The English Woodworker

Learn Woodworking Online

  • Blog
    • Video Posts
    • Hand Tools
    • Techniques
    • Workbenches
    • All Posts
  • The Videos
    • The Nest of Tables
    • Build A Danish Stool
    • The Trestle Table
    • The Industrial Desk
    • Build A Retro Sideboard – Online Video Series
    • Build A French Workbench
    • The Raw Edge Coffee Table
    • Chair Building – The Basics.
    • Build A Hall Table
    • Get Sharp – Sharpening Edge Tools
    • The Side Table & Bridle Guides
    • How To Build A Workbench – Online Video Series
    • The Spoon Rack – Hand Tool Course
  • About Us
  • Gallery
  • LOGIN

Observations On A Craftsman (Part One)

February 20, 2015 By Helen 14 Comments

wooden planes_1In our previous workshop time had allowed us to create a systematic approach to building workbenches. The fine tuned layout allowed the work to flow like a human driven conveyor belt; from timber entering through the door to passing over machines, and as the wood traveled physically from the front the the back of the workshop it became progressively more workbench shaped.
Richard and I are close. We live together, work together and would certainly consider each other best friends. Through this I have always had a very clear understanding of how he works and can anticipate which process will come next and when he will be in need of assistance.
Distractions are a big bug bear of working for yourself, and so knowing when to keep out of each others way is often more important than offering help. This works both ways and has been learnt from the devastation of many morning’s plans after a mere innocent line of gossip over a pot of tea.

When we moved workshop recently we anticipated a considerable settling in period. We’re long enough in the tooth to know that you can’t iron out every crease in production just by thinking things through. You have to allow some things to trip you up before you give them your full attention.
The dynamics of the workspace have changed now and through this I have observed one or two of Richard’s weird ways which I hadn’t noted before. In this smaller space the bench components no longer travel along the workshop, but remain almost stationery and appear to grow and form organically as tools are brought over in precise sequence. Richard is a very patient sort of person; generous and helpful if you need anything. But my observation of late is that he is possessive. Not selfish or greedy in the slightest, but oh so protective of his workspace.

Observation of the week: Do not move a craftsman’s tools.

Filed Under: Lifestyle Posts

Related Posts

Sunday And We’re Back
I’m Sorry For Using Power…
Ever Wish You Were Your Dog?

About Helen

Helen seeks to explore ways to live with greater joy & sustainability for both ourselves & the planet. Concepts which have led to the recent launch of her second business Winglewood News.
As the producer of our videos, Helen brings a unique perspective & injects life to our education ensuring it is both a pleasure to watch & easy to follow & learn from.
Learn More About Helen & The English Woodworker.

« Which Wood?
More On Buying Hand Tools »

Comments

  1. David Charlesworth says

    February 20, 2015 at 7:01 pm

    How true, how true!

    Best wishes,
    David

    Reply
  2. Chris Buckingham says

    February 20, 2015 at 7:05 pm

    And that’s the way it is!

    Reply
  3. Jeff says

    February 20, 2015 at 7:15 pm

    “Observation of the week: Do not move a craftsman’s tools.”

    Now in those 6 little words there’s a statement/epic/story/back story/rubicon crossed/…

    Eek. Wouldn’t want to have been a fly on the wall. 😉

    Reply
  4. Jim Broughton says

    February 20, 2015 at 7:20 pm

    Hi,I am a second generation antique furniture restorer and cabinet maker (over 30 years at the bench) and my wife has been in the re-upholstery trade since leaving school (best part of 30 years). I thoroughly enjoy your posts and totally understand and even have a laugh at the similarities I see!Keep up the good work.
    Jim Broughton

    Reply
  5. Arthur van der Harg says

    February 20, 2015 at 7:42 pm

    So recognizable. But not only for craftsmen: I can stand very few people with me in the kitchen when I’m cooking. Even asking ‘Can I do anything?’ throws me off my rhythm. Let alone moving stuff To rinse or clean while I’m still working.

    Reply
    • Mike O'Brien says

      February 21, 2015 at 7:56 pm

      Oh so very true. How many times I was admonished by my Father for moving/ using a tool on his workbench,
      And as a typical kid, not putting it back in its place. And ditto for the cook’s comment in the kitchen as well. It makes me a bit bonkers when I am in my cooking rhythm with everything is all laid out and a guest says ” what can I do to help”.
      My inclination is to say just stay out of my way, which out of courtesy I do not. Whenever someone else is cooking or tasking, I simply say: If I can help just ask me, otherwise I am going to stay clear and enjoy my pint/ tea etc.

      Reply
  6. Allan Solomon says

    February 20, 2015 at 7:44 pm

    An Englishman’s work bench is his castle. It is not a matter of life and death it is much more important than that. Just discovered your website and so love the whole thing.

    Reply
  7. Dan Noall says

    February 20, 2015 at 8:18 pm

    Yep.

    Reply
  8. Peter Zimmer says

    February 20, 2015 at 11:11 pm

    And that very quality is what makes a craftsperson a craftsperson.

    Reply
  9. William Fariss says

    February 20, 2015 at 11:22 pm

    It’s much better you found this out now than later.

    Reply
  10. Michael Dickson says

    February 21, 2015 at 11:34 am

    Some people say you become more patient when you get older, maybe they are thinking more before letting out anger or they don’t let situations bother them? Nevertheless stress does have an effect on people and it cannot be avoided, it is a battle in the mind!

    As BT used to say it’s good to talk; talking to each other at the appropriate time with kindness is a good thing!

    Reply
  11. Doug Reamer says

    February 21, 2015 at 11:59 am

    You are blessed to be that self aware and reflect on daily challenges to understand them better. Too often we get so caught up in the tasks at hand that we fail to take a step back and focus on the human aspects of our lives.

    Reply
  12. Big T. says

    April 24, 2015 at 11:57 am

    Hey: I like your taste in help

    Reply
  13. Micheal Kingsley says

    May 4, 2015 at 6:10 pm

    Exactly!

    Reply

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Subscribe to future posts:

 

Subscribe to future posts:

  • Blog
  • The Videos
  • Sign Up!
  • Contact Us
  • Keep Up To Date
  • LOGIN
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms & Conditions
  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • RSS
  • YouTube

Latest Posts

  • Which Saws Are Best For Ripping Thick Stuff? [Video]
  • How do I Sharpen a Router Plane? [Q & A Video]
  • Bench Top Edge Jointing [with Video]
  • Blog
  • The Videos
  • Sign Up!
  • Contact Us
  • Keep Up To Date
  • LOGIN
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms & Conditions

Copyright © 2023 · The English Woodworker

Scroll Up