Flyin_N

I only have my opinion on what everyone here has to say, since I'm only a beginning novice here. For me, I'm looking to learn every different way of working with wood I can possibly learn, and learn it from every source I can possibly come across. I will develop every skill I possibly can. For me nothing is stressful, because of the enjoyment and satisfaction I get from working with wood. Some things are definitely challenging as I start to learn, but that is part of what makes this so enjoyable for me. The culmination of learning to use the various tools, whether it be power or hand tools, and to make something as pure and beautiful as one can only make working with wood is immensely rewarding. To both myself and those I share my work with.

From what information I can gather, I don't think anyone from my beginning novice starting point to the well experience can say there is "only one right way" to make things. I do believe that certain joinery methods are superior to others, but that doesn't necessitate their need in every situation. No one can argue the integrity and aesthetic beauty of a dovetail joint, especially the aesthetics and feeling of accomplishment with a skilled hand cut dovetail joint.

The real question is not whether or not dovetail joints (whether you use power tools and jigs, or hand cut them) are overrated. They are definitely NOT overrated! They have earned their place of stature for a reason. However, with advances with glues and hardware, we do now have other options that will meet the needs and intents of the person constructing them.

So, why is everyone arguing? We each have different experiences, and different backgrounds to draw from. As well, each of these different methods have their own merits for their intended purposes. Work the way that makes woodworking enjoyable for you, while accomplishing your intended purposes.

For me, I will continue trying to expand the boundaries of my knowledge, experience and skills. I will also keep trying to gather an increased knowledge and understanding to improve and expand my skills as much as I possibly can from each and every one of you that you're willing to share with me your individual insights. Regardless of whether or not we agree, your knowledge and insights are and inspiration, and are invaluable to me! Even when we don't agree, it often helps me to think of things I never would have thought about without your insights.