museum, Tom took photos of much of the old handmade furniture. He even found an old woodworking bench and some tools including a lathe. See the slideshow of Tom's pictures on the Home page.

Posted images of May 2022 guild meeting at Old Sturbridge Village

Vincent Valvo — Sun, 15 May 2022 22:05:19 GMT

EMGW members gathered at the Visitor’s Center of the Old Sturbridge Village where Chris Nassise, owner of the Green Woodshop in Easton and is the Cabinetmaker in Residence at the Village, led a tour of the Cabinetmaking Shop, OSV replica houses, and the sawmilll. OSV is replica of a rural village at the turn of the 19^th century to mid-19^th century.

Posted the May 2022 Bevel Cut article "The Customer is King, or Maybe Not" by Andrew Davis

Vincent Valvo — Tue, 03 May 2022 13:55:20 GMT

The Customer is King, or Maybe Not

by Andrew Davis

When you’re considering a new tool or service, where do you go to assist your decision making? There are no shortages of website locations and YouTube videos to move you from ignorant to aware, or negative to positive, or unsure to whatever. But by now we all know that everything one reads on the Internet does not carry the authoritative information one seeks.

In the May issue, Andrew writes about customer reviews and their locations where potential buyers go for acquiring accurate, trustworthy woodworking information from actual users. After loads of experience and research, Andrew feels very comfortable with the location of his primary choice. Click “The Customer is King, or Maybe Not” to find his go-to resource. Personally speaking, I'd give his article.

Andrew welcomes your feedback.

Posted the May 2022 MTCO article "Work Slow; It's Faster" by Rob Carver

Vincent Valvo — Sun, 01 May 2022 12:10:17 GMT

Work Slow; It's Faster

Rob Carver

Bigger is Better. Really? Well, sometimes. Cheaper? Not always favorable in the cost/benefit analysis. Faster? The temptation to skip a step or dare I say not measure twice, is sometimes is a difficult option to avoid despite echoes of Ben Franklin's warning that "haste makes waste". In this May issue of Work Slower; It's Faster, Rob brings to us thoughtful support to consider our woodworking process with respect to our desire to be more productive. In fact, being more thoughtful while working is a good first step to being more productive. We like to use machines; why should we try to be one?

You can reach Rob for comments and additional information, click Rob Carver.

Posted the May 2022 Featured Piece of the Month "Getting Started in Woodworking, A Guidebook for the Novice"

Vincent Valvo — Sun, 01 May 2022 12:08:05 GMT

Getting Started in Woodworking

A Guidebook for the Novice

By The EMGW Guidebook Team

Various members of EMGW led by Andrew Davis have been involved with planning, designing, writing, reviewing, formatting, and writing more a guidebook for beginners in woodworking. The mission of this project has been to supply a document that would provide insight and a morale boost to someone who has an interest in woodworking but not sure how to answer the questions, how do I get started, and what do I need to know. This all-volunteer, multi-month project attempts to provide answers to that person with a compendium of instructional and informative articles to build awareness and confidence. That being said, I'm guessing that even experienced woodworkers will get something out of reading the guidebook.

The guidebook is by far a worthy addition to this Featured Piece column. It can be viewed and downloaded for your reading pleasure. We hope that reading the guidebook will engender interest in woodworking and membership in our guild. Click here for a priceless copy.

Click here to send a comment to Andrew Davis.

Member Map was updated

Vincent Valvo — Mon, 11 Apr 2022 19:49:53 GMT

To access, click Member -> Member Map

Posted April 2022 meeting images of the annual auction and Show & Tell

Vincent Valvo — Sun, 10 Apr 2022 18:01:08 GMT

Meeting was held at Tim Holiner's workshop.

Posted April 2022 Measure Twice, Cut Once article "You Can't Have Too many Clamps" by Rob Carver

Vincent Valvo — Fri, 01 Apr 2022 14:55:58 GMT

You Can't Have Too Many Clamps

Rob Carver

Sometimes it's a guessing game with Rob's articles. I read the title and wonder what will be the meaning of the article. This one should not have been a surprise. But then there it was. How could I have missed it at the outset? Then continuing the read it evolved into the warmth and feeling that emerges from Rob's writing. So take a guess before clicking. What do you think the message is in this article called You Can't Have Too Many Clamps?

Posted Bevel Cut article for April 2022 "Divining Rod for Fun and Pleasure" by Andrew Davis

Vincent Valvo — Fri, 01 Apr 2022 14:54:05 GMT

Divining Rod For Fun and Pleasure

by Andrew Davis

This month Andrew finds the time to bring to our attention an old tool in a new light - the diving rod. It appears from the article, Andrew has come up with an imaginative use for the tool and a new way to make one. But if you are not as handy as Andrew, find it online. Use SKU 0401.

But first read about it here Divining Rod For Fun and Pleasure.

Posted Featured Piece for April 2022 "Hall Entry Table" by Bob McKee

Vincent Valvo — Fri, 01 Apr 2022 14:52:36 GMT

Hall Entry Table

by Bob McKee

Bob Mckee is a busy man. Just a few months ago his Display Case was featured in this column. Now Bob presents his Hall Entry Table. Nicely crafted in a Shaker style design, this piece departs from that style with stylistic wood species of Flame Birch, Pearwood drawer fronts, and Ebony cockbeading. All the craftsmanship is described in this article called Hall Entry Table. It's a piece that dresses up the entry hall - at least that was the intention!

Click here to send a comment to Bob McKee.

Added Non-Guild Event "A Life Making Art" Show at LexArt Gallery

Vincent Valvo — Tue, 29 Mar 2022 19:33:01 GMT

See more when clicking from Non-Guild Events from Home page.

Updated Main page with April In-Person Attendance Preregistration

Vincent Valvo — Tue, 29 Mar 2022 00:42:24 GMT

April preregistration process is detailed on Home Page.

Posted Slide Show from March 2022 meeting presentation "Special Table Saw Techniques” by Bob Van Dyke

Vincent Valvo — Thu, 17 Mar 2022 23:54:02 GMT

Bob Van Dyke, master craftsman, teacher, and published author, traveled from his work at the Connecticut Valley School of Woodworking to Woodcraft-Walpole to discuss a topic entitled “Special Table Saw Techniques” at the March 2022 EMGW monthly meeting.

New video - Special Table Saw Techniques by Bob VanDyke

James Russell — Tue, 15 Mar 2022 16:59:36 GMT

Video of the March 12, 2022 presentation Special Table Saw Techniques by Bob VanDyke

Posted March 2022 Feature Piece article "Various Volunteer Furniture Projects" by Steve McKenna

Vincent Valvo — Mon, 28 Feb 2022 22:50:20 GMT

Various Volunteer Furniture Projects

by Steve McKenna and His Group of Lexington Guild Workers

Steve has been has been a prolific woodworker. You may know that Steve is one of the guild's professional woodworkers. Some of his projects have graced this column. I say that sincerely. Check out two commendations he received from the World Category of Australian Wood Review magazine "Maker of the Year". The commendations were awarded for the Black Walnut Couch and Black Walnut stepstool.

In addition to his business, Steve finds time for volunteer projects in Lexington that he leads with a group of Lexington Guild woodworkers. His article is brief showing four projects. Read Steve's article Various Volunteer Furniture Projects. Lexington is fortunate to have this accomplished group in her town.

To send your comments, click Steve McKenna.

Posted March 2022 Bevel Cut article "The Empire of Cookies" by Andrew Davis

Vincent Valvo — Mon, 28 Feb 2022 22:48:42 GMT

The Empire of Cookies

by Andrew Davis

Come and get 'em, while they're hot!

The proliferation of the bench cookie and its accessories have dominated the woodworking ads and emails. Woodworkers have always used something to protect the working surface. It doesn't take much brain power to consider lifting your work piece to protect an expensive workbench. So what's the deal, that is, the innovation that makes the bench cookie ubiquitous in woodworking? The friction surface? Being the first woodworker on your street to have one? A nice size as a stocking stuffer? A substitute for a missing hockey puck? The revenue margins? We may never know the answer but Andrew's article The Empire of Cookies gets us a little closer to understand the cookie phenomenon.

Yum!

Andrew welcomes your feedback.

Posted March 2022 MTCO article "It's Not Too Late to Make a Mistake" by Rob Carver

Vincent Valvo — Mon, 28 Feb 2022 22:47:06 GMT

It's Not Too Late to Make a Mistake

Rob Carver

Rob is famous for coming up with certain adages that have implications, even originations, in woodworking. Although he does not use a fitting adage in this month's article, he could have used the popular (and polite) adage not limited to woodworkers - "Stuff Happens". You see Rob had a mishap while building a wardrobe in his shop. Reading his It's Not Too Late to Make a Mistake, it's fair to feel empathetic about the accident. After all, if one performs woodworking long enough - and it doesn't take long - we all have been in that why-the-hell-did-I-do-that state of mind. But beyond the pity, you can learn something of which I had no knowledge. Perhaps you too!

You can reach Rob for comments and additional information, click Rob Carver.

Posted Registration process for March 2022 Guild meeting.

Vincent Valvo — Sat, 26 Feb 2022 05:21:00 GMT

The process appear on the Home page entitled "

EMGW March Meeting Offers Hybrid Attendance: In-Person (via Preregistration) and Zoom"

Posted video of the "Special Moldings" meeting presentation on 2/12/2022

James Russell — Sat, 26 Feb 2022 01:12:10 GMT

Special Moldings by Mickey Callahan

Posted slides from February 2022 Meeting "Creating Special Moldings" presented by Mickey Callahan

Vincent Valvo — Tue, 15 Feb 2022 19:46:11 GMT

February 2022 meeting with Mickey Callahan as presenter titled "Creating Special Moldings".

Posted Alert "EMGW Plans Regarding Covid for In-Person Meetings"

Vincent Valvo — Thu, 03 Feb 2022 03:16:25 GMT

Covid cases are declining in Massachusetts after peaking in January. So, we are planning how to proceed as the cases continue to decline. We realize that another variant may emerge or that the pandemic is not going to end abruptly. But that does not mean we will wait for zero cases for a specific consecutive number of months before we re-institute in-person meetings.

With that in mind, we want to alert you to what has been going on. Our plans consist of both health and logistical concerns. Our earliest opportunity, assuming a further decline in cases, is to have the March 12 meeting in-person with strict adherence to Covid vaccination, social distancing, and mask wearing. Specifically, all members planning to attend in person must:

Preregister with affirmation of being fully vaccinated including booster shot.
Agree to wear an effective, non-cloth mask, such as a surgical mask, or the preferred N95 or KN95 models, throughout the meeting in deference to the speaker and fellow members.
Adhere to EMGW guidelines for social distancing while in the building.

The mechanism for preregistration will be performed via the EMGW website, and further instructions will be included in the March meeting reminder email, along with status regarding the viability of a March in-person meeting.

In addition, we are working to provide Zoom access and video recording during in-person meetings. The ability to offer these features are based on volunteers to video the speaker and pertinent props. Please contact Ken Zoller if you would like to help.

Posted February 2022 MTCO article "Lubricate Often" by Rob Carver

Vincent Valvo — Mon, 31 Jan 2022 18:17:07 GMT

Lubricate Often

by Rob Carver

Rob trusts that this article is PG quality. In fact, Rob provides lessons learned for folks of all ages. Keeping things well-oiled is a great preventative course to maintain working machinery. But there is a philosophical perspective to this article, one in which this column excels. There is no spoiler alert here nor is there a change to an adult rating, but there is much more to lubricate than metal. Rob presents his thoughtful article and asks for your feedback.

For a clever read, click Rob's Lubricate Often.

You can reach Rob for comments and additional information, click Rob Carver.

Posted February 2022 Bevel Cut "Halley's Comet" by Andrew Davis

Vincent Valvo — Mon, 31 Jan 2022 18:15:16 GMT

Halley's Comet

by Andrew Davis

Andrew steps outside the sphere of making furniture to address his opinions on the cyclical nature of topics published in woodworking journals. His thesis is that there is a finite set of recurring topics (e.g., Turning) in the woodworking universe. Beyond that, the half-life of each topic is on a regular basis of 86 weeks when any given woodworking topic is ready to be seen again. That spacing may be a lot of time, but Andrew goes further.

Andrew lists the topics that are repeated as though they have a gravitational pull to return our world in eastern Mass. Why are these publishers so short-sighted? All these topics are within the orbit of woodworking, but one wonders when there will be a change (delta?) in the velocity or momentum before we see something new. We can always hope for an expansion to that universe. Click to read the aptly named Halley’s Comet article.

Andrew welcomes your feedback.

Posted February 2022 Featured Piece "Curved-Front Cabinet-on-Stand" by Bob Mckee

Vincent Valvo — Mon, 31 Jan 2022 18:13:13 GMT

Curved-Front Cabinet-on-Stand

by Bob Mckee

Curves can really make a difference. There is a visually captivating feature that is embedded in this work. With substantially rectilinear projects we see, use, and make, when curves emerge, it produces higher brain activity. Many a scholarly paper illustrate the difference in acceptance between angular objects and curved objects. There’s something soothing about seeing curves. It seems hard enough to ensure all rectilinear furniture is square. So, it’s not surprising to appreciate curves in furniture.

Bob McKee, no stranger to this column, built a curved-face display cabinet for his prized hand tools. With expert craftmanship following a thorough, eye-catching design, this reveals a piece that adds to his portfolio and that of this column.

Read Bob’s article Curved-Front Cabinet-on-Stand.

To send your comments, click Bob McKee.

Posted NPR podcast of Dan Sichel's interview on "What Nails Tell Us About the Economy"

Vincent Valvo — Wed, 19 Jan 2022 17:10:00 GMT

Did you know that in 1810, the use of nails in the US was comparable, as a measure of nominal GDP, to household purchases of personal computers and peripherals or air travel in our modern times? That's just one nugget in guild member Dan Sichel's recent paper that caught the eye of NPR's Planet Monkey program for an interview.

You may remember Dan's mahogany dining table featured as Piece of the Month last year. So you might think the interview was about woodworking -- but, only peripherally. You see, under the guise of an accomplished woodworker, Dan has a full-time job - Professor of Economics at Wellesley College. Dan recently wrote "The Price of Nails Since 1695: A Window into Economic Change" that was the basis of the interview. Presented in a ten minute podcast, Dan discusses his research on what we can learn about the US economy from the economic history of nails.

Look forward to a light treatment of a serious paper by clicking Dan's Podcast. Also look forward to another featured piece by Dan later this year.

Posted January 2022 Measure Twice, Cut Once "Read the Grain" by Rob Carver

Vincent Valvo — Sun, 02 Jan 2022 20:41:11 GMT

Read the Grain

by Rob Carver

Woodworking for most of us is a singular enterprise. Our workshops are sized mostly for tools, not other humans. Using woodworking as a metaphor for social relationships, Rob informs us to think about the bigger picture. As we toil among our joinery, almost invisible reliefs, and grain direction, we also toil in our communities, small and large, to improve our interaction, to understand the direction of our grain and others. Rob brings this article at a time of new year, which often is a time of reflection and introspection. Here's to a Happy New Year and Happy Woodworking in 2022. And here's to a Healthy New Year physically, mentally, and socially.

For a must read, click Rob's Read the Grain.

Posted January 2022 Bevel Cut "Is Your Project a By-Product?" by Andrew Davis

Vincent Valvo — Sun, 02 Jan 2022 20:37:46 GMT

Is Your Project a By-Product?

by Andrew Davis

One thing leads to another and in this issue most woodworking projects lead to sawdust. Big surprise! But Andrew thinks about this kind of stuff. And that leads to using the sawdust or any other seemingly useless by-product into something that can be monetized above the level of trashing it.

I collect hand plane shavings for kindling for my outdoor wood-fueled pizza oven. The company I bought the pizza oven actually sells hardwood wood shavings and small blocks for just that purpose. I admit I've actually thought of mechanizing a cutter to produce shavings of my hardwood scrap. Now there's a by-product that could be worth something.

Have you considered a project or business turning trash into gold? In his January 2022 article Is Your Project a By-Product?, Andrew amusingly goes through the mental process of what to consider to evaluate a price for a by-product. Andrew lays out a compelling list of accounting variables that will have you feeling that sawdust, wood shavings, wood blocks, or other woodworking by-products might be best left for the trash. See for yourself.

Posted January 2022 Featured Piece of the Month "Dual Top Oak Cherry Table by Dick Belanger

Vincent Valvo — Sun, 02 Jan 2022 20:34:40 GMT

Dual Top Oak Cherry Table

by Dick Belanger

When a daughter comes calling, what father is going to decline the request? So empowered, Dick Belanger took on the request for "something different." Dick takes you along his design and build technique to create a remarkable one-of-a-kind table using two table tops separated by arched supports for that different look he was appealed to take. I dare say he accomplished his objective and workmanship. See for yourself by clicking Dual Top Oak Cherry Table.

To send your comments, click Dick Belanger.

New Video - Presentation on Lumber by Shannon Rogers

James Russell — Thu, 16 Dec 2021 12:16:21 GMT

Presentation made to the Guild on December 11, 2021https://youtu.be/FR4xG1C4hhE by Shannon Rogers on the lumber industry.

Posted pictures from December 2021 EMGW meeting by Shannon Rogers on "Foreign Forest to U.S. Lumber Yard"

Vincent Valvo — Tue, 14 Dec 2021 23:53:31 GMT

At the EMGW December 2021 meeting, Shannon Rogers, Director of Marketing for J. Gibson McIlvain Company and founder of The Hand Tool School, spoke of the detailed, regulated, linkable steps of lumber from a tree in a foreign forest to a board at a retail lumber yard, including sourcing, sawing, sorting, grading, pricing, etc. For logged in members, click the Guild Video Library tab to view the presentation.

Added Toy Making to the Guild Projects in the About Us > Projects tab.

Vincent Valvo — Thu, 09 Dec 2021 18:05:39 GMT

Under the About Us tab, click Projects. Pictures from 2017 and 2018 are scrollable in separate windows.

Posted December 2021 Bevel Count article "Your Life on a USB Stick" by Andrew Davis

Vincent Valvo — Wed, 01 Dec 2021 19:02:27 GMT

Your Life on a USB Stick

by Andrew Davis

Do you count yourself in the group of current or former subscribers of at least one woodworking magazine? Even if you have never been a subscriber, chances are that you have been solicited to be a subscriber, especially now during the holiday season. You are told they make good presents.

So it didn't take long for Andrew to use this advertising magazine campaign to ponder how to deal with the piles of issues that amass over the years. The USB stick, sometimes referred to as a thumb drive, is one publishing delivery option but it has downsides as Andrew cites. Still, that little device with cheap, local, searchable computer memory has become ubiquitous beyond just managing the storage of magazine issues. Widening that concept to a broader view of technology in woodworking can lead to more pondering by Andrew.

So take a look at Andrew's article and dial back to the catalyst - handling magazine issues - of this progression in December's Your Life on a USB Stick.

To send your comments, click Andrew Davis.

Posted December 2021 MTCO "Tried and True" by Rob Carver

Vincent Valvo — Tue, 30 Nov 2021 22:09:11 GMT

December's MTCO article reveals a little history behind the phrase "tried and true". This column could become a quiz show by asking the question about various well-known phrases, where does it originate - in woodworking or outside woodworking? Find the "tried and true" answer in this month's article. Rob said he really had fun learning about it.

You can reach Rob for comments and additional information, click Rob Carver.

Posted December 2021 Featured Piece article "Seymour Table" by Dave McCormick

Vincent Valvo — Tue, 30 Nov 2021 22:05:28 GMT

There never seems to be a dull moment in Dave McCormick's workshop. Dave continually takes on challenges, this time inspired by a visit to the furniture section at the Peabody Essex Museum. There an original Seymour Table was on display. It would be an understatement to declare that Dave succeeded in this gorgeous reproduction. And working through the self-admitted challenges, Dave wonders with admiration how the Seymour brothers did their work without power tools. Take a glimpse of Dave's work in words and pictures by clicking Seymour Table.

Posted November 2021 pictures of Guild meeting and Matt Wajda's "Veneering Curved Surfaces" presentation

Vincent Valvo — Fri, 26 Nov 2021 16:24:51 GMT

Posted November 2021 pictures of Guild meeting and Matt Wajda's "Veneering Curved Surfaces" presentation.

New Video - Veneering Curved Surfaces by Matt Wajda

James Russell — Sun, 14 Nov 2021 14:52:22 GMT

Veneering Curved Surfaces

Posted November 2021 MTCO article "If Your Only Tool Is A Hammer" by Rob Carver

Vincent Valvo — Mon, 01 Nov 2021 03:25:19 GMT

If Your Only Tool Is A Hammer

by Rob Carver

A hammer is a common tool we know intimately and ever since we were tots. Its likely the hammer was the first tool you used albeit one produced by Fisher Price, not by Stanley. Here, Rob uses the hammer as a metaphor for some fun and enchanting reading, then raises some bigger points. Enjoy it by clicking, If Your Only Tool Is A Hammer.

You can reach Rob for comments and additional information, click Rob Carver.

Posted Novembel 2021 Featured Piece "Turning Reeded Legs" by Bruce Wedlock

Vincent Valvo — Mon, 01 Nov 2021 03:23:18 GMT

Turning Reeded Legs

by Bruce Wedlock

In football arenas, the hearty charge is "Are you ready for some football?" This gets already excited fans uber-excited. Well, Bruce Wedlock has provided woodworking cheer for all the Federal style enthusiasts who have thought to give the reeded leg feature a try. So, are you ready for some turning?

Originally, published in the Guild of New Hampshire of Woodworkers Journal in 2011, we reprint it here for a descriptive, detailed process laden with photographs for EMGW turners who want to take on the challenge. But even if you aren't a turner, reading the article will provide the answers about how these iconic legs are achieved. You are sure to appreciate the work that goes into it. Click Turning Reeded Legs.

To send your comments, click Bruce Wedlock.

Posted November 2021 Bevel Cut article "You Too Can Be a Published Author " by Andrew Davis

Vincent Valvo — Mon, 01 Nov 2021 03:20:46 GMT

You Too Can Be a Published Author

by Andrew Davis

Ah, the limelight. When Bob Dylan started writing musical poetry, I'm sure nobility in the form of Nobel Prize laureate was never imagined.

Serendipity brought Andrew to meet a surgeon who wanted to know more about woodworking and what it takes to develop the skills and tool set to achieve a level of fine woodworking. Unable to finish the conversation, Andrew came up with an idea and a challenge to the Guild.

Even if the title Laureate does not strike your fancy, Andrew has something to say about it. Read about it and the challenge in November's Bevel Cut article.

Andrew welcomes your feedback.

Posted pictures of the Old Sturbridge Village exhibit with an article by Rob Carver

Vincent Valvo — Sat, 16 Oct 2021 15:46:05 GMT

Posted pictures of the Old Sturbridge Village exhibit with an article by Rob Carver.

Posted slides of the October 2021 meeting presentation by Garrett Hack.

Vincent Valvo — Thu, 14 Oct 2021 15:37:58 GMT

The use techniques of various hand tools for efficiency and workmanship.

New Video - Garrett Hack presentation on October 9, 2021

James Russell — Mon, 11 Oct 2021 11:35:24 GMT

Take Your Woodworking to the Next Level by Garrett Hack October 9, 2021

Posted October 2021 Bevel Cut issue "Do You Own Tools You Never Use" by Andrew Davis

Vincent Valvo — Sun, 03 Oct 2021 22:08:28 GMT

Posted October 2021 Bevel Cut issue "Do You Own Tools You Never Use" by Andrew Davis.

Posted October 2021 MTCO issue "Keep Your Tools Sharp" by Rob Carver

Vincent Valvo — Sun, 03 Oct 2021 22:06:01 GMT

Posted October 2021 MTCO issue "Keep Your Tools Sharp" by Rob Carver.

Posted October 2021 Featured Piece of the Month issue "Yellow Pine Desks" by Brad Carr

Vincent Valvo — Sun, 26 Sep 2021 22:10:31 GMT

Posted October 2021 Featured Piece of the Month issue "Yellow Pine Desks" by Brad Carr.

Posted pictures of the September 2021 monthly meeting presentation by Steve Brown

Vincent Valvo — Thu, 23 Sep 2021 15:56:34 GMT

Posted pictures of the September 2021 monthly meeting presentation "Three New England Dressing Tables" by Steve Brown.

New Video - Guild presentation by Steve Brown

James Russell — Sun, 19 Sep 2021 10:47:29 GMT

The Unassuming Dressing Table by Steve Brown September 18, 2021

Posted the first essay of the new column by Rob Carver, "Measure Twice, Cut Once".

Vincent Valvo — Wed, 01 Sep 2021 23:15:55 GMT

Posted the first essay of the new column by Rob Carver, "Measure Twice, Cut Once".

Vincent Valvo — Wed, 01 Sep 2021 23:15:55 GMT

Rob Carver, who incidentally built this month's Featured Piece of the Month, has decided to offer further talents to the guild. Rob is a relative newcomer to the guild but has attended many FIG and monthly meetings so is familiar with many of our members, culture, and ambitions. I look forward to reading his well-written and thoughtful contributions on a regular basis. In his own words, here is how Rob envisions his column.

Welcome to a periodic series of light-hearted reflections on woodworking ideas and principles that shed light in other domains and vice versa. These essays will be short on technique but might stimulate exchange of ideas about how woodworking can enrich the rest of life. I hope that others will pick up the thread and propose ways in which their experiences as makers, artisans, and crafters inform their daily lives.

Peter Korn, founder of the Rockport, Maine Center for Furniture Craftsmanship wrote, “To master a craft is not to achieve a state of enlightenment, despite my youthful expectations to the contrary. Creative practice simply makes our lives richer in meaning and fulfillment than they might be otherwise.” (Why We Make Things and Why it Matters, Boston: David R. Godine Publishers, 2013, p. 166).

Each MTCO essay will begin with a familiar shop precept, a comment on its meaning in the shop, and, if discernable, its origin story. Finally, I’ll suggest some ways the saying applies in other settings. If you have an idea for an old saw with uses outside the shop, please get in touch.

And here is Rob's first article "Measure Once, Cut Twice: Life Lessons from the Shop".

You can reach Rob for comments and additional information, click Rob Carver.

Posted September 2021 Featured Piece article "Chippendale Footstool" by Rob Carver

Vincent Valvo — Wed, 01 Sep 2021 14:46:02 GMT

Chippendale Footstool

by Rob Carver

Rob Carver kicks off the 2021-2022 EMW season with a challenging piece. The Chippendale style with its clawed feet has fascinated Rob ever since he was a child. Carving was not in Rob's repertoire when he thought it was time to try his hand at those cabriole legs. His story of building his confidence and expertise is heartening and entertaining. Follow Rob's description of the process and build in the article.

To send your comments and questions, click Rob Carver.

Posted September 2021 Bevel Cut article "You Can't Sit in a CAD Chair " by Andrew Davis

Vincent Valvo — Wed, 01 Sep 2021 14:44:32 GMT

You Can't Sit in a CAD Chair

by Andrew Davis

How can a woodworker design comfort? It is more workable when designing, say a chair, for a specific person. But it is still difficult. Trial and error is sure to follow. We have many woodworkers who have taken on the comfort challenge.

Now think about designing for the general user. I remember guild member Steve McKenna demonstrated his rocking chair several years ago at a Show and Tell annual meeting when it was held in person. The various members present sat in it, tried it out and it was a remarkable success. So it can be done.

Andrew has given this issue of designing comfort some thought and writes about it in his newest Bevel Cut article culminating with his conclusion.

Andrew welcomes your feedback.

Updated the members of the Board of Directors and Removed the Perpetual Novice Column

Vincent Valvo — Mon, 30 Aug 2021 02:38:21 GMT

The entire EMGW Board of Directors were re-elected for another year 2021-2022. The Perpetual Novice column was removed. The archive is available via The Resources tab.

Added links of the 2021 editions of Featured Piece of the Month articles to the Resource Archives

Vincent Valvo — Wed, 07 Jul 2021 20:15:33 GMT

Resources > Featured Piece of the Month Articles

Added links of the 2021 editions of Bevel Cut articles to the Resource Archives

Vincent Valvo — Wed, 07 Jul 2021 20:11:32 GMT

Resources > Bevel Cut Articles

New Video: Jnue 12 Monthly Meeting - Member Show and Tell

James Russell — Sun, 13 Jun 2021 17:27:39 GMT

Annual Election and Member Show and Tell June 12, 2021

Posted Bevel Cut for June 2021 "Is the Pen Mightier than the Sword? by Andrew Davis

Vincent Valvo — Fri, 04 Jun 2021 01:22:04 GMT

Is the Pen Mightier than the Sword?

by Andrew Davis

Woodworking industry can be a cyclic industry. Styles come and go. Fads come and go. Materials come and go. And some come back again.

Andrew Davis writes about the wave of more recent trends. Have a look in this last Bevel Cut article of the season.

This and other past Bevel Cut articles can be found from the website's Resources > Bevel Cut Articles.

Andrew welcomes your feedback.

Posted June 2021 Featured Piece "Burl Desk and Chair" by Steve McKenna

Vincent Valvo — Wed, 02 Jun 2021 17:00:54 GMT

Burl Desk and Chair

by Steve McKenna

This month Steve McKenna provides another astonishing and creative piece as the featured piece. An oak burl built into the desk frame is the obvious eye-catching component of this piece. Follow Steve's brief description of the two pieces in the article.

To send your comments and questions, click Steve McKenna.

This is the last Featured Piece of the Month article this season. With your help and contributions the series will resume in September. You will be able to find this and previous season's articles from the website's Resources > Featured Pieces of the Month Articles section.

Click my email address to send your draft anytime and I'll begin to schedule their publication. I can assist your organizing, formatting, and picture insertions so don't let those issues stop you from documenting your projects and revealing your work. Content can be as detailed (or not) as you like.

Remember this column is not necessarily dedicated to furniture pieces. Tools, jigs, and other related themes are also relevant.

Added Readers Hardwood Supply contact info to Resources > Links > Lumber

Vincent Valvo — Wed, 26 May 2021 23:35:40 GMT

Readers Hardwood Supply (East Taunton, MA)

(508) 301-3206

250 Cape Hwy, Unit 9

East Taunton, MA 02718

Posted pictures from May 2021 EMGW meeting by Asa Christiana on "Dust Collection in a Small Workshop""

Vincent Valvo — Fri, 14 May 2021 21:35:35 GMT

Posted pictures from May 2021 EMGW meeting by Asa Christiana on "Dust Collection in a Small Workshop""

New Video - May 8 Zoom meeting video - Dust Management

James Russell — Sun, 09 May 2021 19:06:21 GMT

Dust Management in the Small Shop by Asa Christiana May 8, 2021

Posted May 2021 Featured Piece of the Month "Don Michael's Finished Pieces"

Vincent Valvo — Tue, 04 May 2021 22:34:56 GMT

Don Michael's Finished Pieces

Don Michael, our friend, colleague, and multifaceted guild volunteer died last September. You may also know our friend and self-titled Perpetual Novice had a reputation for taking on challenging woodworking projects, but after feeling satisfied with the learning process sometimes left them incomplete. He would move on to other woodworking challenges.

As you might extrapolate, this pattern left several projects in his workshop in parts. A group of EMGW woodworkers knowing this, offered to complete the projects for Cathy, Don’s wife. Cathy was taken with the idea. Over the past few months, these woodworkers individually planned with Cathy COVID-compliantly to move the projects to their own workshops, complete the projects, and return them. Cathy decided that four projects had special value. The four pieces are listed below along with the woodworker who completed the job.

Don knew all these woodworkers well. I’m sure that he would be proud and grateful to them for transitioning the projects to their extraordinary completeness for Cathy. Much like what Don offered to the guild, it is teamwork. It’s a beautiful statement and testament to all involved. Enjoy reading the process each woodworker took by clicking their link below.

Don Michael's Low Boy Table by Jeff Clunie

Don Michael's Grandfather Clock by Jim Russell

Don Michael's Eli Terry Clock by Jim Tartaglia

Don Michael's Federal Secretary by Ken Zoller

To send your comments and questions to click Jeff, Jim R., Jim T., or Ken

Posted May 2021 Bevel Cut article "Do You Get What You Pay For (Part 2)" by Andrew Davis

Vincent Valvo — Tue, 04 May 2021 22:31:55 GMT

Do You Get What You Pay For (Part 2)

by Andrew Davis

Andrew returns to reality after an April Fool's Day article. Indeed, Andrew returns to questioning and evaluating the cost/benefit of another tool. We empathize with Andrew when he runs into woodworking problems, but it gives the website considerable useful material.

This month Andrew discusses the mortise chisel after working on an Arts & Crafts shelf stand. He also presents a useful table for the woodworker buying a mortise chisel. File this article away when the time comes for you to consider experimenting with a new tool, or replacing or upgrading your existing mortise chisel.

Andrew welcomes your feedback.

Posted pictures from April 2021 EMGW meeting of Jeff Jewitt on "Fixing Finishing Mistakes"

Vincent Valvo — Fri, 16 Apr 2021 18:03:03 GMT

Posted pictures from April 2021 EMGW meeting of Jeff Jewitt on "Fixing Finishing Mistakes"

New Video: Finishing by Jeff Jewitt

James Russell — Sun, 11 Apr 2021 11:02:53 GMT

Jeff's presentation to the Guild on April 10, 2021

Posted April 2021 Bevel Cut article "Not All Hammerheads Are Sharks" by Andrew Davis

Vincent Valvo — Thu, 01 Apr 2021 04:00:00 GMT

Not All Hammerheads Are Sharks

by Andrew Davis

In previous articles Andrew has presented several reviews of tools and marketing strategies. In his Bevel Cut article for the month of April, Andrew shows to what lengths he goes to present new information in his column. For this month of April, Andrew brings you a review of a new multipurpose tool for you to decide if it has a place in your tool chest.

Perhaps it’s a tool you have thought about before because it has several desirable upgrades from the conventional hammer. The new tool is called the Indexable Hammer. See for yourself in the article Not All Hammerheads Are Sharks.

Andrew welcomes your feedback.

Posted April 2021 Featured Piece "Building a Harpsichord, Part III" by Neal Carey

Vincent Valvo — Wed, 31 Mar 2021 00:03:03 GMT

Building a Harpsichord, Part III

by Neal Carey

The project continues to continue. Last February, we provided Parts I and II. This month Neal shares his progress of building a harpsichord in Part III with the emphasis on the case. The case consists the soundboard, bridges, registers, and other parts to produce the correct sound and accurate fidelity and tone requiring precise cuts and placements.

For the woodworker you will see asymmetric joinery, bending wood, embellishments, and finishing. Neal spares you most of the geometry to produce the desired sounds but it's obvious that its there. And if that's not enough there are new jigs to be made for the string pin locations and special clamping cauls. There's a lot there and a lot can go wrong. But seeing the pictures of the finished case is believing. Click the video you are interested to view.

Building a Harpsichord Part III (11:29)

Building a Harpsichord Part II (12:32)

Building a Harpsichord Pat I (8:08)

To send your comments and questions to Neal, click Harpsichord Man.

Posted pictures from March 2021 EMGW meeting demonstration by John Cameron on "Making a Krenov Hand Plane"

Vincent Valvo — Fri, 19 Mar 2021 18:43:14 GMT

Posted pictures from March 2021 EMGW meeting demonstration by John Cameron on "Making a Krenov Hand Plane". Meeting was held March 13, 2021 on Zoom.

New Video: How to make a Krenov Style Plane by John Cameron

James Russell — Sun, 14 Mar 2021 14:59:59 GMT

Krenov Style Plane

Posted Bevel Cut for March 2021 " Do You Get What You Pay For? (Part 1)" by Andrew Davis

Vincent Valvo — Wed, 03 Mar 2021 19:54:19 GMT

With respect to woodworking, woodworkers are a classic group of biased individuals. Ask a question about how the best way to do something and it's likely you will get as many different responses as there are individuals being asked.

Andrew Davis raises a question that we all generally visit when purchasing a new tool - is it worth the money? When it comes to choosing a combination square most woodworkers may respond with the de facto standard - the Starrett combination square. But the controversy doesn't end there. Not only is the cost pricey compared to other combination squares, there are different Starrett models.

In a remarkable twist for a woodworker, Andrew does not offer an answer. But in the March Bevel Cut article you will have to choose for yourself - if you haven't already.

Andrew welcomes your feedback.

Posted March 2021 Featured Piece "Jackson's Crib" by Dave McCormick

Vincent Valvo — Wed, 03 Mar 2021 19:53:12 GMT

When you're good, you're good and you have continual requests for work pieces. This column has seen several superb pieces by Dave McCormick. (Visit the Resources > Featured Pieces of the Month for previous submissions.) Dave continues to produce marvelous pieces but some are more special than others.

The piece featured here is a gift to Dave's first grandchild, Jackson. So you get the idea why the request from his son and daughter-in-law for a crib would occupy a special connection. Dave had about two and a half months to finish it because he needed to complete a desk piece already occupying space in his workshop. Without cutting any corners Dave finished the crib (expandable to a bed when needed) by delivery time - Thanksgiving Day, 2020. Jackson is in a happy place. Read about it here.

You can send your congratulations and appreciation to the proud woodworking grandfather here.

Posted pictures from the February 2021 Guild meeting "Wood Hinges" by Rob Cosman

Vincent Valvo — Tue, 16 Feb 2021 21:00:00 GMT

Posted pictures from the February 2020 Guild meeting "Wood Hinges" by Rob Cosman.

Added Upholstery section to the Resources Links page

Vincent Valvo — Mon, 15 Feb 2021 01:07:20 GMT

Listed two upholstery companies in new Resource Links tab called "Upholstery".

If you are aware of additional upholsteries in our coverage area, forward the name with contact information to the Web Master by clicking the bottom tab CONTACT on the HOME page.

New Video - Wooden Hinges by Rob Cosman on Feb 13, 2021

James Russell — Sun, 14 Feb 2021 12:00:16 GMT

A video of the presentation made my Rob Cosman to the Guild has bee posed to the Video Library

Wooden Hinges

Posted February 2021 Bevel Cut article "Useless Tools" by Andrew Davis

Vincent Valvo — Mon, 01 Feb 2021 21:55:37 GMT

Andrew Davis, writer of the Bevel Cut column, is at it again. (Don’t worry it has nothing to do with math.) This time Andrew raises a different set of questions. What purpose do some commercially advertised tools have?

For woodworkers who have not unsubscribed to their websites and given the marketing push of these retailers, it’s hard to escape the two tools that Andrew assesses and looks for answers from you.

Check out a couple of Useless Tools.

Andrew welcomes your feedback.

Posted Featured Piece for February 2021 article "Harpsichord Parts I and II" by Neal Carey

Vincent Valvo — Mon, 01 Feb 2021 21:51:32 GMT

This month the Featured Piece is so encompassing that it is segmented into four parts. Many of you know Neal Carey and his mission to build a 1640 Ruckers Single Manual Harpsichord. For approximately twelve years Neal has been on this mission. That’s not to say this has been a continual process. During this time Neal has built and refurbished other musical instruments such as ukuleles, guitars, Tzoura, and a sitar. Neal has also completed other more standard woodworking projects. But like Neal, we should get back to the harpsichord.

Neal is nearly finished with the harpsichord as you can see in the picture above. But in his limited free time, Neal has compiled a thorough set of presentations documenting the motivation, design, help, and step by step build along the way. It is a wonder to witness this massive work through his presentations. I certainly did, as we planned the presentations for this and subsequent Featured Pieces. When you click each video presentation be sure to turn on your audio. This is not just a visual slideshow. There is enchanting background music of a type to get you in the mood.

Part I: Introduction of the Project, Motivation, Planning, Assistance, and Building the Keyboard

Part II: Building the Case

When he's not buried in work you can reach Neal here.

New Video: Carving the Acanthus Leaf by Mary May

James Russell — Mon, 11 Jan 2021 15:22:51 GMT

Carving the Acanthus Leaf by Mary May

Posted pictures of the January 2021 Guild meeting "Carving the Ancanthus Leaf" by Mary May

Vincent Valvo — Sun, 10 Jan 2021 04:15:33 GMT

Seven pictures posted.

Posted Memorial to Phil Lowe

Vincent Valvo — Sat, 09 Jan 2021 01:56:23 GMT

Phil Lowe passed away on January 6, 2021.

Posted January 2021 Featured Piece "Evolution of a New Bed Frame" by Jim Allen

Vincent Valvo — Thu, 31 Dec 2020 04:05:24 GMT

The new year brings a Featured Piece by Jim Allen. Noted for his interest in period furniture, just a couple of months ago this column published his article on Arts and Crafts, Jim has modified the design of a bed frame to be far from that age. However, with hints of Asian, Scandinavian, and Shaker design, Jim has blended a contemporary piece of furniture – sleek, sturdy, and well-crafted. From the look of it, I’m sure Jim sleeps well at night. Read the Evolution of a New Bed Frame article here.

You can reach Jim at here.

Posted Bevel Cut for January, 2021 " Epoxy" by Andrew Davis

Vincent Valvo — Thu, 31 Dec 2020 04:01:04 GMT

River tables are what they are called. Colored epoxy seemingly running along the middle of a dining room table is an example. You’ve seen lots of them now in more creative applications than just dining room tables. In this month’s Bevel Cut article, Andrew Davis writes about epoxy and his attempts using this simple carbon compound, tinted or not, in furniture applications and pitfalls to avoid. Read about Epoxy here.

Andrew welcomes your feedback.

Posted slides of the December 2020 meeting presentation by Jamey Pope

Vincent Valvo — Sun, 27 Dec 2020 22:08:38 GMT

Making a Table Saw Sled was presented and captured in the Resources section.

New Video: How to build a Table Saw Sled by Jamey Pope December 12, 2020

James Russell — Wed, 23 Dec 2020 20:51:17 GMT

Making a Table Saw Sled by Jamey Pope December 12, 2020

Added a new content gadget for accessing Instagram and Facebook.

Vincent Valvo — Tue, 08 Dec 2020 10:21:35 GMT

The Gadget is found on the Home page.

Posted Bevel Cut for December, 2020 " Learning Curve Blues" by Andrew Davis

Vincent Valvo — Thu, 03 Dec 2020 01:51:40 GMT

Learning Curve Blues

by Andrew Davis

There’s no shortage of interesting behavioral aspects about woodworking that Andrew Davis can conjure up. This one is deals with concept of the learning curve. Something we all know intellectually and have experience it practically. I suppose many of us rarely make the same piece repeatedly. I don’t mean when making the same two chairs or tables at the same time. I mean, make them serially. Some of us have taken advantage of the learning curve. Andrew has a way of taking this notion and giving his Bevel Cut version of an everyday activity to another analytical level.

Andrew welcomes your feedback.

Posted Feature Piece of December 2020 "Curly Maple Bureau with Carved Curly Cherry Drawers" by Steve McKenna

Vincent Valvo — Thu, 03 Dec 2020 01:48:05 GMT

Curly Maple Bureau with

Carved Curly Cherry Drawers

by Steve McKenna

This brings a piece back to life from 2018 by Steve McKenna. That’s not to say that the curly maple bureau with carved curly cherry drawers lay dormant since then. It was built for Steve’s daughter-in-law. It’s nice to have a relative who’s a woodworker, especially one as talented as Steve. The name of the piece says it all. But don’t be disturbed when you see the picture of the bureau when taken under a different light. It’s an optical illusion. Have a look.

You can reach Jim at here.

New Video 18th Century Furniture Design by Will Neptune November, 2020

James Russell — Tue, 17 Nov 2020 02:02:10 GMT

The November Guild presentation has been posted to the video library.

18th Century Furniture Design by Will Neptune November, 2020

Posted slides of the presentation by Will Neptune at November 2020 meeting

Vincent Valvo — Sun, 15 Nov 2020 04:11:54 GMT

Period sources written for cabinetmakers wanting to create new designs suggest using techniques borrowed from classical architectural. A compass and straightedge can be used to establish the height and width where parts will be joined, as well as for constructing patterns of curved elements. This talk will present research Will did for an article co-authored with Steve Brown which was published in “American Furniture”, Chipstone Foundation, 2017. Learn how furniture makers built pieces that are seen as well proportioned.

Will will be using a combination of Powerpoint slides, photos, and some short videos showing hand tool work. While the focus is on specific 18th Century work, the techniques can be applied to simpler, yet elegant, moldings and other components of Federal to modern designs and studio furniture.

Posted October 2020 Bevel Cut article "Sharp as a Chisel" by Andrew Davis

Vincent Valvo — Sun, 01 Nov 2020 15:00:00 GMT

Sharp as a Chisel

by Andrew Davis

You might think that the picture above should have been used for last month's article "What's in Your Scrap Heap". But the picture is not a mistake, and that's what Andrew Davis' article is about. Mistakes and mental errors. Like Andrew's, mine, and your scrap pile, the picture above of scrap has contributions made not just from leftover accurate cuts but from bad cuts. All to often, especially when it gets to angles and math, and frankly not paying enough attention to detail, mistakes happen due to mental errors.

We all fall into this category. But in this month's Bevel Cut article Sharp as a Chisel Andrew reveals his own recent experience.

Andrew welcomes your feedback.

Posted October 2020 Featured Piece "Beyond 17th-18th Century Arts and Crafts Movement by Jim Allen

Vincent Valvo — Sat, 31 Oct 2020 01:30:00 GMT

Beyond 17^th - 18^th Century

Period Furniture

The Arts & Crafts Movement

A Medieval Gothic Revival

by Jim Allen

As mentioned in earlier articles, this column is dedicated to all woodworking adventures – furniture, tools, jigs, and more. This month’s Featured Piece is not a piece of furniture per se. The article, however, is an adventure – an adventure in the history of the Arts and Crafts Movement and its influence into the 20^th century. The article was written by Jim Allen and previously published last spring in the GNHW Journal.

Jim describes the essential components of a movement – where does it come from, what is it, and what does it lead to. The article discusses its proponents and what drove the movement into existence. Applying this approach to the Arts and Crafts Movement, this article makes for an excellent read.

You can reach Jim at here.

October 2020 Meeting Video Posted to Guild Video Library

James Russell — Wed, 14 Oct 2020 19:56:37 GMT

The video of the October Guild meeting has been posted to the Guild Video Library. To view, go to the Guild Video Library or click below.

Chair Design and Construction by Matt Wajda October 2020

September 2020 Meeting Video Posted

James Russell — Sun, 04 Oct 2020 17:29:33 GMT

Embellishments for Furniture Makers presentation by Jim Russell has been posted to the Guild Video Library.

Click on "Show More" in the YouTube Description section to see the Timestamps. Click on a Timestamp to jump to that part of the presentation.

This recording of a Zoom presentation was given to the Eastern Massachusetts Guild of Woodworkers in September 2020. A virtual presentation rather than a live presentation was required due to the issues related to COVID-19. The presentation covers multiple topics relating to embellishments for furniture makers. The entire presentation is in excess of 3 hours. Time limitation prevented including the Hammer Veneering section in the virtual demonstration. The Hammer Veneering section is added here for completeness.

Posted October 2020 Bevel Cut article "What's in Your Scrap" by Andrew Davis

Vincent Valvo — Fri, 02 Oct 2020 16:17:35 GMT

What's in Your Scrap?

by Andrew Davis

If you are a woodworker you have a scrap heap. In fact, you may have different scrap heaps sorted for the possibility of later carrying out thoughts of using the pieces for something worthwhile.

Is there value hidden in those heaps other than firewood. The winter is coming. The value is going up. But is that how you want to use those piles?

Andrew reflects on his approach in What's in Your Scrap? Paraphrasing the commercial, don't leave the website without reading it.

Andrew welcomes your feedback.

Posted Feature Piece of October 2020 "Federal-ish Mahogany Dining Table" by Dan Sichel

Vincent Valvo — Fri, 02 Oct 2020 02:30:00 GMT

Federal-ish Mahogany Dining Table

by Dan Sichel

If this dining table looks familiar, it was presented during the Show and Tell at the last end of year Zoom gathering. Here Dan presents the full story that woodworkers will enjoy.

If you like reading about curved aprons, working from 16/4 mahogany, cutting semicircle ends, do-overs because of wood movement and a blotchy finish, and bridle joints this is the article for you. If that wasn’t enough, Dan designed the table to be an extension table with space for two leaves by cleverly using heavy-duty steel drawer slides encased in mahogany. Read all this and more in this month's Feature Piece.

You can reach Dan at here.

Posted Don Michael Remembrance

Vincent Valvo — Thu, 01 Oct 2020 02:50:45 GMT

Posted "Trees for Climate Change" by Jim Allen

Vincent Valvo — Tue, 08 Sep 2020 03:27:21 GMT

Jim Allen provides this information in case you missed the Boston Sunday Globe September 9 article. In the the Address Section an excellent article was printed regarding trees that are heat tolerant, and will be successful in the Climate change environment. The suggestions in the article are offered by John DelRosso, head arborist at the Harvard Arnold Arboretum in Jamaica Plain, Ma. and can be seen here.

Posted September 2020 Bevel Cut article "The Track of Success" by Andrew Davis

Vincent Valvo — Wed, 02 Sep 2020 02:48:36 GMT

The Track of Success

by Andrew Davis

The Bevel Cut is back for another year! This article is about Andrew Davis' perspective on owning a track saw. Given Andrew's awkward entry into his basement workshop (who doesn't have the same misfortune?) Andrew had benefited initially from getting his precisely cut plywood sheets into the workshop. But now Andrews finds other uses.

Click The Track of Success to read Andrew's short but direct assessment of his track saw use.

Andrew welcomes your feedback.

Posted September 2020 Featured Piece "Two Windsor Chairs" by Rob Carver

Vincent Valvo — Sun, 30 Aug 2020 05:22:50 GMT

Two Windsor Chairs

by Rob Carver

Rob Carver kicks off the EMGW membership year with an entertaining article about his two Wndsor chairs. To build these chairs Rob took a a track that not many woodworkers do. Using tools like a drawknife, spokeshaves, scorp, travisher, and compass plane, and others, Rob takes on this challenge this his hands full. Rob even uses his kiln for drying the green wood used for the legs and green oak for the spindles and other parts.

If that wasn't enough, Rob went into riving, whittling, and bending the oak for the spindles.

What you might also find fascinating are the processes and other aids that Rob built to facilitate his work, including his steam "box" and his use of a dual laser level system to identify and measure the compound angle mortises for the seat.

There is so much more to this project and you can read it here.

You can reach Rob at robert.carver@comcast.net.

Added Furniture Sale Notice at The Furniture Institute of Massachusetts

Vincent Valvo — Tue, 28 Jul 2020 20:05:09 GMT

The Furniture Institute of Massachusetts is closing its doors and everything is for sale.

We are starting with the machines.

The first people to respond will get first admittance to the shop.

Four people will be admitted at a time.

Masks are required.

You will have one hour to inspect the machines you're interested in and then the next group of four will be admitted.

All prices as indicated or best reasonable offer.

Purchaser is responsible for moving machines.

Cash or check only

APPOINTMENT ONLY

please email

furniture@verizon.net

NO PHONE CALLS

Click for a list of sale items.

Updated Board of Directors for 2020-2021

Vincent Valvo — Sat, 18 Jul 2020 00:25:05 GMT

New members are assigned including at large members.

Posted pictures from End of Year 2020 Show and Tell

Vincent Valvo — Sun, 28 Jun 2020 22:26:38 GMT

The slideshow displays some of the work of various woodworkers who gave presentations at the annual end of year meeting's Show and Tell.

Edits to Lumber section of Resource -> Links

Vincent Valvo — Sun, 14 Jun 2020 17:42:33 GMT

1. Removed outdated link to newenglandhardwood.com

2. Added clarification that Ralph Southwick Lumber does not possess a website address.

Added the May 2020 Guild meeting presentation to the Guild Video Library

Vincent Valvo — Sun, 31 May 2020 16:38:47 GMT

"Constructing A Walnut and Maple Writing Desk" by Tom McLaughlin of Epic Woodworking May, 2020 was added to the Guild Video Library.

Posted June 2020 Bevel Cut article "Tool Shopping" by Andrew Davis

Vincent Valvo — Fri, 29 May 2020 16:02:01 GMT

When emails arrive marketing the tools you would like to have or a promotion or sale is advertised, what initiates your motivation to buy or pass? Or perhaps while working on a project you’d benefit in quality, safety, or time to finish what would move you to get that in your hands? It’s a tough call. Discretionary savings is often inversely proportional to the desirability of certain tools. So when, if ever, do you pull the string to buy?

Andrew Davis has some thoughts about that in his newest Bevel Cut article on Tool Shopping.

Posted June 2020 Featured Piece "Inside-Out Live Edge Mirror Frame" by Andrew Davis

Vincent Valvo — Fri, 29 May 2020 15:56:07 GMT

Andrew Davis brings to us a fascinating description of his Inside-Out Live Edge Mirror Frame. Starting with a slab of ash, Andrew transforms that with some creative cuts to build a frame for a mirror that gives a natural, “edgy” appearance. Andrew preserves the natural contours of the slab with a thoughtful consideration over where the frame segments are made. The eye-popping appearance is only surpassed by the approach that Andrew took to make it.

Updated Featured Piece of the Month articles in Resources through June, 2020

Vincent Valvo — Wed, 27 May 2020 16:05:51 GMT

Featured Piece of the Month archive can be found under Resources tab.

Updated Bevel Cut articles in Resources archive through June, 2020

Vincent Valvo — Wed, 27 May 2020 16:04:16 GMT

Bevel Cut archive can be found under Resources tab.

Posted pictures of May 2020 Guild meeting "Constructing A Walnut and Maple Writing Desk" by Tom McLaughlin

Vincent Valvo — Sun, 10 May 2020 03:21:20 GMT

This was a virtual meeting hosted by Epic Woodworking on the YouTube channel Epic Woodworking.

Posted May 2020 Bevel Cut article "Math Redux" by Andrew Davis

Vincent Valvo — Tue, 05 May 2020 01:51:28 GMT

Are you ready for some (more) math? Ovals and eggs (ellipses, if you will) and constructing right angles (isosceles and 30/60) are laid out with the woodworker in mind.

And to top it off there's a flashback (no, not to high school!) to last month's Bevel Cut article about the golden ratio.

Here, in simple but quadratic terms is the solution for the golden ratio using the golden ratio equation. Not only does this unlock the ever present golden ratio but it confirms the reason why they teach us this stuff in the first place in high school. You don't have to be a Euclid (Founder of Geometry), Vitruvius (Architecture), Fibonacci (Nature), Da Vinci (Art) or Kepler (Astronomy) now that Bevel Cut is here.

Math Redux class starts with a click here.

Andrew welcomes your feedback.

Updated Bevel Cut articles in Resources through May, 2020

Vincent Valvo — Tue, 05 May 2020 00:31:55 GMT

To view the archive of Bevel Cut articles through May, 2020, click Resources from the Home page. Then click Bevel Cut Articles.

Posted May 2020 Featured Piece "Regulator Clock" by Jim Tartaglia

Vincent Valvo — Mon, 04 May 2020 22:51:13 GMT

This column is has predominantly featured furniture. However, there have been other pieces of note that are not in that category, such as T. Shirley's models, Jewelry box by M. Nierman, Poker Box by V. Valvo and J. Tartaglia, and a special table saw by S. Brown. With "Regulator Clock" Jim has added to this list in the furnishings category.

Jim Tartaglia has been busy this year. This is his second submission in 2020 and third in the academic year. Without taking on a large furniture piece, Jim illustrates that challenges are not in short supply with a smaller piece. Despite his obvious advanced woodworking skill, in this piece Jim is stumped at times with pitfalls that surface. It's how he solves these problems that makes his very readable article appealing and instructional. Besides that, he finished building a piece that he long had on his to-do list.

Reading Jim's article provides part history, part woodworking, and part problem solving.

You can reach Jim at jtartaglia@charter.net

Posted April 2020 Perpetual Novice article "Safety First - Know Your Alcohol" by Don Michael

Vincent Valvo — Mon, 06 Apr 2020 02:08:50 GMT

The Perpetual Novice returns to provide a public service. Previous Perpetual Novice articles have attempted to look at the trials and errors of learning the woodworking craft with a bit of humor. This one is different in that it is serious. I’ve been surprised of late to see the “wrong” alcohols in a number of people’s shops. I’ve known about this for a long time and assumed it was general knowledge, but since it doesn’t seem to be, allow me this one time to slip into lecture mode.

To read more click here.

Posted April 2020 Featured Piece "Five Drawer Miniature Chest" by Len Nyren

Vincent Valvo — Sun, 05 Apr 2020 19:44:23 GMT

Five Drawer Miniature Chest

by Len Nyren

Shown here is this month's featured piece by Len Nyren. Everything about this piece is exquisite in and of itself and reflective of the Chippendale design but it's done on a proportionally smaller level. Made of tiger maple. Len produced this piece to match other similarly sized furniture. The carving is exceptionally well done.

In addition to a nicely written article Len provided several pictures to enhance your viewing of some pf the detail. Take a look at Len's Five Drawer Miniature Chest.

You can reach Len at lnyren@comcast.net

Posted April 2020 Bevel Cut article "Fibonacci is Not a Pizza Topping" by Andrew Davis

Vincent Valvo — Sun, 05 Apr 2020 19:42:32 GMT

Andrew has found a way to write a new article at the confluence of math, woodworking design, and the physical sciences. And all because of an advertisement he read for a new Woodpecker's product. By the way, despite the title of his article he did not mix in any culinary aspects.

It turns out Woodpecker is selling a gadget that assists in the design of furniture using width - length proportions dictated by the golden rule. This stimulated Andrew to think about the 12th-13th century mathematician Fibonacci and his number series that follows that the next term is the sum of the previous two. I could go on but I think I'll leave it to Andrew with his newest Bevel Cut article "Fibonacci is Not a Pizza Topping".

After you read it, ask yourself: have you ever seen an advertisement trigger such a result?

Andrew welcomes your feedback.

Posted article referencing Tom and Dom Johnson's email.

Vincent Valvo — Wed, 01 Apr 2020 18:24:43 GMT

The Johnsons wrote with positive feedback on the website.

Added "Website" section to the "Links" page on the Resources link.

Vincent Valvo — Wed, 01 Apr 2020 18:21:05 GMT

The "Websites" section is accessed via Resources -> Links. Scroll down to the "Websites" section.

New Video - Achieving Curved Furniture Components

James Russell — Wed, 01 Apr 2020 11:09:14 GMT

Thanks to Allen Ganser for video taping, editing and posting the presentation by Phil Lowe on Achieving Curved Furniture Components. It is now part of our Guild Video Library.

Click to watch: Achieving Curved Furniture Components

Posted "BULLETIN: Personal Protective Equipment in Dire Need"

Vincent Valvo — Sat, 28 Mar 2020 16:28:04 GMT

Recently, an email was sent to all EMGW guild members regarding the need for personal protective equipment at local hospitals. The purpose of this message is to reach out to other viewers of this website who are not necessarily the guild members who received that email. We recommended that any PPE (face masks, especially N95, nitrile gloves, gowns, and face shields that you have no immediate need to call your local Board of Health, Primary Care Provider’s office, Fire Department (they usually run the EMS service), or nearest hospital and ask where/how you can donate. Some will accept packages that are opened so don’t let that stop you.

To emphasize that request, we received an unsolicited email from Michael Coughlin, a mental health clinician working in several Boston EDs with an urgent request for PPEs, especially, N95 masks and clear (non-mesh) face shields for Carney Hospital in Dorchester. It was a heart-wrenching email for concern for the understaffed and under-equipped healthcare workers. They are in such need, someone will come to pick up whatever you can offer that are in reasonably good shape. (For example, some hospitals are decontaminating N95 masks using vaporized hydrogen peroxide.) Please call Michael at 781-856-2032. Thank you.

Posted Mar. 2020 Bevel Cut article " Who Said Nature Abhors a Vacuum" by Andrew Davis

Vincent Valvo — Fri, 06 Mar 2020 03:31:40 GMT

Now that you are recovering from last month's article on math applications in woodworking entitled "Arithmetic Can Be Your Friend", it's time to settle into something tangible in woodworking. But still this topic may produce headaches because of all the combinations of dust collector fittings and sizes that often make a simple process become complicated.

Andrew commiserates. Read about his frustrating experience and some solutions that he found in this month's Bevel Cut article.

Andrew welcomes your feedback.

Posted Featured Piece of the Month for Mar. 2020, "Bow Front Table with Embellishments" by Jim Tartaglia

Vincent Valvo — Wed, 04 Mar 2020 03:36:00 GMT

Again we have a featured piece that follows the topic of a recent guild meeting presentation topic. Last month it was Mike Zwolinski's article "Bentwood Leg Table" following the guild meeting topic of Lamination of Curved Furniture Components.

This month, compliments of Jim Tartaglia, the featured piece follows the topic of the February 2020 guild meeting on Advanced Veneering Techniques. In fact, Jim's table top shows a perfect example of the sunburst design. And Jim carries his veneering techniques further by overcoming chatoyance. Building a curved front also had its challenges.

Besides veneering, there is a lot here for the woodworker, including bricking for the curved front, dovetails, and a novel approach to shop-made banding. Jim presents an orderly description of his process and one worthy of reading.

You can reach Jim at jtartaglia@charter.net.

Member Map is updated.

Vincent Valvo — Mon, 02 Mar 2020 01:52:09 GMT

Thanks to Tom Shirley, the map of member locations has been updated. It can be reached by clicking Members -> Member Map.

Posted donation announcement to The Eliot Scholl and rememberance of Jules Siegel

Vincent Valvo — Tue, 18 Feb 2020 18:34:47 GMT

Found on the Home page and will be removed a a later time.

Posted pictures of Febraury, 2020 guild meeting with Mickey Callahan on "Advanced Veneering Techniques"

Vincent Valvo — Mon, 17 Feb 2020 02:20:10 GMT

At the February 2000 EMGW meeting, Mickey Callahan from Woodcraft of Walpole was the guest presenter on “Advanced Veneering Techniques”. Mickey demonstrated veneering techniques for louis cubes, sand shading, sunburst, and herringbone.

Posted February 2020 Bevel Cut article "Arithmetic Can Be Your Friend" by Andrew Davis

Vincent Valvo — Sun, 02 Feb 2020 00:46:53 GMT

Arithmetic Can Be Your Friend

by Andrew Davis

Before you break out in a cold sweat from flashbacks to high school math, the picture above is not meant to scare you away. It's only a picture of geometry functions that you probably already use without knowing it.

Andrew presents math techniques of various woodworking applications. You need not follow the math per se. Just realize that there are many ways to solve a woodworking measurement. It worked for Leonardo in other fields. While never exceeding basic algebra and some geometry, Leonardo worked on trial and error approximations that went into the cast for his 26' bronze horse, his paintings in perspective, and his inventions.

So given your experience with woodworking you should have an upper hand. Have a look but know you proceed at your own risk.

Andrew welcomes your feedback.

Posted Featured Piece of the Month for February 2020, "Bentwood Leg Table" by Mike Zwolinski

Vincent Valvo — Sat, 01 Feb 2020 17:04:26 GMT

The timeliness of the previous month's (January 2020) guild meeting topic ("Curved Furniture Components") couldn't be better. Featured here is Mike Zwolinski's Bentwood Leg Table.

Mike, a guild member and professional woodworker (see his website), uses bent lamination (his reasons are provided in documented) for the table legs and the result is eye candy for the observer.

His easy to read document sends the reader on the project from start to finish with design, details, and even some discovery. I'm sure you will be impressed with the workmanship and the steps taken to achieve this outstanding result. This is Mike Zwolinski's first submission. I hope to see more.

You can reach Mike at
mike.zwolinski@gmail.com.

Posted the Non-Guild Worksop Event: "Making Inlay Paterea" by Michael Patrick Wheeler

Vincent Valvo — Wed, 29 Jan 2020 04:52:51 GMT

See the Upcoming Non-Guild Events for February, 29 - March 1, 2020.

Posted pictures of January, 2020 guild meeting with Phil Lowe

Vincent Valvo — Mon, 20 Jan 2020 01:31:34 GMT

Phil Lowe, a long-time favorite presenter of the Guild, demonstrated how to achieve curved furniture components using the techniques of bricking, bent lamination, resawing the shape, block resaw, kerf cutting, and coopering.

Posted Jan. 2020 Bevel Cut article "Build or Buy Redux" by Andrew Davis

Vincent Valvo — Thu, 02 Jan 2020 17:38:40 GMT

Last month Andrew wrote about the general dilemma of building or buying the accessory to your workshop. This month Andrew writes about his own dilemma with regard to his own workshop - the workbench. The buy option pictured above is the Sjoberg Elite 1500 workbench (showing the optional cabinet).

Andrew is deliberating over which approach (even a hybrid approach) to take. Included in his article are suggestions he received from fellow guild members in response to a recent entry in the message forum.

Andrew would welcome more feedback.

Posted Featured Piece of the Month for Jan. 2020, "My First Table Saw" by Scott Brown

Vincent Valvo — Thu, 02 Jan 2020 17:36:36 GMT

This may be the first tool featured as the piece of the month. We all have tools that are special to us woodworkers. Some are a joy to use; some are gifts; some are extremely time efficient; some have unique uses; some have sentimental value. I could go on but they have some sort of story behind them.

In this case Scott writes about his first table saw. It's not exactly the same as remembering your first kiss, but I bet you all have a memory of your first table saw.

Reading Scott's article you will see why it's a special tool.

Posted pictures of Dec. 2019 guild meeting with Chris Nassise

Vincent Valvo — Thu, 02 Jan 2020 01:29:42 GMT

Chris Nassise, from the workshops of Sturbridge Village, demonstrated the processing of rough lumber into finished furniture using primarily hand tools.

Posted Dec. 2019 Bevel Cut article "Build or Buy" by Andrew Davis

Vincent Valvo — Tue, 03 Dec 2019 01:21:21 GMT

This month Andrew discusses another dilemma for woodworkers - whether to make or buy the jig (or fixture). Even beginners face this question, though admittedly some jigs may be beyond their skill set.

On the other end of the spectrum I know a clever woodworker who rarely considers the buy response. In fact, he'll sell you a self-made jig at cost and materials in the single digits for $79.99.

So take a look at Andrew's article and see if his observations are familiar to you.

Posted Featured Piece of the Month for Dec. 2019, "Poker Chip Box" by Vincent Valvo and Jim Tartaglia

Vincent Valvo — Mon, 02 Dec 2019 23:56:51 GMT

As evidenced by this month's featured piece this column is not devoted only to furniture. Jigs, fixtures, tools, and other pieces related to woodworking are also welcome.

The poker chip box is a whimsical piece of woodworking that is enjoyed at the home of the poker club that uses it. From a woodworking perspective, skills including veneering, routing, marquetry, miter cuts, splines, building the wood hinge and others are used. Alternating maple and mahogany veneered sides of the box include the woodworkers' original design for the removable poker chip holders and tray for related contents. Take a look inside here.

Posted pictures of Nov. 2019 guild meeting

Vincent Valvo — Sun, 24 Nov 2019 02:35:14 GMT

Jamey Pope was guest presenter demonstrating techniques and fixtures used to making the banjo and mandolin in W. Concord.

Posted November, 2019 Bevel Cut article "Number Theory" by Andrew Davis

Vincent Valvo — Fri, 01 Nov 2019 17:57:00 GMT

Before introducing Andrew's newest issue, I'd like to mention that this is the three year anniversary of Andrew Davis' Bevel Cut column. So congratulations and thanks to Andrew for his dedication, insights, and humor for highlighting both standard and niche woodworking topics.

The topic that Andrew picked for this month's Bevel Cut issue is something that has bewildered me ever since the first time I ventured into the hand plane world. So I give Andrew my personal thanks for beginning to sort out the number system, random as it seems, for hand plane sizes.

This article is a keeper for reference as there's always a temptation to get one's hands on another hand plane for that special reason that currently owned hand planes don't satisfy. Read it here.

Posted Featured Piece of the Month for November 2019, "Armoire" by Bob McKee Allen

Vincent Valvo — Fri, 01 Nov 2019 02:44:50 GMT

I believe (and I should know) that this is Bob McKee's first submission as a Feature Piece. As you probably know Bob is another experienced woodworker and active member of the guild. For those of you who don't know of Bob's woodworking skills, this article will set the story straight.

The piece is made of spalted maple and black walnut. Bob writes about the design, joinery, issues overcome, finishing and more.

I'm sure after reading his article, that you will agree with me that we would like to see more in this column from him.

Posted non-guild event: Providence Fine Furniture Show

Vincent Valvo — Tue, 08 Oct 2019 01:44:28 GMT

Show starts Nov. 8 at 5pm and lasts until Nov. 10 at 4pm.

See non-guild lineup for details.

Posted October, 2019 Bevel Cut article "We've Entered the Space Age" by Andrew Davis

Vincent Valvo — Fri, 04 Oct 2019 03:13:51 GMT

There never seems to be enough space in a workshop. And, except for rare examples, no matter how large one designs that initially spacious workshop, it fills over time.

Andrew writes about this common issue and its possible remedies with truth and humor in his October 2019 edition.

Posted Featured Piece of the Month for October, 2019 "Oak Sideboard" by Jim Allen

Vincent Valvo — Thu, 03 Oct 2019 00:34:07 GMT

Jim Allen describes his oak sideboard from a personal perspective. The wood comes from his backyard and the sideboard sits in his house. The glass didn't come from his property but it was carefully chosen.

The predominately oak piece is accented with cocobolo and African blackwood, Clearly, it's a beautiful piece. Read about it here.

Posted pictures from Guild presence at Mass. Town Forest Conference

Vincent Valvo — Sat, 21 Sep 2019 02:16:18 GMT

Pictures show the first guild meeting of the new membership year 2019-2010 at the Sherborn Town Forest as part of the Massachusetts Town Forest Conference.

Posted September, 2019 Bevel Cut article "Inlays" by Andrew Davis

Vincent Valvo — Fri, 30 Aug 2019 02:21:43 GMT

Embellishments in woodworking projects can offer such impressive highlights that they draw the viewer's eye to it and away from other deserving workmanship like joinery, bookmatching, veneering, and other woodworking skills.Andrew Davis discusses various inlay embellishments, which can be pre-planned or reactive. To understand this better read Andrew's article Inlays.

Posted Featured Piece of the Month for September, 2019 "Original Alden House Model" by Tom Shirley

Vincent Valvo — Fri, 30 Aug 2019 01:33:14 GMT

Tom Shirley kicks off the new EMGW membership year with a woodworking piece that he completed last spring.
Tom was contacted by the administration of the Alden House Museum to build a replica model of the historic house of John and Priscilla Alden in Duxbury, MA.

The model is on display as part of an exhibit at the museum. Apart from the woodworking aspects, Tom's article describes how the measurements and overall design of the original house were made and how he approached building the model to scale.

Posted "Respecting the Grain" Show in Lexington.

Vincent Valvo — Mon, 12 Aug 2019 17:09:55 GMT

Look for the Lexington Woodworker's Guild show entitled "Respecting The Grain" at 130 Waltham St., Lexington, MA. EMGW guild member Steve McKenna has been invited to be a presenter among other masters of studio furniture. For more info look on the Home Page for a flyer showing details.

Posted September 14, 2019 Gild Meeting Announcement

Vincent Valvo — Tue, 23 Jul 2019 22:16:25 GMT

Information is presented on EMGW website Home screen and in the Event announcement. Both provide a link for more details.

FIG meeting at the Cape

Vincent Valvo — Mon, 22 Jul 2019 16:15:26 GMT

Posted info about the July, 2019 FIG meeting at the home of Dr. Michael O'Neill at Harwich.

Posted non-guild event: A Passion for American Art: Selections from the Carolyn and Peter Lynch Collection

Vincent Valvo — Wed, 10 Jul 2019 02:29:06 GMT

Located at Peabody Essex Museum until December, 2019.

Posted pictures of E-O-Y Guild neeting

Vincent Valvo — Mon, 10 Jun 2019 16:27:17 GMT

Pictures of the 2018-2019 end of year meeting were posted.

Posted Metallurgy Reference Information in support of the "Metallurgy for Woodworkers" meeting.

Vincent Valvo — Sat, 18 May 2019 23:18:41 GMT

Access the file by clicking Resources, then Meeting Presentations or click here.

Posted pictures of the May, 2019 Guild meeting with Med Chandler's "Metallurgy for Woodwokers"

Vincent Valvo — Sat, 18 May 2019 22:53:46 GMT

The meeting location was at HNE Millwork in Woburn. Several presentation tables can be accessed on the Website via Resources->Meeting Presentations.

Posted Featured Piece of the Month for May, 2019 "Pembroke Table" by Ken Zoller

Vincent Valvo — Sun, 05 May 2019 01:22:06 GMT

This is Ken Zoller's second entry for the Featured Piece of the Month. It's obvious Ken likes to take on new challenges. It helps when he executes spectacular pieces like his latest piece, the Pembroke Table, as you will see when reading his article. There's nothing like success for motivation.

Ken's article is also a fine piece. Ken took pictures while building the table. As you will see there are many stages and challenges along the way. Ken has a fine way of describing his process and lessons learned. Enjoy the read and if you have a moment drop him an e-line. His email address can be found in the Members directory.

Posted May, 2019 Bevel Cut article "Who Owns What?" about brands by Andrew Davis

Vincent Valvo — Sun, 05 May 2019 01:19:17 GMT

This month Andrew steps out into a new "cut" of his Bevel Cut column. This thoughtful article lays out tables of brands that belong to the parent company, or as the title asks, who owns what?

For example, did you know that Porter-Cable belongs to the already merged conglomerate of Stanley Decker and Stanley. DeWalt too! How about Ryobi and Milwaukee (among others) are brands owned by Techtronic Industries? Yep. Skil and others are owned by Chevron. OK, how about, who owns saw blade makers Freud and Diablo?

You probably know that Jet and Powermatic are owned jointly by JPW Industries. But did you know that JPW and other manufacturing companies (Compass Health and TTG) are owned by TENEX Capital Management. [Ed.]

RIDGID is an interesting company. Two conglomerates own different lines of RIDGID's business. The list goes on. You can read about it and tables of these ownership portfolios in Andrew's article Who Own What?

Notification of non-guild event: Visions of Design: Parallels in Mid-Century Modern and Shaker Furniture

Vincent Valvo — Sat, 04 May 2019 13:48:13 GMT

Presented at Fruitlands Museum in Harvard, MA; May 11, 2019 to March 22, 2020

Refer to the Non-guild Events column on Home page for more info.

Visions of Design presents parallels found in Shaker furniture and Mid-century Modern furniture, with pieces drawn from Fruitlands Museum’s Shaker collection and from Field Farm in Williamstown, former home of avid modern art and furniture collectors Lawrence and Eleanor Pamedo Bloedel, which is now a six-room Bed and Breakfast. The Shakers, a religious communal society who settled throughout the eastern United States, flourishing in the mid-1800s, and the Modernists, recognized for their use of innovative aesthetic forms in the mid-twentieth century, were each inspired by close relationships with the landscape. Despite existing a century apart, their mutual sensitivity to place, materials, and intended use led both to prioritize purpose over decoration when creating and collecting furniture and art. The furniture and art in this exhibition may intrigue visitors to think differently about how the design of furniture evolves.

In addition to comparison of these two collections, cabinetmaker Eli Cleveland, distinguished alumni of North Bennet Street School, Boston, will create replicas of three pieces of furniture in the exhibit, with yet-to-be assembled parts seeming to float in the center of the gallery, dramatically highlighting how the furniture was fabricated.

Posted pictures of the April, 2019 Guild meeting with Tom McLaughlin

Vincent Valvo — Sat, 27 Apr 2019 23:47:28 GMT

Meeting on "Chair Making Basics" was held at HNE Millwork in Woburn, MA.

Posted April, 2019 Bevel Cut article "Squaring a Board" by Andrew Davis

Vincent Valvo — Mon, 08 Apr 2019 18:50:05 GMT

Paul Schulz wrote a step by step procedural document using power tools for his students at Lincoln-Sudbury High School for squaring a board. Andrew Davis has submitted Paul's document "Squaring a Board" for those of us who haven't mastered the hand plane approach.

In addition, you can click No-Fail Routines For Jointing And Planing to read the article of the same name written by Wood Magazine staff and published in Wood Magazine. The article includes pictures and a video providing step by step instructions. Special concerns about grain direction, sizes, and rough shapes are addressed.

Posted Featured Piece of the Month for April, 2019 "Seymour Ladies Workstand" by Michael Patrick Wheeler

Vincent Valvo — Tue, 02 Apr 2019 00:13:41 GMT

Michael has submitted to EMGW his copyrighted article now available for posting on the EMGW website. This is a detailed article complete with history, plans, dimensions, instructions, and advice for ambitious woodworkers who might be willing to invest some time to make your own. Michael writes, "This piece took me 3 months to make off and on. It took more time to write about it. It's a piece I copied from Furniture Masterworks of John and Thomas Seymour by Robert Mussey. I cut all the veneers myself as well as made all the bandings."

Have a read. It's an impressive article describing an impressive piece.

Added membership only discount offer to Lake Erie Toolworks

Vincent Valvo — Sun, 17 Mar 2019 05:04:57 GMT

The link to read about Lake Erie Toolworks products and discount is found under the Members tab. Be sure you are logged into for access.

Board Meeting Minutes 3/14/2019

James Russell — Fri, 15 Mar 2019 11:26:45 GMT

Most recent Board Meeting minutes posted to the Members section. Go the the Members section or click here Board Meeting Minutes March 14, 2019

Posted pictures of the March, 2019 Guild meeting with Peter Galbert

Vincent Valvo — Tue, 12 Mar 2019 03:11:57 GMT

Guild meeting took place at Wellesley Free Library.

Posted March, 2019 Bevel Cut article "Slab Mania" by Andrew Davis

Vincent Valvo — Fri, 01 Mar 2019 03:34:08 GMT

Working with wood slabs is a subset of fine woodworking. It requires an attractive and strong support for the slab, joinery, and finishing. No slab based tables are alike and they can be very attractive as is one of Andrew's creations in ambrosia pictured on the Home page. Andrew writes about his experience with slab based tables and benches with respect to procuring and working with slabs. It's a quick read and provides his woodworker's viewpoints in Slab Mania.

Posted Featured Piece of the Month for March, 2019 "Asia Influence Table" by Jim Tartaglia

Vincent Valvo — Fri, 01 Mar 2019 03:32:14 GMT

Jim describes his piece influenced by Thomas Moser influenced by Asian design. In this table, Jim included some tricky joinery and bowed cross pieces. Some of this is mindful of a piece that Jim helped me with. That was a cabinet that is suspended from a table that uses a similar cross-frame structure and "inverted" legs.

I remember Jim and me visiting a Thomas Moser showroom in Boston and marveling over his designs and workmanship. While my piece was designed from the Mission style, Jim has taken his piece to the East with airy, delicate, and aesthetic features. For a description of the piece by Jim click Asian Influence Table.

Moved Period Furniture article by Jim Allen to the Resources -> Papers and Articles section.

Vincent Valvo — Sun, 17 Feb 2019 06:50:32 GMT

Moved Period Furniture article by Jim Allen to the Resources -> Papers and Articles section. Both Part 1 and Part 2 are listed under Papers and Articles.

Pictures of February, 2019 Guild meeting with Will Neptune are posted

Vincent Valvo — Sun, 17 Feb 2019 06:40:13 GMT

See the slide show for pictures of Will Neptune's presentation at the February, 2019 meeting entitled “Engineering a Table with Drawers”. Pictures taken by Tom Shirley in Vincent's absence.

New Video: Demonstration on how to make an iconic Shaker box by Jim Tartaglia, EMGW, Dec 2018

James Russell — Sat, 02 Feb 2019 14:29:48 GMT

New video of our December 2018 monthly meeting.

Demonstration on how to make an iconic Shaker box by Jim Tartaglia, EMGW, Dec 2018

Posted February 2019 issue for Bevel Cut

Vincent Valvo — Sat, 02 Feb 2019 04:22:40 GMT

Applying dyes on wood to generate a specific appearance can be a trial and error exercise. As Andrew Davis writes, it takes considerable experimenting and several dyes before the desired color materializes. This can be a costly endeavor. Read Andrew's article Something to Dye For to read more.

With another topic in the article Andrew wonders about the ability to develop a tools library for the guild.

Posted February 2019 issue of Featured Piece of the Month

Vincent Valvo — Sat, 02 Feb 2019 04:20:29 GMT

After seeing an exceptional furniture piece, have you ever wondered what was his/her motivation for the design, the joinery, or even the build process? John George reveals his thinking for these and other choices in a wonderfully organized and detailed description of his Bowed Apron Night Stand. It's a remarkable description and a must read from one of the Guild's outstanding woodworkers.

New Video: Design & Joinery of Curved Parts by Mickey Callahan EMGW Mar 2016

James Russell — Fri, 01 Feb 2019 13:03:38 GMT

A video of our monthly meeting from May 2016 (an oldie but a goodie) has been added to the video library.

Design & Joinery of Curved Parts by Mickey Callahan EMGW Mar 2016

New Video: Routers in Woodworking by Andrew Texiera, EMGW May 2018

James Russell — Fri, 01 Feb 2019 12:57:08 GMT

Routers in Woodworking by Andrew Texiera, EMGW May 2018

A video of our monthly meeting from May 2018 has been added to the library.

New Video: Curved surfaces coopering by Matt Wajda, EMGW, Oct 2018

James Russell — Wed, 30 Jan 2019 12:06:18 GMT

Video of the EMGW monthly meeting in October 2018.

Curved surfaces coopering by Matt Wajda, EMGW, Oct 2018

New Video - Veneering - Mickey Callahan - Nov 2018

James Russell — Tue, 29 Jan 2019 12:03:25 GMT

Video of the November meeting presentation by Mickey Callahan

Veneering - press vs hammer vs bag by Micky Callahan, EMGW, Nov 2018.

Pictures of January, 2019 Guild meeting are posted

Vincent Valvo — Mon, 14 Jan 2019 00:07:50 GMT

Pictures show the presentation by Phil Lowe of "less common joinery".

January, 2019 Bevel Cut article on Drill Bits is posted

Vincent Valvo — Wed, 02 Jan 2019 06:12:13 GMT

Andrew Davis develops a family tree of drill bits. Check it out on the article on the Home page.

Posted January, 2019 Featued Piece of the Month

Vincent Valvo — Mon, 31 Dec 2018 17:31:22 GMT

Check out Dave McCormick's submission describing his Huntboard design found on the Home page.

December's Featured Piece of the Month is posted.

Vincent Valvo — Tue, 18 Dec 2018 07:16:08 GMT

Yep, it's Santa's Sleigh - what else. It's December!

Pictures of December, 2018 Guild meeting are posted

Vincent Valvo — Tue, 18 Dec 2018 06:18:01 GMT

Pictures of December, 2018 Guild meeting about Shaker boxes are posted.

Posted "The EMGW Auction Nets a Tidy Sum" article

Vincent Valvo — Sun, 09 Dec 2018 06:49:36 GMT

Posted "The EMGW Auction Nets a Tidy Sum" article on the Home page.

The map of the 2018-2019 guild members was updated.

Vincent Valvo — Sat, 08 Dec 2018 18:51:31 GMT

An updated map of the 2018-2019 guild members was updated by Tom Shirley. The map, which shows locations superimposed on a map of Eastern Massachusetts, can be accessed by clicking Members -> Member Map.

Posted article on the Toy Making Project

Vincent Valvo — Wed, 28 Nov 2018 02:52:16 GMT

Posted article on the Toy Making Project to date. Pictures and text are found on the Home page.

Cash Only EMGW Auction article was posted.

Vincent Valvo — Fri, 23 Nov 2018 23:40:32 GMT

Posted "Cash Only EMGW Auction To Be Held at December 8 Guild Meeting" article on Home page. Content by Don Michael.

Pictures of November, 2108 Guild meeting are posted

Vincent Valvo — Wed, 14 Nov 2018 05:48:31 GMT

Pictures of November, 2108 Guild meeting are posted on the Home page. The meeting topic was clamp press, vacuum bag, and hammer veneering by Mickey Callahan of Woodcraft Walpole.

Shaker Box Articles Posted for Dec. 18, 2018 Guild meeting

Vincent Valvo — Wed, 07 Nov 2018 02:26:01 GMT

Supporting documents for the Dec. 18, 2018 Guild meeting on Making Shaker Boxes. Click the files to display and then optionally print the desired document.

J Wilson Shaker Boxes.pdf

Shaker box Dec18 mtg.pdf

November, 2018 Bevel Cut article "Fake News" is posted

Vincent Valvo — Mon, 05 Nov 2018 20:19:03 GMT

Who doesn't want to purchase that desired tool or wood species that would add value to your woodworking needs? So when a sale comes by perhaps it's finally the time to dig in and purchase it. After all, it's all about timing and when will the cost of that item ever be better? If you are ever wondering whether to bite, read Andrew Davis' November Bevel Cut Article "Fake News".

Bob McKee article on his Moxon Vise added

James Russell — Mon, 29 Oct 2018 23:53:21 GMT

Bob McKee's Moxon Vise article

Restored Website Changes Blog

James Russell — Mon, 29 Oct 2018 23:23:09 GMT

The original blog of website changes page was somehow deleted will all the change history. A new blog has been started to reflect changes going forward.