Our cover story for the June 2011 issue of Popular Woodworking is on the stacking bookcases of Monticello. Editor Christopher Schwarz builds reproductions of the book boxes that held the foundation for the Library of Congress.
The editors submit for your approval the 130 best books on woodworking. Fight ignorance in just 15 minutes a day with our collection of these must-haves.
Senior Editor Glen D. Huey uses unconventional techniques to build a traditional inlaid tea caddy.
Author Jim Tolpin shares the secrets of the sector. Just two sticks and one hinge will eliminate math and layout errors in your work.
Discover how Gary Rogowski uses simple tools, techniques and joinery to deliver elegant results in this ash jewelry box.
Executive Editor Robert W. Lang shows how to choose and make full use of a must-have measuring and layout tool – the combination square.
In this month’s Tool Test, we check out the new set of Sweet Heart Chisels from Stanley, the new Wenzloff & Sons no-set saw and the new Grex brad nailer.
In Design Matters, George R. Walker profiles toolmaker and furniture designer Konrad Sauer.
In our ever popular I Can Do That section, Robert W. Lang makes a set of stacking boxes to fit your books – and your space.
Bob Flexner discusses lacquer thinner in Flexner on Finishing.
Roy Anderson discusses his personal woodworking philosophy in Workshop Radicals.
Detailed article previews are below. Online Extras (downloads, etc.) are found within each individual article.
Page 62
From the June 2011 issue #190
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Woodworking’s lexicon can be overwhelming for beginners. The following is a list of terms used in this issue that may be unfamiliar to you.
Blog: Read more about dividers on George Walker’s Design Matters blog.
Article: Learn how to grind and sharpen a jack plane.
From the June 2011 issue #190
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This solvent is unique.
By Bob Flexner
Pages: 58-60
From the June 2011 issue #190
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Lacquer thinner is the thinner used for all types of lacquer (not waterbased finishes, which are sometimes misrepresented as “lacquer”). These include the most common lacquer – nitrocellulose lacquer, colorless CABacrylic lacquer and the most durable lacquer – catalyzed lacquer.
Of all solvents used in wood finishing, lacquer thinner is by far the most unique because it is the only one made up of a half-dozen or so individual solvents. By varying the solvents used, manufacturers control the strength of the lacquer thinner and the speed of evaporation.
Articles: You’ll find many finishing articles online at our web site.
To buy: Get Bob Flexner’s new book, “Flexner on Finishing.”
Articles: To spray lacquer inside, you need a spray booth and exhaust system – here’s an affordable solution.
From the June 2011 issue #190
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From the June 2011 issue #190
Our winning Trick of the Trade this month is Mary Nickol’s “Multi-use Bench Hook.” Mary wins a $250 gift certificate from Lee Valley Tools.
To have your Trick considered for publication (we buy all rights to published Tricks), submit it via e-mail to Popwoodtricks@fwmedia.com, or by mail to Tricks of the Trade, c/o Popular Woodworking Magazine, 4700 E Galbraith Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45236.
Click here for the SketchUp model of Mary Nickol’s Multi-purpose Bench Hook.
Our Tricks on Video this month is from Dan Urban – it’s a clever way to keep cords in control as you work:
Carabiner Cord Holder
When I am using a corded tool such as a sander, drill or router, the cord gets in the way or catches on something. My solution is to attach a large carabiner to my belt or belt loop. I run the power cord through the carabiner, which puts it where I want it – out of the way. If I’m moving around a lot and need even more control, I attach a second carabiner to the belt loop behind me and run the cord through it as well. Carabiners can be found at your local hardware store.
Dan Urban
Glen Ellyn, Illinois
We tried it out, and filmed this video for your viewing pleasure. Read more
Make Boxes to fit your books – and your space By Robert W. Lang Pages 22-23 From the June 2011 issue #190 Buy this issue now The typical bookcase is a good example of poor design. We make them that way because that’s the way we’ve always made them; almost every plan you see is … Read more
