What about wood movement?
Regarding last issue’s (Aug/Sept, #78) Tall Bureau project, I have a question about wood movement. It seems that Mario’s advice for attaching the web frames to the sides sets up a “cross-grain” situation that would result in failure sometime down the road.
I have built several reproductions of Shaker chests and can attest to the fact that the sides of this case will move in response to seasonal changes in humidity. Is there a way to avoid future failure?
Dave Wohlrab, via email
Bureau builder and author Mario Rodriguez replies:
You are correct. Cherry will move across its grain about 1/16–1/8” for every 12” in width. When that movement is restricted, something will give; in this case the case sides might crack. Reviewing my notes, it seems that I neglected to place proper emphasis on this important detail.
When I assembled the 16”-deep chest, I applied glue to the front 10” of the case-side dadoes for the web frames and left the back section unglued. In my experience, that precaution is enough to accommodate any seasonal movement and avoid future problems.
Thanks for bringing up an important subject that many woodworkers overlook.
Microbevel basics
I enjoyed last issue’s “Cheapskate’s Guide to Diamonds,” but I have to ask, why does a microbevel make a difference?
Donnie Marcum, via Instagram
Senior editor Joe Hurst-Wajszczuk responds:
A microbevel is more about process than the final result.
According to sharpening guru Ron Hock, “A sharp edge only exists where two planes (i.e., the back and the bevel of a plane iron or chisel) meet with zero radius.” Achieving this goal does not require a microbevel. Traditionally, freehand sharpening is done by keeping the beveled surface of the chisel or plane iron in contact with a sharpening stone as it’s moved across the abrasive. With practice, this method is easy enough to master; however, it’s not a good technique to use with diamond abrasive film. For starters, riding the full bevel across the abrasive will shorten the film’s service life. There’s also a good chance that you could accidentally lift the blade or chisel and dig into the film. The microbevel and shop-made jig dodge both issues and ensure a shaving-sharp edge.
If you have a sharpening method that works, stick with it. But if you’ve been struggling with dull tools, give this technique a try.
Festool and SawStop come together. What’s next?
In June, SawStop LLC announced its acquisition by TTS Tooltechnic Systems, based in Wendlingen, Germany. The TTS family of companies includes Festool and Tanos. SawStop’s current management team will continue to operate the company out of its Oregon headquarters.
No doubt, the merger of these two woodworking superpowers will mean great things for woodworking. We can’t wait to see how TTS incorporates SawStop’s finger-saving technology in the next generation of power tools.
