Woodworker: J. Peter SchlebeckerSchlebecker’s inspiration for this basswood and mahogany chest of drawers (20 in. deep by 17 in. wide by 50 in. tall) came from his early vocal training and the connection between singing and breathing. Called “Breathing Drawers,” the chest has a silicone-rubber membrane inside the frames on the top and sides, which “breathes” as the well-fit drawers are opened and closed, revealing sketches of chest musculature underneath it. The lower drawer doesn’t have a cutout pull, but opens with the air pressure produced from closing the top one. The finish is lacquer. From Fine Woodworking #203
Fine Woodworking Recommended Products
Bessey Band Clamp
A long, strap-style clamp is hard to beat for assembling strong mitered frames, and this one has a number of user-friendly features.
Bessey EKH series quick-release trigger-style clamps are simple to use and maintain consistent pressure. Trigger clamps that perform the way you've always wished they would!
These chisels are well balanced, with a light-weight handle that makes gripping them down by the edge during chopping less fatiguing than many other chisels. Each chisel only requires a few minutes of work before its back is polished and ready to go. Similarly, the bevels all have a consistent grind that is quick to hone to razor sharpness. The smartly shaped beveled edges give the tool good mass, but with a very fine, consistent land (the flat between the side bevel and back) that won’t interfere with working in confined spaces.
This saw has a similar design to the best overall Makita, but it falls short because of small details that add up. First and foremost are the poor ergonomics. I find vertical handles cumbersome. The bevel lock was frustrating too. The tilt lever was at the back of the saw, meaning the tool can’t sit tight to the wall. There are no bevel detents. It’s the only saw without a flip stop, meaning you have to reset it between cuts. Still, the saw has a compact design, and it’s the most affordable of the bunch. The side extension arms have slick levelers, too.
With its graceful curves, cabriole legs, and ornamental back splat, a Queen Anne side chair is a bucket list build for many woodworkers. Dan Faia had a very specific Queen…
Become an UNLIMITED member and get it all: searchable online archive of every issue, how-to videos, Complete Illustrated Guide to Woodworking digital series, print magazine, e-newsletter, and more.
Log in or create an account to post a comment.
Sign up Log in