Shop Notes & Rambles
The Rambles are the stories lived and learned over decades — the moments, the lessons, and the shop life that shaped the craft. They accumulate here, sorted by publish date. If you want the curated version, explore the Workshop Library.
Thickness Planers: Taming Wood and Humbling Woodworkers
A thickness planer will show you exactly what wood is made of — and exactly what you’re made of. If you’ve ever had a board fight back, a knot explode, feed rollers stall, or grain tear out when you least expect it, this story will feel familiar. It’s about the machines that tame wood, humble workers, and teach lessons you don’t forget.