STL243: Are big squares necessary?

Shop Talk Live · 18 Jun 2021 · 1h 09m

What this episode covers

Mike, Anissa, and Ben discuss woodworking with friends, the necessity of large squares, and assembly table troubleshooting. Anissa shares her plexiglass divider hobby and finishing techniques using Mohawk spray toners, while Ben explores whether skilled woodworkers can succeed with basic tools. The hosts also cover practical shop tips, including Bob Van Dyke's adjustable L-fence and troubleshooting table saw dust collection issues.

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.

  • Making It · 56m

    438: It Feels Like a Big Boy Saw

    Jimmy Diresta, Bob Clagett, and David Picciuto discuss their current projects and the social dynamics of interacting with fans at maker events. David Picciuto details the engineering challenges of building a tapered wooden bucket, explaining how he used iterative prototyping and jigs to solve complex stave angles. Bob Clagett describes building a custom table saw station to improve ergonomics, while Jimmy Diresta explains his strategy for compressing his workshop by using mobile tool carts to maximize floor space. The hosts also address a Patreon question about etiquette at live events, sharing anecdotes about long lines at Maker Central and the importance of respecting others' time.

  • Making It · 53m

    Episode 032: Listener Questions

    Hosts Bob Clagett, Jimmy Diresta, and David Picciuto answer listener questions about workshop management, tool maintenance, and maker psychology. They discuss strategies for handling shop layout, such as positioning table saws near entrances, and debate the merits of sharpening versus replacing saw blades. The conversation also covers overcoming creative blocks, managing project priorities, and encouraging young people, particularly girls, to engage in making by showcasing finished, desirable projects rather than just tools.

  • Making It · 1h 08m

    Episode 332: Plywood is good

    Jimmy Diresta, Bob Clagett, and David Picciuto discuss recent projects, including Jimmy's construction of a two-stage blacksmith bellows using plywood and his design of a car rotisserie utilizing farm jacks and steel tubing. The hosts debate the value of modern tools like CNC machines versus traditional hand skills, using a Looney Tunes analogy to illustrate how technology prioritizes speed over quality. They also share personal updates, such as David's popcorn bowl experiment and Jimmy's installation of a treehouse zip line, before reflecting on their gratitude for their audience and community.

  • 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.