In Arts & Mysteries

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Double entÃ?©ndres (if that’s the right term for it) continue in this series and on this blog. The post below is really about some of the often-overlooked benefits of hand-tool usage.

My tiny, simple, hand-tools only shop (oft viewed as a disadvantage by some for its size), has proven itself repeatedly to be flexible and accommodating. It’s easy to keep clean and can survive floods and relocations, and be picture-perfect for the next photo shoot.

When I began woodworking by hand (I’ve never really worked with machines), I had no idea how many different and rewarding opportunities would result. Whether spending a morning with children from Philadelphia’s inner city, chit-chatting with my neighbors, or struggling to communicate with folks from literally around the world, woodworking with hand tools has enriched my life in ways I can’t describe.

But if I can’t describe it, I sure can recommend it. Not a week goes by that I don’t get an e-mail from someone who has unplugged their shop and feels the better for it. I know it takes longer to rip your stock, and cutting mortises by hand is no picnic, but the benefits aren’t always clear from the outset.

– Adam Cherubini


Product Recommendations

Here are some supplies and tools we find essential in our everyday work around the shop. We may receive a commission from sales referred by our links; however, we have carefully selected these products for their usefulness and quality.

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