WoodworkingWeb Interview: David

Thank-you to David for taking the time to do this interview

1. What is your “inspiration story” — where did your interest in woodworking all begin?

Well, I’ve always enjoyed putting things together. As a kid, it was building blocks, then Lego’s, then plastic models, then RTA furniture my Mom and Dad would buy. But woodworking didn’t enter my life until I was a newly wed. We had bought our first house, and desperately needed to replace the old carpeting. My wife wanted hardwood floors, but we really couldn’t afford to buy both the hardwood flooring, and pay for installation. So instead, we bought the flooring, a cheap Ryobi table saw and a chop saw, and for about three weeks after work and on the weekends, I installed the hardwood floor. It was my first real DIY project. A few years, and several DIY projects later, a co-worker asked if I would build him some cabinets for his kitchen. That was the first time I’d purchased wood from anywhere other than Home Depot, and the first time using anything other than pine and 2x lumber. They turned out really well, and I really enjoyed it, and was really excited at the outcome. That’s what really put me down the path to woodworking.

2. Who is your woodworking mentor and why?

I don’t really have an answer for that one. I’ve never really had a mentor as far as woodworking goes. As far as DIY projects go, I’d have to say my father-in-law. He’s helped me with everything from installing new electrical outlets to building a swing-set to changing out the head gasket on my vehicle. When I have a question or need help with that kind of project, he’s the first person I ask. But, when it comes to woodworking, he comes to me. It’s kind of nice to be able to return the favor sometimes.

3. Power or hand tools? … and why

Power tools mainly, because that’s what I started with. The only time prior to doing the kitchen cabinets that I had heard of a plane is when we replaced a door in the house, and our neighbor suggested using a plane to help make it fit correctly without rubbing. I had no clue, and just bought this tiny plane about 3 or 4 inches long and about 2 inches wide and tried to make that door fit with it. I gave up and ended up borrowing my father-in-laws belt sander to do the job….
I do enjoy the few hand tools that I have now though, but I don’t think I’ll ever get to the point where I only use hand tools.

4. What is your dream project and when do you think you will tackle the challenge?

I guess right now, my dream project would be any piece of furniture that challenges my current skill set. Most of the projects that come my way are simple by necessity.

5. What is the greatest gift that this craft gives you?

Satisfaction. I’m results driven, so seeing a finished project is very satisfying. When those projects are able to help someone else, its even better.

6. What are your “words of wisdom” that you want to pass on to others, especially to beginners?

Don’t ever think you can’t do it. I’m a firm believer that anyone can do anything if they put their mind to it. I know it sounds cliché, but I think its true. That doesn’t mean you’ll be successful the first time out. Putting your mind to it, doesn’t mean going at it blindly and hoping for the best. Putting your mind to it means studying, practicing and never giving up, until eventually, you are able to accomplish whatever it is you set out to accomplish.

7. And with our community being so new, what do you look forward to, as a member?

I guess I just look forward to learning from everyone here. There is so much talent here, and everyone is so willing to share their experiences…its just amazing. Thank you to all for making this such an enjoyable site.