One lucky reader will win the hanging tool cabinet designed and built by Executive Editor Robert W. Lang in “Cabinetmaker’s Tool Chest” (shown on the cover) – and the rest of us get the measured drawings and step-by-step instruction on how to build it.
In “Hammer Veneering,” Don Williams teaches us not only how this age-old technique works, but tells us why – plus, he reveals some tips for doctoring your hot hide glue for various purposes, including increased water resistance and strength. Roy Underhill entertains and educates in “Mechanical Marvels or Steampunk Sporks?” with a close look at the Stanley Nos. 45 and 55 combination planes to help you determine if one of these “all-in-one” planes belongs in your woodworking arsenal.
Editor Megan Fitzpatrick replicates a modern plate rack in tiger maple for your kitchen (or anywhere, really, if you choose to build it as a hanging bookshelf) that was designed for and built by Kelly Mehler; the article includes a sidebar by Mehler on the design process. Contributing Editor Christopher Schwarz visits with tool-making wunderkind Chris Vesper in his Australia workshop in “Tools from Down Under,” and Contributing Editor Steve Shanesy introduces the basics of faceplate turning in “Turn a Platter” (NB: Platters make a great last-minute holiday gift!).
In this month’s Tool Test, we review the solidly built Powermatic PM1000 table saw, Wood Owl “Wood Chipper” auger bits and the Festool Carvex jigsaw. In Design Matters, George R. Walker discusses “Rustication” – how you can incorporate natural elements into your work. In Woodworking Essentials, Managing Editor Glen D. Huey teaches you how to “Pick the Perfect Lock,” and in Arts & Mysteries, Bob Rozaieski discusses how and why to “Choose Your Woods Wisely.” Bob Flexner explains the problems of “Fish Eye & Silicone” (and how to fix the problem). Finally, in End Grain, Autumn Doucet writes about “A Promise to a Professor” – a gift that was a long time in coming. Plus Letters, Tricks of the Trade and Out on a Limb.