Replies

1. 
   nikkiwood | Jan 30, 2003 09:58am | #1

   I spent a few minutes with the CD recently. It is ok, but remember it is just a compilation of various articles that have appeared over the years -- a little like photo copies of the pages.

   They apparently did not include any of the mag's features -- methods, etc.

   Also, I did not see an index or table of contents -- just a box to enter your search words. It seems kind of awkward to me; there is probably a lot of interesting stuff that one would never see, unless you happened to stumble into it.

   My complaint about mags in general has been that the info is not easily retrievable. This CD certainly solves that problem. However, my eyes strain when reading page after page of text on a monitor screen.

   In sum, it is a good idea -- as a reference tool, rather than an item that you will casually peruse. Finally, it seems very expensive for what you actually get.

1. 
   SenorDorado | Jan 30, 2003 03:58pm | #2

   Thanks for your feedback. Perhaps the CD is a preview of good things to come, and needs some time for adjustments. It does seem to be a little pricey.

   Butch

2. 
   sailalex | Jan 30, 2003 04:18pm | #3

   I have the CD and find it very useful. The Methods of work IS in there and as to the problem of small print , there is a zoom feature that takes care of that. I like having all the articles available quickly and when I need help with something , such as a tool purchase, the reviews are right there. My only concern has been the price but since I got it for Christmas that ceased to be a worry.

3. 
   davamoore | Jan 30, 2003 05:02pm | #4

   Butch, here's a link to a fairly long discussion of the CD, from about six weeks ago:

   http://forums.taunton.com/tp-knots/messages/?msg=9230.1

   David

   "The world that was not made is not won by what is done" -- Mundaka Upanishad

1. 
   SenorDorado | Jan 31, 2003 03:20am | #7

   Thanks David, it was very helpful.

   Butch

4. 
   townsend | Jan 30, 2003 05:04pm | #5

   Butch,

   I got a copy almost a month ago.  That seems like a long time to be able to explore this CD, but it really isn't.  I have browsed through parts of this, but it really is quite extensive.

   My library consists of a few books that I like to use for reference, many magazines, and usually a stack of woodworking books from the public library on a theme or topic that I am interested in at a given time.

   I am currently building a Conference table in Cherry.  I will be using a dye stain and water borne conversion varnish finish.  The first thing that I did was review articles on clamping, flatening (planing, scraping, and sanding), and finishing.  I have even reviewed some of the articles on joinery.  I have found a number of articles that either remind you of things you were not thinking about, or introduces a perspective thats worth more consideration.

   The ability to search for what you would like to read about when you are working or planning a specific project and then pull it up and print off sections is really a major improvement over my stack of books and magazines that are not well filed nor complete enough to rely on using the indexes that are available.

   I really enjoy just reading the "methods of work".  There are a lot of techniques that people have developed for particular problems that we all face.  Some of them are just interesting to read, and some of them I will use.  Others just remind me that it is amazing what you can do if you focus your attention on what it takes to do it well.  So far, I have been doing some searches based on curiosity and general reading.

   The presentations are well covered with illustrations, and most importantly, it is about what it takes to create worthwhile things that will endure, by people who are very knowlegable.  It is not just doing stuff. 

   I was reluctant to spend the money, but I consider it a great addition to my library.

   Good luck with your decision.

   Allen

1. 
   dustytools | Jan 31, 2003 02:57am | #6

   I recently purchased the CD and I like it.  Also like several others have mentioned, it sure would be nice to have a more comprehensive index of all articles in FWW and other woodworking magazines.  I also have purchased Indy which is an index of Wood magazine.  The index seems more comprehensive and it is less expensive than the FWW version.  However only the first page of the article is available on the CD so you have to find the issue of the magazine for the article (that is if you have it).

   Does anyone know of a more comprehensive index of woodworking articles?  It would be great if it were on CD, however if it were a printable version on the internet would be OK.  National Geographic has a great CD set of all articles in all of their magazine.  Wouldn't it be great if some woodworking magazines do the same thing!

2. 
   SenorDorado | Jan 31, 2003 03:26am | #8

   Allen

   Thanks for your positive comments. Work safely on your conference table and let me know how it turns out.

   Butch

1. 
   DanThomas | Jan 31, 2003 08:46am | #9

   Got mine for x-mas too but it did seem a bit steep.  Having said that, I am really glad to have it!  I have been reminded of many tips and techniques that have escaped the grey matter over the years, and like others, look up information while planning a project.  It would be nice to be able to install it on my hard drive so that I wouldn't have to drag the cd with me when I'm on the road and don't have internet access.  It would take considerable space, but would be worth it to me.  Has anybody attempted this?

   Best to all

   Dan Thomas