Cynthia White
Member
- Messages
- 3,220
Hi all:
I wasn't sure where to post this, so I hope here is okay. I thought that for the beginners among us who are lurking in the background and reluctant to say much fearing to appear dumb, it might be useful to share some lessons learned over these last few days.
First a couple of photos. Sawdust, to prove I actually did something, and a first pathetic little soon-to-be table (it's missing its plywood top) for infeed and outfeed, so I don't have to keep using my garden cart.
1. If you don't feel comfortable or safe using a tool, then don't use it. Safety first. (I stopped using the circular saw and moved to the miter saw--and bought a smaller blade CS.) Love the MS.
2. Even if you're just nailing, wear hearing protection (and eye protection). I thought I'd blow out my eardrums with the first couple of blows of a hammer. Yes, gentlemen I know screws are superior, but I did want to feel the hammer.
3. Clamps clamps and more clamps. I've discovered that wood has a diabolical way of moving around while you're trying to fasten it. So use lots of clamps when possible. (It's usually possible)
4. Working outside is great and cuts down on the dust in your face.
5. Just do it. All the reading and watching and calculations in the world are no substitute for actually woodworking. Everyone starts somewhere, so just jump in!
I hope this helped someone,
Cynthia
I wasn't sure where to post this, so I hope here is okay. I thought that for the beginners among us who are lurking in the background and reluctant to say much fearing to appear dumb, it might be useful to share some lessons learned over these last few days.
First a couple of photos. Sawdust, to prove I actually did something, and a first pathetic little soon-to-be table (it's missing its plywood top) for infeed and outfeed, so I don't have to keep using my garden cart.
1. If you don't feel comfortable or safe using a tool, then don't use it. Safety first. (I stopped using the circular saw and moved to the miter saw--and bought a smaller blade CS.) Love the MS.
2. Even if you're just nailing, wear hearing protection (and eye protection). I thought I'd blow out my eardrums with the first couple of blows of a hammer. Yes, gentlemen I know screws are superior, but I did want to feel the hammer.
3. Clamps clamps and more clamps. I've discovered that wood has a diabolical way of moving around while you're trying to fasten it. So use lots of clamps when possible. (It's usually possible)
4. Working outside is great and cuts down on the dust in your face.
5. Just do it. All the reading and watching and calculations in the world are no substitute for actually woodworking. Everyone starts somewhere, so just jump in!
I hope this helped someone,
Cynthia