Router Table Build.

I just got a new plate for making up a custom router table in the mail. I've needed a new table for a long time now. Hopefully I will be able to get out and put it together this weekend.

If I had my way my dream table would have the following: a 3' by 5' table with plexi-glass over the bit drawers, bit drawers (obviously under the plexi), adjustable fence with a step fence option, external height adjustment, mitre gauge, pinioning, built-in circle jig, attached vacuum and work light.

The table I build will probably be a bit simpler than that, but maybe I can design it in a way that I can slowly add those luxuries over time. I'll let you know how it goes.

Too Cold!

Man, has it been a long time! We have been so busy over at the store, Woodtoolstore.com. Anyway, I'm here to complain about the weather. It's cold! Up here where I live winter is already looming. I know, I should be used to it. After all, winter is no surprise, it comes every year. Still, I don't like it.

To add to the downside of winter is the simple fact that I can't go fiddle in the garage. If you are anything like me you have dozens of little projects on the go. Things you could slip away and do an hours work on here and there. Well, there is no more of that. My garage is not heated. If I want to go and do some woodworking I know have to jump in the van and go all the way to the shop. Not really a quick slip-away.

I guess the answer is to find some projects in the house. That should be easy. I'm sure my wife has a thousand things she needs done. Well, I'd better go and make it 999.

Keep your tools sharp.

I was walking through a local lumber store trying to match up a piece of trim. Finally, I got some assistance from an employee. I handed him my small sample that I brought to make sure I had a perfect match. After holding it a few moments he commented that most people don't sand their end cuts.

I was briefly bewildered. When I figured out what he was saying - that the cut on my sample was extremely clean and smooth - I informed him that I didn't, in fact, sand it. He went on to ask me how I managed to get such a perfect cut then. I smiled, shook my head a bit, and let this youngster in on the most basic of woodworking tips. I use a good blade of the appropriate type for my work (in this case a finishing blade) and I make sure it is sharp.

His response was priceless, "Really, is that the key?" I wanted to slap him upside the head. Yes, believe it or not, using the right tool for the right job and making sure it is in good condition is the most important key for getting the highest quality results out of your woodworking.

After this unbelievable exchange I thought it would be appropriate to send out a note to all of you to remind you to keep your tools sharp.

Long gone are the days when you would hand sharpen your own saw blades. Therefore, make sure you are using a fresh blade. If you are looking for blades we sell them over at the store: Woodtoolstore.com. Beyond saw blades, remember to frequently sharpen your chisels, and your drill bits. We even offer an inexpensive drill bit sharpener over at the store.

Have fun, keep your tools sharp, and work safe . . . oh yeah, that reminds me of another reason to keep your tools sharp; a sharp tool is a safer tool.