The Long Dusty Trail

I am making an apartment-sized dining table for the May/June issue of Woodworker’s Journal. It is a sweet design made from solid white oak with some template routing and inlay work. All in all, it is a great little project, and I am enjoying the build.

But there is no yin without the yang.

Yesterday and today are “sanding days” for this table. While sanding is indeed tedious, I look at it as my super power. I am rigorous and organized as I go through the operation. I take the time needed and do not skimp on grits. My personal process is to sand hardwoods that will have a stained or clear finish to a minimum of 400-grit and usually 600-grit. I know the arguments against that sort of extra effort, but my results speak for themselves. To coin a phrase, surface preparation is its own reward.

I would like to write a bit more, but the R.O. sander is calling me!

Rob Johnstone, Woodworker’s Journal

March/April 2021 What’s in Store

Take a closer look at some new tools hitting store shelves, including offerings from Rockler, RYOBI and WORX.

Toggle Clamping Aid Makes Helpful Third Hand

A simple toggle clamp setup on his workbench helps give this reader an extra set of hands for keeping things held down and steady.

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