tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-60123436074467312042024-03-05T21:11:33.884-08:00Planes of Reference, Corp.Ramblings (and goofy grammar) of a Custom Furniture and Cabinet MakerJason Herrickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05025150376563882246noreply@blogger.comBlogger47125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6012343607446731204.post-74166945296572042392012-06-13T17:10:00.001-07:002012-06-13T17:10:13.958-07:00Hello old Friends!<br />
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I just logged on to write a new post and noticed that the Google Gods are angry with me and have deleted all of my photos from the blog. UGGG! I hope to find out how to get them back. If I don't, then bye-bye Google. I shall host elsewhere.<br />
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I will keep you all posted. If anybody has some help they want to offer, feel free to email me. I'll bet I'm not the first person to experience this.<br />
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It's good to be back writing again after such a crazy few months. We'll see you all soon!<br />
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Cheers! <br />
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<br />Jason Herrickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05025150376563882246noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6012343607446731204.post-2250101347570476732012-04-18T18:25:00.000-07:002012-04-18T18:25:21.412-07:00We're headed EastHi there PORC fans,<br />
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I know posts have been few and far between. I offer my apologies for that. I've been slammed getting everything together and finished for my upcoming trip to Colorado. I leave Saturday with trailer in tow full of a dinning table, sideboard, TV cabinet, fireplace mantle, office furniture, kitchen cabs, some bedroom stuff, and a fully loaded caffeine cooler.<br />
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The job has been full of challenges, mainly because it's 1100 miles away. By far my most long distance job thus far that requires my install.<br />
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Just two weeks ago I had a spotless shop ready for a party. Today, I look around and see piles of sawdust, and 80% finished furniture and cabinets everywhere. Franky, it's a bit over whelming. I have to step back and finish one little piece at a time. Set drawer fronts here, hang doors there, and mill up a few do-dads and thing-a-ma-gigs here and there.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-t5d-FZVXggI/T49oieLVU1I/AAAAAAAAM2E/WOpvTMs5XxU/s1600/_MG_0029-15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-t5d-FZVXggI/T49oieLVU1I/AAAAAAAAM2E/WOpvTMs5XxU/s1600/_MG_0029-15.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NOxrVTpSVnM/T49oiiuCrII/AAAAAAAAM2Q/Dc2mfVhkIBQ/s1600/_MG_0030-16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NOxrVTpSVnM/T49oiiuCrII/AAAAAAAAM2Q/Dc2mfVhkIBQ/s1600/_MG_0030-16.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-y_c8Tb3Z8SQ/T49ojLx8dGI/AAAAAAAAM2Y/671X2XwIKyQ/s1600/_MG_0035-16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-y_c8Tb3Z8SQ/T49ojLx8dGI/AAAAAAAAM2Y/671X2XwIKyQ/s1600/_MG_0035-16.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EfYbd1P5oIM/T49ojaXUq1I/AAAAAAAAM2g/jQlXQ6TUGdk/s1600/_MG_0036-14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EfYbd1P5oIM/T49ojaXUq1I/AAAAAAAAM2g/jQlXQ6TUGdk/s1600/_MG_0036-14.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yZAk3wrutXI/T49ojsl09gI/AAAAAAAAM2o/J3fSNEawQvk/s1600/_MG_0043-12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yZAk3wrutXI/T49ojsl09gI/AAAAAAAAM2o/J3fSNEawQvk/s1600/_MG_0043-12.jpg" /></a></div><br />
I wish my photo skills had a bit more awesomeness, as I would have shared the progress, but no luck. Lots of stuff awaiting my attention. Anyhow.......... Below is the current view of the shop as I write today's post. I will try to shoot a few pics as install progresses. Until then............. Thanks for stopping in.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uOLNpn6IOJk/T49pKOdSU1I/AAAAAAAAM2w/GeGP28MvIko/s1600/_MG_0022-14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uOLNpn6IOJk/T49pKOdSU1I/AAAAAAAAM2w/GeGP28MvIko/s640/_MG_0022-14.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
Cheers.Jason Herrickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05025150376563882246noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6012343607446731204.post-56563260752440375492012-04-04T16:23:00.000-07:002012-04-04T16:23:02.985-07:00We're Back!Hey there PORC fans.<br />
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WOW! What a couple weeks! We made it through the party with flying colors. In fact, the party was such a hit, it may just become an annual tradition. Thank you to all the amazing friends and family that made it so great. My visiting family made the final prep seamless. My friends and clients made the actual party, a full on blast! All in all, about 80+ or so turned out. The parking lot was full of double parked cars. The tunes were cranking, drinks flowing, and stomachs were a fillin'.<br />
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GREAT night!!! If you missed it....... No worries, there will be more to come.<br />
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Now, lets move forward. Several cool blog posts are germinating in my crazy head, but just haven't had time to write them. I will unravel them over the next couple months.<br />
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By far the most interest I've received from you all is the new software I purchased to aid in my design process. The program I went with is made by Planit Solutions. I chose Cabinet Vision. They have a full line of design tools, but this most suits my needs.<br />
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I am able to create fabulous renderings, shop drawings, budgets, reports, cut-lists and generate CNC code all from within one robust program.<br />
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I am in the early stages of stumbling around with it, so to do a post about it's workings at this point would be a bit premature, but please know it's in the works. What I've learned thus far is it is simple to use, and the interface in which I work is great.<br />
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I tried about 5 other programs available, and was amazed at the user-friendliness and the quality of renderings. I rely on the drawings from the computer to help my clients visualize what their final product will look like. It needs to have some polish. It needs to paint a nice clean picture. CV does this. Every other program I looked at was a bit disappointing in this area.<br />
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The other selling point was the user interface. I've been using Sketchup for several years now, and the interface is clean, easy, and to the point. It looks great to an outsider, but more important, it's easy to work with. AutoCAD is the same way, as is RhinoCAD. When I looked at some of the other options to me, I found their interface to look old, outdated, clunky and hard to navigate.<br />
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In regards to learning the software. Included with the new tool is plenty of training. Lots of online videos, personal one on one training sessions, and unlimited tech support by phone. So far, I've had it for about 2 months and have yet to call in or email a question. I've designed 2 kitchens, and a handful of other cabinets on it and have made it work. Granted, I still need training. I need a lot of it. I've only scratched the surface of it's potential. I spent over 1.5 hours trying to place a window in the middle of a wall with another program with NO luck. I was able to figure out how to custom shape parts and download CAD drawings and install them into the current project I was working on within about an hour. Bye bye other program.<br />
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Go to their <a href="http://www.cabinetvision.com/">website </a>and check out the promotional videos. It will impress you for sure. It did me. <br />
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You may be asking yourself..... What's different about some fancy program apposed to Skethcup? Imagine this: Say your building a house from the ground up. First lets dig out the foundation with a big machine. Great no problem. First though, you have to build the machine one nut and bolt at a time. Then, you have to go dig up the rock that is used to make the concrete. Then cut down the tree that makes 2x4 lumber. On and on it goes. Get the idea? The process is possible, but VERY slow. I would prefer to go rent a backhoe, call the concrete company to have some mud delivered, and have the lumber dealer supply me with kiln dried lumber. Quick and easy.<br />
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With the new software, all of those tools, all of those parts already have been made for me. All I need to do it ask for one. From a sheet of plywood, an 8/4 piece of walnut or a knife hinge. The items already exist in the system and are ready to play with all the other parts stored in there as well.<br />
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Now that I have the raw ingredients to make my piece of furniture, I tell the computer how to make it. I have the flexibly to "store" my building methods in the memory of the computer. I simply tell the program that I always use .625" maple for my drawer sides, and I always use Grass 3D softclose drawer slides, and the computer knows that every time a cabinet with a drawer in it pops up, it has all the info needed to add the drawers. It knows the size, cost and material count for everything, every time. Certain parts of this are available with Sketchup, however I would 80 by the time I had all this info stored and accessible.<br />
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I know this only tickles your tastebuds, but again, I promise. More is coming very soon. It really has been fun getting to know the new tool<br />
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When I do my review, are they any questions you would like answered or topics covered. I will certainly do my best.<br />
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Until then... Thanks for reading. See ya next time.<br />
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Cheers.Jason Herrickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05025150376563882246noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6012343607446731204.post-73226712986416463462012-03-28T12:38:00.000-07:002012-03-28T12:38:16.752-07:00We Are Ready to Celibrate!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Hello PORC fans.<br />
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The time has arrived to have some fun. I've received great responses from lots of fans, friends, and family, and I anticipate a fun evening indeed. Come on by and help us celebrate a great year.<br />
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Cheers!<br />
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The address for those who are in need of a location refresher:<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>7027 SW Macadam Ave.</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Portland, OR 97219</b></span><br />
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<i>(We're on the NW corner of Macadam and Nevada in the rear of the parking lot.)</i>Jason Herrickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05025150376563882246noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6012343607446731204.post-91190077919285153702012-03-08T09:10:00.000-08:002012-03-08T09:10:01.496-08:00Making Hard DesisionsHey there PORC fans.<br />
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It's been a while since I last reminded you about my anniversary party on:<br />
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MARCH 29th from 5:00-8:00.<br />
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:) <br />
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However, it's also been a while since I've given an update in the land of all things PORC. One of the many chores of owning a small company is making decisions that I need to stand behind, I don't like going back on my word. If I say it will cost 'X' amount. I make that happen. If I say I will deliver on 'Y' date, I deliver on 'Y' date.<br />
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With this propensity towards delivering as promised, I've found myself working hours that no human can sustain for a extended period of time. Long gone are the days of working from "9:00 to 5:00." Long gone are the days of working 6 to 5. Somethings gotta give. What's it gunna be?<br />
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Lets step back about 6 months ago when I began utilizing the wealth of knowledge at my local chapter of the Small Business Alliance. I can not even begin to express how valuable it has been. I HIGHLY encourage anybody looking to own a business take full advantage of their services. AND AND AND...... almost all of the info is free.<br />
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In a class I took about business planning, I learned one very valuable lesson. Small business' fail due to one major thing. <i>Lack of planning.</i> Sales planning. Market planning. Financial planning.<br />
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Large companies leave little to chance when it comes to planning, but I always thought it was impossible for such a small company like mine to thrive in this area.<br />
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I was wrong. I was dead wrong.<br />
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Breaking down each area of my company gave me more than I'd ever imagined. It gave me an idea of where I want to go. How I will get there, and what I need to do in order to make it happen. I have a road map to follow.<br />
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I am slowly implementing one thing at a time. The big stick in my company spokes is efficiency. If I don't increase my efficiency, I am dead in that water. Why? It's not because I don't have clients or a good product. It's not because I have huge overhead or bad customer service. It's because if I don't figure out how to make my product in more timely manor, I'll run out of steam. I'll burn out. The long hours are not sustainable for the next 30 years.<br />
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So, what am I doing? I'm not changing my standards. I'm not changing my excellent customer service. I'm not reducing quality to increase profit.<br />
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Instead, I'm investing in the company by purchasing new design software. I've been both designing and presenting every project for the last 2 years with drawings made in Sketchup. It's amazing. Absolutely amazing. And for the price of free...... You can't beat it.<br />
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However, I have realized that this design work can be down in a fraction of time with other software. What takes me days in Sketchup, now takes me minutes.<br />
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After exploring and trying software ranging in price from free to over $27,000, I found the product just right for me. Why would I spend my limited amounts of money on something that has always been free, and served me well? Because the program is intuitive and very powerful. The interface is simple and easy to navigate. AND it will free up my limited daily time for something else.<br />
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Over the next few months I will show some of the work I'm creating with it. From the first few days of "playing," I've been very happy.<br />
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It's a hard choice I had to make. Do I continue down the same path with hopes of IT changing, or do I choose a new path. I went with the later. Only time will tell if I made the correct decision, but it's a chance I'm willing to take. I'm looking forward to dinner with my wife at a reasonable hour this week. Hopefully it will become the norm again.<br />
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As always... Thanks for reading.Jason Herrickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05025150376563882246noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6012343607446731204.post-35125502460607559892012-02-23T10:31:00.000-08:002012-02-23T10:31:07.053-08:00New Dust Catcher: Part 2. Shiny new duct workHi there PORC fans.<br />
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In preparation for our big <a href="http://www.planesofreference.blogspot.com/2012/02/its-party-time.html">Anniversary Party on March 29th</a>. I've been working to get the shop ready for visitors. I got one of the two signs hung on the outside of the building, and am removing things like extension cords laying in the middle of the floor, using air hoses to hang stuff from the ceiling, and covering outlets with actual covers, and NOT duct tape. Nothing says happy anniversary like a electrocuted patron laying on the floor after tripping on a chord buried in a pile of wood chips.<br />
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My wonderful and loyal reader(s) are aware of my ongoing battle with <a href="http://www.planesofreference.blogspot.com/2011/12/new-dust-catcher-its-like-dream-catcher.html">collecting dust</a>. Asthma is no stranger to my day, and I know that a visit from the fire marshal isn't too far down the road. For this reason, I bought a new cyclone a while back and finally after saving all my pennies, I've put in some wicked awesome pipe to complete the deal.<br />
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That's right. I said wicked awesome. <br />
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Keep on reading for the full report. <br />
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I chose to go with <a href="http://www.nordfab.com/">Nordfab</a> ducting. And let me tell you, I am glad I did. The product is amazing! I found an amazing local supplier that really made the process effortless. The product is well engineered and snaps together in seconds. It allows me to move tools and rearrange the shop as needed. The piping has welded seams and at each union there is a rubber gasket to make the entire system airtight.<br />
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<a href="http://www.filtertechnologyltd.com/">Filter Technology</a> is a small firm that deals with moving air and the crap that floats along with it. They predominately do large warehouses and manufacturing facilities, but they were more than willing to help me from a dollar bill or two.<br />
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From my initial contact with them to the very end, my experience was exceptional. I had a very good idea and plan of where everything went, and the parts needed to make it happen. Even with that, Eric, my engineering God/partner in crime offered to tweak my plan and make sure I had everything needed. This man has an eagle eye for detail. He is after all a Mechanical Engineer who just happens to also sell duct work.<br />
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If your in the NW area of the county, CALL THEM! They are a great company that stands behind their product and has the knowledge to get you just what you need. Nordfab locks in pricing pretty tight I think, so you want to shop locally to help with the shipping costs.<br />
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After I picked up all the parts, I brought them back to the shop to sort them. I saw no reason not to enjoy my time doing so with a carbonated beverage.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8Gs379czN5c/T0WdmecsTOI/AAAAAAAAMzY/XypmhQJ-Ue0/s1600/_MG_0047-9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="425" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8Gs379czN5c/T0WdmecsTOI/AAAAAAAAMzY/XypmhQJ-Ue0/s640/_MG_0047-9.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lots of parts.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8Akh4Po7AVg/T0WdRp_2f3I/AAAAAAAAMy4/V2D8kj5Evcw/s1600/_MG_0045-9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8Akh4Po7AVg/T0WdRp_2f3I/AAAAAAAAMy4/V2D8kj5Evcw/s400/_MG_0045-9.jpg" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It's like dinner in a glass.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ErBCSG882xw/T0WdSm5wC6I/AAAAAAAAMzQ/Mb8Q83e6VeM/s1600/_MG_0066-8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="425" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ErBCSG882xw/T0WdSm5wC6I/AAAAAAAAMzQ/Mb8Q83e6VeM/s640/_MG_0066-8.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My OCD may have said hello.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sYaSZrtyvfQ/T0WdSaKgItI/AAAAAAAAMzI/xJUW4nMbOn0/s1600/_MG_0057-9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="425" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sYaSZrtyvfQ/T0WdSaKgItI/AAAAAAAAMzI/xJUW4nMbOn0/s640/_MG_0057-9.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Solid, well built and airtight unions.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
After everything was sorted, I needed to come up with a plan to hang this stuff. I chose to use aircraft cable. It has a weight rating of like 4 million tons or so. It should do.<br />
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I needed to fabricate two parts. One that went into the cyclone, and another to make the bend out of the collector. After a bit of head scratching I got it.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NAiRkqNM4XA/T0WeBDGyEaI/AAAAAAAAMzg/lkxxOoHCn2c/s1600/_MG_0075-6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NAiRkqNM4XA/T0WeBDGyEaI/AAAAAAAAMzg/lkxxOoHCn2c/s640/_MG_0075-6.jpg" width="425" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I cut a flange, and inserted it into the opening. I then sealed it with A LOT of caulking. No leaks here.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-N7lVHba_IBU/T0Wj1-VXItI/AAAAAAAAMz4/-y3pYibZtj0/s1600/_MG_0073-6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-N7lVHba_IBU/T0Wj1-VXItI/AAAAAAAAMz4/-y3pYibZtj0/s640/_MG_0073-6.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I wanted 5' of strait airflow into the unit. My rigging consisted of wire, turnbuckles, and temporary vice grips.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-K6OAcRJg2EU/T0WeBVMvIXI/AAAAAAAAMzo/L0vnyimOTdo/s1600/_MG_0076-6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-K6OAcRJg2EU/T0WeBVMvIXI/AAAAAAAAMzo/L0vnyimOTdo/s640/_MG_0076-6.jpg" width="425" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Two collars, one with the correct angle, one with notches. I then screwed them together and ground off the screws inside so it stayed smooth. I kept the airflow direction in mind as well.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aJN-mltcgjw/T0WeHaEHopI/AAAAAAAAMzw/rpHXbF1aAaY/s1600/_MG_0128-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="425" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aJN-mltcgjw/T0WeHaEHopI/AAAAAAAAMzw/rpHXbF1aAaY/s640/_MG_0128-3.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I covered the union with a overlapping rubber, and band clamped it air tight.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DNNIfqUg0Ew/T0WkIeqi9nI/AAAAAAAAM0A/frgCBscdtOI/s1600/_MG_0070-7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DNNIfqUg0Ew/T0WkIeqi9nI/AAAAAAAAM0A/frgCBscdtOI/s640/_MG_0070-7.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This the first section of branches and wye's that make up the main trunk line.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
One of the great things about the Nordfab pipe is the ease at which you can insert a piece. Below I show an example.<br />
<br />
I took out a branch and needed to replace it with a strait shot. The adjustable nipples make this quick and easy. You cut a pipe to finished length minus 4", slip the nipple over the top, add a clamp and ta-ta. DONE! Awesome!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_fQ0kHlb-ZI/T0WklAFW3wI/AAAAAAAAM0I/2LyAwgwlTX4/s1600/_MG_0092-4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_fQ0kHlb-ZI/T0WklAFW3wI/AAAAAAAAM0I/2LyAwgwlTX4/s640/_MG_0092-4.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I was moving the branch in order to get the elbow and drop in the right location. Once I knew I had the drop in the right place, I cut the adjustable piece to slide into place.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Dr0yXHSKJAQ/T0WklXJCwNI/AAAAAAAAM0Q/D6JZ3uw1LU4/s1600/_MG_0094-4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Dr0yXHSKJAQ/T0WklXJCwNI/AAAAAAAAM0Q/D6JZ3uw1LU4/s640/_MG_0094-4.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Totally adjustable and done with one set of hands.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
The entire system is put together with a main 8" main trunk and 6" branches off of it. The 6" runs all the way to the tools. In some cases, it get's split into a dual 4" splitter. I still need to modify a few of my tools in order to keep the ports at 6".<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>The longest run of pipe is just about 30'. That includes a couple elbows, but for the most part it is a clean strait run. No hard bends, and very little flex hose. Both of which kill airflow. As a result, you have a lot of vacuum. Below is a picture of a 6" port at the furthest point from the collector. The machine is running, and holds the metal reducer in place. These pieces are not light. They are solid and heavy welded connectors, not cheap 28 gauge sheet metal. THAT is a lot of vacuum!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-spFHdqwht5w/T0WnT6nuoWI/AAAAAAAAM0o/oPls86wTmrs/s1600/_MG_0118-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-spFHdqwht5w/T0WnT6nuoWI/AAAAAAAAM0o/oPls86wTmrs/s640/_MG_0118-3.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Open 6" port with the collector running.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BfErzCiXJdA/T0WnFC4bMoI/AAAAAAAAM0Y/HbTC966kZGQ/s1600/_MG_0117-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BfErzCiXJdA/T0WnFC4bMoI/AAAAAAAAM0Y/HbTC966kZGQ/s640/_MG_0117-3.jpg" width="388" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A 6"-4" reducer is held just below the opening, and it gets sucked up and held in place. Keep in mind their is a 4" hole that is wide open and it's still held in place.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<br />
The web is starting to take form after setting the main line and first couple branches.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SmMfaIjR6CI/T0WnrVg7nHI/AAAAAAAAM0w/_pyZDoiqGis/s1600/_MG_0113-4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SmMfaIjR6CI/T0WnrVg7nHI/AAAAAAAAM0w/_pyZDoiqGis/s640/_MG_0113-4.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">You can see 2 of the branches not yet hooked up, but the pipe is ready for the union.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
I found very little joy and satisfaction in cutting a 6" hole in the back of my table saw, but it was needed. I also sealed up all the seams to create a big airtight base. I get some dust flying back at me above the saw, but the cabinet is nearly spotless. The European saw makers have a dust shrouds around the saw blade to capture even more of the dust. They've used this for years and years, but sadly American makers are just starting to catch on. No such luck with this saw.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-b4Ek0MQIkE4/T0WoF8Jk3qI/AAAAAAAAM04/OLCWdMoavhw/s1600/_MG_0149-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-b4Ek0MQIkE4/T0WoF8Jk3qI/AAAAAAAAM04/OLCWdMoavhw/s640/_MG_0149-2.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I strait shot right into the saw again. No flex needed.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Overall, the system is up and running. I still need to modify a few tools to maximize suction and dust capture, but that will just have to wait. I need to do a few jobs in order to pay for this dang thing. My guess is that I will need to make a few adjustments to really tweak it, but for now it's a huge improvement.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ga53bAuRR2o/T0WojWY9sPI/AAAAAAAAM1Q/Sa3bL-Bpjfo/s1600/_MG_0134-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ga53bAuRR2o/T0WojWY9sPI/AAAAAAAAM1Q/Sa3bL-Bpjfo/s640/_MG_0134-3.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I added a drop for the BS. They both run off of the 6" line, so I need to make sure I only have one gate open on this run in order to keep flow up.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ehuAs7PKe9g/T0WokQUAjhI/AAAAAAAAM1g/bu_ZD-PXGlw/s1600/_MG_0143-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ehuAs7PKe9g/T0WokQUAjhI/AAAAAAAAM1g/bu_ZD-PXGlw/s640/_MG_0143-2.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In total, to cover the whole shop, I've got 9 drops to tools.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>For fear of putting you all asleep, I will wrap it up here. If you come up with any questions, hit me up in the comments, or send me an email. I have learned a ton in this process, and I'm happy to share what I've done right and wrong.<br />
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And lastly. Do you think this system looks cool? You should see it in person. A good chance would be at my shop party on <b>March 29th!</b> See ya then.<br />
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As always, thanks for reading. Cheers.Jason Herrickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05025150376563882246noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6012343607446731204.post-60447077293426759112012-02-08T17:44:00.000-08:002012-02-08T17:44:44.769-08:00It's Party TimeHi there PORC fans.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9tUOpHrQS2U/TzMgOas8gfI/AAAAAAAAMxs/nVS1yC_sqIA/s1600/_MG_0043-9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9tUOpHrQS2U/TzMgOas8gfI/AAAAAAAAMxs/nVS1yC_sqIA/s640/_MG_0043-9.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br />
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It's been a fun and hectic couple weeks, but I still wanted to take a minute to remind you about my party.<br />
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<u style="color: red;"><span style="font-size: large;">MARCH 29th, from 5:00-9:00 PM</span></u><br />
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My doors will be open to the public.<br />
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One year ago, I moved into my new home and have been loving it ever since. I want to show all my friends and family what all of their support looks like through my eyes. Put it in your calendars and plan on dropping by for a little bite to eat, a cold beverage, and a walk around the new shop.<br />
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Now.... about this weeks post and why it relates to the party. In short, what I write about today, will be on display at the party. That's right. We've got a fireplace mantle in the works, and a cabinet with hidden TV lift to name a few.<br />
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So... keep on reading below for all the gory details and pretty pictures.<br />
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<a name='more'></a>Lets start by taking care of the house cleaning. I've been waiting for almost a year to come up with the ideas, funds, and time to make a sign for my shop. In December with the help of an amazing friend and designer, we joined hands to make up some PORC signage. I picked up the metal cutouts today from <a href="http://www.lasercuttingservices.com/">Laser Cutting Services</a>. I could not be more happy. The quality of cut is amazing and the heft and feel of .25" aluminum is pure awesome! I still need to come up with stand-offs and lighting for them, but the hard and expensive part is a thing of the past. I think everyone should have some laser cutting done at some point in their lives just so you know how amazing it is. :) I should note, the sign will be on display March 29th, at my party.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WpeJi5b88pI/TzMgntwu53I/AAAAAAAAMx0/nlskqucG95g/s1600/_MG_0035-13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WpeJi5b88pI/TzMgntwu53I/AAAAAAAAMx0/nlskqucG95g/s640/_MG_0035-13.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br />
Next week, my ducting arrives for the dust collector. Many of you (all 4 that is) may remember an <a href="http://www.planesofreference.blogspot.com/2011/12/new-dust-catcher-its-like-dream-catcher.html">earlier post about my ClearVue cyclone</a> I purchased last year. Some 5 months or so have passed, but finally I will have a safe and dust free work environment. My asthmatic lungs are going to kiss me with joy and glee. The new ducting will be on display on March 29th, at my party.<br />
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I've got a large job heading out the door to Colorado in April. Two of the pieces I've been designing this week include a fireplace surround, and a clever TV cabinet. Both of which should be near completion, and on display at my shop party on March 29th.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4PuU9I8njAw/TzMhu9kxqPI/AAAAAAAAMyM/X4JltknertY/s1600/Screen+shot+2012-02-08+at+5.30.22+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="376" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4PuU9I8njAw/TzMhu9kxqPI/AAAAAAAAMyM/X4JltknertY/s640/Screen+shot+2012-02-08+at+5.30.22+PM.png" width="640" /></a></div><br />
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3 kitchens are also on my calendar and design screen. 2 of which are out of town. I doubt there will be much to see in regards to the kitchen cabinets at my party on March 29th, however there may be a few odds and ends floating around.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Amn5gmOM7qE/TzMiaxtrpkI/AAAAAAAAMyU/pHwLvXc4IKk/s1600/Screen+shot+2012-02-06+at+1.10.51+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="444" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Amn5gmOM7qE/TzMiaxtrpkI/AAAAAAAAMyU/pHwLvXc4IKk/s640/Screen+shot+2012-02-06+at+1.10.51+PM.png" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TuptIwILdHk/TzMiw-gYxfI/AAAAAAAAMyk/tH_dKUuOmiU/s1600/Screen+shot+2012-02-08+at+5.34.28+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="502" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TuptIwILdHk/TzMiw-gYxfI/AAAAAAAAMyk/tH_dKUuOmiU/s640/Screen+shot+2012-02-08+at+5.34.28+PM.png" width="640" /></a></div><br />
Within that work load, I am also looking at new design software to try out. I have yet to find the answer for me, but I am narrowing down my choices each day. I hope to have a program chosen by March 29th, at my party.<br />
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Well, that wraps up this weeks post. As always, thanks for reading.<br />
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Did I mention the party on March 29th?Jason Herrickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05025150376563882246noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6012343607446731204.post-13058312491141333062012-01-26T13:16:00.000-08:002012-01-26T13:16:08.823-08:00My New Desk<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PmNb3yoHxcw/TyCu8D6xU9I/AAAAAAAAMuI/7RKu4klo3EU/s1600/_MG_0024-11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="368" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PmNb3yoHxcw/TyCu8D6xU9I/AAAAAAAAMuI/7RKu4klo3EU/s640/_MG_0024-11.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beautiful Doug Fir</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
Hi there PORC fans.<br />
<br />
It's been a fun week doing something new to me. I'm building a new desk for my office. I wanted something I could make from wood on hand, had simple clean lines and was solid. I think I got all of them. I got a good butt kicking at the same time. I've never cut 2.125" dovetails before.<br />
I've also been working on the shop to get it ready for the big shop-warming party on MARCH 29th. New electric, benches, walls, dust collection, air compressor piping, painting and storage and ......... The list goes on and on. It should be a good party that all my readers are more than welcome to attend!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MqeCG6pg_lo/TyCvPlgeaCI/AAAAAAAAMuQ/ZKB8QamkOkU/s1600/_MG_0110-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="436" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MqeCG6pg_lo/TyCvPlgeaCI/AAAAAAAAMuQ/ZKB8QamkOkU/s640/_MG_0110-3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
But for today, were going to focus the cool desk, keep on reading for the full report and plenty of pics.<br />
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<a name='more'></a>You may remember from an <a href="http://www.planesofreference.blogspot.com/2011/06/sustainable-woodworking.html">earlier post</a> about sustainable woodworking. I've got 3 sequential Doug Fir slabs we milled up a few years ago in Southern Oregon. I built a <a href="http://www.planesofreference.blogspot.com/2011/06/two-tables-out-door.html">smaller table </a>out of some of the "scraps," but I've been saving these big boys for the right project. This desk was just what I needed them for.<br />
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2 of the 3 were put together to make a solid piece about 10' long, by 30" wide. I can barely lift these things, much less mill them. As always in this situation, I headed over to my buddies at Creative Woodworking NW after I cut the boards to the approximate length. I also took along the 4 remaining rough cut slabs to have surfaced for a later date.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nvyPWwMSLR4/TyCvoDads9I/AAAAAAAAMuY/tXFbh_2A5_c/s1600/IMG_0003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="394" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nvyPWwMSLR4/TyCvoDads9I/AAAAAAAAMuY/tXFbh_2A5_c/s640/IMG_0003.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My Skil Saw couldn't quite get through the 2.5" slabs unless I flipped the big boy over.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Mzj7uqvZaDg/TyG9KlxE-eI/AAAAAAAAMxg/mK_HpDRoIEE/s1600/IMG_0004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="409" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Mzj7uqvZaDg/TyG9KlxE-eI/AAAAAAAAMxg/mK_HpDRoIEE/s640/IMG_0004.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">These 3 are 12' or so.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
Every time I go in that place I feel so 'small.' My material seems so tiny. I wanted flat and square material for the desk. My intention all along has been to dovetail the legs to the top, and I knew that material that we prepped properly would save me a ton of headaches.<br />
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First step. Lets flatten these boards on the <a href="http://www.martin-usa.com/cms/_main/planing/t54.html">Martin 20" Joiner</a>. This baby is HUGE! We fed the boards over the cutter about 3 times and ended up with perfect flat boards. Then we flipped them up to edge joint them. Just for a laugh, we took off 5/16" on one pass. We backed it off for a nice clean final cut. I couldn't even hear the machine running. WOW!<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--CT2LqOUBSk/TyCv__J3obI/AAAAAAAAMug/PP0JRF4N9vw/s1600/photo-4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--CT2LqOUBSk/TyCv__J3obI/AAAAAAAAMug/PP0JRF4N9vw/s640/photo-4.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">20" x over 9' bed. THAT is a joiner. I want one.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HuqfTAxCM7w/TyCwCte-ZgI/AAAAAAAAMuo/6b9O5NlLBvI/s1600/photo-5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HuqfTAxCM7w/TyCwCte-ZgI/AAAAAAAAMuo/6b9O5NlLBvI/s640/photo-5.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Easy to take off .25"</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
We then took the slabs over to the wide-belt sander. This 53" sander has 3 heads. 1 is a planer head. (That's right, a 53" planer) and 2 sanding heads. One course, and one fine. When the boards come out the other end, you've got a beautiful material all perfectly flat, and consistent.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pUwVSy9_btQ/TyCwYVh1RAI/AAAAAAAAMuw/5trZJsQdxWM/s1600/photo-3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pUwVSy9_btQ/TyCwYVh1RAI/AAAAAAAAMuw/5trZJsQdxWM/s640/photo-3.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
The whole machining process took about 20 minutes. WOW, again.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-P-flAeeE8T8/TyCweLwR5tI/AAAAAAAAMu4/x8Xeq6H3j_4/s1600/photo-2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-P-flAeeE8T8/TyCweLwR5tI/AAAAAAAAMu4/x8Xeq6H3j_4/s640/photo-2.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">When I think about a dust collector, I don't generally think about using a truck to dump the dust. But that's how they do it here. Sometimes it gets dumped 2 times a day. </td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
I headed back to the shop to start my glue-ups. I added a few <a href="http://www.planesofreference.blogspot.com/2010/12/five-fav-rite-tooooooooools.html">Domino's</a> for alignment. I'm glad I did. Once they were in place, the glue up was effortless. It really helped that all the material was damn near perfect.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-trNct_Lzv5I/TyCwoh6eCQI/AAAAAAAAMvI/XdQW38sBLd0/s1600/_MG_0032-12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="368" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-trNct_Lzv5I/TyCwoh6eCQI/AAAAAAAAMvI/XdQW38sBLd0/s640/_MG_0032-12.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xQjfIh21-v0/TyCwoTk4dWI/AAAAAAAAMvA/HU0KmgI6W9g/s1600/_MG_0036-10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="376" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xQjfIh21-v0/TyCwoTk4dWI/AAAAAAAAMvA/HU0KmgI6W9g/s640/_MG_0036-10.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
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Once I pulled them from the clamps I squared them up on the table saw.<br />
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We are now entering serious virgin territory. I needed a way to cut really big dovetails well, and quickly. (Let's not forget I am building this "for fun." Every minute I work on this, I am putting other paying jobs on hold. I needed to move efficiently)<br />
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I dug into the vault that is my goofy brain and started stealing from those whom have come before me. I built a very large cross cut sled for my saw. I bolted it too the Jess-em crosscutting sled and made the first run of parts. The sled worked perfectly!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mTRaucIXKt0/TyCxA_PNzTI/AAAAAAAAMvo/eszYs-5fEjI/s1600/_MG_0071-6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mTRaucIXKt0/TyCxA_PNzTI/AAAAAAAAMvo/eszYs-5fEjI/s640/_MG_0071-6.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The 6' sled has a plywood piece attached to hold the workpiece tight in place.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-X6CfItMowIQ/TyCw9EuFHoI/AAAAAAAAMvQ/dioQu01QJHM/s640/_MG_0049-8.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="368" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cutting just shy of the line</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-s8pcvOYvdaI/TyCw9cXS2II/AAAAAAAAMvY/7DtnAmul5KU/s1600/_MG_0044-8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="368" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-s8pcvOYvdaI/TyCw9cXS2II/AAAAAAAAMvY/7DtnAmul5KU/s640/_MG_0044-8.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The cut-lines are marked on both sides of the workpiece.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yRYi_nMZLaI/TyCxAmzdK8I/AAAAAAAAMvg/9W-IWeC3hMw/s1600/_MG_0072-5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yRYi_nMZLaI/TyCxAmzdK8I/AAAAAAAAMvg/9W-IWeC3hMw/s640/_MG_0072-5.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">By flipping the orientation of the workpiece to the fence, you get both angles.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><br />
I got rid of all the waste between tails with a chisel and mallet. I clamped a guide to the board to make sure I kept this big guys square and at 90º.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0VrS7R-1FGY/TyCxU9uRypI/AAAAAAAAMvw/FHQqmVJyayI/s1600/_MG_0054-8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0VrS7R-1FGY/TyCxU9uRypI/AAAAAAAAMvw/FHQqmVJyayI/s640/_MG_0054-8.jpg" width="368" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fir is so soft. The fibers barely cut. They like to smash and rip out. Especially using blunt objects like my dull chisels.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
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Once I transferred my lines from the legs to the top, I need a good way to cut the pins. Whatever my solution, it had to work around the large top. I could barely lift the thing by myself. It was out of the question to move the wood around a cutting device. I needed to bring the tool to it.<br />
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My solution was to cut out the majority of the waste with a jigsaw. I made sure to stay clear of the final line. Once complete, I decided to route the waste with the longest template bit I had for my router. 1.5" in length. First I took a board and put it back on the sled that cut the pins. I ran it through the saw without adjusting anything. Now I knew that I had a perfect match to the angle already cut. I cut a small dado in it and mounted a "fence" if you will that will align the template with the edge of the slab.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fXy-05eZaP4/TyCxqdWnylI/AAAAAAAAMwI/UP6q3-7lxDs/s1600/_MG_0082-4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fXy-05eZaP4/TyCxqdWnylI/AAAAAAAAMwI/UP6q3-7lxDs/s640/_MG_0082-4.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Before routing the pins.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
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After clamped in place, I route out the waste as deep as that little bit would go. After I get both sides of the top routed, I do a quick check to see if they actually fit to the legs. They did! Thank heavens. If I blew it, the desk was going to be 2" shorter. :)<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BZ-jskG-xkc/TyCxqKmksVI/AAAAAAAAMwA/IKxhcE7pdLc/s1600/_MG_0083-4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BZ-jskG-xkc/TyCxqKmksVI/AAAAAAAAMwA/IKxhcE7pdLc/s640/_MG_0083-4.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">After routing most of the pins.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
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I know need to clean up the rest of the waste. By clamping two boards to the sides, I create an enormous worksurface for the router to ride on. I adjust the depth of the bit, plunge in and ta-da! We've got dovetails. Easy Breezy.<br />
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<br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-P7CjMoyO94M/TyCx2YJIkEI/AAAAAAAAMwQ/nO8-NhxflhY/s1600/_MG_0089-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-P7CjMoyO94M/TyCx2YJIkEI/AAAAAAAAMwQ/nO8-NhxflhY/s640/_MG_0089-3.jpg" width="640" /></a>**Jason's tip of the day** When plunge routing with a non-plunge router, rest the edge of the router on the work surface and slowly move the cutter into the work piece. While your moving from non vertical to vertical, make small circles with the base. This keeps the router bit moving, and from becoming trapped in a hole that could easily allow for a "catch" from the router bit. <br />
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We are now most of the way home. When assembling them, I glue anywhere and everywhere. I use a mallet to lightly drive it home. It fit like a glove. Five clamps pull it the final way home.<br />
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After the glue sets, I head to work on smoothing everything out. I start with a hand place to cut away the bulk of extra wood. The belt sander does the rest with 80 and 120 grit paper. A chisel being pulled works as a great scraper for the edges of the desk.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7iuu38rPR5g/TyCyDBFYqLI/AAAAAAAAMwY/62jOFv3K_2k/s1600/_MG_0105-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7iuu38rPR5g/TyCyDBFYqLI/AAAAAAAAMwY/62jOFv3K_2k/s640/_MG_0105-3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
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Once I put a coat of Profin oil on the desk, I quickly realized that one of my design ideas has led me astray. I wanted one live edge and one clean cut sharp edge on the other side of the desk.<br />
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No go!<br />
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It looked too log cabin-ish. The live edge was covered with worm holes and other imperfections. Frankly it looked like I shaped the outer edge with a chainsaw. Fine for some, but not on this one. I kicked and screamed a bit, but decided it best to cut off the live edge. I could just feed the whole desk through the table saw, but at 170ish pounds I saw a "Hey Cletis watch this!" moment in the making. I played it safe and brought out the Festool again.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hbCzxtB1FjI/TyCyNUhYCII/AAAAAAAAMwo/bTEo_Wua7pc/s1600/_MG_0120-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hbCzxtB1FjI/TyCyNUhYCII/AAAAAAAAMwo/bTEo_Wua7pc/s640/_MG_0120-2.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The edge looked very unclean and crappy. It had to go.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gncldwkapLE/TyCyMz-rjYI/AAAAAAAAMwg/d8eCgzIJL6k/s1600/_MG_0123-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gncldwkapLE/TyCyMz-rjYI/AAAAAAAAMwg/d8eCgzIJL6k/s640/_MG_0123-2.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grab the stool and flip this baby on it's side to cut the legs.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>I am now very pleased. I have 4 coats of Daly's Profin oil on it. The color is great, and the hand is so smooth and sweet. Next week I will get a piece of 3/8" glass to protect the top. That Fir is pretty, but soft soft soft.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9VL6ALZu8Tg/TyCyhnGUAdI/AAAAAAAAMxA/7RPaZ0ttcnc/s1600/_MG_0137-2-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9VL6ALZu8Tg/TyCyhnGUAdI/AAAAAAAAMxA/7RPaZ0ttcnc/s640/_MG_0137-2-2.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">After the 2nd coat of oil.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
I am looking forward to the next big desk like this. Like all new things. The first time is always the slowest. Next time, it should go quite a bit faster.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sBmXTGSNpYk/TyCyiKSsrAI/AAAAAAAAMxI/fLGvDLgp5vQ/s1600/_MG_0111-3-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="456" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sBmXTGSNpYk/TyCyiKSsrAI/AAAAAAAAMxI/fLGvDLgp5vQ/s640/_MG_0111-3-2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
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Thanks to all for the comments and reads. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to drop me a note, or post it in the comment section. As always, thanks for reading!Jason Herrickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05025150376563882246noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6012343607446731204.post-62329290827874789082012-01-18T16:00:00.000-08:002012-01-18T16:00:42.376-08:00WOW, Now THAT'S a big deskHi thee PORC fans.<br />
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For several weeks I've been showing some pics of a reception desk that's been in the works. Well, she's finally done and there are pictures to prove it. We installed it while the college was on Christmas break.<br />
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One of these days I will learn that everything I do takes 4-6 times longer than I planned. This desk showed me no exception to that rule. All in all, we had 23 sheets of rift-sawn red oak ply, 4 sheets of 5x12 duraflake, 500' of oak edge tape, 100 bf of 8/4 oak, 8 drawer stacks, 2 desks, 2 horizontal cabinets, and 9 tempered pieces of glass, and 4 large pieces of laminate. The foot print for the 2 units combined was 10' x 28'. Assembling them in my shop proved to be quite the challenge, and time consuming.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2T9krBqrkZw/TxdcpXtyvCI/AAAAAAAAMt4/D0Xw2ZP7foI/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-11-21+at+5.31.57+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2T9krBqrkZw/TxdcpXtyvCI/AAAAAAAAMt4/D0Xw2ZP7foI/s640/Screen+shot+2011-11-21+at+5.31.57+PM.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The rendering.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</tbody></table>The first hurdle we had to overcome, we were not able to get 8/4 oak in lengths over 10'. Not the end of the world, but it did prove to add a bit more complication to things on the 12' runs. The long walls need to be strong and not flex. There is a lot of weight here. You can see there are plenty of cuts made to each "frame" piece in order to accommodate the various panels and glass.<br />
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The other challenge, all sides were visible. This meant that high-grading material took some time. Also, the specs had "continuous wood grain" throughout. We weren't able to make it perfect using 8' material, but we found a happy median with careful material selection.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qbd8cIqYbXw/TxdTklznE-I/AAAAAAAAMr0/V4djprVM7rs/s1600/_MG_0070-5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qbd8cIqYbXw/TxdTklznE-I/AAAAAAAAMr0/V4djprVM7rs/s1600/_MG_0070-5.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The finished stack ready for finish</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TYEleja_rq4/TxdTmKtdiJI/AAAAAAAAMsU/Vbp50hkLw0o/s1600/_MG_0026-11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TYEleja_rq4/TxdTmKtdiJI/AAAAAAAAMsU/Vbp50hkLw0o/s1600/_MG_0026-11.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I clamped together 2 12' boards and cut the dados at the same time for good alignment.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-myKhAPpqATM/TxdTmX8QuZI/AAAAAAAAMsc/1SDgc_DlqAQ/s1600/_MG_0022-9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-myKhAPpqATM/TxdTmX8QuZI/AAAAAAAAMsc/1SDgc_DlqAQ/s1600/_MG_0022-9.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I needed 2 passes to get the 1.5" finish width.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</tbody></table><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--2S8Z70Q4Xo/TxdTlAV23lI/AAAAAAAAMr8/mte2t-npVZE/s1600/_MG_0033-11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--2S8Z70Q4Xo/TxdTlAV23lI/AAAAAAAAMr8/mte2t-npVZE/s1600/_MG_0033-11.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We were able to hide all the fasteners with plugs and applied panels.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-N68sqVH9f5U/TxdTlSCNCcI/AAAAAAAAMsE/FkZvO76qJ-0/s1600/_MG_0031-11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xNW8HqAkIyA/TxdTl1O-ETI/AAAAAAAAMsM/qvvmqsQVH7E/s1600/_MG_0029-10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xNW8HqAkIyA/TxdTl1O-ETI/AAAAAAAAMsM/qvvmqsQVH7E/s400/_MG_0029-10.jpg" width="266" /></a><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-N68sqVH9f5U/TxdTlSCNCcI/AAAAAAAAMsE/FkZvO76qJ-0/s400/_MG_0031-11.jpg" width="266" /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cbPv-ZnjpiY/TxdTkfXol6I/AAAAAAAAMrs/9gI-N-_LyB8/s1600/_MG_0079-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cbPv-ZnjpiY/TxdTkfXol6I/AAAAAAAAMrs/9gI-N-_LyB8/s1600/_MG_0079-3.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Frame parts being sanded on a 5 x 12 work bench.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
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Once we got everything back the finishers, 3 of us started to assemble the walls on site. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oCNvul2OcBQ/TxdXRbCqiAI/AAAAAAAAMts/oUNwv_ecj-A/s1600/_MG_0134.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oCNvul2OcBQ/TxdXRbCqiAI/AAAAAAAAMts/oUNwv_ecj-A/s1600/_MG_0134.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The "inside" panel fits into the grove in the frame parts. The black spray paint keeps the 1/4" reveals nice and clean.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/---8PK5u7YPo/TxdXRGGf2tI/AAAAAAAAMtk/1n8AT2EbKfI/s1600/_MG_0140.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/---8PK5u7YPo/TxdXRGGf2tI/AAAAAAAAMtk/1n8AT2EbKfI/s640/_MG_0140.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">With the applied panels in place. You can't even see our seams in the frame.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zAM39R-dCo0/TxdXPwRLgRI/AAAAAAAAMtM/JulyX_7taOU/s1600/_MG_0144.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zAM39R-dCo0/TxdXPwRLgRI/AAAAAAAAMtM/JulyX_7taOU/s1600/_MG_0144.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">1/4" frosted and tempered glass.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-t7fFXzM3MH0/TxdXQNl_exI/AAAAAAAAMtU/cKk-8lsy-EM/s1600/_MG_0142.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-t7fFXzM3MH0/TxdXQNl_exI/AAAAAAAAMtU/cKk-8lsy-EM/s1600/_MG_0142.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Both the substrate and tops are aligned with dominos, and pulled together with draw-bolts.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7zGTDm8Uwuw/TxdXQm7TEQI/AAAAAAAAMtc/hRHP6fICwO0/s1600/_MG_0141.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7zGTDm8Uwuw/TxdXQm7TEQI/AAAAAAAAMtc/hRHP6fICwO0/s1600/_MG_0141.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The black top goes right onto of the shown substrate to provide a solid 1.5" thick work-surface.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MUQzXQv6tTE/TxdXO1N_q9I/AAAAAAAAMs8/J8vaeECmSLI/s1600/_MG_0148.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MUQzXQv6tTE/TxdXO1N_q9I/AAAAAAAAMs8/J8vaeECmSLI/s1600/_MG_0148.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This too needs the black top, but you can see the room a bit better in this photo.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
There you have it! I didn't write much this week because the pictures tell a better story than I can. I cant seem to find a photo of the extra file cabinets and such, but if I do.....<br />
<br />
If I missed something or you have a question, hit me up in the comments below. As always, thanks for reading.Jason Herrickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05025150376563882246noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6012343607446731204.post-63630074465645379392012-01-05T07:18:00.000-08:002012-01-05T07:18:07.754-08:00OOOOOOPS!<span style="font-size: x-large;">MARCH 29th</span><br />
<br />
The party is <span style="font-size: x-large;">MARCH 29th.</span><br />
<br />
Long days make it very easy to make it easy to make BIG mistakes. Sorry about that folks!<br />
<br />
MARCH 29thJason Herrickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05025150376563882246noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6012343607446731204.post-64925572450946052982012-01-04T21:24:00.000-08:002012-01-05T07:14:28.200-08:00Save the Date!!Hi there PORC fans.<br />
<br />
2011 was an amazing year for the company. It was filled with great projects, amazing clients, and exponential growth. As a result, we moved into a new shop, and haven't looked back since. So... We're going to open the doors to <i>you </i>and have a celebration.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><u><b>March 29th, 2012</b></u></span><br />
<br />
Put it in your calanders now. Buy your plane tickets, cancel your dinner plans, get a sitter and prepare for wild crazy fun. We'll have good eats, fun drinks for all, and an open shop so you can see where and how your projects were made. Plus we have a few surprises as well for you. <br />
<br />
Thank you to all for such a great year. 2012 is going to be even better. Now, go and grab your calander and write it in. Details will be coming your way soon.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>3/29/12-Party with PORC</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>3/29/12-Party with PORC</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>3/29/12-Party with PORC</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>3/29/12-Party with PORC</b></span><span style="font-size: large;"><b> </b></span><span style="font-size: large;"><b> </b></span><br />
<br />
Cheers!Jason Herrickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05025150376563882246noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6012343607446731204.post-48038534072617852822011-12-28T20:24:00.000-08:002011-12-28T20:24:41.942-08:00New Dust Catcher: It's like a Dream Catcher except healthier.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRLbaW8kf3kOUg_9wwab1ZoSQenJbQNSRSaSF45uncX12JTG8ejeVTXgosaTpJ33dJ10v3myVKQK8iT2a8tyl8PnENW2D_UhmpZ6GAgwTIze7BpHPH6n3CF3GQ6y3-QzxNR6ajM615SyRW/s1600/_MG_0051-6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRLbaW8kf3kOUg_9wwab1ZoSQenJbQNSRSaSF45uncX12JTG8ejeVTXgosaTpJ33dJ10v3myVKQK8iT2a8tyl8PnENW2D_UhmpZ6GAgwTIze7BpHPH6n3CF3GQ6y3-QzxNR6ajM615SyRW/s640/_MG_0051-6.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A shop in need of dust collection.. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>For years I have suffered from Asthma. Being a woodworker is really not the best career decision, but none the less, here I am. Several years ago, I began doing research on lung health and the damage done to them by wood dust. Turns out. Wood Dust=Bad, Very bad! But I already knew that seeing as though I can barely breath after I leave the shop each day. I do the respirator thing. It helps. I have fans. They help, but what I don't have is a GOOD collector. Well, that changed early September. I bought a new central dust collector that should keep me breathing cleaning and clear for years to come. My doctor friends will like this one too, and I might just point them towards some helpful info.<br />
<br />
Keep reading for a bit of my findings and a review of my new machine. <br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a>Let's start with my Dust Bible. I love the internet. So much great stuff out there. Case in point. <a href="http://billpentz.com//woodworking/cyclone/index.cfm">Bill Pentz</a>. This engineer/woodworker nearly had to leave the shop permanently after prolonged dust exposure put him in the hospital. For years, he believed all the magizine hype and paid ads that made him feel safe in his shop. It wasn't until his health took a sour turn that he took the bull by the horns and opened the eyes of the wood working world. In the process he sure did piss off some manufacturers and long time "experts" in the industry. I raise my hat to his accomplishments.<br />
<br />
After reading every word on his site and doing lots of my own research, I have come to fully trust his findings.<br />
<br />
Don't buy the crap they sell at your local wood store. You are wasting your money and killing yourself slowly.<br />
<br />
My new found knowledge and understanding led me to <a href="http://www.clearvuecyclones.com/">ClearVue Cyclones</a> outside of Seattle. They make and sell very efficient units for small shops such as mine. I've had my eye on them for quite some time, but finally had the space and funds to get one. Today, I'm showing you the installation process.<br />
<br />
First impressions. ClearVue does very well here. Their website is simple and easy to navigate. Their customer service has been fantastic. The office caught a mistake I made when ordering, and called me instantly to alert me of my own mistake, saving me several $$ in the process. The order shipped when it was supposed to, and arrived with no incident. All in all, it was about 6 boxes with the filters, extra hoses, and blast gates. FYI- UPS=Good. FedEx=Bad. Just sayin'.<br />
<br />
*I should note that ClearVue frequently has online sales. Mine happened to be free shipping. I saved several hundred dollars. Keep an eye out for sure.*<br />
<br />
OK, now that we're unpacking parts, I should note that the assembly process of my CV Max took some time. Several days in fact to get it on the wall all wired up and running. The manual they provide via download is good. It is fairly clear and concise. However, the photos they have are simply unacceptable in my opinion. My 3G iphone has better resolution than the instruction manual. Not cool, and very annoying when your trying to zoom in and see what direction a bolt should go. I would like to see ClearVue improve that.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg3DVMVFSaogFUIk6XjyquN-6K5LscpwWyA0mr451VoKvIVS7QFuUdzApeIONppD6ld7qUqNt-kS1oWmMfFUaycsngJ_mhLTBlfo0f6wrF0i1l5Yf-uWwATC-GsI9NNlZUY9BIQoLWkhPr/s1600/_MG_0006-10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg3DVMVFSaogFUIk6XjyquN-6K5LscpwWyA0mr451VoKvIVS7QFuUdzApeIONppD6ld7qUqNt-kS1oWmMfFUaycsngJ_mhLTBlfo0f6wrF0i1l5Yf-uWwATC-GsI9NNlZUY9BIQoLWkhPr/s640/_MG_0006-10.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lots of MDF and assorted hardware.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_OH8l1GnllZ2igAGvoq4zpO5vpB7BLS1KCL7gSuTM44gWjkIrRc4lPELISLTbOAv7lBfDDkUNgHlj16skhbCPXrui7kGfYAPyvagZhyphenhyphenj8UNTfr5XgoZEceVnvnknSe7Z3Fv_AgShSWLXn/s1600/_MG_0011-10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_OH8l1GnllZ2igAGvoq4zpO5vpB7BLS1KCL7gSuTM44gWjkIrRc4lPELISLTbOAv7lBfDDkUNgHlj16skhbCPXrui7kGfYAPyvagZhyphenhyphenj8UNTfr5XgoZEceVnvnknSe7Z3Fv_AgShSWLXn/s640/_MG_0011-10.jpg" width="434" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Painted and several of the 1/4-20 hardware added.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7Xo-3aoJkbO2yE-oRAsDQOg2sgeaxvVDROUMH8Lrtd9vg0z0DH5S_8tBr2Kl5P3-v5DYJpUc0pXl7Y-k_W1UlcJ-RkqVJTcdHR6b6OeXgtTv0HckfnNYyoxTSeqM1Im81MPy54r8CnKur/s1600/_MG_0014-10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7Xo-3aoJkbO2yE-oRAsDQOg2sgeaxvVDROUMH8Lrtd9vg0z0DH5S_8tBr2Kl5P3-v5DYJpUc0pXl7Y-k_W1UlcJ-RkqVJTcdHR6b6OeXgtTv0HckfnNYyoxTSeqM1Im81MPy54r8CnKur/s640/_MG_0014-10.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Close up that is typical.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table> The 3 Phase Leeson motor is big and burly, as is the 16" impeller. Two of the most important things when buying a cyclone. Carefully following the manual, all the parts went together very well once I painted them. If I had my way, the MDF parts that make up the unit would have a bit better feel and finish to them. But then again, I'm kind of a snob. All of the clear plastic fit like a glove into each opening.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbHAaayfv1OwduCQA1byXe1Fj9eUNhSDCh_jcFv1vkOYLt0P3QdJ2ENVnxfweDxwwSA9dOtIfrVx4JcJ1qq1_24t2X1G_4MiIYxYkSTgCE8NbVZVqzWX6yKOUVxD66XUvLSugcANdLzKGN/s1600/_MG_0023-9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbHAaayfv1OwduCQA1byXe1Fj9eUNhSDCh_jcFv1vkOYLt0P3QdJ2ENVnxfweDxwwSA9dOtIfrVx4JcJ1qq1_24t2X1G_4MiIYxYkSTgCE8NbVZVqzWX6yKOUVxD66XUvLSugcANdLzKGN/s640/_MG_0023-9.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Very nicely made motor.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUxRsgtlX-iIWQfqvRV7NicK4UHcZWbJHv9qWcKrFXVRJgt05nUyWCTicgBe_BUlrDR4CbhXPyo9uijVj96UARxGGd_KkIB7WWYsJY1F5tyAn7Q6Mgl8J80ZKl-3dicRtgx-lzCTxS4FxO/s1600/_MG_0027-10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUxRsgtlX-iIWQfqvRV7NicK4UHcZWbJHv9qWcKrFXVRJgt05nUyWCTicgBe_BUlrDR4CbhXPyo9uijVj96UARxGGd_KkIB7WWYsJY1F5tyAn7Q6Mgl8J80ZKl-3dicRtgx-lzCTxS4FxO/s640/_MG_0027-10.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Motor mounted to support and blower housing cap.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLdC9PDFrsUoMXBnall-pQ26yyPyQfkD89efcCT67mDbq1EuW4BnKMkJJwbK1kqxCP7v1ZWkhWv9jX48Vyfkt6QV8QFPQAzM5g9IdLExe4sbSiG_Ur5sLegWr-1-EXcqGcFKUyZIHU8mxG/s1600/_MG_0032-10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLdC9PDFrsUoMXBnall-pQ26yyPyQfkD89efcCT67mDbq1EuW4BnKMkJJwbK1kqxCP7v1ZWkhWv9jX48Vyfkt6QV8QFPQAzM5g9IdLExe4sbSiG_Ur5sLegWr-1-EXcqGcFKUyZIHU8mxG/s640/_MG_0032-10.jpg" width="425" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Addition of the impeller.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPWRXGmX-EmAWKYYiCT87NX7gQiVFh-zmuaYqesdfvLqzXWV66GPrV0u8DqbAXH-fAgXn84FnKXi3LQztMjGzMA0gbInE4uG2F-1zj5w6-KNNgCgG91-l0HsTTMIz_3mh5P_lKMBdtCsDC/s1600/_MG_0038-6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPWRXGmX-EmAWKYYiCT87NX7gQiVFh-zmuaYqesdfvLqzXWV66GPrV0u8DqbAXH-fAgXn84FnKXi3LQztMjGzMA0gbInE4uG2F-1zj5w6-KNNgCgG91-l0HsTTMIz_3mh5P_lKMBdtCsDC/s640/_MG_0038-6.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Complete assembly before putting on the wall.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrykzpeno5CYRNc21rsenNCQUPrwa1eNXCioc2Bku461H1NxxQhVTaS3McsYJzoC0jHsLEkKTViGRsgYs7em4I9OMEpck5KAJo3AS8SeSplxfewjkj_g03jh0uHWPP51DiTseBFhdzWEG7/s1600/_MG_0028-10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrykzpeno5CYRNc21rsenNCQUPrwa1eNXCioc2Bku461H1NxxQhVTaS3McsYJzoC0jHsLEkKTViGRsgYs7em4I9OMEpck5KAJo3AS8SeSplxfewjkj_g03jh0uHWPP51DiTseBFhdzWEG7/s640/_MG_0028-10.jpg" width="425" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Close up of the taper lock to hold the impeller to the motor. This took some playing with to get it right.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
Once I had all the pieces assembled and sealed with silicone, I invoked the help of some serious muscle. My buddy Ryan lifted the unit up on my wall stand offs while I bolted it all together from atop the 8' ladder.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaO9KZe-MvstehzdM1QJ1hnj7o7V-6GwjPD-MPGuFadHAHJXfhU7rfFQyhLs4i9I57-I71CzzbN4EKZBRvQmUgDLGQvkN7mQK3DCxb3gX8lyoPoqV9tX5albvVYhQg-kT_jbmhRiDvFgLQ/s1600/_MG_0048-6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaO9KZe-MvstehzdM1QJ1hnj7o7V-6GwjPD-MPGuFadHAHJXfhU7rfFQyhLs4i9I57-I71CzzbN4EKZBRvQmUgDLGQvkN7mQK3DCxb3gX8lyoPoqV9tX5albvVYhQg-kT_jbmhRiDvFgLQ/s640/_MG_0048-6.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My trash can worked great to hold it upright.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4tvwK1Lega5kIzlsmrFc2Cm_x3tdDNwO1h2hCDZhv-901c8Ng1d2dnKGGprXtKYNraqMFAtevznxBSAhyphenhyphenJiAtcH3M95g8Ja6gIczElYGfO64JhzPBk_qa4wyIJSwt-Hi9T_koAN_wB1Qb/s1600/_MG_0047-6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4tvwK1Lega5kIzlsmrFc2Cm_x3tdDNwO1h2hCDZhv-901c8Ng1d2dnKGGprXtKYNraqMFAtevznxBSAhyphenhyphenJiAtcH3M95g8Ja6gIczElYGfO64JhzPBk_qa4wyIJSwt-Hi9T_koAN_wB1Qb/s640/_MG_0047-6.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">10' in the air is no small task. It's big and awkward.</td></tr>
</tbody></table> <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjthTkWU-HPDEdM1j4GiszPWbK45Px4PZ2WDRDWGk88rm_OL2S8mj3afed34CVxQv-NfGtee9h9J5oNhsZdHMQt3Yvvqdbj9Yph2vDyDjdExYA6RJcRACab1dBEeHXFOqizJD1PnNV8OGb/s1600/_MG_0067-5-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjthTkWU-HPDEdM1j4GiszPWbK45Px4PZ2WDRDWGk88rm_OL2S8mj3afed34CVxQv-NfGtee9h9J5oNhsZdHMQt3Yvvqdbj9Yph2vDyDjdExYA6RJcRACab1dBEeHXFOqizJD1PnNV8OGb/s640/_MG_0067-5-2.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Complete with dual trash cans and filters.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCYJo_jbIFHKmIBQ2ag9PhJiaRAgoIAIVcgsRzzpxchgLRKDdHgR2v4OSm22sUlY0ILl1lLbF2eLyJNLwZ8lq5NYMXLs48sZUvsFQijvRTJBd9gQLhIp3ITypTMGJ5ARl8Yq3akfDcWUgC/s1600/_MG_0055-6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCYJo_jbIFHKmIBQ2ag9PhJiaRAgoIAIVcgsRzzpxchgLRKDdHgR2v4OSm22sUlY0ILl1lLbF2eLyJNLwZ8lq5NYMXLs48sZUvsFQijvRTJBd9gQLhIp3ITypTMGJ5ARl8Yq3akfDcWUgC/s640/_MG_0055-6.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The main trunk line will come across the shop at 45 deg and feed tools from there. I like the piles of chips everywhere.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>The electrical hook up took a fair amount of time and work for me. I really do love playing with electrical stuff. I've rewired my home from the street down to the last recepticle. I also wired up the old shop with it's own 100 amp panel, and my new space has a large 3 phase set up that is proving to be fun as well.<br />
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I decided to buy the 3 phase version of the motor because they run far more efficiently than single phase, and cost less to operate day to day. Unfortunately the electrical info provided from ClearVue is again not that good. All of their literature is for single phase motors. Granted it's really only one wire different, but if you are learning, this is not terribly helpful. They are however keeping their hands clean of any liability issues by suggesting the use of a professional electrician. I would make that same suggestion.<br />
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DON'T get near an electric panel if you don't know what you're doing. 220 Volts at 20-30 amps will KILL YOU IF YOU SCREW UP!!!!!!!!!!!!! DO YOU HEAR ME!!!!!!!!!!!!????????<br />
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After more research and calls to several electricians I work with, I came up with my plan to run the machine. You see, when you buy a big 220 machine, you don't just plug it in and go. There is some work that needs to be planned for. One of those such items is how you plan on turning it off and on, how to protect the motor from overheating, and how to protect the unit from a surge or stall. THIS is why electricians get the big bucks.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjek9pic9jZbcTrNfTe7NVpJn1Xd0gjtE6u2AGopcDK-Mb80g9IOXFulBihmrCFOn2LwIXDZ3fPwOdM9GA4cQkdYFbBKuKzL9ZIc1ZWpTw5Dyad7z31bwt1l4sVDzmRO8C8jOW5TSoEzlkr/s1600/_MG_0070-4-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjek9pic9jZbcTrNfTe7NVpJn1Xd0gjtE6u2AGopcDK-Mb80g9IOXFulBihmrCFOn2LwIXDZ3fPwOdM9GA4cQkdYFbBKuKzL9ZIc1ZWpTw5Dyad7z31bwt1l4sVDzmRO8C8jOW5TSoEzlkr/s640/_MG_0070-4-2.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The completed set up.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>EVERY large motor should have a dedicated circuit breaker in the main panel, manual disconnect near the motor (ie it's own fuse box and switch that keeps the motor from overheating), and thermal overload protection. Each does something different than the other, and put together they protect your building, the motor and YOU.<br />
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When you buy a new table saw for example, one of the options is a "Magnetic Starter." This starter is made up of a couple things. One is the "contactor," the other is the "thermal overload."<br />
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A contactor is a really big relay. The way it works is power comes in and energizes a coil to make an electromagnet that "closes" the circuit. This pulls two conductors together and power goes out the other end. In the event of power loss, or turning the machine to the OFF position, the magnetic coil looses it's charge and the circuit opens back up.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb4TqQDt116FSZ75CWuGzkxaSH3FuxSaK4JGwrKHxgC70HfnRPftiS12PDwdBg9Fv0L2aH5nmf_0y7lPda8ry48uWPQmcw7Ogp8i-DMjcdwJ6NUHFKzZ-E2l_cg7o9MSyznJ6dgSTHswP2/s1600/_MG_0077-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb4TqQDt116FSZ75CWuGzkxaSH3FuxSaK4JGwrKHxgC70HfnRPftiS12PDwdBg9Fv0L2aH5nmf_0y7lPda8ry48uWPQmcw7Ogp8i-DMjcdwJ6NUHFKzZ-E2l_cg7o9MSyznJ6dgSTHswP2/s640/_MG_0077-2.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The top half is the contactor/relay. The bottom is the thermal overload.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>The other part of most magnetic starters is the thermal overload to protect your motor from a stall. In the event you suck up a 2x4, and it wedges itself in the impeller and stalls the motor, the thermal overload kills the power to the motor before the motor turns itself into a 70 lb paper weight that smells of burnt metal. This is what I put on the cyclone, and would recommend you do the same.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lIblshO8Q3s/Tvvl8e3LKAI/AAAAAAAAMp0/wS8D9E8lcbg/s1600/_MG_0084-2-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lIblshO8Q3s/Tvvl8e3LKAI/AAAAAAAAMp0/wS8D9E8lcbg/s640/_MG_0084-2-2.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The left box is the disconnect with fuses and big red ON/OFF handle.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-M8Hz4Iu5MEI/Tvvl8k4bbEI/AAAAAAAAMp8/hpurSWkh4wU/s1600/_MG_0083-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-M8Hz4Iu5MEI/Tvvl8k4bbEI/AAAAAAAAMp8/hpurSWkh4wU/s640/_MG_0083-2.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The contactor is operated with the lit green/ON push button, and red/OFF panic button.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_x2EIoIesGQ/Tvvl9RJqKhI/AAAAAAAAMqM/dgG5DC1C9d0/s1600/_MG_0074-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_x2EIoIesGQ/Tvvl9RJqKhI/AAAAAAAAMqM/dgG5DC1C9d0/s640/_MG_0074-3.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I found the stainless steel enclosure at a salvage yard for $8. The ammeter monitors the power being drawn by the motor and it also indicates the health and cleanliness of the filters. More amps=dirtier filters.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>At the time I bought the machine, ClearVue didn't have a starter that you could buy for plug and play. <a href="http://www.blogger.com/">They do now</a>. I built mine from scratch for about 1/3 the cost, however I like this kind of thing. If your not comfortable with electric work or don't want to spend the time, buy the starter all wired up for you. <br />
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The ducting is the next phase. I've decided to go with <a href="http://www.ductingsystems.com/">Nordfab Quick Fit</a> pipe. Very cool system that allows me to adjust the system as my needs and workflow change. It also has a very smooth interior and is laser welded to minimize leaks, therefor increasing efficiency. It comes at a high up front cost, but will pay for itself over time. I hope to have it ordered in the next 2-3 weeks or so. Obviously another post will be in order.<br />
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That's it for this week. I like the system thus far and can hardly wait to hook it up to some pipe. The shop needs it for sure. Feel free to hit me up in the comment section with questions or comments.<br />
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As always. Thanks for reading.Jason Herrickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05025150376563882246noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6012343607446731204.post-77968046885847991592011-12-22T07:18:00.000-08:002011-12-22T07:18:38.871-08:00Man vs. Machine-The Results are In.Hi there PORC fans.<br />
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<b>Thank you</b> for the comments, emails, and Facebook replies on my <a href="http://www.planesofreference.blogspot.com/2011/12/man-vs-machine.html">last post</a>. I love knowing that people want to contribute to this blog. It also helps point me in a direction to keep you interested. As I suspected, my readers are smart and articulate in their desires. Many people brought up things I'd not thought of.<br />
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I wanted to summarize what was said, and offer my own thoughts. The short of it is this: The use of power tools and hand tools in parallel is both acceptable and standard. What is most interesting to me, is <i>why</i> someone felt the way they do. <br />
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Brian mentioned something I never thought of. Memories. "The smell of hickory right off the saw." We can't forget that our past shapes who we are today. I think it's possible that a craftsman may choose their technique based on nostalgia and past memories. If your dad chopped off his finger on a table saw when you were 7, one might lean towards using hand tools more than power. That decision has nothing to do with ability or artistic flare. It's simply a choice based on memories and experiences.<br />
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Regular contributor, <a href="http://www.woodfever.net/">Jeff</a> touched on something that is important to think about as well. "Impart a certain look on a finished product." A hand plane imparts a certain feel to the wood in contrast to using a sander to smooth the surface. A hand saw imparts a look that is different then one made on a machine. The use of a paint brush to finish imparts a certain look as opposed to a sprayed finish. A recent project was all hand painted. The homeowner wanted to see brush marks. I also have done projects where the client wanted a finish that resembled an automotive look. Brushing was not an option. Clearly, personal taste and artistic callings outweigh technique.<br />
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And lastly, the overall tone from the comments were, "Use the best tool for the job." I hesitate to summarize such a perfectly written comment made by long time supporter and woodworking stud <a href="http://nelsonwoodcraft.blogspot.com/">Nicholas Nelson</a>. However, I will as he hit it on the head. (Sorry Nick)<br />
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A craftsman should establish a goal, both technically and professionally. Once that goal has been determined, use the proper tooling to reach that goal. The end result will make a bigger impact, and will be you, and isn't that what we want? We want a piece of art made to represent the person who made it. Too often people lack the confidence and experience of doing it their own way, so they copy someone else. Sure, we need to learn from others, but eventually we need to build it to meet our own individual goals.<br />
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Custom art of any medium demands that we define our goals and work towards them. Use whatever tool you need to in order to reach them. These goals and asperations will be different for everyone. THIS is the reason "custom" is custom. No two people or items will be the same.<br />
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I've decided to remove myself from the hand/power tool battle that lingers in the woodworking air. I think there is a place for both, and who am I to judge the goals and desires of others. All I can control is what comes out of my shop.<br />
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As always, thank you so much for reading and contributing. Have a wonderful holiday! See ya on the other side. Cheers!Jason Herrickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05025150376563882246noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6012343607446731204.post-48279008036420116252011-12-07T18:20:00.000-08:002011-12-07T18:20:46.221-08:00Man vs. MachineHi there PORC fans.<br />
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I've got a blog post in the works, but decided I wanted some imput from my readers before I do my final writing. This is one of those interactive posts that hopefully with inspire a comment or 20.<br />
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I am interested to hear the thoughts people have about using hand tools and power tools in the woodworking community. I have found that many woodworkers pride themselves on either A. Owning every power tool known to man. OR B. Works exclusivly with handtools and drinks fine wines and stinky cheeses. Both camps have strong opinions, and seldom do they agree on much.<br />
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Lets look at every aspect of woodworking, from beginning to end. Are computers the place to sketch and present designs, or is a true "artist" only using a #2 pencil and sketchpad? How about prepping stock? Is it OK to feed a board through a table saw, joiner and planer, or should we be honing our bow saw skills and scrub planes to mill lumber. How about cutting joinery? Sanding vs Smoothing for a finished surface? Finishing... hand rubbed or sprayed? Delivery... On the back of your own personal Sherpa, or in the back of a U-haul? AND...... I'm interested in the opinions of the client as well. Do you care if a woodworker uses hand or power tools? Is the final cost more important than HOW it was made?<br />
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....I have smart readers, you get the idea.<br />
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All opinions are welcome and none will be censored. I will keep my remarks in the comment section brief but will write my full review of thoughts next week.<br />
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NOW is the time to chime in. Hop to it. Tell us what you think!<br />
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As always... Thanks for reading.Jason Herrickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05025150376563882246noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6012343607446731204.post-56512813556513414152011-11-30T16:12:00.000-08:002011-11-30T16:12:24.416-08:00When Sparks Fly<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xgW0aVbrMrc/Tk2yU2pR_GI/AAAAAAAAMa4/KxJItynjXYE/s1600/_MG_0038-5-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xgW0aVbrMrc/Tk2yU2pR_GI/AAAAAAAAMa4/KxJItynjXYE/s400/_MG_0038-5-2.jpg" width="290" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qpTEdiKYEvY/Tk2yaXTeD1I/AAAAAAAAMbk/yoqWUJH96Bs/s1600/_MG_0010-8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br />
</a></div>Hello PORC fans.<br />
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Today we're talking a bit regarding the crazy laminating I did this summer for a reception desk. "The Big Green Greetin' Machine" as it was named. In the same office there were also some nice fir cabinets I'll show, and lastly I'll hand out a bit of marriage advice. That's right. I'm going there. <br />
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No point waiting, keep reading for the pretty pictures.<br />
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<a name='more'></a><br />
I was lucky enough to get a call to build a large reception desk for the college just up the road from the shop. I know most people think that working with laminate is a <i>curse</i> and <i>far cry</i> from "woodworking." Well, I'm here to tell you that your basically right. HOWEVER, laminating is a difficult skill and requires a tremendous amount of knowledge and know-how. Is it fancy ebony or bubinga? No, but let me tell you... when you're sticking a piece of special ordered laminate that is 5' x 12' in size, that ripples with a slight shift in wind or cracks if you look at it wrong, you are walking on pins and needles. To me, it feels just as stressful as working with a nice piece of curly maple.<br />
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I only had about 4 days to put it all together, but was lucky to have any extra set of hands in the shop to help. What became amazingly fun were all of the challenges involved with sweeping curves, using bender-board, and steam bending fir.<br />
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The largest hurdle to overcome with this project was plain and simple. It was the color of laminate chosen by the architect. BOLD. Very bold. That's the best word to describe this funky green. Regardless of my own personal feeling about the color, I needed to produce a product that met the requirements set forth by the client. It's always good to remember that I work for a client. My personal opinions do not matter at times. I don't have to love the design or materials. My job is to build it beautifully. <br />
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I started off making up a couple large forms to bend the outer shell around. I used some scrap plywood with some drilled holes for clamping during glue up. The outer shell is put together with 2 layers of 3/4" bender board on the corners and 2 layers of duraflake (ie particle board) on the long strait runs. I had to make sure all of the seams weren't near each other. It's held together with a case of liquid nails, and 75 pounds of fasteners. The large radius is about 12", so we were able to make that bend no problem, however there was also a corner with a 2" radius that created a bit more of an issue. We put that one together with a block of solid wood and then shaped it by hand to make the 2" corner.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qpTEdiKYEvY/Tk2yaXTeD1I/AAAAAAAAMbk/yoqWUJH96Bs/s1600/_MG_0010-8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="398" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qpTEdiKYEvY/Tk2yaXTeD1I/AAAAAAAAMbk/yoqWUJH96Bs/s640/_MG_0010-8.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-elmXQhz-kxE/Tk2ybtljy2I/AAAAAAAAMbs/-1XZK9WnIZ8/s1600/_MG_0004-8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-elmXQhz-kxE/Tk2ybtljy2I/AAAAAAAAMbs/-1XZK9WnIZ8/s640/_MG_0004-8.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
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Bending the laminate was next. No problem on the large 12" curves, however the 2" provided a bit of a challenge. In order to make this turn, we needed to preform it to make the tight corner. We did this with a heat gun and pipe to pull against. One person heated, one person pulled on the laminate. Once we heated it up, (which took about 35 minutes) she bent like a dream and stayed in place all on her own. There are 2 different thicknesses of HPL, vertical grade and post form. Post form is thick and meant for nice flat surfaces. Vertical grade is much thinner and easier to bend. Sadly, due to the size, color and timeline, we had no choice but to use the thick stuff. Next time I need to bend around 2" I'll insist on the thinner of the two.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VYHEhNfQHXc/Tk2yaKaKwtI/AAAAAAAAMbg/T8BJAMTN9A0/s1600/_MG_0013-8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VYHEhNfQHXc/Tk2yaKaKwtI/AAAAAAAAMbg/T8BJAMTN9A0/s400/_MG_0013-8.jpg" width="266" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-11CB69k33uE/Tk2yZ9Wb_bI/AAAAAAAAMbc/uSkWrQ-iEvc/s1600/_MG_0014-8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-11CB69k33uE/Tk2yZ9Wb_bI/AAAAAAAAMbc/uSkWrQ-iEvc/s400/_MG_0014-8.jpg" width="265" /></a></div><br />
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The 2 pictures above are of a scrap we experimented with. Keep in mind that the finished piece is 46" x 120" in size and had a wonky 90 degree bend in it as well. There was no place for a seam in the finished laminate. It took 3 people to stick the laminate to the substrate with contact cement.<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xhlqXKUaWEg/Tk2yY-JXsII/AAAAAAAAMbU/phMgHE2_1RA/s1600/_MG_0020-7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xhlqXKUaWEg/Tk2yY-JXsII/AAAAAAAAMbU/phMgHE2_1RA/s640/_MG_0020-7.jpg" width="425" /></a></div><br />
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The outer pieces of the desk have exposed VG fir. No problem on the strait vertical pieces, however on the rounded top, I needed to steam-bend a 1/8" thick piece to make that same 2" radius. With use of a handful of clamps and wedges, we got the fir edging glued in place before sticking more laminate on the top and bottom. It didn't help there were no 90 degree angles anywhere.<br />
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We got it all assembled and ready to move. We then took it back apart as much as possible. It took 8 strapping lads to move and install the beast. Big, awkward, and very heavy, but we did it! In the end, I really dig the green color. It's pretty funky, but really works in the room.<br />
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Then I hopped onto a couple Fir cabinets to go in the same office. Again, nothing standard, and all about solving weird little problems. A few stainless steel rods and a plumbing chase didn't stop us from getting it just right.<br />
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Now, at the top of the post I promised some marital advice. I would encourage any couple that is going to move forward into a remodeling project, PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE make sure you and your spouse are on the same page. I ended up installing a stereo cabinet that did not receive a very warm welcome this summer. I HATE that. I love installing something and having everybody say "WOW!" or "That's AMAZING" or "Jason, I love you." What I DO NOT like is "Why did you put the shelf there????" Sadly, that happened on this job. Ugggg. There was a communication gap between the two homeowners, and I went one way, and clearly should have gone another. Both handled the situation and me very well. My first reaction is to make sure I didn't screw up. They both confirmed that I did what I was told, however they did not agree on a few key elements. It all worked itself out in the end, but it was tense. Very tense. So, once again........ Jason's tip of the day. PLEASE make sure you and your spouse are on the same page before things get too far along. You will save a ton of money and maybe even your relationship as well.<br />
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BTW, the picture at the top (and below) is metal mesh that I had to cut. Sparks are fun to see, however in a shop filled with piles of dry sawdust, I'm always a bit uneasy. <br />
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That's it for this week! Please feel free to chime in with thoughts or questions about anything you see!<br />
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As always....... thanks for reading!<br />
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</a></div>Jason Herrickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05025150376563882246noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6012343607446731204.post-66233432467547287492011-11-23T12:22:00.000-08:002011-11-23T12:22:05.532-08:00The 3 Month RundownGood Day PORC fans. I'm back and wanted to give you a glimpse of the last 3 months in the shop. <br />
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If there is one thing that I love <i>and</i> hate about being a small business owner, it's that I get to do a lot of everything. I don't have employees that take out the trash. I do that. I don't have employees enter and pay bills in the office. I do that. I don't have anybody that does my marketing or design, or blah blah blah. I "get" to do it all. I actually don't mind this because I love learning new things. This summer was no exception. I got some new tools, unique jobs, and ended a long running project that consumed just about every last ounce of brain power I had.<br />
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Enough with the lengthy word stuff. Keep reading for pics and brief stories after the break.<br />
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By far, my biggest "ahhhhhhh" came with the completion of the built-ins that started <a href="http://planesofreference.blogspot.com/2010/11/painting-clear-picture.html">13 months ago</a>. The job began with 2 small runs of cabinets, and ended with me touching every surface in the home. I did cabinets in every room including the closets. I also trimmed out the place, and coordinated several other trades throughout the project. I will be shooting some hi-res images of the unit once the homeowner has moved in, however these are a few shots from my phone to tease you just a bit.<br />
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Over the 13 months period I obviously did other projects as well that I wrote about <a href="http://planesofreference.blogspot.com/2011/07/furniture-vs-cabinet-who-wins.html">here</a> and <a href="http://planesofreference.blogspot.com/2011/06/two-tables-out-door.html">here</a> and <a href="http://planesofreference.blogspot.com/2011/05/i-love-good-super-model.html">here</a>. I also did a large reception desk that will eventually get it's own post, but below you can see a few of the shots. I call it the "Big Green Greeting Machine." Working with laminate is something that I have done a fair amount of, but it did nothing that prepared me for this bent lamination. What a beast. I personally wouldn't put it in my house, but it ended up working very well at it's final destination.<br />
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I've got another small kitchen project that is about to be installed the first week of December. I've been using that project to try a few new rendering skills on the computer. More of this one to come as well.<br />
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There's also a Murphy Bed and surround in the works for some wonderful repeat clients.<br />
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I'm back on the same campus that had "Big Green" for 2 workstations.<br />
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I also purchased a new dust collector a few months back. I have the distinct pleasure of suffering from Asthma. I have been very critical and aware of dust for years, however have not taken the financial plunge into the land of central dust collection. I work with a respirator on at all times when in the shop. Dust masks are useless for me. I also employ several fans and filters. After extensive research I bought a machine that should do me just right. Once complete, I should have clean air in my shop that is 20 times above what OSHA recommends as being "safe." I will be doing a full post on the build and installation of the <a href="http://www.clearvuecyclones.com/">ClearVue</a> cyclone in the next couple months. I have yet to buy the ducting as it will cost probably 2x's what the machine itself did. The build and installation was quite time consuming, but a lot of fun. I always love playing with electrical stuff, so building the control panel for the machine was a bit like Christmas for me.<br />
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There is much in my future as well. I am looking into some CNC machinery and 4 new pieces of software to learn. I'm having an Open House/Shop-warming/One Year Anniversary party in the spring for all my clients, friends and family. I'm working on more branding/marketing and signs for the new shop. AND there's more, but I can't tell you. They're secret.<br />
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As mentioned above, I LOVE to try new things, and keep learning on a daily basis. I'll do my best to keep my great readers in the loop. If you see anything above that you would like more info on, please mention it in the comments and I'll do my best to address it in future posts.<br />
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As always, thank you so much for reading, and have a happy holiday weekend! Cheers.Jason Herrickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05025150376563882246noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6012343607446731204.post-61416432958476579762011-11-16T15:42:00.000-08:002011-11-16T15:42:31.923-08:00And were BACK!Hello there PORC fans.<br />
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It's been a great summer filled with lots of work, a bit of play and plenty of fun. Sadly though, I was unable to continue my blogging ritual which consists of reading lots and blogs, and posting every week or so. Now that life has settled back down, I've realized that I miss sharing my building processes with you. Sharing my adventures is so much fun, and considering how many questions I receive from friends and family wondering what I do, I feel that keeping the blog updated and ongoing is really important, and very rewarding for me as well.<br />
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Thank you for tuning back in. I will see you back here in one week for photos from the summer projects and upcoming adventures on the horizon. As always, your support is appreciated. Cheers!Jason Herrickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05025150376563882246noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6012343607446731204.post-56350500023208139912011-07-20T21:26:00.000-07:002011-07-20T21:26:34.814-07:00Furniture vs. Cabinet: Who wins?Hey there PORC fans.<br />
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I'm neck deep again with more to do than time in the day. My poor wife is starting to refer to the shop as "The other women." I've even gone so far as to take my beloved banjo over there to force me to take a bit of 'me' time. In spite of the crazy hours, I'm having a blast putting together the latest couple pieces.<br />
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Western Black Walnut could be one of my all time favorite woods. It's easy to work with, has the most amazing and unpredictable colors, and in Portland Oregon, seems to grow like a weed. I am fortunate to have the largest <a href="http://www.gobywalnut.com/index.htm">Walnut distributor</a> in the County just up the road. Below are 2 bookmatched drawer fronts waiting for final fitting.<br />
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I am hardly a well schooled expert on Walnut varieties, but most of the Eastern stuff we get out here has had so many things done to it to make it look consistent, that it's lost all of its charm. This stuff is full of charm and character. Good for some, not for all.<br />
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I should have been snapping pics throughout the building process, but it really came down to focusing on building. Sorry friends.<br />
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I did discover a few new things that work well when building. (It's always a learning project at this place) This cabinet if a freestanding piece of furniture. So I wanted to build it as such but incorporate some nice "cabinet" like features. This includes fancy drawer slides, and nice clean durable pre-finished Maple ply for the interiors. Not only is the ply durable, but the contrast with the walnut makes my heart go pitter patter. It is also going in a kitchen, so I need to finish it like a cabinet, not furniture.<br />
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How different finished surfaces meet is always a challenge. It you try to flush them up, you always end up with a seam that is not perfect. I generally set the casework back of the face frame. However when using drawer slides, the casework needs to be at least flush with the face frame. In this case I took it one step further and brought them in about 1/4". I love how clean the look is! AND it's a nice and easy to mount the drawer slides to the cabinet. Lesson one. Learned.<br />
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The next thing I discovered is quite silly. Did you know they make hinges that are flat on the outside of the hinge? Most normal hinges are intended to sit proud of the mating wood they are mounted to, and in return are not flat on the outside. That would not work in my case, (do you see below how the two pieces of wood attached to the hinge are not on the same plane?) so I went on the hunt for an alternative. I was thinking about knife hinges, but then was schooled by the good folks at the greatest little (OK, not so little)<a href="http://www.winkshardware.com/"> hardware store ever</a>. I ended up using a butt hinge that is flat on the outside so I can be set back from the fixed mounting place. The dull finish is perfect for the pulls that are in route. Lesson two. Learned.<br />
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I also needed to address the whole issue of two varieties of Walnut. My original plan was to glue up my own veneered plywood for the panels, however the veneer I chose was way to busy and visually distracting. Thank goodness I discovered that before I started cutting the stuff up. Sadly I had already purchased the material, but I will store it away for a rainy day. The Eastern ply didn't match at all in terms of color, so I had to make up a stain to make them work together. 1 die, and two gel stains, and I got what I wanted. The strong lines of of the panels keep the surrounding figure at the forefront.<br />
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The big butt kicker were the drawers. I wanted to use nice soft close slides, but we also wanted to use smooth soft closing slides. I did not want to apply a front to a drawer box. So... I ended up spending some 11 hours making 6 rabbited half blind's on the <a href="http://planesofreference.blogspot.com/2011/04/handcut-dovetails-in-6-minutes.html">Leigh gig</a>. The thing that schooled me here was that I had to completely conceal the drawer hardware. I eventually got it, but I can tell you, it was not a fun day. Lesson three. Learned <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nt75889GcUc/TiekqY0pFXI/AAAAAAAAMaM/rAq1S6F4FyQ/s1600/_MG_0023-7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nt75889GcUc/TiekqY0pFXI/AAAAAAAAMaM/rAq1S6F4FyQ/s1600/_MG_0023-7.jpg" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-F-sLopwGxS8/TiekqrE-n3I/AAAAAAAAMaU/-VomYFQIrmM/s1600/_MG_0006-7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-F-sLopwGxS8/TiekqrE-n3I/AAAAAAAAMaU/-VomYFQIrmM/s1600/_MG_0006-7.jpg" /></a></div><br />
I picked up a new edge sander this week also. I've been wanting one for years, and finally an opportunity appeared and I jumped all over it. Woo-hoo! It's a great tool for down and dirty chamfers.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VkTo8loajmc/TiekpcLb_RI/AAAAAAAAMaA/FmMuFIA4yRs/s1600/_MG_0029-7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VkTo8loajmc/TiekpcLb_RI/AAAAAAAAMaA/FmMuFIA4yRs/s1600/_MG_0029-7.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YIgZ6qxrOzY/TiekoZtUdwI/AAAAAAAAMZ4/x_gkR8UQaNw/s1600/_MG_0037-6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YIgZ6qxrOzY/TiekoZtUdwI/AAAAAAAAMZ4/x_gkR8UQaNw/s1600/_MG_0037-6.jpg" /></a></div><br />
So, all in all, we ended up with a "cabineture." (I made that word up you see.) There are plenty of purests out there that would never use plywood or drawer slides in a true heirloom piece of furniture. However, I think it is possible to blend the two worlds. Do you think it worked?<br />
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The stools and finishing are next up, but that my friends, is for another day. I gotta fly!<br />
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I would however like to hear from the folks on the other side of the land about their Walnut.<br />
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As always, thanks for stopping in.Jason Herrickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05025150376563882246noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6012343607446731204.post-3992008002392541232011-06-29T19:13:00.000-07:002011-06-29T19:13:59.579-07:00Two Tables out the Door.Hi there PORC fans.<br />
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Sorry I missed my post last week. It's been a bit of a whirlwind due to that stupid vacation thing. As a self proclaimed work-aholic, I think I have a bit of a point when I say, "I don't like vacations because I'm always behind when I get back." Anyhow. I'm here for another installment from the land of PORC.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-a3k0fGsisBE/TgvH7lk2isI/AAAAAAAAMBY/Jm__9-vpwmA/s1600/_MG_0499.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-a3k0fGsisBE/TgvH7lk2isI/AAAAAAAAMBY/Jm__9-vpwmA/s640/_MG_0499.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>I have two outdoor tables that leave the shop tomorrow morning. It's really amazing how much can be learned from previous projects. One of the tables came strait out of my back yard in need of refinishing. Now, that may seem like a total pain, but it gave me a chance to relook at my building and finishing techniques from 5 years gone by. It's ironic that I was building a new farm table the same week out of some of the amazing wood I showed <a href="http://planesofreference.blogspot.com/2011/06/sustainable-woodworking.html">last time</a>. Anyhow, enough blah blah. Keep reading for the good blah blah.<br />
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<a name='more'></a>Several years back I made a table out of cutoffs from our fence project. In the same post I mentioned <a href="http://planesofreference.blogspot.com/2011/06/sustainable-woodworking.html">above</a>, you can see the actual cedar that we used. When it was all said and done, a few scraps needed a new home and we needed a new patio table. I did buy a couple sticks of mahogany for the outside frame. I hadn't figured out the legs, and then POOF, 4 stainless steel legs fell off the back of a truck and into my shop. (Not really off a truck. They were mis-ordered and about to be discarded. In swoops Jason) Materials complete! Lets make a table.<br />
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This was one of my first Domino projects. Overall, the table is still in great shape. I don't have any nasty fasteners to look at and the wood can breathe with the season changes. When people ask where we got the table, I always say "Ikea", and each time they look at my wife and say, "I was just there the other day, and I didn't see this one." I laugh each and every time. <br />
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I coated the piece with <a href="http://www.dalyspaint.com/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=4&products_id=18">Dalys Spar Varnish.</a> I couldn't be more impressed with the product. I sprayed 2 coats of high gloss, and one coat of satin. It's held up GREAT! I've basically left it outside uncovered for 5 years. It's taken a beating, but really held up well. This last winter took it's toll and I needed to strip it down and reseal it. <br />
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After a few hours of Jasco stripping, I took the belt sander to it and got it all back to bare wood. Then I threw some more of the same finish on. This time with a brush. BAD CALL! I've become a bit of a spray snob and horrible brusher. I would rather have a bit more work prepping in order to spray if I can avoid all of the stupid brush marks. If it were a REAL client, I would sand it back down and spray it. But this client is going to just have to deal with it. It will be interesting to see how long it lasts by taking it inside for the winters.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_o5bRwrkhXc/TgvRvCRfANI/AAAAAAAAMEA/LOw3_5woElg/s1600/_MG_0489.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_o5bRwrkhXc/TgvRvCRfANI/AAAAAAAAMEA/LOw3_5woElg/s1600/_MG_0489.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TDRPsxsTMKk/TgvRu6tBtkI/AAAAAAAAMD8/PrqujCR4QEo/s1600/_MG_0494.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TDRPsxsTMKk/TgvRu6tBtkI/AAAAAAAAMD8/PrqujCR4QEo/s1600/_MG_0494.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9cfOxDhXVWE/TgvRt5G40jI/AAAAAAAAMDw/mlcIGRQBlfE/s1600/_MG_0570.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9cfOxDhXVWE/TgvRt5G40jI/AAAAAAAAMDw/mlcIGRQBlfE/s1600/_MG_0570.jpg" /></a></div>So, lessons learned: Domino=Stud. Sprayed Finish=Sweet. Brushed Finish="Did he use a paint brush or a shop broom to apply that finish?" Moving on.<br />
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I had a fun time making a farm table with a friend and fellow woodworker. He had a great idea in his head about the table. We put it in Sketchup, made a few mods and got cutting.<br />
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Working with rough sawn lumber is really a treat and a curse. It's heavy, has lots of these little things you may have heard of called splinter, and LOTS AND LOTS of them. Oooooozing cavities of sap around every corner and now every surface of my shop has some on it too. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RwPQuVdKNAM/TgvRtpkHQjI/AAAAAAAAMDs/Weeknjj8Ve4/s1600/_MG_0507.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RwPQuVdKNAM/TgvRtpkHQjI/AAAAAAAAMDs/Weeknjj8Ve4/s640/_MG_0507.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br />
Now that being said, it is so rewarding to uncover the mystry that lies below the abusive surface. With each pass over the joiner, my smile grew. I love my job!<br />
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In order to get the required dimensions with the lumber on hand, I chose to resaw 4 long boards. It roughed out around 1 1/8", we got 1" finish thickness in the end. I built the tops in 2 stages. First I glued up the matched pairs, each about 12" wide, and after a light pass through the planer, I put them together for the final 35" top.<br />
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The Domino kicked it again. we used them about every 12", to make sure the seams lined up. They were just shy of perfect! A few minutes of scrapping off glue and we're about done. It takes a few extra minutes to use them, but well worth the time.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1UHLKPaicKI/TgvRYEHe5GI/AAAAAAAAMCY/SxKQiQ07YTM/s1600/_MG_0517.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1UHLKPaicKI/TgvRYEHe5GI/AAAAAAAAMCY/SxKQiQ07YTM/s1600/_MG_0517.jpg" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lhxp9b1Jz1Q/TgvRX7SaImI/AAAAAAAAMCU/QDx-3RHRiKE/s1600/_MG_0518.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lhxp9b1Jz1Q/TgvRX7SaImI/AAAAAAAAMCU/QDx-3RHRiKE/s1600/_MG_0518.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dd9SeS950iw/TgvRXlXtmWI/AAAAAAAAMCQ/9uJ3TaITe3o/s1600/_MG_0525.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dd9SeS950iw/TgvRXlXtmWI/AAAAAAAAMCQ/9uJ3TaITe3o/s1600/_MG_0525.jpg" /></a></div><br />
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The leg stock was provided by my fellow wood geek. He had a few large beams left over from the building of his home. (Where this table will reside) I wouldn't describe them as clear furniture grade, but they were dry and big enough to work with. OH, and prepaid (i.e. free).<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kjVUkNe-rBU/TgvRXEmFX5I/AAAAAAAAMCI/6CXW3L2CsL4/s1600/_MG_0528.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kjVUkNe-rBU/TgvRXEmFX5I/AAAAAAAAMCI/6CXW3L2CsL4/s1600/_MG_0528.jpg" /></a></div><br />
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We added a gentle 4 sided taper on each leg. The material is just under 3 1/2" so it wouldn't quite make it all the way through the saw. This turned out to be a blessing. With each pass through the saw, it left about 1/8" of uncut material. This left over piece was just right to reuse as a reference for the taper jig. Once all four sides we cut, I snapped off the cutoffs, and took about 2 minutes to remove the leftover wood with a handplane. Good little trick we fell on. I will do it again in the future for sure!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--dqnOcrTkIs/TgvRWg2qywI/AAAAAAAAMCA/QEIbOGaoEHQ/s1600/_MG_0533.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="427" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--dqnOcrTkIs/TgvRWg2qywI/AAAAAAAAMCA/QEIbOGaoEHQ/s640/_MG_0533.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vo12kRn1piU/TgvRW-eUkSI/AAAAAAAAMCE/ppKE-0sjrow/s1600/_MG_0531.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vo12kRn1piU/TgvRW-eUkSI/AAAAAAAAMCE/ppKE-0sjrow/s1600/_MG_0531.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-U1qhiFWXuSw/TgvRWpzu_PI/AAAAAAAAMB8/JI7SLs9nniw/s1600/_MG_0537.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-U1qhiFWXuSw/TgvRWpzu_PI/AAAAAAAAMB8/JI7SLs9nniw/s640/_MG_0537.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br />
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I knew based on the other table, that I needed a bit more mass to hold this thing together, so the Domino was out. It's a 150lb table just under 7' in length. We decided to make the biggest floating tenons we could. I pulled out the plunge router, strait edge and started making piles of chips.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NTWJryU_L7U/TgvRqYRfHSI/AAAAAAAAMC8/Vi-czriiPiI/s1600/_MG_0550.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NTWJryU_L7U/TgvRqYRfHSI/AAAAAAAAMC8/Vi-czriiPiI/s640/_MG_0550.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
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Each hole was 1/2" x 3 1/2" x 2" This gave me 2" of depth in each hole. I made up the tenon stock with some extra maple.<br />
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Each leg got 2 mortises, as did the end of each apron. We also used them on the breadboard ends, as well as a small spline the entire length of the ends to keep it nice and flat over time.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9y_UAFT_NmI/TgvRWRSoc2I/AAAAAAAAMB4/noP3-ex3fvA/s1600/_MG_0539.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9y_UAFT_NmI/TgvRWRSoc2I/AAAAAAAAMB4/noP3-ex3fvA/s640/_MG_0539.jpg" width="426" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nYhXrnB8frE/TgvRVnE3A7I/AAAAAAAAMBw/Z1HQf75ERcg/s1600/_MG_0552.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nYhXrnB8frE/TgvRVnE3A7I/AAAAAAAAMBw/Z1HQf75ERcg/s640/_MG_0552.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br />
I've got it all glued up, rounded the edges and gave it final sand before finishing. The best news here is that I don't have to finish it. My friend is brushing on some<a href="http://www.paintsource.net/pages/products/sikkens/sikkens_MAIN.htm"> Sikkins</a> for a bulletproof finish. It should be fun to see the final photos once it's all done.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-otxMG9KjezI/TgvRVGStj4I/AAAAAAAAMBo/k5r-RcETkyA/s1600/_MG_0560.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-otxMG9KjezI/TgvRVGStj4I/AAAAAAAAMBo/k5r-RcETkyA/s640/_MG_0560.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-p54ascMJP3E/TgvRU9G_Q0I/AAAAAAAAMBk/CQbRdBQyxQU/s1600/_MG_0569.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-p54ascMJP3E/TgvRU9G_Q0I/AAAAAAAAMBk/CQbRdBQyxQU/s640/_MG_0569.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
It's been a great week! I'm about to finally start working with the piles of walnut in the other room. I see a blog post or two out of those bad boys.<br />
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As always. Thanks for reading!Jason Herrickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05025150376563882246noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6012343607446731204.post-58875083703544000132011-06-15T22:52:00.000-07:002011-06-15T22:52:04.971-07:00Sustainable WoodworkingHi there PORC fans.<br />
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I've gotta give you the truth. I am wiped. It's been a long day, but I REALLY wanted to share a few thoughts about sustainability. I will share some photos with you and keep my long ramblings to a minimum.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wVO34QJnjBE/TfmF5WcXBcI/AAAAAAAAL_c/1QgWF2qB7ZA/s1600/_MG_0112.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wVO34QJnjBE/TfmF5WcXBcI/AAAAAAAAL_c/1QgWF2qB7ZA/s1600/_MG_0112.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Do you like this photo? Keep reading for more just like it. AND BETTER.<br />
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<a name='more'></a>So we're starting today's post with a quick question.<br />
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What do a pool, a boat, and a vacation home all have in common?<br />
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Answer: They're nice to have, but it's better to have a good friend that lets you borrow it.<br />
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Well, the same thing is true with a saw mill. If there is one thing I have always enjoyed, it's having great friends. Some do have pools, several own a boat or two, and I can't even keep the vacation homes strait. Those are all fine and dandy, but the real keeper is the saw mill owner.<br />
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A few years back a couple good friends all went in a on portable sawmill. It's got the ability to work 36" wide trees, and has a 16'+ bed. You pull it behind a truck and set it up and in no time flat your making lumber.<br />
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Granted it's a bit more difficult than that. There's plenty of techniqe ennvolved to get good results. The work is exhausting, and coiling up a 15' razor sharp blade of death is downright scary.<br />
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NOW..... All that being said, milling up a tree is such an amazing reward.<br />
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I HATE the mass production of most things. Lumber is one of them. The usage of our forests around the world is sickening. The rainforests will never recover from our current generations abuse. Within the US, the harvesting of lumber for construction is downright sad. I wish that I had a good photo to share of the damage done by lumber companies and their clear-cutting operations.<br />
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Buy wood at your local lumber yard. Go to a specialty dealer that sells exotic woods. However, PLEASE make it an exception and not a standard practice. <br />
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With a bit of extra effort and time, anyone can find reputable dealers that work to achieve good foresty practices and follow the <a href="http://www.fsc.org/107.html">FSC</a> guild lines. Please do what you can. I am fortunate to live in an area of the country filled with great lumber. I now have a wonderful <a href="http://www.sustainablenorthwest.org/snwwood/wood/">new supplier</a> that sells all sustainable products and all are harvested within 300 miles of my home. They have amazing pricing, huge selection and the most knowledgeable and kind staff out there. Look for one of these places in your area.<br />
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Below are some photos of us milling up a cedar in Southern Oregon. This 130' baby was on private property and was starting to have heath problems, so the land owner said we could have it before it started to decay to badly. We made 1 deck, an entire fence, and entryway gate out of it.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rdadGQRFy00/TfmM7aycP8I/AAAAAAAAMAE/2LmBK_OC5lA/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-06-15+at+9.55.43+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rdadGQRFy00/TfmM7aycP8I/AAAAAAAAMAE/2LmBK_OC5lA/s400/Screen+shot+2011-06-15+at+9.55.43+PM.png" width="270" /></a></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vDFTaTAL8WY/TfmFfRAY5gI/AAAAAAAAL_Y/rR4IBr21z3c/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-06-15+at+9.20.50+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vDFTaTAL8WY/TfmFfRAY5gI/AAAAAAAAL_Y/rR4IBr21z3c/s400/Screen+shot+2011-06-15+at+9.20.50+PM.png" width="263" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">First cut with a 42" bar on the saw</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zpDOd_2br6M/TfmFekTkqYI/AAAAAAAAL_U/p02sA_vHP60/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-06-15+at+9.21.39+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zpDOd_2br6M/TfmFekTkqYI/AAAAAAAAL_U/p02sA_vHP60/s400/Screen+shot+2011-06-15+at+9.21.39+PM.png" width="267" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Note the running man AWAY from the tree.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-W1YUDdisrJY/TfmFdta7ASI/AAAAAAAAL_Q/56OU3Vq8zIo/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-06-15+at+9.22.06+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="258" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-W1YUDdisrJY/TfmFdta7ASI/AAAAAAAAL_Q/56OU3Vq8zIo/s640/Screen+shot+2011-06-15+at+9.22.06+PM.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A very peaceful moment.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bgE3ap3NDsQ/TfmFbwAyhiI/AAAAAAAAL_M/_iN1eUr2gwg/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-06-15+at+9.22.25+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bgE3ap3NDsQ/TfmFbwAyhiI/AAAAAAAAL_M/_iN1eUr2gwg/s400/Screen+shot+2011-06-15+at+9.22.25+PM.png" width="268" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The rotting stump made for creative milling.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Htz4SsHygIE/TfmFbMYwSEI/AAAAAAAAL_I/EfGI4NPkMfI/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-06-15+at+9.23.17+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="252" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Htz4SsHygIE/TfmFbMYwSEI/AAAAAAAAL_I/EfGI4NPkMfI/s400/Screen+shot+2011-06-15+at+9.23.17+PM.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is a very typical milling picture. :)</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-C-A2XBB4mcY/TfmFaBPdA2I/AAAAAAAAL_E/XeRvUhunh4c/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-06-15+at+9.23.31+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="257" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-C-A2XBB4mcY/TfmFaBPdA2I/AAAAAAAAL_E/XeRvUhunh4c/s400/Screen+shot+2011-06-15+at+9.23.31+PM.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Just the beginning of the load.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</tbody></table> Another great reward came my way recently when I was asked to make a large table. It just so turned out that one of our early milling adventures was a very large Douglas Fir. It yeilded a lot of big slabs that are about 2ish" thick, 18"-22" wide and up to 14' long. Granted I helped mill them, but I don't own them. My friend and I worked out a fair price that we both could live with.<br />
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They've been drying now for about 3 years and I finally brought them inside to start working with.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qBVaoD_t90o/TfmF7ryQB2I/AAAAAAAAL_0/T5el3VOtw0s/s640/_MG_0058-4.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Big is beautiful.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-T6iIj6vtFJw/TfmF79WQhiI/AAAAAAAAL_4/Xz1rWHb8Zjo/s1600/_MG_0035-6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="372" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-T6iIj6vtFJw/TfmF79WQhiI/AAAAAAAAL_4/Xz1rWHb8Zjo/s640/_MG_0035-6.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Those sawhorses are about 50" wide.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WCbBxvH3l7Q/TfmF7Md5DpI/AAAAAAAAL_w/-enlpF09K_o/s1600/_MG_0071-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WCbBxvH3l7Q/TfmF7Md5DpI/AAAAAAAAL_w/-enlpF09K_o/s640/_MG_0071-2.jpg" width="425" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Some nice Vertical Grain</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
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And finally I moved back into the showroom/storage room. More walnut, sycamore, and maple from previous milling. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-myUazpcJXZY/TfmF6MU24WI/AAAAAAAAL_k/1infb9Z2Es8/s1600/_MG_0101.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="394" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-myUazpcJXZY/TfmF6MU24WI/AAAAAAAAL_k/1infb9Z2Es8/s640/_MG_0101.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Art in a board.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LNQKYmgTXUo/TfmF52divJI/AAAAAAAAL_g/9xswLLc7RkA/s1600/_MG_0108.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LNQKYmgTXUo/TfmF52divJI/AAAAAAAAL_g/9xswLLc7RkA/s640/_MG_0108.jpg" width="378" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Maple Burl with dye.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hiq0swvF6yM/TfmF6bmyQPI/AAAAAAAAL_o/tP3jcq-e96I/s1600/_MG_0083.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hiq0swvF6yM/TfmF6bmyQPI/AAAAAAAAL_o/tP3jcq-e96I/s640/_MG_0083.jpg" width="398" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sequential Sycamore slabs.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CnODaz-9E1o/TfmF645xPFI/AAAAAAAAL_s/49n3DzAF-dE/s1600/_MG_0079-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CnODaz-9E1o/TfmF645xPFI/AAAAAAAAL_s/49n3DzAF-dE/s640/_MG_0079-2.jpg" width="448" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">More Western Walnut.</td></tr>
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I LOVE these boards! But hears the funny thing. I am aquiring them faster than I can use them. I will sell some, I may donate some, I'm <a href="http://planesofreference.blogspot.com/2010/10/free-free-free.html"><b>giving some away</b></a>, and in theory, I will make something amazing with them.<br />
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I am NOT suggesting that you all (all 4 of you) go out and buy a mill. However, I would highly encourage all to get to know your fellow wood-geeks.<br />
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This isn't just for us wood dorks either. Homeowners can do the same thing when they want to remodel or build custom works. Find an artisan willing to look for and work with sustainable products.<br />
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Did you find someone who ones a mill? GREAT, offer to help do some grunt work next time they cut up some materials. Do you know a tree trimmer? Then ask them about local millers. Do you own an excavator or tractor. GREAT! Moving large logs with a peavey, cant hook and chains is NO FUN. Heavy machinery is nice to have around! Need 2x6 material for an addition? Check craigslist and off the beaten path options. You never know what people have just laying around waiting to give away to the right person who asks. <br />
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I would ask those who are still awake. Where have you looked for materials, and had good luck? What about false leads and dead ends. Chime in the comments with your thougths!<br />
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As always, thanks for reading.Jason Herrickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05025150376563882246noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6012343607446731204.post-47298323881822242011-06-09T12:22:00.000-07:002011-06-09T12:25:57.876-07:00Does Teaching Help?Hi there PORC fans<br />
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Another good couple weeks in the trenches. I've got several fun projects in the works and thought I'd share a few of the details with you. I've also been handed a great opportunity to challenge myself as an instructor. <br />
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Keep on reading for the full report.<br />
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I'd had a fun week fabricating the final pieces of cabinetry for the condo job that's dominated this site for a bit. We ended up with an amazing design that fully utilized every possible inch of space available. The cabinet incorporates a finished tile wall on both side to essentially make the cabinet look built into the tile, but also has a weight and feel that makes it unique and independent of its surroundings. Sadly, I get very little credit for the design. The client schooled me on this one. We also added a neat little glass inset on the countertop that was fun to fabricate.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UKKgT9uxtGc/TfEJeQHDoZI/AAAAAAAAL-I/yf3Gv7Hfkic/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-05-16+at+11.48.06+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UKKgT9uxtGc/TfEJeQHDoZI/AAAAAAAAL-I/yf3Gv7Hfkic/s400/Screen+shot+2011-05-16+at+11.48.06+AM.png" width="323" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An early version</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qeRrpQTSNL4/TfEL1DNjPwI/AAAAAAAAL-M/001hBknsLD8/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-05-23+at+7.41.51+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="287" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qeRrpQTSNL4/TfEL1DNjPwI/AAAAAAAAL-M/001hBknsLD8/s400/Screen+shot+2011-05-23+at+7.41.51+AM.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The inset glass top, plus one of three mechanical cutouts.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</tbody></table>I am also happy to report a positive response from my clients that I made the <a href="http://planesofreference.blogspot.com/2011/05/i-love-good-super-model.html">bench mock up</a> for. They loved it, and we're moving forward with the two final stools, and island table.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MaOIW14Q5no/TfEOh5w22gI/AAAAAAAAL-Q/EsZQzrUhAYI/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-06-09+at+11.16.36+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="264" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MaOIW14Q5no/TfEOh5w22gI/AAAAAAAAL-Q/EsZQzrUhAYI/s320/Screen+shot+2011-06-09+at+11.16.36+AM.png" width="320" /></a></div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bRkdjsIr-VQ/TfEPHI0MG4I/AAAAAAAAL-U/pk8bFvflJCU/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-05-24+at+6.07.55+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bRkdjsIr-VQ/TfEPHI0MG4I/AAAAAAAAL-U/pk8bFvflJCU/s320/Screen+shot+2011-05-24+at+6.07.55+PM.png" width="286" /></a><br />
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I've got a large farm table in the works, a murphy bed unit that will likely push me towards using a few new materials, some commercial bent laminate desks and lots and lots of bathroom, kitchen, and closet cabinets to keep me out of too much trouble. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MVfNRT9c-DM/TfEUdE4335I/AAAAAAAAL-o/hRRezJjM9nQ/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-06-09+at+11.43.09+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MVfNRT9c-DM/TfEUdE4335I/AAAAAAAAL-o/hRRezJjM9nQ/s400/Screen+shot+2011-06-09+at+11.43.09+AM.png" width="285" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Closet carcass</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CBjv8FLMHEg/TfESYtAMdHI/AAAAAAAAL-c/nyIRGT1tubI/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-06-09+at+11.34.41+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="257" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CBjv8FLMHEg/TfESYtAMdHI/AAAAAAAAL-c/nyIRGT1tubI/s400/Screen+shot+2011-06-09+at+11.34.41+AM.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Single sink vanity</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-h63ZDbZSvlY/TfESrISfdKI/AAAAAAAAL-g/TDBK4MdaRBc/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-06-09+at+11.27.31+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="376" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-h63ZDbZSvlY/TfESrISfdKI/AAAAAAAAL-g/TDBK4MdaRBc/s640/Screen+shot+2011-06-09+at+11.27.31+AM.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Architectural plans for a new office.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0z11tpqPAm8/TfESvl6m5dI/AAAAAAAAL-k/AISp3LvG-DM/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-06-09+at+11.27.01+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="222" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0z11tpqPAm8/TfESvl6m5dI/AAAAAAAAL-k/AISp3LvG-DM/s640/Screen+shot+2011-06-09+at+11.27.01+AM.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Reception desk, with one heck of a unique color.</td></tr>
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For all the people that know me well, all say that my tendency towards self deprecation can be a bit 'evident'. I'm always pushing myself to improve my skills, and continue to grow as a person. I also try not to get too cocky and self absorbed. (Something I am slowly learning in my 'old age.') The result is frequently doubting my own abilities and questioning what I do. It's a bit of a double edge sword. Push yourself to improve, but don't push yourself down at the same time.<br />
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Well, you can imagine my surprise when I was approached to work with and help a friend on a project. And not just one, but 4 different people have approached me in the last 3 months to work together. The self deprecating pessimist in me is certain that the real reason people want my help is because I always have a stocked fridge of good micro-brews, or because I have more tools than them and a place to store their half completed projects. It's been quite an accomplishment to accept that someone in the world may in fact like to hear what I have to say and offer.<br />
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I've decided this is a great way for me to grow as both a craftsman, and as a person. I came from a family where one of my two amazing parents was a music teacher. He was as good at doing his job playing an instrument as he was at teaching it to others. If I am able to teach someone about what I do, I will also improve my abilities to produce a finished product.<br />
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I am excited to see what I learn over the next couple months. I am hoping to explain some basics about Sketch-up. I may show someone my quirky tendencies while using a jigsaw. I also welcome the opportunity to learn something from the person I'm working with. Maybe it's about woodworking, maybe it's about astrophysics. I don't know what yet, but I plan to find out.<br />
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Is there a topic that would be interesting to you? Design, remodeling, tools, budgeting, photographing wood stuff??? I'll give it my best to help shed some light on the subject. What would you like to see come from this blog. One thing is for sure, I won't shy away from lots of pictures, long winded rants, and over-usage of the comma. Once that sentence is started, let it run on, and on, and on, and on.<br />
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As always, thanks for reading and chiming in with your thoughts in the comment section below!Jason Herrickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05025150376563882246noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6012343607446731204.post-23914159249409755332011-05-25T09:36:00.000-07:002011-05-25T09:37:27.692-07:00I Love a Good Super Model<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SmNgS8Y739A/Tdxa4QwCw0I/AAAAAAAAL9s/_1EscgWD2nI/s1600/_MG_0031-5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SmNgS8Y739A/Tdxa4QwCw0I/AAAAAAAAL9s/_1EscgWD2nI/s640/_MG_0031-5.jpg" width="426" /></a>Hi there PORC friends.<br />
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A few months ago, I went into detail about the <a href="http://planesofreference.blogspot.com/2010/11/painting-clear-picture.html">design process</a> I go through with a good majority of my clients. You got an opportunity to see the design process from beginning to end. Turns out, that post was very popular and I got some great feedback in the comments, as well in person.<br />
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I've decided to take it to the next level. Drawings are an amazing tool to help visualize. Especially when the drawings are 3 dimensional renderings that allow you to walk around the room and see the completed project from all angles.<br />
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Sometimes a picture just isn't enough. This is when a full size mock-up of the finished project gets made.<br />
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Keep reading from a bit more about making a model of a finished project.<br />
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For the task at hand, let's look at this weeks project. 2 bar stools to accompany a freestanding kitchen island.<br />
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After a few sketches and brainstorming meetings, I went to the computer. I sent over a few versions to get a feel for the style to go with. We agreed early on that they did not need or want to "match" the island. The room has some other distinct cabinetry and furniture. If we tried to make everything 'the same', we would quickly find ourselves chasing our tails looking for <i>what</i> to copy.<br />
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We wanted stools that could stand on their own (literally) next to the island or in another room all together.<br />
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We narrowed down the style from the base options shown below.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4Pirv92bDQY/TdxVwGxdPHI/AAAAAAAAL9Y/p14dFHuRF5o/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-05-24+at+5.45.22+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="170" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4Pirv92bDQY/TdxVwGxdPHI/AAAAAAAAL9Y/p14dFHuRF5o/s640/Screen+shot+2011-05-24+at+5.45.22+PM.png" width="640" /></a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">We ended up playing with an Asian inspired style. Below is a rough idea to start tweaking.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vV31MHqnTrc/TdxWoh4QmwI/AAAAAAAAL9c/8nFdq1ufjAw/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-05-24+at+6.07.55+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vV31MHqnTrc/TdxWoh4QmwI/AAAAAAAAL9c/8nFdq1ufjAw/s400/Screen+shot+2011-05-24+at+6.07.55+PM.png" width="357" /></a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I felt confident about the scale and proportions of the base. The leg design we a gem (at least I thought so) However, I found myself scratching my head with the seat rest. Let's face it. We all have different shaped bums. To find a shape that is both pleasing to look at AND easy on the buns is not an easy thing to do. Add to that, we all sit on stools differently. Some sit striat on with one or both feet on the ground. Others, sit at a 45 degree angle to the base. Ideally, we would accommodate all.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The only way I could see a way through this, is to make a full sized mock up and let my clients try it out.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">When building a model like this, I have a chance to tweak proportions, arches, lines, joinery and refine the fabricating details. It's kind of a pain because I need to spend several hours building the darn thing, but in the end, it's worth the effort. After all, we can do a lot in the computer, but having the ability to actually sit on a piece, and feel the solid nature of an actual stool is invaluable.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fdVptZD3EUQ/TdxZ6wsr7UI/AAAAAAAAL9k/z5ePxbFRhlI/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-05-24+at+6.21.28+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fdVptZD3EUQ/TdxZ6wsr7UI/AAAAAAAAL9k/z5ePxbFRhlI/s640/Screen+shot+2011-05-24+at+6.21.28+PM.png" width="494" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"x-ray" view of the joinery details AND problems</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--5CHhq4hHF8/TdxZ6pCcAaI/AAAAAAAAL9g/gvREBY6scvA/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-05-24+at+6.22.28+PM.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="468" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--5CHhq4hHF8/TdxZ6pCcAaI/AAAAAAAAL9g/gvREBY6scvA/s640/Screen+shot+2011-05-24+at+6.22.28+PM.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">You can see from above, the adjoining tenons run into another. We need to fix that!</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">After a few alterations on the computer to fix some little things, we head out to the shop. Time to start making a life size Super Model. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I yanked a pile of wood down from the racks to play with. I made up some router templates as well so I could repeat the results. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-I5RcBcv1EYg/Tdxa5k75NAI/AAAAAAAAL-A/Ko0T_Wrb5_I/s1600/_MG_0006-6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-I5RcBcv1EYg/Tdxa5k75NAI/AAAAAAAAL-A/Ko0T_Wrb5_I/s640/_MG_0006-6.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stretchers with arch cut and tenons</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rJE_mXWTCDI/Tdxa5cxAVVI/AAAAAAAAL98/QBZJPaOwfMU/s1600/_MG_0015-6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rJE_mXWTCDI/Tdxa5cxAVVI/AAAAAAAAL98/QBZJPaOwfMU/s640/_MG_0015-6.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mating mortise</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Almost there</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-O_UX-9utF9M/Tdxa4zD1JuI/AAAAAAAAL90/HY9dUzBiK-M/s1600/_MG_0024-5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-O_UX-9utF9M/Tdxa4zD1JuI/AAAAAAAAL90/HY9dUzBiK-M/s640/_MG_0024-5.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The beginning shape of the seat</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DpY1iglKRj8/Tdxa4rMDTxI/AAAAAAAAL9w/7l_JlisV4XA/s1600/_MG_0027-5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DpY1iglKRj8/Tdxa4rMDTxI/AAAAAAAAL9w/7l_JlisV4XA/s640/_MG_0027-5.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Getting closer after a bit of hand planing</td></tr>
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">After quite a bit of belt sanding, the addition of 2 small blocks of wood, several "cheek tests," and a few beers, I ended up with comfy little stool. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_tDl2Fte4fs/Tdxa4BFu24I/AAAAAAAAL9o/Uv2o-N87zNw/s1600/_MG_0034-5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_tDl2Fte4fs/Tdxa4BFu24I/AAAAAAAAL9o/Uv2o-N87zNw/s640/_MG_0034-5.jpg" width="426" /></a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">If I need to modify it a bit I still can. I am very interested in the clients opinion! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">So much can be learned and refined with a dry run, and in the end, I will have another shop stool to use and abuse.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">As always, thanks for reading! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
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</div>Jason Herrickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05025150376563882246noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6012343607446731204.post-16122322875523066772011-05-17T17:47:00.000-07:002011-05-17T17:54:21.561-07:00Essential Hand Tools for Every Homeowner and DIY'erHi there PORC fans.<br />
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I was just asked the other day if I have "A Huge Truck" full of tools that goes with me to every job. The short answer is no, I do not. In fact, I am able to fit all of my essentials into one small tool box.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ev5JXCwhUR0/TdMQSGdpZkI/AAAAAAAAL8o/Eiy03lm_udI/s1600/_MG_0017-3-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ev5JXCwhUR0/TdMQSGdpZkI/AAAAAAAAL8o/Eiy03lm_udI/s1600/_MG_0017-3-2.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Keep reading to see what's inside</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</tbody></table>Over the years, I've come up with a selection of hand-tools that keep me in business. Seldom do I <i>not</i> have something for any given situation. Keep reading for the full breakdown that EVERY homeowner and DIY'er should have.<br />
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I have 3 'bags' that go with me at all times. I've got one for hand tools, one for 4 cordless tools, and one box of assorted fasteners. These three tool totes keeps me out of trouble. By adding a little something here or there, I can pretty much build a house with what is in these bags. Today, I'm just going to focus on the hand-tools. Do I really need an entire blog post describing all the fasteners I use and why? REALLY? Us woodworkers are boring enough. No need to drive the point home.<br />
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Here's an inventory of my bag. Every item here has a story and reason for being in the bag. Got a question as to why it's in the bag? Then hit me up in comments.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZbyHiyj3_Uo/TdMQWj2gIvI/AAAAAAAAL80/gyM2lp_qdW8/s1600/_MG_0014-3-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZbyHiyj3_Uo/TdMQWj2gIvI/AAAAAAAAL80/gyM2lp_qdW8/s1600/_MG_0014-3-2.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Super Organized Mess, minus the organization</td></tr>
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As much as I would LOVE to call myself a "Custom Furniture Maker Extraordinaire," I don't get to do that. I make lots of furniture, but I also build some crazy cool cabinets. I've also been known to throw up a few pieces of molding, hang a piece of art, swap out a fixture, and rip out walls from time to time.<br />
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I never take on full on "demo" jobs. Nor do I paint much of anything. I generally hate putting up base, and I loath the thought of getting near anything that has water as a key component.<br />
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That being said, from time to time, I need to make an "adjustment" to a wall in order to fit a cabinet in place. Well guess what. When I "adjust" that wall, frequently, it involves modifying a sink, or working around an electrical outlet. Somehow, my clumsy self seems to find finished painted walls as well. As in, a sharp metal tool I've got in my back pocket smacks into a freshly finished wall.<br />
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When these things happen, I need to be prepared to solve the issue at hand. The tools in my bag do this. I will go so far as to say that every homeowner would benefit from owning just about everything in this bag.<br />
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I like well made tools. They work well. They last a long time, and they are more enjoyable to use. From time to time I take the inexpensive route when buying tools. I always regret it. My suggestion. Buy good tools! Buy them one at a time as you need them. Buying kits of tools is pointless for most. If you buy a tool set that has "everything" you need, your likely buying a bunch of junk you don't need. Buy the single best tool you can afford. When you need another tool. Go buy it. And buy a good one.<br />
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All of the tools also in my case, STAY in this case. In several examples, they are duplicates of regularly used tools in the shop. I love my<a href="http://planesofreference.blogspot.com/2010/12/five-fav-rite-tooooooooools.html"> Starrett 6" square</a>. However, I would never take a $50.00 piece of gold and throw it in a tool bag. I've got a decent, inexpensive BUT ACCURATE square that does the job on site. I save the nice one for the shop.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ISKKBbNKSrg/TdMQVTckT4I/AAAAAAAAL8s/kf1hPsIwOF0/s1600/_MG_0041-2-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ISKKBbNKSrg/TdMQVTckT4I/AAAAAAAAL8s/kf1hPsIwOF0/s640/_MG_0041-2-3.jpg" width="492" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Click to enlarge</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
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So here is the list: From top to bottom, left to right.<br />
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1. Putty knife<br />
2. Japanese Pull Saw.<br />
3. 3 to 2 prong outlet do-hickey (don't need to yank the ground off my chords anymore)<br />
4. Plug in voltage tester. (quick and easy way to see if an outlet is hot)<br />
5. Pocket Hole jig. (DIY'er don't need this one.)<br />
6. Voltmeter (for more complicated electric work)<br />
7. Extra set of Safety Glasses<br />
8. Finish Hammer (I got this from my wedding registry. Man, I have a great wife)<br />
9. Tack Hammer<br />
10-13. 3 Different bars for demo, nails, and prying<br />
14. Mongo Cutting Pliers (best tool on the planet for pulling and cutting nails)<br />
15. Cable Strippers <br />
16. Tin Snips (any color is fine)<br />
17. Needle Nose Pliers<br />
18. Linesman Pliers<br />
19. Side Cutters<br />
20. Needle Nose Vice Grips<br />
21. Teeny-weeny hacksaw with a MIA blade.<br />
22. 6" & 12" Adjustable Square (The 12" belonged to my great grandfather)<br />
23. Small Strait Jaw Locking Pliers (My go-to tool for most work) <br />
24. Torpedo Level<br />
25. Ridiculously huge flat headed screwdriver for self defense and bottle opener<br />
26. Assortment of Flat and Phillips head screwdrivers<br />
27. 2 Adjustable 'Crescent' Wrenches<br />
28. 3 folding chisels (These things ROCK!!!!!!!)<br />
29. Folding Allen (hex) and Torx (star) wrenches<br />
30. 2 Files, and 1 Rasp<br />
31. Electrical tape<br />
32. Double Sided Carpet Tape<br />
33. 3 color coded nail sets<br />
34. Utility knife with never enough extra blades.<br />
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I am a guy who identifies with colors, and that is another reason I don't buy a big kits of tools. They all look alike. I know that the red handled screwdriver is a P2, and the Yellow set of Hex wrenches is SAE. Down and dirty easy to find in the mess. As tools disapear from time to time, I always replace with one that fits into my color coding. :) I currently have a bit too much blue in the bag. But I'll manage because they are great tools. <br />
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I'd love to hear your thoughts about my choices. Have I missed one that saves you a ton of time of headaches??? If so, let me know. I LOVE comments.<br />
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As always... Thanks for reading.Jason Herrickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05025150376563882246noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6012343607446731204.post-7341118679152599482011-05-04T06:44:00.000-07:002011-05-04T06:44:49.142-07:00Oldies, But Goodies<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZpVqMohqqm0/TcFSs0XdG8I/AAAAAAAAL8g/rGv7MDCe4VM/s1600/20080221-IMG_0883.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZpVqMohqqm0/TcFSs0XdG8I/AAAAAAAAL8g/rGv7MDCe4VM/s640/20080221-IMG_0883.jpg" width="425" /></a><br />
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Hi there PORC fans.<br />
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I've been neck deep in life lately but wanted to offer a few little tidbits.<br />
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The next couple weeks will entail several long days of trim work. I don't ordinarily do "finish carpentry" however my client has asked that I do it. We've created a wonderful relationship, and knowing that he trusts me enough and insists that I do this work is such pat on the back. Yesterday after 26 trips up 4 flights of stairs, I got all of the 12'-14' long Douglas Fir millwork into the condo. I'll shoot some pictures to share some of the journey.<br />
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The summer is shaping up nicely with a handful of furniture jobs, a couple kitchens, and some miscilanious cabinet work. In theory I will have also time for some friends, family, BBQ and wonderful Oregon summers, but we'll just have to see.<br />
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I was flipping through some of my old photos and thought I would share a few of them.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WoczDJ3-J04/TcFSrf2HEoI/AAAAAAAAL8Q/AltMS9H6ncM/s1600/_MG_0004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WoczDJ3-J04/TcFSrf2HEoI/AAAAAAAAL8Q/AltMS9H6ncM/s640/_MG_0004.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Amazing home bar.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fcxvPEyX9ms/TcFSsH0LDxI/AAAAAAAAL8Y/DGJJsF66S-M/s1600/_MG_0062.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="412" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fcxvPEyX9ms/TcFSsH0LDxI/AAAAAAAAL8Y/DGJJsF66S-M/s640/_MG_0062.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cherry built in.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hTRdNXlOyMY/TcFSryow9YI/AAAAAAAAL8U/UYAppleW1gY/s1600/_MG_0032.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hTRdNXlOyMY/TcFSryow9YI/AAAAAAAAL8U/UYAppleW1gY/s640/_MG_0032.jpg" width="425" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">whimsical computer desk.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wNHVvhme9mc/TcFSsWyjiMI/AAAAAAAAL8c/6H8D2RsqcbU/s1600/Herrick+Kitchen-070.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wNHVvhme9mc/TcFSsWyjiMI/AAAAAAAAL8c/6H8D2RsqcbU/s640/Herrick+Kitchen-070.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fir, Maple and Walnut. Oregon staples.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Lg5X18BWWSE/TcFStMTPEGI/AAAAAAAAL8k/ijvG2ESZ1IQ/s1600/IMG_0029.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Lg5X18BWWSE/TcFStMTPEGI/AAAAAAAAL8k/ijvG2ESZ1IQ/s640/IMG_0029.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">No, this maple burl did not grow this color.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</tbody></table>As always... Thanks for reading!Jason Herrickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05025150376563882246noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6012343607446731204.post-90598041823022922102011-04-20T06:26:00.000-07:002011-04-20T08:21:05.230-07:00Handcut Dovetails in 6 Minutes.<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RRMJ1jN3SNU/Ta7ZadtF82I/AAAAAAAAL78/UKP2Dr48hq8/s1600/_MG_0326.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RRMJ1jN3SNU/Ta7ZadtF82I/AAAAAAAAL78/UKP2Dr48hq8/s400/_MG_0326.jpg" width="266" /></a>Don't be fooled by the long standing myth that hand cut dovetails are a thing only to be had by the elite. Do you think cutting them by hand is hard? Thank again! Don't think you have the time to learn? Horse pucky!<br />
<br />
Keep on reading and I will let you in on the dirty little secret of handcut dovetails. I guarantee it!<br />
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<br />
<a name='more'></a>Well, because you've made it thus far, your either a complete woodworking nut who is looking to improve their woodworking craft, or you think I am full of horse pucky.<br />
<br />
Your likely correct on both counts.<br />
<br />
I am so full of crap, I would bet you can smell it coming out of your computer screen.<br />
<br />
I am here today, to share the truth. Don't tell the magizine publishers because they want to sell you another magazine with a cover story that reads something like, "Master Handcut Dovetails in 25 Minutes. Guaranteed!"<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rabVmejg4IU/Ta7ZPxbPIrI/AAAAAAAAL7k/m4924ryzgnA/s1600/_MG_0318.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rabVmejg4IU/Ta7ZPxbPIrI/AAAAAAAAL7k/m4924ryzgnA/s400/_MG_0318.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
Here's the woodworking industry's dirty little secret. <br />
<br />
Quality joinery IS difficult.<br />
Quality joinery IS time consuming.<br />
Quality joinery comes with LOTS of practice.<br />
Quality joinery comes with no short cuts.<br />
Quality joinery is never a sure thing.<br />
<br />
In my day's as a woodworker, both as a hobby and profession, I've tried lots and lots of different ways to "master" this elusive joint. <br />
<br />
I've tried cutting them by hand, and chisel. I've tried the bandsaw, table saw, router, coping saw, hack saw, and chain saw. NONE of which created the perfect result I was hoping for. And finally it dawned on me. The reason I was never able to accomplish "The perfect dovetail" was because I had yet to put in the time honing MY technique. Finding the way, that was best for ME.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-X77lmODoVqc/Ta7ZPMCt5SI/AAAAAAAAL7c/0OOa2NDhhjk/s1600/_MG_0325.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-X77lmODoVqc/Ta7ZPMCt5SI/AAAAAAAAL7c/0OOa2NDhhjk/s640/_MG_0325.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<br />
It was far easier to ignore the technique and find another way to hold two pieces of wood together. I finally had enough of that attitude and decided to hone my skills once and for all.<br />
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I made a professional decision that every drawer to leave my shop from that day forward would be constructed using dovetails. I was forcing my hand in two ways. 1. It would kick my butt and make me a better craftsman, and 2. Find me a client who doesn't want drawers with dovetails.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yPuwD7nSu4w/Ta7ZRVrH6_I/AAAAAAAAL74/8qtm6fn9eZs/s1600/_MG_0287.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yPuwD7nSu4w/Ta7ZRVrH6_I/AAAAAAAAL74/8qtm6fn9eZs/s640/_MG_0287.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
I needed to find the method that would work best for me. After much research and dollar saving, I purchased the Leigh 24" machine that dreams are made of. I also bought every router bit and accessory known to man, and a couple dedicated routers. <br />
<br />
A machine has to be set and ready to use without a ton of setup and tinkering EVERY time I want to use the tool. This BTW is a lot easier in the new shop, now that I have room to leave the machine up at all times. I also need options. I had no idea of the best size, or layout for what would be most effiecient and yeild the best product. It was that reason, I invested in the full set of router bits made by the manufacurer. If I have the tool. I will use the tool. That was my mindset.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-s3HT55c-G2w/Ta750yi1q4I/AAAAAAAAL8A/7wCrEFUzFOI/s1600/_MG_0311.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-s3HT55c-G2w/Ta750yi1q4I/AAAAAAAAL8A/7wCrEFUzFOI/s640/_MG_0311.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br />
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The learning curve with the machine is quite good. The provided manual is great and walks you through the process very well. But what really bothered me is that I STILL, even with all the bells and whistles would get joints that didn't fit right for some reason or another. Even with an expensive machine, a lot of patience and practice has gone into getting consistant results.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7oEmi36MPwI/Ta7ZRC_coJI/AAAAAAAAL70/tFgLIqaR-aU/s1600/_MG_0292-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7oEmi36MPwI/Ta7ZRC_coJI/AAAAAAAAL70/tFgLIqaR-aU/s640/_MG_0292-2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
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How much practice you ask? 10 boxes? 20 boxes? Nope, I'm feeling comfortable with the machine and it's product after about 200 or so drawer boxes. Each drawer has 4 corners, each get 2 passes. Each board has about 3-4 pins and tails.<br />
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That's about 6400 dovetails. <br />
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<i>Lots</i> of practice!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-r-QB3lmWxIs/Ta7ZQxtzTMI/AAAAAAAAL7w/pfFh_z2aQiU/s1600/_MG_0301.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-r-QB3lmWxIs/Ta7ZQxtzTMI/AAAAAAAAL7w/pfFh_z2aQiU/s640/_MG_0301.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
I still get a clunker from time to time that doesn't work, but for the most part, I know what is going to come out the other end. That was not the case when I was first tried the machine. All tools have some tolerances that need to be figured in. Human powered or A/C. <br />
<br />
This is far from glamorus, or really creative, however it's the dues we all need to pay from time to time in order to learn more about our craft.<br />
<br />
Feel free to leave a comment about your technique or questions about mine!<br />
<br />
As always. Thanks for reading.Jason Herrickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05025150376563882246noreply@blogger.com4