This weekend, I'm hosting a SAPFM get together. A few fellow period woodworkers are going to crowd into my tiny workshop and see how and why I make my own hand saws.

Of all the really esoteric things I do, making hand saws may top the list of esoterica. I get really wrapped around the proverbial axle by the intricacies of saw teeth, handle designs and blade shapes. I'm shamefully familiar with saw history, and the many permutations of modern saws and makers. Fortunately, my shop is tiny because I can;t imagine filling with woodworkers similar excited about hand saws.
br> But for me, tool making is a necessity. I can't generally buy what I need. And the attention I've paid to each little attribute of my hand saws is really just a continuation of what we all do as period woodworkers.

I suspect as we continue to move forward as a community that tool making will take on an increasing role in our work. Many of us may find it necessary to make tools. Others will undoubtedly find it necessary to rely on those who do. Whatever the case, better, more accurate work requires increasingly better and more accurate tools.

I don't think I could look you in the eye and tell that you I started making tools willingly. I did so begrudgingly. But its not been without its rewards and I can see how someone could get as addicted to tool making as I am to furniture making.

— Adam