Q&AQ&A first ran in The Old Saw newsletter in late 2004 and has continued in The Journal. Questions from members are sent to a panel of experienced woodworkers. The "experts" do not always agree but you will find this collection to be a wonderful resource.

Use the archive lists below to help find what you are looking for or to just explore.

Displaying 255 Records

Removing a Stain

Bruce Hamilton, Bill Newbold, Al Breed, Marty Milkovits, DJ Delorie
February, 2005

I turned a bowl (finished with buffing and wax only) which my wife liked and she put some fruit in it. The fruit never got eaten and spoiled staining the bowl. How do I get the stain out? – Dave Frechette

Cutting Figured Wood

Marty Milkovits, Al Breed
February, 2005

I recently cut some tiger maple on my table saw and got a lot of chipping. What is the best way to cut figured wood on a table, band or scroll saw? – Dave Frechette

Brushing Polyurethane

Bruce Hamilton
November, 2004

I’d like to master brushing polyurethane but it always seems to produce small bubbles in the finish for me. I use a good badger brush, a good poly (Moser’s Simple Success II), and I thin to as much as 50/50 and still can’t get the perfect finish. What am I doing wrong? - Ed.

Attaching Breadboard Ends

David Lamb
November, 2004

A breadboard table top must allow for seasonal expansion and contraction across its width. Is there a preferred method of attaching the breadboard ends to the main portion of the top and how much movement should be expected? - Ed.

Sharpening Turning Gouges

Al Breed, Jon Siegel
November, 2004

I’ve tried several approaches to sharpening a turning gouge – all with poor results. I’ve tried grinding free hand, polishing on a buffer, and honing on a flat surface. I’m looking for the equivalent of a consistent factory grind but with a razor sharp edge. What is the best way to do this? - Ed.