This is so cool to me. Thank you! so I have a few questions.... 1. I'm not a math guy - until I have to - but I think you reached this ration from the joist dimensions? 6-1/4 minor axis & 10.5 for the major axis? I have to curve knee braces on a band saw and I think that this elipse formula is better than the typical radius of a circle. How can I determine the ration if I wish to arch the knee braces in an elipse? Thank you!
I suggest just doing some experimentation to arrive at a pleasing ratio that suits you and your project. You should be able to start out with a guess that's close by simply doing a full-scale layout drawing of your knee brace on a piece of plywood or cardboard. You can iterate quickly by adjusting the position of the nails on the ellipse stick until you come up with the ideal major/minor axis combination. Good thing about this is that no real math or fancy formulas are required, just a bit of trial and error.
Well, . . . I'm not usually one to invoke the cooperation of the universe . . . but . . . This afternoon, a client asked me to make a pergola for a new gate that we're going to install . . . the architect asked for "shaped" supports and stretchers . . . then, I came home and watched a bunch of different uTube videos . . . lo, and behold! you had this perfect video for the project. I was just going to use a compass to make a 1/4 round cut with a square edge . . . I think your approach will be much appreciated by the client and the architect . . . thanks!!
Thank you for producing such interesting videos, you have great presentation skills as well as a wealth of knowledge, to get such a combination is rare, thank you again !
Wow, you're certainly welcome... comments and compliments such as your make the effort worthwhile! Anything you do to 'spread the word' to friends and acquaintances is greatly appreciated... activity on this Next Level Carpentry is key to the motivation to produce and upload new content.
Hi Richard, A friend helped me find some very old neglected comments hiding out on Next Level Carpentry... so a belated 'thank you' for your comment... hope you're still watching videos here? Best, Matt
30+ years playing and making living as a carpenter myself. I can say it is a pure joy to sit at your feet. You have a new subscriber. Please don't let the negative Nellie's discourage you. You are doing it right!
Mr Gillespie, Thanks for the sub! EVERY new subscriber is like a little shot of motivation to keep on... At 40+ years in the trades I'm still learning something new every day too so it's great to pass it on. Carpentry is a great profession, isn't it? I meet people with income many times greater than mine who don't seem nearly as fulfilled so I'm grateful to be on this journey. I don't mind negative feedback, it helps keep perspective and improve, but I'm always amazed about the way some of it is presented... I'll keep your thoughtful comment in mind going forward.
You are the definition of a true master! I just found your channel and I’ve watched almost all you videos in the past week. It’s nice to see someone take such pride in their craftsmanship!
I cannot thank you enough! As soon as I watched you , I was thinking, why didnt I think of that? It may seem simple to you but for us who do not do this sort of thing very often, Your video is Priceless! And, I can use it in other applications...well done ! Thank You again...
That "elip-stick" is awesome! Makes good sense when you see it done... but if it weren't for you making this video I never would have known. Thanks for sharing the wisdom. 🧠
This was an awesome video and teaching lesson. I will be building a pergola for my Grandson’s wedding and opened your response for the blow gun and saw this listed below the reply’s. Thank you! I’ll be practicing!
I really appreciate your comment Lito... you're most welcome. BTW I browsed a couple Fleetwood Mac vids on your channel page... great stuff there! Best, Matt
As a landscaper over here in England often making Pergola's etc I really enjoyed this video! And learned from it too-something we never really stop doing! Thanks!
Andy, Glad to share the knowledge... a lifetime of learning makes for a rich experience! Glad you weren't put off by the way THIS yank pronounces 'per-GO-luh' :-)
I am glad I stuck this video out. I was struggling at first to focus but ones he used the ellipse stick I was blown away! Thanks for this video. very awesome.
John, Glad to hear it... and good to know 'no nonsense' is appreciated because it's the most I can manage with my limited video production/online publishing skillset. Thanks, Best regards, Matt
The way you work is inspiring. The ellipse stick is undoubtedly the way this construction has been done since the Egyptians carved their temples. It must feel magical to resonate with the masters throughout history.
It does give me a great deal of admiration and respect for those who actually figured out how to do this sort of thing while developing the mathematics principals it's all based on. It's easy to take for granted just how smart ancient masters were! Best, Matt
I'm not a professional, but a fairly handy guy, and I learned several tips from just this one video. I also liked the split screen trick you used to explain what your were doing from narrator point of view. My grandpa was a master Carpenter and just like this video; I used to love watching him work on projects. Great job! Subscribed.
Rich, Sounds like your Grandpa was a meaningful person in your life so if anything you watch me do reminds me of him I'll consider it an honor. My grandfathers weren't an influence in my life but I have rich memories from an inspirational, motivational and entertaining cast of characters who mentored me over the years. Thanks for sharing and subscribing... I hope this channel will help you take 'fairly handy' to the Next Level :-)
A now retired mechanical design engineer who likes to spend time in the wood workshop to keep a hand in so to speak. Busy designing an enclosure for the back stoep area. Picked up on a few construction and installation hints from your video. Kudos NLC.
Glad to hear it Mike... are you a SketchUp user by any chance? I find it invaluable for this but, as an engineer, you probably use Solid Works or something...
You're welcome Twisted Bones... I'm not going to deny I harbor a measure of 'woodworking idiot' myself 😲😎 That might account for some of the approach you find helpful... Best, Matt
Very interesting video ,very appreciated . Thanks for sharing your knowledge with us !!! Solon an Athenian statesman and lawmaker used to say I teach live and learn . Thank you!!!!
Excellent, thank you. I'm working on a Pergola with an older gentleman in the village, his design, my labour, and it was over coming the jigsaw blade deflection I couldn't get round. Keep it up!
Your video editing skills are great! It’s nice to have information and video with the high speed at the end. I watch a lot of UA-cam and I have seen anyone else do that. Much better than just voice over. You have a very technical and creative mind. I’m glad you found UA-cam to share that with us.
Thank you for the compliment and detailed comment, Lee, means a lot to me! What you call a 'technical and creative mind' doesn't always seem that way from the inside looking out when frustration and disappointment from trying to produce worthwhile videos for Next Level Carpentry leave me wondering if it's worth it. Comments from viewers like you help me to reqroup and press on. Hope you'll consider subscribing here because I believe the best is yet to come! Best, Matt
Have just subscribed to your channel after only watching this video, very well done an awesome info. I am a carpenter in New Zealand and am very impressed by your skills and video quality. Will be staying up late to watch more!
Christopher, Glad to have you on board, mate! I'd love to spend the next 6 month in NZ on a carpentry crew... winter will soon be upon us here in SD, USA and working in the snow just doesn't measure up to sunny spring days! Hope you enjoy other Next Level Carpentry videos and are able to apply some of what you see as you work :-)
Terrific video. Clear, concise, and entirely easy to understand. I'm building my own home and will use this method to cut the rafter tails. Thank you for taking the time to share your skills!
James, I think you'll find this method quite satisfactory. I encourage you to give it a practice run since a few of the steps have the potential to spoil a finished piece. And PLEASE be careful if you use a 'top bearing' flush trim bit like I do in the video... they can be a little scary. Scary but manageable with a focused workflow Best, Matt
Glad to hear it, Suzanne! I'll have to add 'Mad Wizard' to the long list of things I've been called... which is nice because SOME of those things I'd rather forget 😂 Best, Matt
Thanks, Jay! I'll accept your 'natural born teacher' compliment although if I was also a natural at video production I'd get a lot more teaching done :-) With comments like yours and a growing list of subscribers I'm encouraged to get some more videos published 'cuz I really like to teach, share and learn carpentry!
I have walk many a video on a number of subjects in which they say how to make this or that then processed to rifle through it. Thank for taking the time on each step. Your videos I will be sharing.
Thanks for all your comments, Robert, and for sharing Next Level Carpentry videos to others who might like them... that sort of thing helps me build this channel with more videos... a win-win arrangement for sure! Best, Matt
Impressive! Great techniques... Even though I'm a professional carpenter, I felt like I was a student at a woodworking school and you were the teacher that was teaching me feom scratch. You are a fountain of knowledge, thanks for such an awesome video.
Man I was absolutely amazed at your skill. As someone who is pretty Hands-On and like to take pride in my work I acknowledge we need more people like you in this world to teach more of the people their skills. I actually feel like a pretty talented carpenter however after watching you I realize I have a lot lot lot more to learn. Thank you for taking the time to share
Hey, thanks Damen... thanks for the compliment. No surprise to you there's not a day goes by I don't learn something new or a better way to do something better than last time. You're quite welcome! Best, Matt
Thanks Michael, It's good to know my 'style of making videos' is appreciated because it's quite a struggle for this 'ol carpenter to learn and apply what's required to get even a marginal video produced and 'published' but your appreciation is encouragement to keep at it. Best regards, Matt
Brilliant!! Loved the pro tips and the detailed explanations that helped a layperson like myself begin to really understand. I also appreciated your opening or intro so I could see step by step what you were working toward. The explanation of the ellipsis was amazing and creating your pattern from a marking out ellipsis-stick - blew my mind. Thank you so much ❤️🇨🇦❤️
I built a 5' wide ellipse top opening in a wall between my living room and dining room when I remodeled my home in 2009. I used to old non-stretch string and 3 nail trick. I really like the "ellipse stick" you show here. I'm looking forward to trying it out somewhere! Thanks!
Geardriven, having tried the string and nail method and getting it to work will help you appreciated this alternate method more. The nice thing about the string method is that it gives you 1/2 an ellipse where this only produces 1/4 but I think the consistency and accuracy of a stick vs string is well worth the simple extra steps required to mirror the 1/4 ellipse to get the half needed for an arch like you did. It's just plain cool fun to build elliptical stuff, isn't it?! Best, Matt
I did the ellipse in my home because I could and it fits the style and age of the home well. When I worked with a homebuilder in the early '80s we used a full-length hand saw to mark the curves for the corner blocks for the soffit/rake intersection. We'd bend the saw to the desired curvature and mark it on the redwood 1x12 and use that as the pattern for the other pieces. Back in the days of real wood siding and trim! I don't care for vinyl and aluminum clad houses!
Ahhh... if we only had another $ for every soffit/rake 'porkchop' piece we cut, fit and installed we'd be soaking up sun in the Bahamas instead of what we're doing now, right? When's the last time you saw someone fit soffit plywood joints with a block plane to make them fit so tight no caulk was required... them wuz the days! Best, Matt
I can only agree with many other comments - a very pleasant style of presentation, clear instructions and excellent 'pro tips'. Now, if only I could spend a couple of months in your workshop I'm pretty sure I'd learn a great deal. Subscribed and Notifications set.
We should talk, John... there's plenty of days I could use an extra hand in the shop and on the job 😁😎 Thanks for subscribing and allowing notification... I really appreciate it... at this point I'm not able to upload videos on a consistent basis but I do try to make each one worthwhile for viewers like you who spend their limited time watching them. Best, Matt
Next Level Carpentry Nice thought Matt, but I'm now living in the south of France, so a bit far to go in reality. Still, I'll be watching your videos, keep it up.
No fair, John! You get to soak up the peaceful sun and nosh on delicious cheeses and bread while I toil away in the shop... a sad reality for sure! 😒 Thanks for your comments and for staying tuned... Best, Matt
hudi42, Glad you are enjoying what you see on Next Level Carpentry... I hope you won't be disappointed by other videos on my channel because it would be a stretch to say they're ALL 'no-nonsense' :-) Prime example: ua-cam.com/video/AVV2woCugU0/v-deo.html If you're still 'enjoying' after seeing that video you just may stick around for more :-)
Awesome work. I'm just surprised that you didn't clamp the piece down prior to routing it. Safety first, safety always. Thank you for sharing your knowledge and craftsmanship.
This is great. Along with your post notching video, you provided what I need for my next project: a trellis for double rows of raspberry bushes in raised beds.
That was really interesting to watch , I have a big interest in design and the way things are worked out, I’ve just never been very neat at executing them. That was incredible
I love it! thanks for sharing the ellipse stick! : ) the only way I considered drawing an ellipse was with 2 anchor points and the pencil riding on a string : ) I'll use this method when building our pergola! Greetings from Poland!
Irony just got a project for Pagoda and they need these ends for beauty. Enjoyed your video it's the first can't wait to see what else you good sir! Thank you for sharing
Steven, Let me know how you do applying this process on your project. It goes without saying that the actual profile can be adjusted/altered to fit project parameters and client preferences so it's quite versatile. If you're interested you might check out this series: www.protradecraft.com/sketchup-beginners-how-build-pergola where I show how I use SketchUp for pre-planning and design on this sort of thing. It would serve you well on your Pagoda project if you don't already have a digital process that you use. PS I'm not implying that I think you're a beginner by sending the link, it's just the way it's titled :-) Best, Matt
chefgiovanni, One of these days I'll build a Next Level Carpentry website where I can showcase photos of the projects I do when I create these videos to share with interested viewers like yourself. This particular project was a LOT of fun to build and left my client quite pleased. What's for dinner? :-)
Thanks for mentioning that Matthew... I always hope tossing in pro tips inspires and motivates viewers because, without a professional video team or good looks it's about all I have to offer! 😏😁😎 Best, Matt
M., Hope you DO learn a lot here! The magnetic hammer is indispensable in my shop and you would probably find it the same for you. Good news is that there's a link for a hammer like mine in the description section of this video. If you end up buying one through this Amazon Affiliate link: Magnetic tack hammer: amzn.to/2q5mHET it costs you the same but a small percentage helps fund Next Level Carpentry to keep the content here free and is greatly appreciated! Regards, Matt
Excellent, straight to the point video, with bonus pro tips. I have subscribed to your channel. However, wish I would have watched this before I cut out most of my beam tails.
My...Life, Thanks for the compliment... it would be great if you mention the tip at that show. I wish I could claim credit for 'inventing' it but I just adopted it from a tip (probably in Fine Homebuilding magazine) and use it in my workflow. After all, it's not what you know but how you use it that counts, right? Regards, Matt Next Level Carpentry
Matt - I write for FHB from time to time. Super pros there. It is abundantly clear, however, that your adoption of that trick *is* the trick. - I'd use a compass, coffee cup and roll of duct tape to get a less precise version of the same thing. :)
FHB is still a benchmark for most of us so it's good to know it's a common bond... BTW If you find yourself lacking in cups and duct tape here's a couple more videos showing how to get by without 'em (although I'm certainly not above practical use of any or all of the above :-): How to draw a circle... with a square?!: ua-cam.com/users/edit?o=U&video_id=xZaGCUeSQAM Drawing arcs for woodworking projects: ua-cam.com/video/ykzQurvEqOo/v-deo.html Have fun!
Another fantastic video tutorial. Thanks so much Matt. After many, many years of doing things the "old school" way, one change I've made to my workflow is to CNC-cut templates. The results are even more precise and reproducible.
Thanks for your comment(s) on this and other Next Level Carpentry videos... you're a UA-cam Content producers favorite viewer being so 'engaged' with so many channel videos. FYI I replied to your CNC question here on the 'How to Draw Arcs' video in case you're interested in the reply. It's just a matter of time before I have a shop to CNC templating or parts like you are... the technology is becoming SO available that its becoming increasingly difficult to deny its practicality... but old school me will probably only go kicking and whining 😁 Best, Mat
Hey Terry, Glad you liked the video... and thanks for subscribing! The 'well shot' and 'produced' is an encouraging compliment. Truth be told my video results are as much luck and capabilities of video editing software than talent but thanks just the same!
Thanks, Andy... judging by your apparent knowledge of woodworking channels it's a true compliment that you like Next Level Carpentry enough to subscribe. When I look at other channels I'm humbled by their quality and volume of content production and so really appreciate viewers like you who are able to learn from my content despite my 'amateur' video production. Stay tuned... I've got some cool stuff in the works! Best Regards, Matt
Man I missed Norm Abram for years...MATT, YOUR THE NEW NORM ABRAM!!! Or at least the new carpentry wizard ;) Thanks again for the vids, been sharing them.
Thanks for that, Brye... if I could only get 'ol Norm's film and video production team on board! I envy the man for having to focus only on the work at hand and not all that's involved in producing even rudimentary videos... maybe someday? Best, Matt. Thanks for sharing NLC videos too... every little bit helps!
Fantastic instructions!!!!! Got a fantastic result (I think so anyway) 2 mistakes i made though - lesson learnt (hopefully) Follow the experts' advise to the T 1. Got complacent on the last cut and didn’t tack it down fully & relied on my clamps - now i have a bit of a gouge lol 2. should have secured the end bit to the guide rail - I’ve lost that 15 degree bit - think I’ll get away by just cutting it out on the mitre saw
Thanks for teaching me all the things I should have known earlier in life when I could have enjoyed it but for now, I'm just learning for the fun of it. Your a great teacher and master joke teller!
Thanks so much for such an encouraging comment Mark... thanks for watching and taking a minute to share your thoughts. Learning for the fun of it is the best reason there is! Best, Matt
agradoville, Thanks for commenting here! I was just at this client's home yesterday installing the finished 'obelisk trellis' from the current 3-part video series and walked to the other side of their beautifully landscaped yard and wondered how I might get photos of the finished project to interested viewers like yourself... would you follow a link to Pinterest if I put it there? Best, Matt
agradoville, Cool. I'm no whiz with Pinterest but managed to get a couple project images uploaded. I created a Next Level Carpentry Project Photos 'board' at this link: pin.it/ytVubqV Please let me know if it works? I have a feeling they're going to be pretty low-resolution because of how I tried to work around the 600 pixel image width limitation. If you have any knowledge about how to get better quality images 'pinned' I'm all ears :-)
Doug (great last name BTW) A friend helped me find some very old neglected comments hiding out on Next Level Carpentry... so a belated 'thank you' for your comment... hope you're still watching videos here? Best, Matt
Hi Michel, A friend helped me find some very old neglected comments hiding out on Next Level Carpentry... so a belated 'thank you' for your comment... hope you're still watching videos here? Best, Matt
Thank you so much for making such a great and informative video. Please continue to make awesome videos. Disregard the hatters. Whenever you are in the public eye you will always have someone who will try to bring you down to their shallow level. It's because of their own insecurity and there is nothing you can do about it. I learned a lot from you and I look forward to your next video.
Joseph, You're mucho welcome! Hope you'll browse Next Level Carpentry for other videos... let me know if you find other favorites here? This one shows one of my favorite 'breaktime' tricks: ua-cam.com/users/edit?o=U&video_id=xZaGCUeSQAM I would not be surprised in the least to learn you have a PHD in encouragement therapy... thank you for taking the time to share such thoughtful kind words!
Another Great video. Very informative. Learning lots of new tips. Even the music is good too- especially when wearing wireless "in ear" headphones, lots of bass.
Lee, Glad to know you're learning stuff from these videos... it's very gratifying to know that an actual exchange of knowledge is taking place... I sometimes wonder how effective the tutorials are. After all I'm just a carpenter tryin' to 'pay it forward' in appreciation to all my mentors from over the years... AND you approve of my choice of 'bumper music'... sahweet! Some viewers seem ready to run me out of town because of it!
Hey Bill, Glad to know you've found Next Level Carpentry and see this as a 'great educational video' and not a poor video production :-) Anything you do to 'spread the word' about NLC is appreciated!
One of the best educational videos I've seen so far.I greatly appreciate your work Sir, great job, and with your "twin brother" comming to help you at the end it could not ended any better. :-)I'm sure I'll be back watching again, my pergola project is about to happen.Thank you!
Andre, Thanks for the compliments, my 'twin' and I really appreciate it :-) If you're using this method for the first time I recommend doing a practice piece or two to get comfortable with the process. It is as simple as it looks and only gets easier with experience. Best of luck with your pergola project! Stay focused and work safely if you end up using a top-bearing flush trim bit for your project.
This is so cool to me. Thank you! so I have a few questions....
1. I'm not a math guy - until I have to - but I think you reached this ration from the joist dimensions?
6-1/4 minor axis & 10.5 for the major axis?
I have to curve knee braces on a band saw and I think that this elipse formula is better than the typical radius of a circle.
How can I determine the ration if I wish to arch the knee braces in an elipse?
Thank you!
I suggest just doing some experimentation to arrive at a pleasing ratio that suits you and your project. You should be able to start out with a guess that's close by simply doing a full-scale layout drawing of your knee brace on a piece of plywood or cardboard. You can iterate quickly by adjusting the position of the nails on the ellipse stick until you come up with the ideal major/minor axis combination. Good thing about this is that no real math or fancy formulas are required, just a bit of trial and error.
Well, . . . I'm not usually one to invoke the cooperation of the universe . . . but . . . This afternoon, a client asked me to make a pergola for a new gate that we're going to install . . . the architect asked for "shaped" supports and stretchers . . . then, I came home and watched a bunch of different uTube videos . . . lo, and behold! you had this perfect video for the project. I was just going to use a compass to make a 1/4 round cut with a square edge . . . I think your approach will be much appreciated by the client and the architect . . . thanks!!
Thank you for producing such interesting videos, you have great presentation skills as well as a wealth of knowledge, to get such a combination is rare, thank you again !
Wow, you're certainly welcome... comments and compliments such as your make the effort worthwhile! Anything you do to 'spread the word' to friends and acquaintances is greatly appreciated... activity on this Next Level Carpentry is key to the motivation to produce and upload new content.
excellent video. no nonsense, no frivolous banter. a pleasure to watch. Thanks!
Hi Richard, A friend helped me find some very old neglected comments hiding out on Next Level Carpentry... so a belated 'thank you' for your comment... hope you're still watching videos here? Best, Matt
That board stretcher video though... Full of BS ;)
I spared no BS in that video... hope you weren't disappointed Matthias... 😁🤣😎 Best, Matt
Agreed!
You're the first person I've EVER seen flip over the rubber sanding block for the concave side.. great stuff!
That's about the only thing those sanding blocks are good for IMHO😎 so it's pretty much the only reason I even keep one around! Best, Matt
30+ years playing and making living as a carpenter myself. I can say it is a pure joy to sit at your feet. You have a new subscriber. Please don't let the negative Nellie's discourage you. You are doing it right!
Mr Gillespie,
Thanks for the sub! EVERY new subscriber is like a little shot of motivation to keep on...
At 40+ years in the trades I'm still learning something new every day too so it's great to pass it on. Carpentry is a great profession, isn't it? I meet people with income many times greater than mine who don't seem nearly as fulfilled so I'm grateful to be on this journey. I don't mind negative feedback, it helps keep perspective and improve, but I'm always amazed about the way some of it is presented... I'll keep your thoughtful comment in mind going forward.
You are the definition of a true master! I just found your channel and I’ve watched almost all you videos in the past week. It’s nice to see someone take such pride in their craftsmanship!
Sahwheet! Welcome, Sea Ox... more videos to come in case you get to the end of the 'binge-watching' list! 😁😎 Best, Matt
I cannot thank you enough! As soon as I watched you , I was thinking, why didnt I think of that? It may seem simple to you but for us who do not do this sort of thing very often, Your video is Priceless! And, I can use it in other applications...well done ! Thank You again...
You're quite welcome Alan... hope you find other Next Level Carpentry videos equally informative and useful! Best, Matt
Excellent, no-nonsense guide from a master - both of carpentry and video tutoring. Many thanks from this relative newbie in England.
That "elip-stick" is awesome! Makes good sense when you see it done... but if it weren't for you making this video I never would have known. Thanks for sharing the wisdom. 🧠
Love what you do and appreciate the no nonsense easy explanations...
Thanks for letting me know Charles... I really appreciate the encouragement! Best, Matt
This was an awesome video and teaching lesson.
I will be building a pergola for my Grandson’s wedding and opened your response for the blow gun and saw this listed below the reply’s. Thank you!
I’ll be practicing!
Hope it helps... and good luck with your pergola build... not like there's not enough pressure from your Grandson or anything, right?! 😎
With your guidance, I successfully cut an elliptical arch out of plywood for a drywall opening. Thanks for the lessons!
Excellent extrapolation of the process Lance... KUDOS!!
My favorite wood working channel. Humble, down to earth, reliable and effective information. Thank you
I really appreciate your comment Lito... you're most welcome. BTW I browsed a couple Fleetwood Mac vids on your channel page... great stuff there! Best, Matt
A mutual appreciation of fine music too - thumbs up! Saw them live in Calgary, Canada a few years back. Good times - what an epic band
Great tunes while workin' in the shop too! Best, Matt
As a landscaper over here in England often making Pergola's etc I really enjoyed this video! And learned from it too-something we never really stop doing! Thanks!
Andy,
Glad to share the knowledge... a lifetime of learning makes for a rich experience! Glad you weren't put off by the way THIS yank pronounces 'per-GO-luh' :-)
Not at all!
I am glad I stuck this video out. I was struggling at first to focus but ones he used the ellipse stick I was blown away! Thanks for this video. very awesome.
i loved the split screen doppelganger effect. very cool addition to the video
I learn something from each of your videos. Your no nonsense style is much appreciated!
John,
Glad to hear it... and good to know 'no nonsense' is appreciated because it's the most I can manage with my limited video production/online publishing skillset. Thanks,
Best regards,
Matt
The way you work is inspiring. The ellipse stick is undoubtedly the way this construction has been done since the Egyptians carved their temples. It must feel magical to resonate with the masters throughout history.
It does give me a great deal of admiration and respect for those who actually figured out how to do this sort of thing while developing the mathematics principals it's all based on. It's easy to take for granted just how smart ancient masters were! Best, Matt
I'm not a professional, but a fairly handy guy, and I learned several tips from just this one video. I also liked the split screen trick you used to explain what your were doing from narrator point of view. My grandpa was a master Carpenter and just like this video; I used to love watching him work on projects. Great job! Subscribed.
Rich,
Sounds like your Grandpa was a meaningful person in your life so if anything you watch me do reminds me of him I'll consider it an honor. My grandfathers weren't an influence in my life but I have rich memories from an inspirational, motivational and entertaining cast of characters who mentored me over the years.
Thanks for sharing and subscribing... I hope this channel will help you take 'fairly handy' to the Next Level :-)
I learn so much from your experience. Thank God there are craftsmen like you who take the time to produce instructional videos.
Hey Todd thanks so much for your kind words... I want you to know how encouraging it is to receive a comment like yours! Best, Matt
A now retired mechanical design engineer who likes to spend time in the wood workshop to keep a hand in so to speak. Busy designing an enclosure for the back stoep area. Picked up on a few construction and installation hints from your video. Kudos NLC.
Glad to hear it Mike... are you a SketchUp user by any chance? I find it invaluable for this but, as an engineer, you probably use Solid Works or something...
Thank you. I am an idiot who loves working with wood. your no nonsense approach is perfect for folks like me. thank you once again!
You're welcome Twisted Bones... I'm not going to deny I harbor a measure of 'woodworking idiot' myself 😲😎 That might account for some of the approach you find helpful... Best, Matt
Very interesting video ,very appreciated . Thanks for sharing your knowledge with us !!! Solon an Athenian statesman and lawmaker used to say I teach live and learn . Thank you!!!!
You're welcome Peri... and thank you for the historical/cultural anecdote! Best, Matt
Whenever I see something like your ellipse-stick, it always makes smile. So simple and yet genius.
Liked and subscribed.
I like THAT you subscribed! Hope you are able to put the ellipse-stick to use on a project... or maybe to impress people like I did :-)
Excellent, thank you. I'm working on a Pergola with an older gentleman in the village, his design, my labour, and it was over coming the jigsaw blade deflection I couldn't get round. Keep it up!
That little issue can sneak up on the best of us Ross... hope the build goes great! Best, Matt
Your video editing skills are great! It’s nice to have information and video with the high speed at the end. I watch a lot of UA-cam and I have seen anyone else do that. Much better than just voice over. You have a very technical and creative mind. I’m glad you found UA-cam to share that with us.
Thank you for the compliment and detailed comment, Lee, means a lot to me! What you call a 'technical and creative mind' doesn't always seem that way from the inside looking out when frustration and disappointment from trying to produce worthwhile videos for Next Level Carpentry leave me wondering if it's worth it. Comments from viewers like you help me to reqroup and press on. Hope you'll consider subscribing here because I believe the best is yet to come! Best, Matt
Have just subscribed to your channel after only watching this video, very well done an awesome info. I am a carpenter in New Zealand and am very impressed by your skills and video quality. Will be staying up late to watch more!
Christopher,
Glad to have you on board, mate! I'd love to spend the next 6 month in NZ on a carpentry crew... winter will soon be upon us here in SD, USA and working in the snow just doesn't measure up to sunny spring days! Hope you enjoy other Next Level Carpentry videos and are able to apply some of what you see as you work :-)
Terrific video. Clear, concise, and entirely easy to understand. I'm building my own home and will use this method to cut the rafter tails. Thank you for taking the time to share your skills!
James,
I think you'll find this method quite satisfactory. I encourage you to give it a practice run since a few of the steps have the potential to spoil a finished piece. And PLEASE be careful if you use a 'top bearing' flush trim bit like I do in the video... they can be a little scary. Scary but manageable with a focused workflow
Best,
Matt
You are a Mad Wizard in the shop! I'm amazed and hooked!
Glad to hear it, Suzanne! I'll have to add 'Mad Wizard' to the long list of things I've been called... which is nice because SOME of those things I'd rather forget 😂 Best, Matt
Your video was very useful. The tip about using the collar on the router was super helpful. I want to give this a shot now. Thank you!
Great video. You're a natural-born teacher. Thanks so much.
Thanks, Jay! I'll accept your 'natural born teacher' compliment although if I was also a natural at video production I'd get a lot more teaching done :-) With comments like yours and a growing list of subscribers I'm encouraged to get some more videos published 'cuz I really like to teach, share and learn carpentry!
I have walk many a video on a number of subjects in which they say how to make this or that then processed to rifle through it. Thank for taking the time on each step. Your videos I will be sharing.
Thanks for all your comments, Robert, and for sharing Next Level Carpentry videos to others who might like them... that sort of thing helps me build this channel with more videos... a win-win arrangement for sure! Best, Matt
you are a great craftsman, its a pleasure to watch your videos
Thanks, Sonny!
Nice, helpful video with thorough explanations, very cool the way you split the screen between instructing and doing the work @16:36 :)
Its not often I watch one video by someone and then subscribe, very well done!
Thanks for making Next Level Carpentry an exception Dave! Best, Matt
I did, too, today!
I just did the same . Subscribed
When ellipse stick blew my mind. I was wondering how that was gonna work. I’m really enjoying these videos
Impressive! Great techniques... Even though I'm a professional carpenter, I felt like I was a student at a woodworking school and you were the teacher that was teaching me feom scratch. You are a fountain of knowledge, thanks for such an awesome video.
I had a similar feeling; I hope all his apprentices appreciate how lucky they were to have him as a mentor.
Man I was absolutely amazed at your skill. As someone who is pretty Hands-On and like to take pride in my work I acknowledge we need more people like you in this world to teach more of the people their skills. I actually feel like a pretty talented carpenter however after watching you I realize I have a lot lot lot more to learn. Thank you for taking the time to share
Hey, thanks Damen... thanks for the compliment. No surprise to you there's not a day goes by I don't learn something new or a better way to do something better than last time. You're quite welcome! Best, Matt
Supper presentaion, Reminded me of school days. Easy to follow instructions, they can be used every day.
Thanks very much.
Very helpful video. Something I did not know. Your style of making videos is direct and to the subject, I appreciate that.
Thanks Michael,
It's good to know my 'style of making videos' is appreciated because it's quite a struggle for this 'ol carpenter to learn and apply what's required to get even a marginal video produced and 'published' but your appreciation is encouragement to keep at it.
Best regards,
Matt
Brilliant!! Loved the pro tips and the detailed explanations that helped a layperson like myself begin to really understand. I also appreciated your opening or intro so I could see step by step what you were working toward. The explanation of the ellipsis was amazing and creating your pattern from a marking out ellipsis-stick - blew my mind.
Thank you so much
❤️🇨🇦❤️
I built a 5' wide ellipse top opening in a wall between my living room and dining room when I remodeled my home in 2009. I used to old non-stretch string and 3 nail trick. I really like the "ellipse stick" you show here. I'm looking forward to trying it out somewhere! Thanks!
Geardriven, having tried the string and nail method and getting it to work will help you appreciated this alternate method more. The nice thing about the string method is that it gives you 1/2 an ellipse where this only produces 1/4 but I think the consistency and accuracy of a stick vs string is well worth the simple extra steps required to mirror the 1/4 ellipse to get the half needed for an arch like you did.
It's just plain cool fun to build elliptical stuff, isn't it?! Best, Matt
I did the ellipse in my home because I could and it fits the style and age of the home well. When I worked with a homebuilder in the early '80s we used a full-length hand saw to mark the curves for the corner blocks for the soffit/rake intersection. We'd bend the saw to the desired curvature and mark it on the redwood 1x12 and use that as the pattern for the other pieces. Back in the days of real wood siding and trim! I don't care for vinyl and aluminum clad houses!
Ahhh... if we only had another $ for every soffit/rake 'porkchop' piece we cut, fit and installed we'd be soaking up sun in the Bahamas instead of what we're doing now, right? When's the last time you saw someone fit soffit plywood joints with a block plane to make them fit so tight no caulk was required... them wuz the days! Best, Matt
Nice work explaining how to do this job. I'll put some of the things I learned from you building my pergola kit this weekend. Thank you !
Glad it helps... good luck with your pergola project! Best, Matt
What an interesting process. Well described and well presented in a calm and precise manner. Gonna go build me a pagola right now!!
Gotta build a perGOlah In The Living Years, right Mike (and) the Mechanic(s)?! 😉😎
Wow you're knowledgeable, awesome tutorial straight to the point no unnecessary music and talk thanks for sharing
Marlene,
Thank you for the encouraging compliment!
I can only agree with many other comments - a very pleasant style of presentation, clear instructions and excellent 'pro tips'.
Now, if only I could spend a couple of months in your workshop I'm pretty sure I'd learn a great deal.
Subscribed and Notifications set.
We should talk, John... there's plenty of days I could use an extra hand in the shop and on the job 😁😎 Thanks for subscribing and allowing notification... I really appreciate it... at this point I'm not able to upload videos on a consistent basis but I do try to make each one worthwhile for viewers like you who spend their limited time watching them. Best, Matt
Next Level Carpentry
Nice thought Matt, but I'm now living in the south of France, so a bit far to go in reality.
Still, I'll be watching your videos, keep it up.
No fair, John! You get to soak up the peaceful sun and nosh on delicious cheeses and bread while I toil away in the shop... a sad reality for sure! 😒 Thanks for your comments and for staying tuned... Best, Matt
You are a man worth listening to!
Well thank you, Daniel! Much appreciated! Best, Matt
Amazing work. Years of knowledge. Respect.
Enjoying the no-nonsense practical carpentry tips, keep em comin!
hudi42, Glad you are enjoying what you see on Next Level Carpentry... I hope you won't be disappointed by other videos on my channel because it would be a stretch to say they're ALL 'no-nonsense' :-) Prime example: ua-cam.com/video/AVV2woCugU0/v-deo.html
If you're still 'enjoying' after seeing that video you just may stick around for more :-)
Awesome work. I'm just surprised that you didn't clamp the piece down prior to routing it. Safety first, safety always. Thank you for sharing your knowledge and craftsmanship.
Thanks for the tips. Just did 32 pieces and they look fantastic.
Great to hear your success story! Any chance you'll post something to your UA-cam channel to show other viewers (and me :-) ) your accomplishment?
This is great. Along with your post notching video, you provided what I need for my next project: a trellis for double rows of raspberry bushes in raised beds.
How cool is that?! Have fun with the build Rob and good luck!
That was really interesting to watch , I have a big interest in design and the way things are worked out, I’ve just never been very neat at executing them. That was incredible
Very much appreciate the detail and professionalism!
For sure, John... good to hear. Best, Matt
Very cool. I was actuslly wondering how to create eliptical shapes and wham! This video popped up. Very clear demonstration.
2:22 You know this guy is a professional when he can draw a straight line without a ruler that fast. Subscribed!
Good one Kien... thanks for the sub! Funny that I earned your subscription by 'showing off', right? 😎
Excellent and practical techniques. Thank you.
Another excellent video by a true craftsman.
Thank you Arthur... much appreciated! Best, Matt
I love it! thanks for sharing the ellipse stick! : ) the only way I considered drawing an ellipse was with 2 anchor points and the pencil riding on a string : ) I'll use this method when building our pergola! Greetings from Poland!
You did a great job on this video. You've definitely got a superlative carpentry skill set, and you presented your work very well. Thanks.
Thanks Michael,
I'm always more anxious about presenting the work well than in doing the work well so I'm encouraged by your comment!
Awesome job, I’ve never thought of using my rubber sanding blocks upside down like that. 👍
Irony just got a project for Pagoda and they need these ends for beauty. Enjoyed your video it's the first can't wait to see what else you good sir! Thank you for sharing
Steven,
Let me know how you do applying this process on your project. It goes without saying that the actual profile can be adjusted/altered to fit project parameters and client preferences so it's quite versatile. If you're interested you might check out this series:
www.protradecraft.com/sketchup-beginners-how-build-pergola
where I show how I use SketchUp for pre-planning and design on this sort of thing. It would serve you well on your Pagoda project if you don't already have a digital process that you use.
PS I'm not implying that I think you're a beginner by sending the link, it's just the way it's titled :-)
Best,
Matt
Ellipse stick! Genius. Such a simple and effective idea.
Cool idea. Nice tutorial video. We Want to see the finished project. Time to cook .
chefgiovanni,
One of these days I'll build a Next Level Carpentry website where I can showcase photos of the projects I do when I create these videos to share with interested viewers like yourself. This particular project was a LOT of fun to build and left my client quite pleased.
What's for dinner? :-)
This is what pursuit of perfection looks like. Amazing!
Great video! You made what can be a difficult to grasp concept easy. I appreciated the through explanation and visual tutorial you presented. Thanks
Thanks for commenting here Blake... hope you find other videos at Next Level Carpentry equally 'great'... Best, Matt
Great job, straightforward and helpful. Thank you.
You're quite welcome!
Really enjoying the channel. Thanks for your time.
You're welcome! I appreciate your comment... so many things to show and share, so little time :-(
always a pleasure to watch a master carpenter! Thank you and love the pro product tips
Love the pro tips. They really do help add that special, professional finish to the projects.
Thanks for mentioning that Matthew... I always hope tossing in pro tips inspires and motivates viewers because, without a professional video team or good looks it's about all I have to offer! 😏😁😎 Best, Matt
I learn so much from your videos. Thanks for the elliptical trick.
I am sure that there are a lot to learn from you. Thanks for sharing your wonderful methods of carpentry. By the way, I love that magnetic hammer.
M.,
Hope you DO learn a lot here! The magnetic hammer is indispensable in my shop and you would probably find it the same for you. Good news is that there's a link for a hammer like mine in the description section of this video. If you end up buying one through this Amazon Affiliate link:
Magnetic tack hammer: amzn.to/2q5mHET
it costs you the same but a small percentage helps fund Next Level Carpentry to keep the content here free and is greatly appreciated!
Regards,
Matt
Excellent, straight to the point video, with bonus pro tips. I have subscribed to your channel. However, wish I would have watched this before I cut out most of my beam tails.
Thank you for your videos! You are passing on great skills and knowledge! I really enjoy your presentation style as well, honest and down to earth....
You're most welcome gohuskies! Best, Matt
That eLipStick is genius geometry Next Level Carpentry. Well done. I will definitely mention this at The Remodeling Show/DeckExpo this October.
My...Life,
Thanks for the compliment... it would be great if you mention the tip at that show. I wish I could claim credit for 'inventing' it but I just adopted it from a tip (probably in Fine Homebuilding magazine) and use it in my workflow. After all, it's not what you know but how you use it that counts, right?
Regards,
Matt
Next Level Carpentry
Matt - I write for FHB from time to time. Super pros there. It is abundantly clear, however, that your adoption of that trick *is* the trick. - I'd use a compass, coffee cup and roll of duct tape to get a less precise version of the same thing. :)
FHB is still a benchmark for most of us so it's good to know it's a common bond...
BTW If you find yourself lacking in cups and duct tape here's a couple more videos showing how to get by without 'em (although I'm certainly not above practical use of any or all of the above :-):
How to draw a circle... with a square?!:
ua-cam.com/users/edit?o=U&video_id=xZaGCUeSQAM
Drawing arcs for woodworking projects:
ua-cam.com/video/ykzQurvEqOo/v-deo.html
Have fun!
You're funny too. Love it. Good to meet you.
Another fantastic video tutorial. Thanks so much Matt.
After many, many years of doing things the "old school" way, one change I've made to my workflow is to CNC-cut templates. The results are even more precise and reproducible.
Thanks for your comment(s) on this and other Next Level Carpentry videos... you're a UA-cam Content producers favorite viewer being so 'engaged' with so many channel videos. FYI I replied to your CNC question here on the 'How to Draw Arcs' video in case you're interested in the reply.
It's just a matter of time before I have a shop to CNC templating or parts like you are... the technology is becoming SO available that its becoming increasingly difficult to deny its practicality... but old school me will probably only go kicking and whining 😁 Best, Mat
Great video and love the way you created a perfect eclipse 👍🏻📐✏️👏🏻
What an informative video! Well shot, well produced and explained flawlessly. Great job.
Hey Terry, Glad you liked the video... and thanks for subscribing! The 'well shot' and 'produced' is an encouraging compliment. Truth be told my video results are as much luck and capabilities of video editing software than talent but thanks just the same!
This guy is a genius, Thank you for this tip.
I watch a lot of woodworking channels.....I just added you to my subscriptions....looking forward to more....cheers from Canada!!!
Thanks, Andy... judging by your apparent knowledge of woodworking channels it's a true compliment that you like Next Level Carpentry enough to subscribe. When I look at other channels I'm humbled by their quality and volume of content production and so really appreciate viewers like you who are able to learn from my content despite my 'amateur' video production. Stay tuned... I've got some cool stuff in the works!
Best Regards,
Matt
Man I missed Norm Abram for years...MATT, YOUR THE NEW NORM ABRAM!!! Or at least the new carpentry wizard ;) Thanks again for the vids, been sharing them.
Thanks for that, Brye... if I could only get 'ol Norm's film and video production team on board! I envy the man for having to focus only on the work at hand and not all that's involved in producing even rudimentary videos... maybe someday? Best, Matt. Thanks for sharing NLC videos too... every little bit helps!
I wish a know it all person like me could do only 1% of what I saw in your channel, absolutely awesome work and great teaching. Thank you!
Always learn something from your videos. Keep up the good work.
Thanks for sayin' Mike... it's good to know these videos are helpful! Best, Matt
Fantastic instructions!!!!!
Got a fantastic result (I think so anyway)
2 mistakes i made though - lesson learnt (hopefully) Follow the experts' advise to the T
1. Got complacent on the last cut and didn’t tack it down fully & relied on my clamps - now i have a bit of a gouge lol
2. should have secured the end bit to the guide rail - I’ve lost that 15 degree bit - think I’ll get away by just cutting it out on the mitre saw
Final measurement is always the hand. Nicely done!
Thanks for teaching me all the things I should have known earlier in life when I could have enjoyed it but for now, I'm just learning for the fun of it. Your a great teacher and master joke teller!
Thanks so much for such an encouraging comment Mark... thanks for watching and taking a minute to share your thoughts. Learning for the fun of it is the best reason there is! Best, Matt
Great video, You are a pro as well as a terrific teacher! thanks
Thanks, Mike. Glad you like the video... I like to THINK of myself as 'a pro' but have to wonder some days :-)
Matt
Wow....Great stuff. The care and extra time you take to get things right is so nice to see. Would love to see some photos of the finished project.
agradoville,
Thanks for commenting here! I was just at this client's home yesterday installing the finished 'obelisk trellis' from the current 3-part video series and walked to the other side of their beautifully landscaped yard and wondered how I might get photos of the finished project to interested viewers like yourself... would you follow a link to Pinterest if I put it there?
Best,
Matt
Next Level Carpentry absolutely....give you a follow there as well.
agradoville,
Cool. I'm no whiz with Pinterest but managed to get a couple project images uploaded. I created a Next Level Carpentry Project Photos 'board' at this link: pin.it/ytVubqV Please let me know if it works? I have a feeling they're going to be pretty low-resolution because of how I tried to work around the 600 pixel image width limitation. If you have any knowledge about how to get better quality images 'pinned' I'm all ears :-)
This guy is so skilled. Awesome video
Doug (great last name BTW) A friend helped me find some very old neglected comments hiding out on Next Level Carpentry... so a belated 'thank you' for your comment... hope you're still watching videos here? Best, Matt
Psssst... you have a new subscriber, Good Sir! I really like your deliberate, precise approach - and you're a very good teacher.
Hi NG Hawg,
Thanks for the sub! It's my goal to continue to earn compliments such as yours!
Thanks!!!! I learned a lot of tricks that I shall use someday. Especially the ellipse stick trick.
Hi Michel, A friend helped me find some very old neglected comments hiding out on Next Level Carpentry... so a belated 'thank you' for your comment... hope you're still watching videos here? Best, Matt
Thank you so much for making such a great and informative video. Please continue to make awesome videos. Disregard the hatters. Whenever you are in the public eye you will always have someone who will try to bring you down to their shallow level. It's because of their own insecurity and there is nothing you can do about it. I learned a lot from you and I look forward to your next video.
Joseph,
You're mucho welcome! Hope you'll browse Next Level Carpentry for other videos... let me know if you find other favorites here? This one shows one of my favorite 'breaktime' tricks:
ua-cam.com/users/edit?o=U&video_id=xZaGCUeSQAM
I would not be surprised in the least to learn you have a PHD in encouragement therapy... thank you for taking the time to share such thoughtful kind words!
Another Great video. Very informative. Learning lots of new tips. Even the music is good too- especially when wearing wireless "in ear" headphones, lots of bass.
Lee,
Glad to know you're learning stuff from these videos... it's very gratifying to know that an actual exchange of knowledge is taking place... I sometimes wonder how effective the tutorials are. After all I'm just a carpenter tryin' to 'pay it forward' in appreciation to all my mentors from over the years... AND you approve of my choice of 'bumper music'... sahweet! Some viewers seem ready to run me out of town because of it!
Thanks for sharing your extensive knowledge
Just found your channel. This was by far a great educational video. Thx for sharing.
Hey Bill,
Glad to know you've found Next Level Carpentry and see this as a 'great educational video' and not a poor video production :-) Anything you do to 'spread the word' about NLC is appreciated!
I use a small plunge router mounted to a jig rather than the pencil. Cuts an accurate template in one step. Great video by the way!
Great video and very informative and professional
Great video. Extremely helpful. Wish you lived next door!!! Thank you
Fantastic tip. Used your tip on the pergola I built on my house.
Thank you!
Glad to hear it Chavo... you're welcome for sure! Best, Matt
One of the best educational videos I've seen so far.I greatly appreciate your work Sir, great job, and with your "twin brother" comming to help you at the end it could not ended any better. :-)I'm sure I'll be back watching again, my pergola project is about to happen.Thank you!
Andre, Thanks for the compliments, my 'twin' and I really appreciate it :-)
If you're using this method for the first time I recommend doing a practice piece or two to get comfortable with the process. It is as simple as it looks and only gets easier with experience. Best of luck with your pergola project! Stay focused and work safely if you end up using a top-bearing flush trim bit for your project.