Shop Talk Live 3: Diminishing Returns

Shop Talk Live · 30 Mar 2012 · 57m

What this episode covers

Fine Woodworking editors Asa Christiana, Matt Kenney, and Mark Schofield discuss the philosophy of 'diminishing returns' in woodworking, ranging from the inspiring visit to George Nakashima’s compound to practical tool advice. They debate the utility of complex jigs versus simple fixes, explain how to use TransTint dyes to enhance Tiger Maple figure, and provide techniques for removing old lacquer from kitchen cabinets. The episode concludes with tool recommendations, including the FastCap FlatBack tape measure and Oneida Dust Deputy, and shares personal 'smooth moves' (mistakes) made in the shop.

Mentioned

Companies
FastCap, Rockler
Products
FlatBack tape measure, Oneida Dust Deputy, TransTint
Also
George Nakashima, Mira Nakashima, Wharton Esherick, Sam Maloof

Other shows on the same ground, closest first.

  • Making It · 1h 18m

    436: In Case I Saw A Witch Fly By

    Jimmy Diresta, Bob Clagett, and David Picciuto discuss the challenge of having more hobbies than time, with David detailing his development of a new shellac-based wood finish and Jimmy building a utility cart and acquiring a massive 1880s Fay & Egan band saw. The conversation explores the psychological pressure of serial learning, the impact of social media algorithms on creators, and the importance of prioritizing deep work over broad consumption. They also share recommendations for other creators and artistic content.

  • Making It · 59m

    Episode 163: Live Edge Bowling Ball

    Jimmy Diresta, Bob Clagett, and David Picciuto discuss the longevity of design styles, contrasting timeless clean lines with ephemeral trends like river tables and burnt wood. David Picciuto details a significant failure involving warped plywood in a large cabinet project, while Jimmy Diresta shares his experience at the Carolina Shoe Factory and his work on a live-edge puzzle. The hosts also debate the material properties of epoxy versus glass in river tables and the future of furniture design, including 3D printing.

  • Making It · 47m

    Making It #010: If it looks straight….

    Hosts Jimmy Diresta, Bob Clagett, and David Picciuto discuss listener questions, starting with Diresta's potential action figure campaign through Toy Backer and Clagett's silicone mold making using Smooth-On materials. The trio debates the value of cheap versus expensive tools like those from Harbor Freight and DeWalt, and compares sharpening systems such as the Veritas MK2 and Workshop 3000. They also offer advice on managing workshop space, comparing radial arm saws to table saws, and navigating client relationships in custom woodworking.

  • Making It · 1h 14m

    466: This is My Workshop Trumpet

    Jimmy Diresta, Bob Clagett, and David Picciuto discuss their recent projects, including Jimmy's ultra-thin CNC sign, Bob's sound diffuser, and David's foam-and-veneer plant stand, while reflecting on workflow issues with iMovie and Final Cut. The hosts share personal updates on managing physical limitations, shifting focus to less labor-intensive work like leather crafting, and planning future artistic and large-scale woodworking projects. They also exchange recommendations for other maker channels, highlighting techniques in CNC, 3D printing, and cinematic video production.

  • Making It · 1h 02m

    Episode 179: It’s a napkin holder… WITH A LASER.

    Jimmy Diresta, Bob Clagett, and David Picciuto discuss their recent projects, including Diresta’s acquisition of an antique print shop and Clagett’s aluminum roof rack for his Land Cruiser. The hosts compare their creative processes, with Diresta favoring spontaneous discovery of materials and Clagett using structured digital lists in Airtable. They also touch on the challenges of maintaining a consistent video schedule and the importance of full-scale modeling in woodworking.

The summary, chapters and topics are generated from the episode’s audio by this directory, not written by Shop Talk Live. The episode itself belongs to its publisher.