Shortcuts, part II
Last time I talked about some misgivings I had for taking what I considered to be a shortcut on a project. Well, three days later I can honestly say I…
Last time I talked about some misgivings I had for taking what I considered to be a shortcut on a project. Well, three days later I can honestly say I made the right choice.
To review, I chose a somewhat easier route than I had originally intended for one of the projects for my book. The new project was more timely, a better choice for the readership, and saved some time, but it was that last aspect that nagged at me: I couldnt shake the feeling I was just taking the easy way out to get the project done at warp speed so I could make my deadline.
Well, the project is nearly complete and has turned out magnificent. Im very glad I made the choice. Although a bit simpler that the original project joinery-wise, theres still a lot of challenging work here for the reader. The end result is handsome, even though it uses Douglas fir instead of the cherry I had bought for the original design. It calls for the use of nails, and because those nails are period-correct cut nails, I have the opportunity to introduce a bit of historical woodworking education to the project as well. Thats especially fitting for a book of Civil War-related projects, which is, after all, the whole point.
In all, a lot of great results from a single decision Im glad I made.
Oh yeah And it saved me some valuable time.
Till next time,
A.J.
A.J. Hamler is the former editor of Woodshop News and Woodcraft Magazine. He's currently a freelance woodworking writer/editor, which is another way of stating self-employed. When he's not writing or in the shop, he enjoys science fiction, gourmet cooking and Civil War reenacting, but not at the same time.
