Rob's Editorial

Haiku from You, the eZine Readers

Last time out, I asked the eZine faithful to send in some woodworking-themed haikus. And, as usual, you did not disappoint. We could only pick three winners to receive the great prizes below, but click on over to the “Feedback” section of this eZine to read many more lines of poetry dedicated to your favorite hobby. The first prize woodworking poetry of the five-seven-five syllable variety goes to Mike Parker, whose entry manages to evoke the yearing for the shop that’s familiar to every woodworker (particularly those who spend more time at our desks than in our shop): The lumber awaits The blueprint, the skillful cut, The well driven nail. Mike will be getting a $50 gift certificate from Rockler Woodworking and Hardware. Second prize, a copy of the book, The Collins Complete Woodworker, goes to Gabriel Harris's entry that summarizes a story which is an old, familiar tale to woodworkers: Ready for glue-up Dry fit went perfectly fine What the hell happened? And, finally, the third place winner of a supply of Rockler tack cloths, is Thomas M. Scott. His haiku has kind of a zen quality about it… As more shavings fly, The less I am inclined To sweep them all up. Thanks to everyone who entered and gave all of us at Woodworker’s Journal such fun reading. And Robert Chagnon, while outright pandering to the judges doesn’t necessarily put you in the prize running, it does get you in my eZine editorial. Reading lines like “Woodworker’s Journal, I read cover to cover. It’s the best ever.” and “If you need advice, the “Woodworker’s Journal is thorough and precise.” Reminds me of why, even when that desk job takes me away from the shop, I still love what I do for a living. Rob Johnstone, Woodworker's Journal

Today's Woodworker		Austin Clark: High-strung Wood, High-toned Sounds Pick up one of Austin Clark’s exquisite mandolins, turn it over in your hands and play a few notes, and you may be convinced that this is the product of a man who was destined from birth to build these fine musical instruments. The truth, though, is entirely different.
Tool Preview		RIDGID 18V AutoShift™ Drill/Driver: The Drill That Knows Your Speed RIDGID calls the new technology found in their 18V R86014 Drill/Driver “AutoShift™.” Although it probably wouldn’t have been the best marketing decision, they could just as easily have called it “anti-stupid.” Having frequently found myself in need of idiot-proof tools, I appreciate that.
Q & A		Finding Good Wood I find that I just can't achieve truly good results when working with “bad" wood. Can you recommend some tips and sources for finding good, straight, clear wood?
Feedback		Tommy bar, Laser and Words, Both Prose and Poetry Tommy Bar, the Word That Just Won’t Die It seems harmless to us, but the use of the term Tommy bar has generated more angst over the past three issues than many more serious issues we’ve touched upon, and it still is not over. – Editor
Industry Interview		Varathane: EZ, Foam Home! Once upon a time, stain was colored liquid. It changed the color of wood just fine, but was messy and tended to drip. Eventually, gel stain appeared on the horizon, offering less drip and a bit more convenience. Now Varathane, one of the most respected names in wood finishing, has gone a step further. Say hello to Foam Stain.
Web Surfer's Review		On Fences and Firewood Finishes Rip Fence Rumination: from WoodCentral Sometimes folks wax eloquent on message boards. This rather long entry and its response are good examples of some very worthwhile, albeit lengthy, online reading. – Editor
Free Plans		Router Bit Box If you’re a woodworker, it’s likely you have a collection of router bits. Where to put them all? The answer: here in this handy Router Bit Box, which can also store your edge guide and other accessories. (And keep an eye out for the November/December print issue of Woodworker’s Journal, which will introduce you to even more can’t-live-without-‘em router bits.)
Calendar		View our Calendar of Events
What's In Store		ProMaxRT - Bench Dog The Bench Dog ProMax router tabletop provides more than than 5 square feet of ultra-flat, cast-iron work surface. It also comes with a 32” fence with two MDF sub-fences, T-tracks, dust port and integrated bit guard, in packages to fit a variety of routers, priced at $599.99. ...
Schools		View our list of Woodworking Schools