Everyday How-To: The Podcast That Never Was
Some of you may recall rumors of Nicole and me starting another show. Unfortunately, we had to shelve the idea due to the increasing demands of The Wood Whisperer and Nicole’s “real” job. We only shot one episode and had no idea what to do with the footage. So I decided to do a very rough edit and release it here. Since most of you know Nicole and I pretty well, I figured you would get a kick out of it. It’s not woodworking, but it’s fun. So happy holidays and be sure to try a batch of this awesome Crunchy French Toast.
High Resolution Version
Recipe for Crunchy French Toast
5-7 bread pieces
2 eggs
1/2 cup milk
1 tsp.vanilla
1 Tbsp cinnamon
3 Tbsp flour (all purpose)
1/8 tsp. salt
1 Tbsp butter (for the pan)
1 1/2 cup of Honey Bunches of Oats with or without Almonds (crushed)
Pocket Screws - Question of the Week
This week’s question comes from Chris. He writes:
Hey Marc, I love you show. I watch it religiously and have learned so many good techniques. I wanted to know, what is your position on pocket hole joinery in relation to coffee table assembly. I built my first coffee table using a Kreg pocket hole jig to join the apron and legs together. Kreg states in their owner’s manual that a pocket hole is mechanically stronger than a mortise and tenon joint. Do you think pocket hole joinery is cheap sign of craftsmanship? I would like your feedback on what you think of my coffee table design? I have attached a picture of my coffee table.
And here was my reply:
“Hi Chris. First off, let me compliment you on your design and craftsmanship. What a beautiful piece. No matter what the underlying joinery is, that is a fantastic design with great execution. Now, concerning pocket hole screws. Remember, joinery can be just as much about taste and opinion as it is about strength and utility. If you are happy with the final product and you enjoy using pocket screws, all the power to you! Screw away my friend!”
“Now for my opinion. I have used pocket screws in the past when I could get away with it. The only time I really use them is if they will never be seen. And even then, they are usually the last option I think of. Perhaps its a bit elitist, but I do feel that pocket screws “cheapen” a piece. I would certainly expect Kreg to defend its product and their strength claim may be valid (Im not convinced). But is strength really the only concern to us as woodworkers? If that’s the case, we might want to start using metal to build furniture instead of wood. :) Cant get much stronger than that!”
“Seriously though, I take pride in the fact that my best work contains little to no metal. But that’s just me. We all have to decide for ourselves where to draw the line. Some folks cant imagine using power tools on their projects. They take pride in the fact that their work is crafted the old-fashioned way. Some folks just want to get ‘er done!”
“Just remember that we all woodwork for different reasons. Heck, some of us do it just so we can collect tools. And still others do it simply because its such a sharp contrast to what we do at the office all day behind our computer screens in the confines of our cubicles. Whatever your reason is, keep it fun. If pocket screws make it fun for you, then keep using them. Your work certainly is not suffering for it. Good luck.”
Wood Talk Online - Episode 25
This week, Matt and Marc are wingin’ it! Part of the reason is because of Marc’s technical recording difficulties. Marc is currently working on a sculpted end-table and for The Wood Whisperer and Matt brings up his concerns about The Woodworking Shows. Marc then reviews the new tools being offered by Festool. Our first email was from Austin who needed finishing advice for his new kitchen table. Our second voicemail came from Roberto who wanted to know why most folks opt for router tables, instead of shapers. Marc recommends this Fine Woodworking Article. Our emails include questions about patterns and templates, jointer chatter, finishing the inside of a box, and mortising machines.
Don’t forget if you have a woodworking question, you can leave us a message at 623-242-2450, or you can email us at woodtalkonline@gmail.com
Free Shipping at Rockler.com
It was just brought to my attention by loyal viewer Roger that if you use coupon code V8504 between now and December 31st, you get free shipping! So check out our Holiday Gift Guide for some hot deals and be sure to take advantage of that free shipping. And while you’re at it, check out the holiday gift ideas I placed in The Wood Whisperer Store.
34- End Table (Pt. 1)
High Resolution Version
In this episode, I start building a modern end table with some very unique legs. This video will walk you through the design phase, including discussion of inspiration, design options, and template construction. This series will be a bit of a departure from the normal presentation style of The Wood Whisperer. Usually I don’t release project footage until the project is complete, providing a seamless and smooth presentation. But if I do that on bigger projects like this, you’ll be waiting a month for another video. So instead, I will be releasing videos as I go. Should be a nice change of pace.
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