On Dec 16, 10:03am, Paul Houtz wrote:
> Subject: De-Lurker's Bio

-- nice bio snipped --

> I also have to admit to being quite disgusted with the whole power
> tool culture.   There is definitely something dishonest about some
> of the tools that are coming out, and something wrong with the approach
> to this craft that demands a power tool for every operation.
>
> I guess the idiocy of it really hit me when I saw a letter to Fine
> Woodworking showing how to build a router sled to flatten a benchtop.
> It would take longer to draw up the plans for the router sled than to
> just take a Stanley #6 and do the job.

Ah yes, just the nudge I needed to drudge up a story I'd been meaning
to relate on the Porch, but forgot until now.  I too have felt a little
queasy when faced with some of the methods discussed in the power-tool-full
world of woodworking these days, and this one took the cake.

A friend of mine who is a dedicated electrical woodworking toy collector
attended one of the local woodworking shows a while ago and came back with
lots of toys and stories.  He attended some workshops, and one in particular
inspired him very much.  In it, the instructor showed the audience how to
use a router to make FAKE dovetails.  The joint, I think a drawer front, was
actually constructed with bisquicks, but these tricky little inserts of
wood were laid into the drawer sides to make it appear that dovetails had
been used.  I'm sorry I can't relate the exact construction details, but
I found the whole thing so silly and a little revolting, that I apparently
didn't pay very close attention.  I do remember having to hold myself in
check later as I related the story to some non-woodworking friends of mine
who appreciated my basic sentiments, but don't share my passion.

So, while I use power (and even bisquicks) when I think it makes sense, I've
definitely found a passionate heart inside which knows when some woodworking
method just seems totally wrong.

My $0.02, and my appologies to anyone on the list who likes these little
fake dovetails.

- Bill (Who tuned up and made a handle for a KK 1/2" firmer last night to
        make some REAL m&t's tonight.)

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