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Journeyman's Journal

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This is a journal of the art of woodworking by hand
Updated: 4 min 1 sec ago

From the Lost Scrolls of Handwork to Wooden Wares Handwork: A New Chapter

Fri, 01/17/2025 - 4:52am

If you’ve followed me for some time, you’ll know I’ve always been passionate about celebrating the timeless beauty of woodworking. From sharing expert techniques to publishing insights on traditional methods, my focus has been on preserving and celebrating this craft. But, as with any journey, there comes a time to turn the page and start a new chapter.

I am excited to introduce Wooden Wares Handwork, a new iteration of my brand that reflects a shift in focus. While my blog will remain as informative and engaging as ever, I’ve chosen to channel my energy into creating handcrafted wooden wares for the public, rather than publishing magazines or catering to wholesalers. This change represents more than a business decision it’s a commitment to making my craft accessible to everyday people who value the charm and sustainability of handmade goods.

Over the years, I’ve received an overwhelming amount of feedback from readers and customers who wanted more than just advice or inspiration. Many of you wanted to bring a piece of this craftsmanship into your homes. While publishing magazines and working with wholesalers allowed me to share knowledge widely, I felt it was time to connect more directly with individuals who love and appreciate handmade wooden pieces. This new focus lets me put my skills directly into your hands.

First and foremost, let’s be clear: this blog isn’t going anywhere. Wooden Wares Handwork will continue to be a space for woodworking enthusiasts to learn, share, and grow. Whether you’re looking for tips on crafting with hand tools, exploring different types of timber, or learning about the history of woodworking, you’ll still find the content you love here.

My dedication to educating and inspiring the woodworking community hasn’t changed. The only difference is that now, alongside sharing knowledge, I’ll also be offering you the chance to own a piece of my craft.

With Wooden Wares Handwork, my focus is on creating smaller batches of handcrafted items from Jewellery Boxes and Clocks to trays and decorative pieces. These items are made with the same care and traditional methods that I’ve always championed. Each piece reflects my commitment to sustainability and the beauty of natural materials.

By selling directly to the public, I hope to forge a more personal connection with my customers. Each item tells a story of skill, tradition, and creativity, and now those stories can find a place in your home.

I’m thrilled about this next chapter and what it means for our community. Wooden Wares Handwork is more than just a business it’s a celebration of handmade craftsmanship and the people who cherish it. I hope you’ll join me on this journey, whether you’re here for the insights I share or the pieces I create.

As always, I welcome your thoughts, questions, and feedback. Thank you for being part of my story, and I look forward to crafting the future together one piece at a time.

Categories: Hand Tools

How to Keep Your Workbench Rock Solid While Hand Planing

Wed, 01/01/2025 - 7:52pm

Every woodworker knows the frustration sliding workbench, especially when you’re in the middle of a satisfying hand planing session. Instead of fighting with your workbench, why not ground it properly?

In my latest video, I share simple and effective techniques to stop your workbench from moving around the workshop. These are practical solutions that any hand tool woodworker can implement.

Check out the video to learn how to keep your workbench firmly planted, so you can focus on your craft instead of chasing your bench!

Categories: Hand Tools

The Usefulness of Kerfing Planes

Tue, 12/24/2024 - 12:47am

If you’re a hand tool woodworker without access to a bandsaw, a kerfing plane could be a highly valuable addition to your toolbox. This tool is particularly useful for resawing timber, allowing you to achieve straight and precise cuts with ease.

You may recall the kerfing plane I crafted some time ago. While I was initially enthusiastic about using it, I hadn’t found much reason to resaw timber lately. Consequently, my prized tool ended up at the bottom of my toolbox for many months.

However, that changed today. I needed to resaw some timber for a mockup and finally had a chance to put the kerfing plane to good use. One challenge I encountered was fine-tuning the fence to align the blade perfectly with my knifed line. This required small adjustments, and I quickly realised I needed shims to incrementally nudge the fence.

A trip to Bunnings revealed a solution. Although they didn’t have washers larger than an M16, a helpful young employee suggested checking the plumbing section. There, I discovered rubber shims that fit perfectly over the rods of my kerfing plane. They worked brilliantly, allowing me to make precise adjustments. These shims have proven so effective that I’m considering picking up more for future projects. For now, though, I’m thrilled with the results happy as Larry, as they say!

What makes my kerfing plane truly unique is the innovative design of its teeth. Every cut made with this plane is demanding, as the teeth are highly aggressive by design. Unlike standard saw teeth such as those found on a typical handsaw, which clog consistently when run lengthwise along the edge of a board my kerfing plane’s teeth excel at clearing shavings and avoiding clogs. However, to successfully use this tool, it’s crucial to start gently by “kissing” the surface. This light initial touch allows you to establish control and avoid biting too deeply into the wood. Once the cut is started, the plane glides along smoothly, delivering exceptional performance unmatched by conventional tools.

These teeth will clog when used along the length of the board.

A kerfing plane truly shines in situations like this. No regrets for making it.

Categories: Hand Tools

Choosing the Right Thinner and Ratio for Tung Oil, and How to Speed Up Drying

Mon, 12/16/2024 - 7:05pm

Thinning Tung Oil is a common practice among woodworkers, as it improves the oil’s workability and allows it to penetrate deeply into the timber. Choosing the right thinner is crucial for achieving the best results. Traditional options like pure gum turpentine, mineral spirits, or citrus solvents are ideal. These solvents blend well with Tung Oil, enhancing its natural properties, while others, like denatured alcohol, are unsuitable. Denatured alcohol evaporates too quickly and doesn’t mix effectively with Tung Oil, leading to uneven application and poor results.

Pure gum turpentine is a traditional favourite, particularly among Australian woodworkers, as it’s derived from natural sources and complements the oil’s organic qualities. Mineral spirits, or white spirits, offer a neutral alternative and are widely available. For those seeking a low toxicity option, citrus solvent is an excellent choice. Made from natural citrus oils, it provides similar thinning properties while being eco friendly and emitting a pleasant scent. All these thinners help Tung Oil penetrate the wood deeply and make application easier.

The ratio of oil to thinner significantly impacts the finish. For maximum penetration, especially on dense hardwoods or raw timber, a 2:1 mix of Tung Oil to thinner works best. This thinner mixture deeply nourishes the wood, strengthening its fibres and creating a natural, matte appearance. For a balanced finish, a 3:1 ratio is a great all rounder. It allows for good penetration while leaving enough oil on the surface to build up a durable and slightly glossy finish. If you’re after a surface focused finish, such as on previously oiled timber, a thicker 4:1 mix is ideal, creating a protective, polished layer.

The popular 50:50 mix, or equal parts Tung Oil and thinner, is a versatile choice that many woodworkers rely on. It’s especially useful for the first coat on raw timber, as it significantly reduces the oil’s viscosity, allowing it to soak deeply into the wood fibres. This is particularly beneficial for dense Australian hardwoods like jarrah or spotted gum. The thinner consistency makes the oil easy to apply, spreading evenly without pooling or streaking. However, because the mixture is so thin, it may require more coats to build up a durable surface layer. It’s best used for initial coats, with thicker ratios applied in later layers to achieve a long-lasting finish.

To get the most out of your Tung Oil, start with a thinner mix, such as a 50:50 ratio, for the first coat to ensure deep penetration. Follow this with progressively thicker ratios, like 3:1 or 4:1, to build up the finish and achieve the desired sheen and protection. Always apply thin layers and wipe away excess oil after 15–20 minutes to avoid sticky spots. Each coat should be allowed to cure fully, typically 24 to 48 hours, before applying the next.

If you’re looking to speed up the drying process, terebine can be a helpful addition. Terebine, a liquid drying agent also known as a “japan drier,” accelerates the oxidation process that allows Tung Oil to cure. This is particularly useful in humid environments or when quicker turnaround times are necessary. Use it sparingly only about 1-2% of the total volume of Tung Oil because adding too much can lead to uneven curing or reduce the finish’s durability. Always test the mixture on a scrap piece of wood before applying it to your project.

To demonstrate how to calculate 1% or 2% in millilitres, I will guide you through the process using the example provided below.

To calculate 1-2% of the total volume of Tung Oil in millilitres, you would multiply the total amount of oil by 0.01 (for 1%) or 0.02 (for 2%).

For example:

  • For 100 ml of Tung Oil:
    • 1% = 100 ml × 0.01 = 1 ml
    • 2% = 100 ml × 0.02 = 2 ml
  • For 250 ml of Tung Oil:
    • 1% = 250 ml × 0.01 = 2.5 ml
    • 2% = 250 ml × 0.02 = 5 ml

So, if you’re using 100 ml of Tung Oil, you’d add 1-2 ml of terebine. Adjust the amount based on the volume you’re working with.

Categories: Hand Tools

Christmas Wishes for Those Who Celebrate

Tue, 12/03/2024 - 3:16pm

Christmas is just around the corner, and while I don’t celebrate it myself, I respect those that do. It’s a time for joy, family, and reflection, bringing people together to share in the festive spirit. To all who celebrate, I wish you a Merry Christmas filled with warmth, laughter, and happiness. May your holidays be safe, and your new year be bright. Cheers to embracing the season in whatever way brings you the most peace and joy!

Categories: Hand Tools

Recognised Among the Best: Ranked No.4 in Australian Woodworking Blogs

Sat, 11/30/2024 - 7:39pm

The woodworking community in Australia is rich with talent, and Feedspot has curated a list of the Top 15 Australian Woodworking Blogs to highlight some of the finest creators in the field. I’m thrilled to announce that my blog has been ranked number 4, a recognition that reflects the dedication and effort put into sharing high-quality content about hand tool woodworking, traditional techniques, and creative craftsmanship.

This ranking is a testament to the growing interest in handmade woodworking and the vibrant community that surrounds it. To explore the full list and discover other talented woodworkers, visit Feedspot’s official page on Australian Woodworking Blogs.

Categories: Hand Tools

The Future of Woodworking in a Challenging World

Fri, 11/22/2024 - 7:48pm

The world feels pretty uncertain right now. Conflicts are constant, the threat of nuclear war looms far too close for comfort, and the cost of living is climbing faster than most people can keep up with. Understandably, many are cutting back on luxury spending, focusing instead on essentials. It begs the question: what does all this mean for woodworking as a hobby? Will it remain an accessible and fulfilling pastime, or will it become a luxury that only a lucky few can afford?

Current price from the Australian marketplace. The timber is not even a metre long, it’s definitely not attractive. You can only imagine what the cost would be if it was. A woodworking shop since the 18th century abandoned by its owner to join the fight for the American Revolution in 1770.

Woodworking has always been more than just a hobby. For some, it’s about creating something useful with their hands. For others, it’s an artistic outlet a way to bring beauty and meaning into their lives. But let’s not sugar-coat it: woodworking can be expensive. High quality tools, premium timbers, and the space to set up a workshop can all add up. When money’s tight, these costs might make woodworking feel out of reach for many.

Still, woodworking is a craft with resilience. It’s rooted in practicality, and that gives it an edge in challenging times. Building your own furniture, repairing a damaged table, or making gifts by hand can all save money while giving you something far more personal and satisfying than anything mass-produced. This blend of usefulness and creativity makes woodworking more than just a hobby it can be a genuinely valuable skill.

For those worried about the cost, woodworking doesn’t have to break the bank. Repurposing timber from pallets or offcuts, salvaging wood from old furniture, and working with more affordable materials like pine can open up all kinds of possibilities. Even tools don’t have to be a massive investment. While power tools are convenient, a good set of hand tools can do the job just as well and often bring a more rewarding experience to the process. Starting small, using what’s available, and working on practical projects can make woodworking accessible to just about anyone.

Another factor that might help woodworking survive in tough times is the growing sense of community around it. Shared workshops, tool libraries, and woodworking clubs are springing up in more places, making it easier for people to give it a go without needing to commit to a full setup at home. These shared resources also bring people together, turning woodworking into more than just an individual pursuit. For many, it’s a way to connect with others, learn new skills, and feel part of something bigger.

So, what does the future hold for woodworking? It might not be as widespread or flashy as it has been in better times, but it’s not likely to disappear. Instead, it’ll evolve, becoming more resourceful, more community-driven, and more focused on the things that really matter. Those of us who love the craft have an opportunity here to share our skills, and show others that you don’t need to spend a fortune to experience the joys of woodworking.

Woodworking has always been a reflection of human resilience and creativity. It has weathered countless challenges over the centuries, and it will weather these ones too. It’s not just about what you make—it’s about the connection, meaning, and satisfaction you find along the way. And in a world like this, that’s something worth holding onto.

Categories: Hand Tools

Debunking the Myth: The Truth Behind Traditional Oil Finishing Techniques in Woodworking

Fri, 11/08/2024 - 5:08am

When it comes to finishing wood, there’s a classic piece of wisdom that’s made its way around woodworking circles: “Once a day for a week, once a week for a month, once a month for a year.” This catchy rule is often used to guide the application of oil finishes, especially for items meant to be treasured and handled for years. But was this actually how woodworkers approached oiling centuries ago, or is it more modern wisdom disguised as tradition?

The phrase sounds like it’s straight from the past, and there’s something appealingly old-world about it. However, in truth, the saying is more a modern adaptation than a historic process, particularly when we look back several hundred years. If we’re talking about woodworking methods used in the 18th century, things were quite different.

In the 1700s, woodworkers didn’t have access to quick-drying oils that are common today, like boiled linseed oil or tung oil. What they used was often raw linseed oil, a naturally slow-drying finish that required days or even weeks to cure. This meant applying oil every day simply wasn’t practical. Craftsmen would typically apply a coat of raw oil, then wait—sometimes for weeks—for it to fully cure before adding another. They’d keep applying coats only until they achieved the desired protection and appearance, which was usually a soft sheen that highlighted the grain without leaving a heavy film.

It’s also worth noting that linseed oil wasn’t the only finish used. Woodworkers of that time often relied on wax, especially beeswax, and resins like copal or even shellac, which started gaining popularity in furniture finishing by the late 18th century. These materials were more effective for creating a hard, glossy surface, which was especially important for items like cabinetry and fine furniture. Shellac, in particular, became prized for its ability to create a high-gloss finish that was both durable and beautiful. However, each of these finishes required different care, and oil was used far less consistently than the “daily, weekly, monthly” rule might suggest.

So where did this adage come from? It likely originated in the early 20th century, a period when many furniture oils on the market were refined versions of linseed oil and other drying oils, enhanced with additives to help them cure faster. The rise of tung oil—a naturally drying oil originally from China—also made it easier for woodworkers to build up layers more quickly, as tung oil cures in a reasonable timeframe compared to raw linseed oil. Applying oil frequently became more feasible, and the idea of building up a finish through regular applications took hold. It’s easy to imagine that, at some point, a clever craftsman or finish manufacturer devised the phrase as an easy way to teach people how to care for their furniture.

Does this mean the “once a day for a week” rule has no value? Not at all. In fact, it’s excellent advice if you’re working with modern oil finishes and want a rich, long-lasting surface. Oils like boiled linseed oil, tung oil, and commercially prepared blends penetrate deeply, adding protection and enhancing the wood’s natural beauty. The regularity of applications helps build a resilient surface over time, which can be ideal for furniture and wooden objects that see regular use. In a way, this advice is more in the spirit of traditional woodworking than an exact replica of historical practices.

The daily, weekly, monthly method may not come from the 18th century, but it captures the patience and care that defines quality wood finishing. It’s a reminder that finishes are best built slowly, layer by layer, allowing each coat to cure fully before adding the next. So while woodworkers from centuries past might not have recognised this exact routine, they’d likely agree with the underlying principle: fine finishes take time, patience, and a craftsman’s eye.

Categories: Hand Tools

Has Bad Axe Tool Works Fallen into Disarray Since the Sale?

Thu, 10/24/2024 - 7:24am


Bad Axe Tool Works is an American company known for producing high-quality, hand-built saws for woodworkers. Founded by Mark Harrell, the company operates out of La Crosse, Wisconsin, and is particularly respected for its attention to detail, craftsmanship, and use of premium materials. They specialise in Western-style backsaws, dovetail saws, tenon saws, and other types of joinery and crosscut saws that are highly customisable. However, the company has faced scrutiny since Mark Harrell sold the company. Once celebrated for its craftsmanship, the brand now finds itself at a crossroads, with some long-time users expressing disappointment in the quality of products produced after the sale.


Mark Harrell sold Bad Axe Tool Works to his former employees. After the sale, Harrell moved on to focus on his own saw sharpening business, SawSharp, where he continues to offer saw restoration and sharpening seminars. Some users have expressed concerns that saws produced after the sale may not match the exceptional craftsmanship associated with the company’s earlier products.Often when a small, founder driven business sells, customer experience can suffer if the new owners don’t maintain the same level of engagement or attention to detail.

There are quality concerns, customer service issues, and others I will go into. Many woodworkers have reported inconsistencies in the saws, noting issues such as uneven sharpening and misaligned teeth. These problems have raised questions about the manufacturing processes employed since Harrell’s departure, as users recall the meticulous attention to detail that defined the brand under his management. In addition to product quality, customer service has emerged as a significant concern. Users have shared experiences of delayed responses and difficulties in order fulfilment, contrasting sharply with the responsive service provided during Harrell’s ownership. This decline in customer support has contributed to a growing sentiment of discontent among customers.

Specific issues mentioned in these reviews include complaints about the saws’ fit and finish, blade tension, and customer service, which some users feel have deteriorated since the transition. For example, some woodworking forums noted disappointment with misaligned saw nuts and a rougher-than-expected finish on the handles. Additionally, a few users reported experiencing delays in receiving their products, which they hadn’t faced when Mark was still in charge.

That being said, there are still customers who are satisfied with their saws, but the decline in the company’s reputation post-sale is apparent in some circles of the woodworking community. It seems that much of the frustration revolves around the saws not meeting the high standards set during Mark’s tenure​.

Despite the negative feedback, there remain loyal advocates for Bad Axe tools. Some users still find satisfaction in specific models, suggesting that the brand retains the potential for excellence, but they advise caution for prospective buyers. Engaging with woodworking communities and seeking recent testimonials can provide valuable insights into current product performance.

In a fairly recent review video, which I will post, the links below show how badly the saw tracks new out of the box.

While some users continue to support the company, these negative reviews from long-standing customers suggest growing dissatisfaction with both the products and the post-sale support experience

The recent negative reviews I referenced were sourced primarily from woodworking communities and forums, as well as from discussions on tool review sites. Specific sources include:

  1. Fine Woodworking: This site featured comments and discussions from experienced woodworkers expressing disappointment with Bad Axe Tool Works’ products and customer service after the company changed ownership

2. Woodworking Forums: Various forums and discussion boards where users shared their personal experiences regarding diminished quality control and slower response times from the new management team

These sources reflect the community’s growing concerns and provide insights into specific issues like saw tooth alignment, inconsistent sharpening, and delays in customer support.

If any of this is true and accurate, then the way I see it, the company may have fallen into careless hands.

Whether Bad Axe Tool Works’ tools are still worth buying largely depends on personal preference and experiences shared by the woodworking community.

To finish off, I leave you a video of the grievance this chap has with his brand new bad axe saw, and he does a comparison between it and other select premium handsaws. It’s date: 22 Dec 2023

And a follow up dated 20 Jan 2024


Ultimately, if you’re considering purchasing a Bad Axe tool, it might be wise to check recent user reviews, engage with the woodworking community for updated feedback, or perhaps even try to find a used model that was produced before the sale for potentially higher quality. For more in-depth reviews and community discussions, you might check out sites like Fine Woodworking or woodworking forums.

Categories: Hand Tools