The Norwegian Woodworker
What this site is about...
This site is about woodworking - machinery, tools, wood, finishes, safety - and other topics that could be of interest to hobby woodworkers.
However, no space is dedicated to "projects you can do" - this is the "bread and butter" items for woodworking magazines, and they are much better at this than I am. If you do an internet search, you will also find that there are many sites that focuses on this - both woodworking plans and "how to build" instructions. Projects also seem to follow a "fashion" cycle. I rather share my personal view and knowledge on tools, wood, finishes, safety, techniques etc. Hopefully to your enlightenment, but maybe also to your frustration... As in politics, there are many different views and opinions in woodworking. And after spending time in the shop - we all develop different habits and views.
I will also share with you what tools I have - not to brag (I am not a tool snob) - but so you can make an informed decision before you invest your hard-earned money in the same item. Remember - there is no perfect tool, but some tool makers have come pretty close in making one. But I will not list any suppliers or tool stores - except for some specializing in old/used hand tools. You'll find these under "Resources"
Woodworking is a great hobby. Going to the shop is a wonderful way to relax - whether you are making a masterpiece that will gain you reputation in a show or among peers - or just to make dust. But there is no reason why you should come back from the shop with fewer body parts, or without sight or hearing. Fine dust from woodworking machines can cause sever rashes for some of us, it will also damage our lungs and cause other severe health issues. The same goes with some of the finishes we use. So I have included one section dealing with safety and another dealing with health in the woodworking shop. Hopefully this can increase awareness of potential hazards in our shops.
There is no substitute for hands-on experience. Unfortunately, many of us don't have access to an instructor to show us how, or there might not be a woodworking club in our area. So we have to read books, magazines, watch DVD's and go to the computer and ask our online buddies for help. I have listed some of these resources I have found useful.
Lidded black walnut end-grain box
I have done my best to keep the layout simple but functional. I hope you find this site useful - and easy to navigate. Some hints: The navigation bar on your left, will take you to the main sections of this site. The page you are at is in bold lettering at the navigation bar. Sometimes there are links in the text - like this. Put your mouse pointer on it (without clicking), and a text will come up and explain what will happen if you click. (Try it.) The same happens in the navigation bar. Put your pointer on the menu, and a text window will tell more about what you can find if you click on the link. I have also made pictures clickable - put your mouse pointer on the picture, a text will come up and you can click on the picture to see a larger version.
I hope you go to your shop with increased knowledge - and awareness - so you can enjoy woodworking safely for years to come.
If you have any suggestions to links that will enhance this site or other comments and questions - I will greatly appreciate you letting me know... here is my contact information and the linking policy that I follow.
Sincerely,
norwegianwoodworker.com
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