Hardware Podcasts

STL189: Nancy Hiller, Chris Becksvoort and Vic Tesolin

Shop Talk Live · 10 May 2019 · 1h 04m

What this episode covers

Joe Taylor, Director of Sales for Rikon, presents the Model 10-326DVR 14-inch Bandsaw with Smart Motor DVR Control and the Model 70-800 4-Piece Woodturning System, explaining their variable speed and tool-changing features. Nancy Hiller discusses the aesthetic value of fine furniture versus cabinetry, arguing that built-ins can have equal aesthetic merit through function and touch, and emphasizes her preference for the tactile satisfaction of making things. Christian Becksvoort shares his finishing philosophy, advocating for spot-repairable oil and varnish mixes over hard finishes like conversion varnish, citing a failure with a client's cherry table as a cautionary tale. Vic Tesolin advises new woodworkers to prioritize practice and muscle memory over expensive jigs and extreme accuracy, while detailing Lee Valley Tools' rigorous prototyping process for products like the combination plane.

Most relevant to

early-stage companies

Topics

Mentioned

Companies
Rikon, Lee Valley Tools, Veritas
Products
Model 10-326DVR, Model 70-800, combination plane, Tucker Vice, Circular Plane
Also
Nancy Hiller, Christian Becksvoort, Vic Tesolin

Related episodes from other shows

Other shows on the same ground, closest first.

  • 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.

    Mechanical engineeringSourcing & supply chain
    6 chapters

  • Making It · 1h 01m

    479: The One

    Jimmy Diresta, Bob Clagett, and David Picciuto discuss their current projects, including Diresta's review of the new Harvey Intelligent 15-inch bandsaw and Picciuto's work with the xTool MetalFab on the Ghia. The hosts then engage in a philosophical debate about the concept of 'The One'—whether a perfect, final tool or product exists—and the psychology of consumerism and contentment in the maker community. They touch on personal anecdotes, such as Diresta's acquisition of vintage machinery and Clagett's experience with an A-frame cabin, to illustrate that the search for perfection is often more about the journey than the destination.

    Maker community & eventsFabrication & craft
    8 chapters

  • 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.

    Prototyping & iterationMaterials & manufacturing processes
    10 chapters

  • 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.

    Validation & product-market fitMaterials & manufacturing processes
    8 chapters

  • Making It · 1h 11m

    Episode 326: You can always sell a drumset…

    Jimmy Diresta, Bob Clagett, and David Picciuto discuss major life and business updates, including Diresta buying a commercial building to house his office and production, Clagett completing a large post-and-beam barn, and Picciuto planning a costly garage expansion. They also cover Clagett's acquisition of a massive 4-foot throat railway bandsaw, the success of Workbench Con, and the technical details of finishing wood and metal projects.

    Scaling productionPricing, margins & unit economics
    8 chapters

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.