Michael Mittleman

There is a latin phrase (which I just made up) that probably explains more of the decline in the trades than we care to admit: Omnia vincit inertia (inertia conquers all). Success in the trades requires perspiration and practice.

Good question, Charlie. OTOH, if stonecutters, traditional carpenters, and masons had iPads as kids, how many would have opted for careers as stonecutters, traditional carpenters, and masons? I don’t think iPads and social media are the culprits here. It is more likely due to the lack of opportunities for today’s kids to get hands-on exposure to the trades.

Smooth move, Bob. Mike, sorry to learn you are going through a rough patch. MM

Hi Tom,

Charlie’s comment is spot on – your saw’s table has a serious flaw and the manufacturer needs to stand behind their product. Give customer service a call and see how they plan to correct the situation. If they opt to do nothing, return the saw for a full refund. Don’t get hooked into the restocking fee trap.

Great notes from Daryl and Joe. Another consideration is the form and function arguments. Daryl’s message mainly reflects function issues. Decorative designs of cutting boards can serve other purposes, principally one of supporting a motif. Many kitchens display copper-bottomed pots and pans that are rarely used.

The real point of this is: Daryl, what’s for dinner? MM

Back to Roger’s original question: what finish should be used on cutting boards? Charlie and Daryl have both opted for no finish. Other woodworking experts have categorically stated that almost any clear finish is food-safe if given sufficient time to cure (from several to 30 days). See http://www.woodcentral.com/articles/finishing/articles_497a.shtml. The cited article quotes Bob Flexner, the “Guru” of finishing. Bob cites logic and the FDA. I have tried several finishes and have had great success with General Finishes Arm-R-Seal.

It’s quite a workshop, Ric. Reminds me of Ben Nawrath’s place. Of course, Daryl would have to downsize! Corey would be trying to figure out how to fit more equipment in. Thanks for sharing.

Thank you, Ben. Your observation about first-timer presentations is intriguing. In fact, it was exactly a sense of exploration that triggered my interest in bandsaw boxes… and fumble I did. Anyone else out there ready to take the plunge and share a first-time woodworking experience?