STL269: How we absorb woodworking information

Shop Talk Live · 1 Jul 2022 · 1h 09m

What this episode covers

Mike Pekovich, Ben Stepanek, and Vic Scholten of Fine Woodworking discuss their strategies for absorbing woodworking information, contrasting technical 'how-to' research with inspirational learning from sources like YouTube, Instagram, and Ernest Joyce's encyclopedias. They highlight the importance of understanding fundamental joinery concepts rather than specific tool setups, using examples like angled mortise and tenons and sharpening. The hosts also share stories about impulse buying, such as Ben's failed search for a non-existent router bit and Vic's purchase of a Cocobolo marking gauge, emphasizing the value of giving oneself permission to fail and learn.

Mentioned

Companies
Fine Woodworking, Woodcraft, Whiteside, Lee Valley, McFeely's, Kling Spore
Products
Stumac Tape Deck
Also
Ernest Joyce's encyclopedia, YouTube, Instagram

Other shows on the same ground, closest first.

  • Making It · 1h 05m

    Episode 033: More listener questions

    Hosts Jimmy Diresta, Bob Clagett, and David Picciuto answer listener questions about woodworking materials like walnut and teak, safety protocols after Jimmy's table saw injury, and the business of making. They discuss the drivers of the maker movement, including TV shows and YouTube, and offer advice on sourcing reclaimed wood, managing shop fatigue, and starting electronics projects with resources like Adafruit and SparkFun. The conversation also covers dealing with difficult customers, the saturation of YouTube channels, and the importance of community among makers.

  • Making It · 57m

    Episode 064: Pat the bushes of my brain

    Hosts Jimmy Diresta, Bob Clagett, and David Picciuto brainstorm upcoming woodworking and electronics projects, including a Sam Maloof-style chair, a Death Star-inspired bentwood chair, and a custom guitar case. They discuss specific materials like door skin plywood and West System epoxy, and techniques such as laminating, CNC tiling, and using Domino joinery. The conversation also covers the hosts' experiences with YouTube engagement, managing email notifications, and finding inspiration through antique shopping and online communities.

  • 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 · 1h 05m

    528: Grippy Bits

    Jimmy Diresta, Bob Clagett, and David Picciuto discuss their current projects, including Diresta's restoration of a 1920s carnival crane toy and his go-kart build, Picciuto's creation of 3,500 wooden chopsticks for an art show, and Clagett's construction of a home climbing wall. The hosts then explore the value of apprenticeships and mentorship in learning new skills like upholstery, pottery, and mechanics, contrasting the intimacy of in-person guidance with the limitations of YouTube and formal education. They also share recommendations for channels like Spark Cycle Works and discuss the importance of slowing down rather than optimizing every task.

  • Making It · 1h 01m

    Episode 141: Jimmy Two-Shows

    Jimmy Diresta, Bob Clagett, and David Picciuto discuss the details of NBC's new show 'Making It,' including Diresta's role as a shop teacher and the negotiation to license the show's name. The hosts also provide advice for beginners in woodworking, recommending specific tools like bandsaws, track saws, and hand planes, while emphasizing project-based learning over buying a full set of tools upfront. They share personal anecdotes about shop renovations, building guitar stands, and recommend other maker channels like Brett's Skull and Spades and The Oddlings.

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.