The Wood Database
For a given variety of wood, The Wood Database has images of the wood grain in various stages of preparation (sanded, sealed, endgrain). It’s a great resource for anyone who works with wood.
Woodworking
Crafting wood can be a complex and rewarding task, but often times beginners may find themselves frustrated with their results. But no matter where you are in your woodworking journey, there are always tips and tricks that can help you create something beautiful – without breaking the bank. We’re going to look at woodworking tips and tricks for makers of all skill levels so even if you feel like it’s too overwhelming to attempt your own project, we’ll provide some guidance so don’t give up just yet!
DiResta: Birch Slice Table
In each bi-monthly episode of DiResta (every other Wednesday at 2pm PT), artist and master builder Jimmy DiResta (“Dirty Money,” “Hammered,” “Against the Grain,” “Trash for Cash”) lets us into his workshop, to look over his shoulder while he builds whatever strikes his fancy. On this episode of DiResta, Jimmy turns some birch branch slices into a table.
Materials and supply lists and Jimmy’s notes on the build here: http://blog.makezine.com/2012/11/14/diresta-slice-table/
Michael Henriksen’s Hand-Cranked Marble Machine
Michael Henriksen’s laser-cut marble machine sends 5mm ball bearings rolling through a spiraling track. You can adapt the machine to work either left or right handed, and works whether you crank it clockwise or counter-clockwise.
How Mechanical Counters Work
Matthias Wandel, who makes wonderful wooden mechanisms, demonstrates his wooden 3-digit mechanical counter.
How-To: Tabletop Bobbin Holder
Making the sewing process a little bit smoother with a DIY tabletop bobbin holder!
DiResta: Junk Doors
On this episode of DiResta, Jimmy is asked by a friend to create something for an auction. Given that the friend runs an organization (filmbizrecycling.org) that facilitates the reuse/recycling of props from film and TV, Jimmy created a unique storage cabinet, “junk doors,” using some of the junk drawer contents he found in her shop.
In each bi-monthly episode of DiResta (every other Wednesday at 2pm PT), artist and master builder Jimmy DiResta (“Dirty Money,” “Hammered,” “Against the Grain,” “Trash for Cash”) lets us into his workshop, to look over his shoulder while he builds whatever strikes his fancy.
More details on the build and Jimmy’s notes here: http://blog.makezine.com/2012/10/31/diresta-junk-doors/
The Art and Utility of a Tree
A gorgeous sculpture offers an exploded view of a tree and how lumber is cut from it. Surprisingly, it is not made out of wood.
