husband here....beautiful!!.....plenty of creativity.......editing fantastic.....music nice.....thanx alot....subscribed and thumbs up!......will b watching more.....beautiful workshop also.......great combination with power tools and hand craftsmanship!......your on my "wish I had a neighbor like you" list.
Totally awesome! I’ve worked with wood for 45 years and have always limited my custom jobs to 4 per year because I think it’s important to use only hand tools. I think my newest hand tool is a ship decking plane from 1736. I have to use a table saw and resaw because time and arthritis have changed the way I have to do things. But you are right..perfection can only be brought to life by patience, thought and hand tools that were made by true craftsmen. I love my router and shaper table but the old shaper planes are the best way to warm a room with live edges (which is different than the modern concept of raw edge). I noticed your Lee Nielsen saw and had a fond memory of my first one purchased after my first professional job. The bench is stunning! Like my old mentor told me many years ago, “Good, Better, Best, Never let it Rest, ‘till the Good is Better and the Better, Best!” -Alban Douglas (D)
I'm like you - hybrid. Time is just time. hand sawing a long curve, though authentic hand craftsmanship, it doesn't take anything away from the final product if you hog off the bulk of the curve on the bandsaw. Oh the Details ! - too many to list, but they all make for an amazing final product. Once again, in awe. Thanks
Like you, I tend to do a rough design, then tweak as I go. This usually keeps things from looking "generic". Your tasty designs and excellent technique are great to watch. Thanks!
Here from Blacktail as well, I’m a hybrid too ! I do the heavy lifting with the power tools and finish with hand tools . I find that a power tool can wreck my piece at the speed of light and anytime I can take a dimension by holding the part up and marking it there’s less chance for error . I’ve heard Marc use that term on wood talk as well. Gorgeous bench !
Got recommended by Blacktail Studio and now I am subscribed! Must say, absolutely loved your videos! Wish to see your channel grow and explode with viewers so that you keep coming up with more awesome original artistic designs!
Matt, I see a lot of the same tools I used with my great grandfather and grandfather when I worked wood with them. The collected their own wood from the forests with horses, split it, and put it up in the rafters to dry for a minimum of 3 years. We never had issues with insects, mice or chipmunks. My grandfather's cat would kill them and leave them by the pot belly stove for him. She never ate them, just killed them to protect the wood. We would go up into the rafters and turn boards every week, so that there was never any warping. My job besides that, was to sand by hand, slats or arms or even legs for tables and chairs that he would sell during the Summer in Central Ontario. There was a sawmill about a 4 minute walk from the house, and they knew him very well. If he went in with his trees, they would cut them into the slabs for him. But if he said he needed 6 2"x4"x10', then that is what he got, and they would leave a little extra for the shrinkage. He dealt with a lot of White Oak, Elm, Old growth Maple that were dead or already dead fall, Sycamore and Mulberry. I've worked on all of them as well as a Yew from Ireland. There was a cane that was I was given by this gentleman. I restored that myself, and even managed to leave 3 small pieces of the original Shellac on it. The gentleman gifted it to me. His son had used it as a paint can stirrer and chopped of 7 inches to accommodate his wife's height. But they had been told not to alter it in anyway. When it was returned, he broke down into tears. None of his word was ever followed. I managed to show him the cane when it was done, and all I wanted to do was to return it to its rightful owner, and at that point he started to to cry. I calmed him down, and asked him if I had done something wrong. He told me that that cane was then only connection he had to his father, who had passed away when he was 7 years old. Before he got deployed in WWI he was brought to his father's friends house. At that time all 3 went for a walk. The farmer said to him pick any tree that are marked in yellow. These trees are old and dying, some are over 120 years old, so it is time that this field gets trimmed out. So, John, being a man of few words when I met him, walked around a long time, looking at the trees. From all angles. Then he said to his father's friend, I like that sturdy looking branch on this tree. The farmer said, DONE!! They went back to that farmer 3 days before he was deployed and later killed. The farmer presented him with this stunning walking stick, and told him, this will get you through life boy. Today a walking stick, and later in your life a cane to keep you moving and she'll help you out in a good donnybrook she will!! Holding his sides with complete and utter belly laughs!! So, now, more than ever, I miss them both greatly!! So thank you for the memories you're conjuring for me tonight!! 💖 Wishing you all the Best. From Ontario, Canada, Jenn. 💖 💖 🇨🇦 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟P. S. I still have that cane!! I wipe it down with bees wax and use it only during our Summers. It never sees rain. I baby that cane. It is the second piece of woodwork I treasure!!
Agree with Matthew, makers like Gillis Bjork use mostly hand tools but I think there will always be a happy blend of power and hand tools in most shops. Dimensioning material with power tools then finesse and massage with hand tools gives me a lot of satisfaction. (even when I hafta go back and fix "dammits").
I like the combo of hand and power tools. I was actually watching you before I followed Blacktail Studio. But awesome spotlight. Both of you are amazingly creative.
Came upon your work through Blacktail Studio. Your blend of power and hand tools seems the most logical approach to a somewhat emotional process. Your passion for your art really shows in your videos. Keep it up. Very inspiring.
Love it. First, I don’t care about the pantirouter, just yanking your chain. I’ve put wedged through tenons on my last few projects. I love em, but they are a bit scary. Loose without the wedge but the minute I pound in my wedges, it’s not coming apart. Great joint but once in, it’s done!
Lol just adding stuff to your wish list, Rick! I definitely would have chopped them by hand if I had time. The loose joinery definitely is a little weird to get used to and those wedges aren’t exactly fun to make. Can’t argue with a sturdy end product though 💪
Great build sir love your designs As too your question. One of the only shop tools that I would ban from existence would be C&C. I hate pocket holes, but we have to pick our battles.
Stunning job mate.. Absolutely beautifully made. Love the accents with the little wedges complimenting the darker wood.. It looks so cool bro.. Respect to u from Ireland..
Just the right combination of power and hand tools = whatever works for you. I think you've got it perfectly balanced in this build. I'm torn on the tops leaning inwards as they are. I guess I would have to try it myself but I feel like the benchtop would be forcing me into a place that doesn't always work. Could be totally wrong! The vision of the piece is really consistent and well presented. Purty
I think this would have been a good one to make a full size mock up. Luckily, it’s pretty comfortable to sit on. Any steeper and I think you would be correct in it forcing you into the crack. Thanks Fred
For me the question of Hand Tools, or Power Tools definately depends on the project. turning a solid 6 panel door in my girl's son's playroom into a 2 piece Dutch style door is a power tool project. Making carved 1 of a kind handles for all my files is a hand tool job.
Green & Green would be truly pleased, I think. Carefully and expertly hand-crafted homes, decor and housewares were exactly what the movement was and is about, as you know. Judicial use of power tools is quite alright by me, though I hate their noise. I also appreciate the more intimate time with wood and hand tools. What you call relative dimensioning, I have long called direct measure, as opposed to stick or rule measure. It is the very thing that gave us the metaphoric cliche of the benchmark. Still, what I watch for are things along the line of a) what is your reason for attempting a thing, b) where did you achieve that, c) what did you do with the unintentional (mistakes or improvs), d) does the result bring beauty into the world, or possibly express an experience? If I saw this in a public place, I would definitely wish to touch it, feel its texture, look carefully at it, and sit on it. If I saw it at a friend's house, I would visit often, just to see it. Thank you for sharing your thoughts, feelings and work process.
This is gorgeous, man. Very inspiring build. I'm such a planner... but I love how you blend planning and spontaneity into your workflow. Rethinking my next build and how to approach it... May even try a curve or two lol I'd love to get more into hand tools this year. The investment is intimidating but I know it's worth it. My only hand tools are chisels and card scrapers right now :)
Thanks man. I feel ya. I tend to over-plan. There comes a point where I just have to start making sawdust and figure it out on as I go. You’ll definitely enjoy the switch to bringing fit in by hand. So much control!
Really beautiful table. Liked your work bench build to. Video 3 isn't out yet is it? Keep the videos coming. And I really like the through mortise and tenon with the wedges. Haven't tried that joint yet but most defiantly on my bucket list.
Thanks Trey! Fun join to make and super strong. Let me know how it goes when you give it a go. The third video is up- sorry I've been messing with SEO ua-cam.com/video/s9Fm9e5HwFY/v-deo.html
slowly moving over to more hand tool projects. There is something really therapeutic about hand planning a piece down to finish dimension. On the down side, THE COST of good hand tools is shocking!!! But hey, it feeds the addiction, LOL!
Although I don’t mind power tools, I absolutely love people with the ability to make things Little House on the Prairie style. Making furniture by hand (whether by power tools or hand tools) is not only a rare craft-but an ART. To me at least. I dislike watching people who use those CAD machines to cut things out, it feels like mass production value furniture, impersonal and cold. You asked people to comment on that subject so that’s why I am offering my opinion.
I have no issues with power tools. I like the hybrid approach of using old school tools and techniques combined with modern tools. You get speed and efficiency with power tools but hand tools feel more authentic. There is nothing like the sound of a sharp plane blade taking shaving off an edge. All that being said, I like the final product to at least give the illusion that it was handmade with traditional tools. I think the panto router is cool and would own one if I had the space, and it is perfect for most M&T joints where the joinery is hidden. But for a through tenon I would rather see a square mortise and tenon. The rounded corners scream machine cut. The few minutes to square the mortise with a chisel (and cut the tenons another way) would elevate the final result for me.
I totally agree. This was a bit of a stretch for the budget, but I’ve been trying to cut down on some of the small things that drive the price(time) up and adjusting methods to make more cool stuff for cool people. Totally agree on the square tenons coming through and making the end product look hand-cut.
@@tthomasokc I appreciate that! Always take little bits away from each project and the pendulum will likely swing back. Hard to find the balance of doing things the way I want while making money and putting energy where the client appreciates(or knows) the difference.
@Sawyer Design, You asked if we like power tools or hand tools. There are a lot of channels that specialize, but I watch your videos to see your style of woodworking. I think you've got a unique take on one of the worlds oldest trades... No, not prostitution. Get your mind out of the gutter. You've got a great thing going. Looks like you're hitting your stride(youtube), but I can't help but think you're getting ready to take off... Great Job. Good Luck. Keep doing you.
Amazing bench! Really! I wish I had the words to describe how and why I feel so amazed... but you know how detail oriented you are makes all the difference! I'm over from Blacktail Studios, liked and subscribed...:-)
Great build with some impressive joinery. As for power vs. hand tools, I've always enjoyed using a blend of each. Like a lot of other woodworkers, I use power tools to try and get through stock prep quickly so that I can take my time doing joinery with hand tools. I don't have the pressure of making a living doing woodworking though. The panto router looks like a great tool, I'm just not a big fan of the aesthetic of the rounded tenons though. Keep it up though!
Really loved the design you came up with. But let ask if you have thought about changing it into a kitchen table and bench set up? Your bench is great, can you do a table to match?
I personally have to mix certain amounts of hand tools and power tools. Each craftsman has a certain balance, I've even seen Paul Sellers use a power tool every blue moon.
Panta router is new to me. I've seen Pantagraph tools in different forms tracing and flame cutting on the horizontal flat plane. Could you show us how this tool works? Maybe it could be a diy built tool?
Only just found ur channel bro.. I think a healthy balance of hand tools and some usage of power tools is ok but too much power tools can take away from the satisfaction of hand planing, etc.. I certainly wouldn't be hand planing 10 mm off a piece of wood but a couple of mm is ok.. I love that router jig thingy u used to cut those mortices? I probably called them the wrong name here.. Apologies if I did. haha! I've only just begun really and I never saw myself as loving woodwork but man alive I have caught the bug.. I love this form of artistic expression.. That's what it's about to become for me anyways.. Thanks for an awesome video bro and I will be catching up on more of ur vids soon..
Excellent video. Once again, the combination of showing skilled work allied to very good production values win through. My particular interest is the British Arts and Crafts style - from which Greene & Greene, Stickley etc. took inspiration and evolved into stuff now labelled Prairie or Mission. Forget the label and admire the design. I agree about curves - I was told that, if a rectangular piece took Z hours, then a single curved piece took Z x 10; if you then introduce complex curves which meet each other, it’s Z x 10 x 10. Crude but I have found it not far out. Love everything about your approach - power for the hard work; hand for the finish. One question. Many UK pieces feature scalloped parts; that is parts that look like they have been cut with an adze and then refined. For that look, I have used several tools, including a scrub plane but not an adze - but have never been over excited with the look. Have you tried that; if so, what did you use?
Hey thanks! Curves definitely take quite a bit more time. I love mission style and certainly take some inspiration there, as well. Scalloping is a nice texture element, perhaps a little dated for my taste, but I’d not be opposed to taking inspiration there in a modern spin. To cut it, I’d likely use a carving gouge or bull-nose router bit to cut.
@@SawyerDesign thanks for replying. I’ve tried the bull nose bit but I can’t make it reproduce the correct shallow curve in and out of the ‘divot’. I did try the large gouge and I think you’re right - it’s the better bet. “A bit dated for your taste”. On one hand, all of Arts and Crafts is a bit dated; but, as I would guess I’m 40 plus years older than you, everything I wear; all the music I like, is all a bit dated to every young whippersnapper. LOL.
Haha I get that. Total respect for every period. I guess the better way to put that is that it’s not an element I seek out in my designs. If you wanted to make the router work, I’d build a cradle or two sided ramp to make that tapered cut. Two contact humps (half rounds) on the base plate and a ramp on the entry/exit of the cut. Especially fluting down a leg, hand carving that would be difficult to make look right.
Thanks! It’s pretty slight slope, but makes sense if you think about butts. Butts aren’t flat, so it makes sense that our seats don’t have to be either. It was just a design choice to shake things up from the norm 👍
Blacktail recommended your page and damn if he wasn’t right. You are crazy talented. I hate you just a little.JK. I love to see someone who has mastered hand tools but sometimes you just don’t have time and machinery is needed now and then.
Came here from Blacktail chanel. You're really talented. Very fascinating to watch 😀 the only thing I would change is the music. No need for it. It is kinda distracting. I would rather pay attention what you do 👍🏻
Just came across your channel...beautiful work! I’m working on adding more hand tools into my woodworking and I really appreciate your balance of power and traditional work. I don’t know why I haven’t allowed myself the flexibility in my woodworking for a piece to evolve as I do with all of my other artistic pursuits: drawing and professional design. I’m going to work on that thanks to your example! On a side note, I appreciate the links to some of your tools used, but what scraper holder are you using? I assume the MacStew scraper blades, but the brass tool is intriguing. Keep up the brilliant work!
Beautiful design. I do wish your video moved a little slower, as I had difficulty following some of the assembly. BTW, I find a hand saw is the fastest way to cut bevels. Draw a line; cut to it. No jigs, no set up.
Ok, so this is all good, and might have even liked it a little, but the whole thing falls apart once you realize there is no link to baby wipes in the description. Like, seriously, I dont like taping all over the joints, but i do it, just to minimize the mess. Wipes seem perfect, and i have what seems like a closet full of them. In all seriousness, I know how ridiculous it sounds, but I do want to know - what kind of wipes you have especially good experince with, sir?! Super happy to find your channel, thank you for sharing your work!
Hahaha man I am SO GLAD you asked. What a newb oversight on my part- apologies. Huggies natural care are the best in the game. Strong and solvent free. No stinging splinter wounds. amzn.to/3d4Kb8l Glad to have you Pawel! Appreciate the support!
Sir, I really like your design with the curves and exposed joinery. I recall you saying you used Osmo 3043 finish on the piece. Osmo is my favorite finish for my creations. I’ve had trouble finding Osmo 3043 and noticed your product link is for 3054. Is there any difference between the two?
Thanks! It’s such a great finish. 3043 is the new formula of 3054 designed for easier rolling and brushing. I wipe all my finishes and use the two interchangeably as they’re available.
Greene & Greene were architects at the forefront of the American Arts & Crafts Furniture Movement. Their style is very representative of the Period and distinctly theirs.
Nick, what is the brand/make of saw you are using at 6:15 in the video. I have some Japanese saws but they do not seem as beefy or sturdy as the one I see in the video. The teeth are fine and I think it would make a good cut. Thanks!
That looks like my BadAxe. If you’re looking to upgrade, but don’t want to spend $300 and wait 6 months for a custom saw, Lie Nielsen makes a decent carcase and dovetail saw.
Are you familiar with the saws designed and manufactured by Rob Cosman. Would that be a good saw in your opinion? Thanks! Sorry for all the newbie questions.
Great product, love the overall idea but my only criticism is it feels like you got a little bored when it came to the two planks you sit upon! Overall underneath framing is quite unique and I do like the build alot but as I said just feels like you cheated yourself when it came to the seating planks! Cool build 💯% 👍🇬🇧.
You seriously asked the interwebs people about preference between hand tools and power tools? Bwahahaha. For personal projects I'd love to get into hand tools. Professional it's what ever is fastest most times power tools
Love the bench, personally power tools themselves don't bother me. I absolutely hate Festool though (in my opinion they are overpriced for no reason other than they hold a patent currently for dominos, and I think that their pricing makes dominos inaccessible to most woodworkers). Although the pantorouter is expensive, at least there are other ways to make rounded over tenons so it's not like domino's in that there isn't really any other way to do it without a major modification to the build.
Yeah I can’t say I agree with their domination of the market, especially on safety features like the sawstop tech. My track saw is not the best and definitely expensive. The panto is killer for productivity
@@SawyerDesign The good news is they only have 3 more years on the patent. After that they don't get to charge 5x the price for an overglorified biscuit jointer anymore! :D
Came here from Blacktail, instantly fell in love. Being at the end of my carpentry apprenticeship I really appreciate use of power-tools as well as hand-tool.
I am a traditionally trained designer and love mixed processes to completing the creative processes but value the concept above all. You are obviously a true craftsperson that explores your designs by expanding on your production techniques throughout the production cycle. I must add that you have a Japanese edge to your woodworking that comes through in your design as well as your production. I am extremely impressed with your ability to think outside the box as you go along. That said, work is beautiful, clean, and maintains a certain amount of simplicity to its lines as the final pieces maintain their space. I enjoy your work immensely as you challenge yourself from point A to Z.
I’ve been woodworking for about 7 years, entirely self taught. Watching your skills makes me want to either seek out some classes or just quit. Your designs are awesome 👍 ps I won’t quit.
Thank you! I’d love to put something together, but not sure what plans would look like and I think it’d be difficult to do a better job of explaining the process than Schwarz. If you haven’t read his workbench design book (amzn.to/3pZUVIL) I very highly recommend it!
Very familiar with Christopher Schwartz bench builds. I’d think you would be shocked at how many people would buy your plan if published. As a huge fan of Greene and Greene and craftsman style furniture, I find your design is very appealing with a hint of Japanese flair as well.
@@scottymac713 oh man I was looking at the wrong thumbnail haha my bad- thought this was about the workbench. I’ll take a look at some plans to see what all that should look like and carve some time to get a set together.
Hi Nick , I just found you on the “Tube” and I’ve been watching video after video, your approach to outside the box thinking is amazing! I love how you use hand tools and power tools equally! I am fairly new to the game, but it seems like the things people ask me to make have been done to death! I just want to say that watching you has made me rethink my direction And step outside that “square box”and challenge myself and push the limits. Thank you! And God Bless.
New to your channel but absolutely love you design aesthetic. So many wood working sites have just okay designs. In particularly enjoy that you grow the design as you go forward. Super impressive and a great inspiration.
Peter & John Hall who built most of the Greene & Greene Houses and furniture, had table saws, bandsaws, drill press and mortising machans belt drive off a gasoline motor. So power & hand tool have a history more than one hundred years, anyone complains about pure hand tool use point this out to them. Keep up the good work.
Here from Blacktail. Beautiful work.
Same :)
What they said.
Same
Same Beautiful work.
Here from Blacktail and subscribed. Wow!! Amazing work.
Thanks so much, Chris!
Me too.
Me too (oh...wait).
Me too!
Snap
We do many home projects, and these sawhorses are great for so many different applications. Glad we purchased them.
husband here....beautiful!!.....plenty of creativity.......editing fantastic.....music nice.....thanx alot....subscribed and thumbs up!......will b watching more.....beautiful workshop also.......great combination with power tools and hand craftsmanship!......your on my "wish I had a neighbor like you" list.
Totally awesome! I’ve worked with wood for 45 years and have always limited my custom jobs to 4 per year because I think it’s important to use only hand tools. I think my newest hand tool is a ship decking plane from 1736. I have to use a table saw and resaw because time and arthritis have changed the way I have to do things. But you are right..perfection can only be brought to life by patience, thought and hand tools that were made by true craftsmen. I love my router and shaper table but the old shaper planes are the best way to warm a room with live edges (which is different than the modern concept of raw edge). I noticed your Lee Nielsen saw and had a fond memory of my first one purchased after my first professional job. The bench is stunning! Like my old mentor told me many years ago, “Good, Better, Best, Never let it Rest, ‘till the Good is Better and the Better, Best!” -Alban Douglas (D)
I love the combination between power tools and hand tools.
I like power tools. Makes it fun and precise, like a wood machinist.
I'm like you - hybrid. Time is just time. hand sawing a long curve, though authentic hand craftsmanship, it doesn't take anything away from the final product if you hog off the bulk of the curve on the bandsaw.
Oh the Details ! - too many to list, but they all make for an amazing final product. Once again, in awe.
Thanks
If it’s worth doing, worth overdoing. Thank you once again!
Came here from Andy Rawls channel. You sir, do absolutely incredible work. Glad to be here and look forward to seeing more of it. Cheers!
I do like the base more than the seat and supports, but this is excellent. Thank you for sharing.
Fantastic workmanship love it
Like it all,except the two boards on top. Keep up the fine work.
Your way is Awsom, that router is really really cool...
I love the jointery that's so well done...
Like you, I tend to do a rough design, then tweak as I go. This usually keeps things from looking "generic". Your tasty designs and excellent technique are great to watch. Thanks!
Here from Blacktail as well, I’m a hybrid too ! I do the heavy lifting with the power tools and finish with hand tools . I find that a power tool can wreck my piece at the speed of light and anytime I can take a dimension by holding the part up and marking it there’s less chance for error . I’ve heard Marc use that term on wood talk as well. Gorgeous bench !
Got recommended by Blacktail Studio and now I am subscribed! Must say, absolutely loved your videos!
Wish to see your channel grow and explode with viewers so that you keep coming up with more awesome original artistic designs!
same
Same 2 years later!
Blacktail recommended you, I see why. Subbed!
Thanks Samuel!
Matt, I see a lot of the same tools I used with my great grandfather and grandfather when I worked wood with them. The collected their own wood from the forests with horses, split it, and put it up in the rafters to dry for a minimum of 3 years. We never had issues with insects, mice or chipmunks. My grandfather's cat would kill them and leave them by the pot belly stove for him. She never ate them, just killed them to protect the wood. We would go up into the rafters and turn boards every week, so that there was never any warping. My job besides that, was to sand by hand, slats or arms or even legs for tables and chairs that he would sell during the Summer in Central Ontario. There was a sawmill about a 4 minute walk from the house, and they knew him very well. If he went in with his trees, they would cut them into the slabs for him. But if he said he needed 6 2"x4"x10', then that is what he got, and they would leave a little extra for the shrinkage. He dealt with a lot of White Oak, Elm, Old growth Maple that were dead or already dead fall, Sycamore and Mulberry. I've worked on all of them as well as a Yew from Ireland. There was a cane that was I was given by this gentleman. I restored that myself, and even managed to leave 3 small pieces of the original Shellac on it. The gentleman gifted it to me. His son had used it as a paint can stirrer and chopped of 7 inches to accommodate his wife's height. But they had been told not to alter it in anyway. When it was returned, he broke down into tears. None of his word was ever followed. I managed to show him the cane when it was done, and all I wanted to do was to return it to its rightful owner, and at that point he started to to cry. I calmed him down, and asked him if I had done something wrong. He told me that that cane was then only connection he had to his father, who had passed away when he was 7 years old. Before he got deployed in WWI he was brought to his father's friends house. At that time all 3 went for a walk. The farmer said to him pick any tree that are marked in yellow. These trees are old and dying, some are over 120 years old, so it is time that this field gets trimmed out. So, John, being a man of few words when I met him, walked around a long time, looking at the trees. From all angles. Then he said to his father's friend, I like that sturdy looking branch on this tree. The farmer said, DONE!! They went back to that farmer 3 days before he was deployed and later killed. The farmer presented him with this stunning walking stick, and told him, this will get you through life boy. Today a walking stick, and later in your life a cane to keep you moving and she'll help you out in a good donnybrook she will!! Holding his sides with complete and utter belly laughs!! So, now, more than ever, I miss them both greatly!! So thank you for the memories you're conjuring for me tonight!! 💖 Wishing you all the Best. From Ontario, Canada, Jenn. 💖 💖 🇨🇦 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟P. S. I still have that cane!! I wipe it down with bees wax and use it only during our Summers. It never sees rain. I baby that cane. It is the second piece of woodwork I treasure!!
Love the frame!
yes, it is gorgeous, wonderful work!
Thanks so much, Mark!
Agree with Matthew, makers like Gillis Bjork use mostly hand tools but I think there will always be a happy blend of power and hand tools in most shops. Dimensioning material with power tools then finesse and massage with hand tools gives me a lot of satisfaction. (even when I hafta go back and fix "dammits").
Blacktail said to check you out, He dose not lie, you are out there. thanks
you are a true craftsman!
Thank you!
Gorgeous design, impeccable craftsmanship. I'd love to have an office desk built with this look.
Looks amazing!
Another wonderful project! Love the look and use of contrasting wood!
This is on another level. Looks beautifully.
Terrific job!
Beautiful!
I am use whatever it takes to eliminate the mundane tasks. Found your site via Blacktail Studio. Nice Work
Thanks James!
Excellent job thanks for sharing. I use hand and power tools depending on the project I'm working on.
I am new to your channel but I am jus keep watching. Your projects are amazing. I just love your work and videos.
I like the combo of hand and power tools. I was actually watching you before I followed Blacktail Studio. But awesome spotlight. Both of you are amazingly creative.
Astonishing!
Nice job, Nick!
Thank you! Cheers!
I too followed Blacktails suggestion to come to your channel. I enjoyed your craftsmanship. I have subscribed as well.
Looks great!
Thanks Andy!
Keep doing what you're doing the way you do it. I love your approach and mindset for this project. The finished piece has a timeless quality.
Thanks so much, Joe!
Came upon your work through Blacktail Studio. Your blend of power and hand tools seems the most logical approach to a somewhat emotional process. Your passion for your art really shows in your videos. Keep it up. Very inspiring.
Hi thier i have been a power tool guy for over 40 years and i am slowly moving to a good mix
Community is everything. Subscribed. Blacktail had a little to do with it, maybe. And so worth the visit. :)
Haha thanks for coming to check out my work!
Love it. First, I don’t care about the pantirouter, just yanking your chain. I’ve put wedged through tenons on my last few projects. I love em, but they are a bit scary. Loose without the wedge but the minute I pound in my wedges, it’s not coming apart. Great joint but once in, it’s done!
Lol just adding stuff to your wish list, Rick! I definitely would have chopped them by hand if I had time. The loose joinery definitely is a little weird to get used to and those wedges aren’t exactly fun to make. Can’t argue with a sturdy end product though 💪
Just found you through black tail studio glad I did you do some amazing work
Thanks so much Ben!
Great build sir love your designs
As too your question.
One of the only shop tools that I would ban from existence would be C&C.
I hate pocket holes, but we have to pick our battles.
Really nice job you can't beat arts and crafts inspired Furniture some of the most beautiful Furniture ever made again nice job
Thanks Bob!
Cam sent you another subcriber from his Blacktail Studios channel. Love the work, keep it going.
Very nice work 👏
Stunning job mate.. Absolutely beautifully made. Love the accents with the little wedges complimenting the darker wood.. It looks so cool bro.. Respect to u from Ireland..
Just the right combination of power and hand tools = whatever works for you. I think you've got it perfectly balanced in this build. I'm torn on the tops leaning inwards as they are. I guess I would have to try it myself but I feel like the benchtop would be forcing me into a place that doesn't always work. Could be totally wrong! The vision of the piece is really consistent and well presented. Purty
I think this would have been a good one to make a full size mock up. Luckily, it’s pretty comfortable to sit on. Any steeper and I think you would be correct in it forcing you into the crack. Thanks Fred
I'm about using the best tool for a given task, whether it's a hand tool or a power tool.
For me the question of Hand Tools, or Power Tools definately depends on the project. turning a solid 6 panel door in my girl's son's playroom into a 2 piece Dutch style door is a power tool project. Making carved 1 of a kind handles for all my files is a hand tool job.
Great video
Green & Green would be truly pleased, I think. Carefully and expertly hand-crafted homes, decor and housewares were exactly what the movement was and is about, as you know. Judicial use of power tools is quite alright by me, though I hate their noise. I also appreciate the more intimate time with wood and hand tools. What you call relative dimensioning, I have long called direct measure, as opposed to stick or rule measure. It is the very thing that gave us the metaphoric cliche of the benchmark. Still, what I watch for are things along the line of a) what is your reason for attempting a thing, b) where did you achieve that, c) what did you do with the unintentional (mistakes or improvs), d) does the result bring beauty into the world, or possibly express an experience? If I saw this in a public place, I would definitely wish to touch it, feel its texture, look carefully at it, and sit on it. If I saw it at a friend's house, I would visit often, just to see it. Thank you for sharing your thoughts, feelings and work process.
This is gorgeous, man. Very inspiring build. I'm such a planner... but I love how you blend planning and spontaneity into your workflow. Rethinking my next build and how to approach it... May even try a curve or two lol
I'd love to get more into hand tools this year. The investment is intimidating but I know it's worth it. My only hand tools are chisels and card scrapers right now :)
Thanks man. I feel ya. I tend to over-plan. There comes a point where I just have to start making sawdust and figure it out on as I go. You’ll definitely enjoy the switch to bringing fit in by hand. So much control!
Wow, that looks beautiful! Sent here from Blacktail, you got a new sub!
Hey thanks so much!
This is the most unique beautiful piece I have ever seen in ages. Keep it up. Wow
Thank you so much 😀 Really appreciate it Andrew!
Really beautiful table. Liked your work bench build to. Video 3 isn't out yet is it? Keep the videos coming. And I really like the through mortise and tenon with the wedges. Haven't tried that joint yet but most defiantly on my bucket list.
Thanks Trey! Fun join to make and super strong. Let me know how it goes when you give it a go.
The third video is up- sorry I've been messing with SEO ua-cam.com/video/s9Fm9e5HwFY/v-deo.html
Work of art!
slowly moving over to more hand tool projects. There is something really therapeutic about hand planning a piece down to finish dimension. On the down side, THE COST of good hand tools is shocking!!! But hey, it feeds the addiction, LOL!
Although I don’t mind power tools, I absolutely love people with the ability to make things Little House on the Prairie style. Making furniture by hand (whether by power tools or hand tools) is not only a rare craft-but an ART. To me at least. I dislike watching people who use those CAD machines to cut things out, it feels like mass production value furniture, impersonal and cold. You asked people to comment on that subject so that’s why I am offering my opinion.
Came here from Blacktail… I’m staying!
Please do! Make yourself at home.
I have no issues with power tools. I like the hybrid approach of using old school tools and techniques combined with modern tools. You get speed and efficiency with power tools but hand tools feel more authentic. There is nothing like the sound of a sharp plane blade taking shaving off an edge.
All that being said, I like the final product to at least give the illusion that it was handmade with traditional tools. I think the panto router is cool and would own one if I had the space, and it is perfect for most M&T joints where the joinery is hidden. But for a through tenon I would rather see a square mortise and tenon. The rounded corners scream machine cut. The few minutes to square the mortise with a chisel (and cut the tenons another way) would elevate the final result for me.
I totally agree. This was a bit of a stretch for the budget, but I’ve been trying to cut down on some of the small things that drive the price(time) up and adjusting methods to make more cool stuff for cool people. Totally agree on the square tenons coming through and making the end product look hand-cut.
I should add that it is a beautiful bench and would gladly have it in my house.
@@tthomasokc I appreciate that! Always take little bits away from each project and the pendulum will likely swing back. Hard to find the balance of doing things the way I want while making money and putting energy where the client appreciates(or knows) the difference.
Beautiful
Thanks!
Love the design. Very Asian influenced. I would reduce the thru tenons by half and make those rectangular.
Darrel peart describes Greene and Greene as Arts and crafts with an Asian flair. Thanks!
@Sawyer Design, You asked if we like power tools or hand tools. There are a lot of channels that specialize, but I watch your videos to see your style of woodworking. I think you've got a unique take on one of the worlds oldest trades... No, not prostitution. Get your mind out of the gutter. You've got a great thing going. Looks like you're hitting your stride(youtube), but I can't help but think you're getting ready to take off... Great Job. Good Luck. Keep doing you.
Beautiful work, loving the channel!
Glad you enjoy it! Much appreciated
Amazing bench! Really! I wish I had the words to describe how and why I feel so amazed... but you know how detail oriented you are makes all the difference! I'm over from Blacktail Studios, liked and subscribed...:-)
Great build with some impressive joinery. As for power vs. hand tools, I've always enjoyed using a blend of each. Like a lot of other woodworkers, I use power tools to try and get through stock prep quickly so that I can take my time doing joinery with hand tools. I don't have the pressure of making a living doing woodworking though. The panto router looks like a great tool, I'm just not a big fan of the aesthetic of the rounded tenons though. Keep it up though!
Thanks Brett! I think next time, I’ll definitely square off the m/t’s. It’s a fun tool and certainly helps speed up production
Really loved the design you came up with. But let ask if you have thought about changing it into a kitchen table and bench set up? Your bench is great, can you do a table to match?
Hey Robert! I definitely could and would, should someone commission it.
Love the bench. Could the 2 boards on top be cut at angles to meet flush?
👍👍very nice
I personally have to mix certain amounts of hand tools and power tools. Each craftsman has a certain balance, I've even seen Paul Sellers use a power tool every blue moon.
He what?! Haha I think the perfect balance is whatever works.
Panta router is new to me. I've seen Pantagraph tools in different forms tracing and flame cutting on the horizontal flat plane. Could you show us how this tool works? Maybe it could be a diy built tool?
Only just found ur channel bro.. I think a healthy balance of hand tools and some usage of power tools is ok but too much power tools can take away from the satisfaction of hand planing, etc.. I certainly wouldn't be hand planing 10 mm off a piece of wood but a couple of mm is ok.. I love that router jig thingy u used to cut those mortices? I probably called them the wrong name here.. Apologies if I did. haha!
I've only just begun really and I never saw myself as loving woodwork but man alive I have caught the bug.. I love this form of artistic expression.. That's what it's about to become for me anyways.. Thanks for an awesome video bro and I will be catching up on more of ur vids soon..
Excellent video. Once again, the combination of showing skilled work allied to very good production values win through. My particular interest is the British Arts and Crafts style - from which Greene & Greene, Stickley etc. took inspiration and evolved into stuff now labelled Prairie or Mission. Forget the label and admire the design.
I agree about curves - I was told that, if a rectangular piece took Z hours, then a single curved piece took Z x 10; if you then introduce complex curves which meet each other, it’s Z x 10 x 10. Crude but I have found it not far out.
Love everything about your approach - power for the hard work; hand for the finish.
One question. Many UK pieces feature scalloped parts; that is parts that look like they have been cut with an adze and then refined. For that look, I have used several tools, including a scrub plane but not an adze - but have never been over excited with the look. Have you tried that; if so, what did you use?
Hey thanks! Curves definitely take quite a bit more time. I love mission style and certainly take some inspiration there, as well. Scalloping is a nice texture element, perhaps a little dated for my taste, but I’d not be opposed to taking inspiration there in a modern spin. To cut it, I’d likely use a carving gouge or bull-nose router bit to cut.
@@SawyerDesign thanks for replying. I’ve tried the bull nose bit but I can’t make it reproduce the correct shallow curve in and out of the ‘divot’. I did try the large gouge and I think you’re right - it’s the better bet.
“A bit dated for your taste”. On one hand, all of Arts and Crafts is a bit dated; but, as I would guess I’m 40 plus years older than you, everything I wear; all the music I like, is all a bit dated to every young whippersnapper. LOL.
Haha I get that. Total respect for every period. I guess the better way to put that is that it’s not an element I seek out in my designs. If you wanted to make the router work, I’d build a cradle or two sided ramp to make that tapered cut. Two contact humps (half rounds) on the base plate and a ramp on the entry/exit of the cut. Especially fluting down a leg, hand carving that would be difficult to make look right.
Beautiful bench! Just a question from an inexperienced carpenter. Why make the bench valley in the center instead of flat
Thanks! It’s pretty slight slope, but makes sense if you think about butts. Butts aren’t flat, so it makes sense that our seats don’t have to be either. It was just a design choice to shake things up from the norm 👍
Blacktail recommended your page and damn if he wasn’t right. You are crazy talented. I hate you just a little.JK. I love to see someone who has mastered hand tools but sometimes you just don’t have time and machinery is needed now and then.
Came here from Blacktail chanel. You're really talented. Very fascinating to watch 😀 the only thing I would change is the music. No need for it. It is kinda distracting. I would rather pay attention what you do 👍🏻
Just came across your channel...beautiful work! I’m working on adding more hand tools into my woodworking and I really appreciate your balance of power and traditional work. I don’t know why I haven’t allowed myself the flexibility in my woodworking for a piece to evolve as I do with all of my other artistic pursuits: drawing and professional design. I’m going to work on that thanks to your example!
On a side note, I appreciate the links to some of your tools used, but what scraper holder are you using? I assume the MacStew scraper blades, but the brass tool is intriguing.
Keep up the brilliant work!
Thanks steve! Definitely enjoy finding the art in the craft. I think you're referring to the spokeshave? It's by Lie Nielsen
Beautiful design. I do wish your video moved a little slower, as I had difficulty following some of the assembly. BTW, I find a hand saw is the fastest way to cut bevels. Draw a line; cut to it. No jigs, no set up.
Fantástico, linda mesa👏👏👍😎🇧🇷
Ok, so this is all good, and might have even liked it a little, but the whole thing falls apart once you realize there is no link to baby wipes in the description. Like, seriously, I dont like taping all over the joints, but i do it, just to minimize the mess. Wipes seem perfect, and i have what seems like a closet full of them. In all seriousness, I know how ridiculous it sounds, but I do want to know - what kind of wipes you have especially good experince with, sir?!
Super happy to find your channel, thank you for sharing your work!
Hahaha man I am SO GLAD you asked. What a newb oversight on my part- apologies. Huggies natural care are the best in the game. Strong and solvent free. No stinging splinter wounds. amzn.to/3d4Kb8l
Glad to have you Pawel! Appreciate the support!
...and done. Cucumber infused, them old masters and their magic all over my stinky garage. Thank you again!:)
10 !
Like it
Sir, I really like your design with the curves and exposed joinery. I recall you saying you used Osmo 3043 finish on the piece. Osmo is my favorite finish for my creations. I’ve had trouble finding Osmo 3043 and noticed your product link is for 3054. Is there any difference between the two?
Thanks! It’s such a great finish. 3043 is the new formula of 3054 designed for easier rolling and brushing. I wipe all my finishes and use the two interchangeably as they’re available.
@@SawyerDesign Thank you sir. I wipe on my finishes as well. When I reorder the Osmo, I’ll get the 3054.
A white scotch brite is awesome too (less time before wiping back off) and expensive, but their cloths are amazing. Let me know how you like it 👍
Nick, you have mentioned on a few videos "green on green". I’m not Familiar with that term?
Greene & Greene were architects at the forefront of the American Arts & Crafts Furniture Movement. Their style is very representative of the Period and distinctly theirs.
Nick, what is the brand/make of saw you are using at 6:15 in the video. I have some Japanese saws but they do not seem as beefy or sturdy as the one I see in the video. The teeth are fine and I think it would make a good cut. Thanks!
That looks like my BadAxe. If you’re looking to upgrade, but don’t want to spend $300 and wait 6 months for a custom saw, Lie Nielsen makes a decent carcase and dovetail saw.
@@SawyerDesign Thank you, Nick. Appreciated.
Are you familiar with the saws designed and manufactured by Rob Cosman. Would that be a good saw in your opinion? Thanks! Sorry for all the newbie questions.
No worries man. I have seen them, but don’t know anyone who uses one. If you’re going to spend that kind of money, I’d recommend badaxe.
@@SawyerDesign I don't mind spending the money for a quality product. I'll check them out. Thank you. Take care!
Great product, love the overall idea but my only criticism is it feels like you got a little bored when it came to the two planks you sit upon!
Overall underneath framing is quite unique and I do like the build alot but as I said just feels like you cheated yourself when it came to the seating planks!
Cool build 💯% 👍🇬🇧.
Thanks Simon! Appreciate the feedback. I’ve always wanted to try a split seat. Definitely a little simple looking compared to the rest of the bench.
You seriously asked the interwebs people about preference between hand tools and power tools? Bwahahaha.
For personal projects I'd love to get into hand tools. Professional it's what ever is fastest most times power tools
Love the bench, personally power tools themselves don't bother me. I absolutely hate Festool though (in my opinion they are overpriced for no reason other than they hold a patent currently for dominos, and I think that their pricing makes dominos inaccessible to most woodworkers). Although the pantorouter is expensive, at least there are other ways to make rounded over tenons so it's not like domino's in that there isn't really any other way to do it without a major modification to the build.
Yeah I can’t say I agree with their domination of the market, especially on safety features like the sawstop tech. My track saw is not the best and definitely expensive. The panto is killer for productivity
@@SawyerDesign The good news is they only have 3 more years on the patent. After that they don't get to charge 5x the price for an overglorified biscuit jointer anymore! :D
Came here from Blacktail, instantly fell in love.
Being at the end of my carpentry apprenticeship I really appreciate use of power-tools as well as hand-tool.
mee too
I am a traditionally trained designer and love mixed processes to completing the creative processes but value the concept above all. You are obviously a true craftsperson that explores your designs by expanding on your production techniques throughout the production cycle. I must add that you have a Japanese edge to your woodworking that comes through in your design as well as your production. I am extremely impressed with your ability to think outside the box as you go along. That said, work is beautiful, clean, and maintains a certain amount of simplicity to its lines as the final pieces maintain their space. I enjoy your work immensely as you challenge yourself from point A to Z.
I’ve been woodworking for about 7 years, entirely self taught. Watching your skills makes me want to either seek out some classes or just quit. Your designs are awesome 👍 ps I won’t quit.
Haha just enjoying the (walnut lined) rabbit hole 🐰 thanks John!
Indeed
You should definitely do a course. You’ll be amazed with what you’ll pick up.
Would you consider publishing plans for this build ? Awesome design!
Thank you! I’d love to put something together, but not sure what plans would look like and I think it’d be difficult to do a better job of explaining the process than Schwarz. If you haven’t read his workbench design book (amzn.to/3pZUVIL) I very highly recommend it!
Very familiar with Christopher Schwartz bench builds. I’d think you would be shocked at how many people would buy your plan if published. As a huge fan of Greene and Greene and craftsman style furniture, I find your design is very appealing with a hint of Japanese flair as well.
@@scottymac713 oh man I was looking at the wrong thumbnail haha my bad- thought this was about the workbench. I’ll take a look at some plans to see what all that should look like and carve some time to get a set together.
Awesome design! I've never thought about using baby wipes.
Thanks! Baby wipes are so handy for glue ups! I like the huggies natural. Like 99% water with very little surfactants and no perfumes.
came from blacktail studio's channel, great looking work, subscribed!
I really appreciate it!
Hi Nick , I just found you on the “Tube” and I’ve been watching video after video, your approach to outside the box thinking is amazing! I love how you use hand tools and power tools equally!
I am fairly new to the game, but it seems like the things people ask me to make have been done to death! I just want to say that watching you has made me rethink my direction
And step outside that “square box”and challenge myself and push the limits.
Thank you! And God Bless.
Love that design, and your narration is really helpful for the understanding of how you thought it through and then executed it.
Glad it was helpful! Thanks Chris!
New to your channel but absolutely love you design aesthetic. So many wood working sites have just okay designs. In particularly enjoy that you grow the design as you go forward. Super impressive and a great inspiration.
Peter & John Hall who built most of the Greene & Greene Houses and furniture, had table saws, bandsaws, drill press and mortising machans belt drive off a gasoline motor.
So power & hand tool have a history more than one hundred years, anyone complains about pure hand tool use point this out to them. Keep up the good work.