The Traditional Tools Group Inc.

After approximately 1840 the design and construction of windows was virtually standardised. This discussion concentrates on sashes, that is the glazed frames. A future article will discuss sashes made before 1840.

These companion volumes are the best modern treatment of traditional woodworking tools. For anyone who wishes to use old joiner’s tools Dunbar should be essential reading. The various tools are correctly identified and clear instructions are given on how to use and set up the tools.

Fred Murrell has shared some photos of planes.

Salaman states this moulding size plane was rebated along the left hand side. In fact these planes were made left and right handed. I have used both right and left Cross Grooving planes and find them interchangeable. The original reason for this handedness is unknown.

Preparation and use of Hide Glue.

For precise working and quality of finish only a scraper can surpass an English pattern wood infill plane. These planes can also perform tasks beyond the scope of the scraper. Consider for instance the wood infill rebate or shoulder plane.

This study of traditional American country furniture has strong visual appeal. The drawings are nicely executed and the inclusion of extracts from historical sources generates a nostalgic feel. The text attempts to analyse these sources and the drawings provide interpretative reconstructions of old techniques. For anyone with even a vague interest in the past the book would be attractive.

Joshua Rose was a Victorian authority on engineering practice. His texts were standard reference for the metal machinist. The extract-below is the. first of a series of reprints of Rose’s writings in the magazine English Mechanic. It was published in the letters section of issue No.663 dated Dec 7 1897 on page 315