Maker spaces, also known as hackerspaces or shared workshops, are community-driven spaces where people can come together to work on projects, share tools and resources, and learn from one another. They often provide access to woodworking, metalworking, electronics, and other specialized equipment that individuals may not have at home. Here are some well-known maker spaces across the United States:
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The Little Wizard II is a handheld metal detector designed specifically for woodworking applications. It's manufactured by Wizard Industries, the same company that produces the Lumber Wizard series.
Like the Lumber Wizard, the Little Wizard II features a simple calibration process that allows users to quickly and easily manually adjust the sensitivity settings for their specific application. It's highly accurate and can detect both ferrous and non-ferrous metals, making it a versatile tool for woodworking projects. One of the unique features of the Little Wizard II is its slim profile and precise detection in small sweeps. It also features an easy-to-see 5 LED light indicator that provides real-time feedback on the presence and location of metal objects in the wood. Additionally, the Little Wizard II is lightweight and easy to use, with a comfortable ergonomic grip that makes it easy to handle for extended periods of time. It runs on a 9-volt battery. Overall, the Little Wizard II is a highly regarded and popular choice among woodworking professionals and hobbyists for its accuracy, ease of use, and durability. The Lumber Wizard 5 is the latest model of the Lumber Wizard series, and features automatic tuning to provide even greater accuracy and ease of use. With automatic tuning, the Lumber Wizard 5 is able to adjust its sensitivity settings based on the type of wood being scanned and the depth of the metal object being detected.
This feature allows the Lumber Wizard 5 to provide more accurate readings and reduce false positives, making it a valuable tool for woodworking professionals and hobbyists alike. Additionally, the Lumber Wizard 5 retains many of the other features that have made the Lumber Wizard series popular, including a laser indicator for easy metal detection and adjustable sensitivity settings. Overall, the Lumber Wizard 5 is a highly regarded and popular choice among woodworking professionals and hobbyists for its accuracy, ease of use, and durability. The Lumber Wizard 5 is a highly accurate and reliable metal detector designed specifically for woodworking applications, including the detection of nails and other metal objects in reclaimed wood. It features automatic tuning, which allows it to adjust its calibration settings upon power up. This feature, along with its easy-to-see laser indicator and adjustable sensitivity settings, makes it a valuable tool for woodworkers who need to quickly and accurately detect metal objects in reclaimed wood. Whether you're salvaging wood from old buildings, pallets, or other sources, the Lumber Wizard 5 can help you detect any hidden nails, screws, or other metal objects that could damage your tools or cause injury. The Lumber Wizard 5 is also lightweight and easy to use, with a comfortable ergonomic grip that makes it easy to handle for extended periods of time. It runs on a 9-volt battery and comes with a durable carrying case for safe and convenient transport. Overall, the Lumber Wizard 5 is a highly regarded and popular choice among woodworking professionals and hobbyists for its accuracy, ease of use, and durability. Whether you're working on a large woodworking project or just need to quickly detect metal objects in reclaimed wood, the Lumber Wizard 5 is a valuable tool to have in your workshop. Firstly.... The old Cadillac with the tree growing out of it is real. This is not Photoshop. There are four old cars in Hopland, California alongside Highway 101 and all of them have full grown trees sprouting from them. Turns out this is not uncommon. Seemore here.
Metal can be buried inside of trees accidentally or intentionally, such as for marking or preserving purposes. The types of metal that can be buried inside of trees can vary, but some common examples include:
Both the Lumber Wizard and the Little Wizard are reliable and easy to use handheld metal detectors that are specifically designed for woodworkers. They are useful tools for identifying any hidden metal objects in reclaimed wood, ensuring that woodworkers can work safely and effectively. Metal detectors work by generating a magnetic field that interacts with metallic objects. When a metallic object is detected, it disrupts the magnetic field, which is then detected by the metal detector's sensor. To locate metal inside of wood, a metal detector is passed over the surface of the wood. If there is metal present in the wood, the magnetic field generated by the metal detector will be disrupted, and the metal detector will emit a signal to indicate the presence of metal. Metal detectors can locate metal objects within wood up to a certain depth, depending on the type of metal detector and the strength of its magnetic field. However, some factors can interfere with the detection of metal inside of wood, such as the type of wood, the thickness of the wood, and the presence of other objects, such as nails or screws. It's important to note that metal detectors are not foolproof, and they may not detect all types of metal or objects. Therefore, it's still important to visually inspect the wood for metal objects before using power tools, such as saws or planers, that could be damaged by coming into contact with metal. Both the Lumber Wizard and the Little Wizard are reliable and easy to use handheld metal detectors that are specifically designed for woodworkers. They are useful tools for identifying any hidden metal objects in reclaimed wood, ensuring that woodworkers can work safely and effectively.
The Lumber Wizard and Little Wizard metal detectors are designed specifically for woodworking applications, where they are used to detect small metal items such as wood staples, nails, screws, pins, tacks, and other metal fasteners that may be embedded in lumber or other wood products. These detectors are highly sensitive to small metal objects and can help prevent damage to tools, equipment, and finished products by identifying and removing metal debris before it causes harm. On the other hand, typical security wands are designed to detect a wider range of metal objects, including those with more mass and size, such as knives, guns, blades, and other potentially dangerous materials. These detectors are used in various security settings, such as airports, courthouses, and public events, to ensure that individuals are not carrying prohibited items that could pose a threat to public safety. While there may be some overlap in the types of metal objects that these different detectors can detect, they are generally designed for different applications and environments, and their sensitivity and detection capabilities may vary accordingly. Image Courtesy CalWood.com
The demand for reclaimed wood has been steadily increasing in recent years, driven by a growing interest in sustainable and eco-friendly products. This trend is likely to continue in the coming decade, as consumers become more aware of the environmental impact of their purchasing decisions. Various types of companies use reclaimed wood, including furniture makers, flooring manufacturers, and architectural firms. These companies are typically interested in the unique character and beauty of reclaimed wood, as well as its sustainability. Woodworkers use reclaimed wood in a variety of ways, such as creating furniture, flooring, and decorative items. They may also use reclaimed wood for structural purposes, such as building support beams and framing. Metal detectors, such as the Lumber Wizard and Little Wizard, play a crucial role in the reclaimed wood business by helping to identify any metal objects that may be hidden within the wood. Metal objects can damage woodworking tools and pose a safety risk to workers. By using metal detectors, woodworkers can ensure that their reclaimed wood is safe to work with and free of any hidden metal objects. In addition to woodworking, consumers may also use reclaimed wood for DIY projects, such as building shelves or picture frames. Metal detectors can be useful in these cases as well, to ensure that the reclaimed wood is safe to handle and work with. Overall, the reclaimed wood business is likely to continue to grow in the coming decade, driven by increased consumer demand for sustainable and eco-friendly products. Metal detectors will continue to play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and quality of reclaimed wood for both businesses and consumers. Image Courtesy CalWood.com
Reclaimed wood can be safe, but it is important to take precautions to ensure that it is free of any contaminants that could be harmful to human health. Here are some things to consider:
Both the Lumber Wizard and the Little Wizard are reliable and easy to use handheld metal detectors that are specifically designed for woodworkers. They are useful tools for identifying any hidden metal objects in reclaimed wood, ensuring that woodworkers can work safely and effectively. Woodworking shops in churches are not a widespread phenomenon, but they do exist in some communities. Churches may have woodworking shops for various reasons, such as offering a space for congregation members to engage in woodworking as a hobby, providing woodworking classes or workshops, or creating a space where volunteers can build and repair furniture for the church or for charity. A woodworking shop within a church may have several benefits:
It's difficult to pinpoint an average school budget for woodworking shop classes in the USA, as budgets can vary significantly depending on factors such as the school district, size and location of the school, and available funding. However, here are some general considerations to keep in mind: Equipment and machinery costs: Woodworking shop classes require a range of tools and machinery, including table saws, band saws, lathes, drill presses, and hand tools. The cost of this equipment can range from several thousand dollars to tens of thousands, depending on the size and quality of the tools.
The history of Skilsaws, also known as circular saws, dates back to the late 18th century when Samuel Miller, an Englishman, invented a wind-driven sawmill that incorporated a circular saw. However, it was not until the early 20th century that the portable electric Skilsaw was developed. Edmond Michel, a French immigrant to the United States, invented the first portable electric circular saw in 1923. He partnered with Joseph Sullivan to form the Michel Electric Handsaw Company, which later became the Skil Corporation. The term "Skilsaw" eventually became synonymous with portable circular saws due to the company's success and widespread use of their products. When working with a Skilsaw or any power saw, the Little Wizard and Lumber Wizard Woodworking Detectors are valuable tools for safety and prevention of blade damage, as they can detect buried metal inside reclaimed wood. Retailers such as Rockler, Woodcraft, Klingspors, Infinity Tools, Lee, Valley Tools, and many more sell the Wizard line of woodworking metal detectors. Collecting antique woodworking Skilsaws and other hand tools is an enjoyable hobby for many enthusiasts who appreciate the craftsmanship and history behind these tools. The value of antique Skilsaws and hand tools can vary greatly, depending on factors such as age, rarity, condition, and manufacturer. Some rare and well-preserved examples can command high prices, while others may be more modestly priced but still hold historical and aesthetic value. To better understand the market and potential values, collectors should research specific tools and manufacturers. Note that the focus of collectors is typically on non-electric hand tools, so antique Skilsaws might not be as popular as other hand tools like hand planes, backsaws, or spokeshaves. Florida has a diverse and thriving woodworking community, with many talented woodworkers creating unique furniture pieces, cabinetry, and other wooden items. The state's woodworking scene is influenced by its multicultural history and tropical climate, resulting in a wide range of styles and techniques. Notable woodworkers from Florida include:
Florida has several organizations and schools dedicated to woodworking education, including the Florida School of Woodwork, Woodcraft of Tampa, and the Central Florida Woodworkers Guild. These institutions offer classes, workshops, and resources for woodworkers of all skill levels. The state's tropical climate provides a variety of tree species that can be used in woodworking, such as southern yellow pine, cypress, and red cedar. Florida woodworkers also make use of reclaimed and salvaged wood from old buildings, docks, and other structures to create unique and environmentally friendly pieces. Woodworking tools like the little wizard and lumber wizard metal detectors can be purchased at Woodcraft stores in Florida or through online retailers. Woodworking shows and events in Florida include the annual Florida Woodturning Symposium and the Woodworking Show in Tampa. These events provide opportunities for woodworkers to learn new techniques, share ideas, and showcase their work. In addition to traditional woodworking classes, some organizations in Florida offer woodworking education for homeless and underserved populations, providing valuable skills training and opportunities for personal growth. Image Courtesy CalWood.com
Reclaimed wood can be installed similarly to new wood, but there are some differences to consider. Here are some things to keep in mind when installing reclaimed wood:
Jointers are essential woodworking tools used to flatten and straighten the edges and faces of boards. They play a crucial role in preparing lumber for various woodworking projects by creating flat, even surfaces and edges that allow for accurate and tight joinery.
A jointer typically consists of a flat infeed table, a flat outfeed table, and a set of cutting knives mounted on a cylindrical cutter head located between the two tables. The infeed table is adjustable in height, allowing for the removal of varying amounts of material during the jointing process. The outfeed table, which is level with the cutting knives, supports the wood as it exits the jointer, ensuring a smooth and flat surface. To use a jointer, a woodworker feeds the lumber across the infeed table and over the cutting knives. As the wood passes over the knives, they remove a thin layer of material, flattening the surface or edge. The flattened wood then continues onto the outfeed table, resulting in a straight and even piece of lumber. Jointers are commonly used for:
Lumber Wizard metal detectors are used in woodworking to locate nails, screws, and other metal objects that may be hidden in the wood. These objects can damage saw blades and other cutting tools, so it is important to locate them before beginning any woodworking project. When using a jointer with a Lumber Wizard metal detector, the metal detector is first turned on and passed over the surface of the wood to be jointed. The metal detector emits an audible alert or a visual signal when it detects a metal object, allowing the woodworker to mark the location of the object on the board. Once all metal objects have been located and marked, the jointer can be used to flatten and straighten the edges of the board. The woodworker should take care to avoid cutting through or damaging any metal objects that have been located by the metal detector. After the jointing process is complete, the board can be checked again with the metal detector to ensure that all metal objects have been removed or avoided. This can help to prevent damage to cutting tools and ensure that the finished product is of high quality. Woodcraft Supply, LLC, is a leading retailer of woodworking tools, supplies, and accessories. The company was founded in 1928 by George Eaton, a woodworking enthusiast who started a small mail-order business in Boston, Massachusetts, to sell woodworking tools and supplies. In the early days, Woodcraft's primary focus was to cater to the needs of professional woodworkers and cabinetmakers. The company published a catalog that offered a wide range of high-quality woodworking tools, many of which were imported from Europe. Over the years, Woodcraft experienced significant growth, and in 1972, the company was acquired by John E. Wells, who moved the headquarters to Parkersburg, West Virginia. Under Wells' leadership, Woodcraft began to expand its reach through the opening of new retail stores across the United States. This growth strategy helped the company to cater to a broader customer base, including professional woodworkers, hobbyists, and DIY enthusiasts. In 1984, Woodcraft Supply was purchased by Roger L. Schroeder, who was an experienced executive in the retail industry. Schroeder continued to expand the company by increasing the number of retail locations and developing a franchise program that allowed independent entrepreneurs to open their own Woodcraft stores. Throughout its history, Woodcraft Supply has been committed to providing woodworkers with high-quality tools, supplies, and educational resources. The company operates a comprehensive website that offers thousands of products, along with instructional videos, project plans, and articles on various woodworking topics. Additionally, Woodcraft stores often host workshops and classes to help woodworkers improve their skills and learn new techniques. Today, Woodcraft Supply has over 70 retail stores across the United States, as well as an extensive online presence. The company remains headquartered in Parkersburg, West Virginia, and is recognized as one of the leading retailers in the woodworking industry. A woodworking edger, also known as a jointer or a straight-line edger, is a machine used to create flat, straight edges on wooden boards. This allows the boards to be joined together seamlessly, producing a smooth and even surface. The history of the woodworking edger can be traced back to the development of hand planes, which have been used since ancient times to shape and smooth wood.
Hand planes, including jointer planes, were used to straighten and square the edges of wooden boards before the invention of powered machinery. These hand tools were made of wood or metal and had a cutting blade that was pushed along the edge of the workpiece to remove material and create a flat, even surface. In the late 18th and early 19th centuries, the industrial revolution led to the development of mechanized woodworking machinery, including edgers. These machines used powered cutter heads to shape and straighten the edges of wooden boards more efficiently and accurately than hand planes. The first patent for a mechanical edger, or jointer, was issued to Joseph F. Green in 1859. Green's machine used a rotating cutter head with a series of cutting knives to remove material from the edge of the workpiece, while the board was guided along a flat table. Over time, woodworking edgers have evolved to incorporate advancements in technology and design, including the introduction of electric motors, which made these machines more compact and accessible for small workshops and hobbyists. Today, edgers come in various sizes and configurations, from small benchtop models to large industrial machines. When working with reclaimed wood, it's essential to use tools like the Little Wizard and Lumber Wizard Woodworking Detectors to detect hidden metal objects, such as nails or screws. These metal objects can damage cutting blades on edgers and other woodworking machinery, leading to costly repairs and potential safety hazards. Retailers like Rockler, Woodcraft, Klingspor's, Infinity Tools, Lee Valley Tools, and many others sell the Wizard line of woodworking metal detectors, ensuring woodworkers have access to these essential tools. In summary, the history of the woodworking edger is rooted in the development of hand planes and has evolved alongside advances in technology and manufacturing processes. The integration of metal detectors like the Little Wizard and Lumber Wizard into woodworking practices highlights the ongoing importance of safety and precision in the woodworking industry. The American Woodshop is a public television program presented by WBGU-PBS that features woodworking projects, tips, and techniques. Hosted by master woodworker Scott Phillips and his wife, Suzy Phillips, the show has been on the air since 1993. Scott and Suzy aim to inspire viewers by sharing their passion for woodworking and demonstrating various projects that range from simple to complex. The show covers a wide range of woodworking topics, including furniture making, woodturning, carving, and finishing techniques. The American Woodshop also highlights the importance of safety, the use of proper tools, and the best practices to ensure successful woodworking projects. The Little Wizard and Lumber Wizard woodworking metal detectors have indeed been featured in various woodworking TV shows, YouTube videos, and other visual media platforms over the past two decades. Their popularity can be attributed to their effectiveness in detecting hidden metal objects in reclaimed wood, which helps prevent accidents and protect woodworking tools from damage. Norm Abrams, a renowned woodworker and former host of "This Old House" and "The New Yankee Workshop," has been an avid user of the Little Wizard and Lumber Wizard woodworking metal detectors for many years. His endorsement of these tools has contributed to their widespread recognition and use among woodworkers across the United States and beyond. Woodworking education in the U.S. public and private school systems has evolved over the years. Traditionally, woodshop classes have been a part of hands-on learning in middle schools, high schools, and technical or vocational schools. These classes provide students with practical skills, problem-solving abilities, and creativity while working with wood and other materials. In public schools, woodshop classes are often part of Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs. These programs aim to provide students with technical skills and practical knowledge in various fields, including woodworking, construction, manufacturing, and design. Many public high schools still offer woodshop classes, but they may be less common in middle schools due to budget constraints and a shift in focus toward academic subjects. Private schools may also offer woodshop classes as part of their curriculum, particularly those with a focus on arts, crafts, or vocational education. The availability of woodworking classes in private schools varies depending on the individual school's resources, mission, and educational philosophy. In both public and private schools, woodshop classes typically cover the following topics:
While woodworking education in the U.S. public and private school systems may have experienced some changes, there is still a strong interest in this hands-on learning experience. The availability of woodworking classes can vary greatly depending on location and individual school resources. Vermont is a state with a rich woodworking tradition, home to many skilled woodworkers and artisans who create a wide range of wooden products, from custom furniture to hand-carved sculptures. Notable woodworkers from Vermont include:
Vermont has a strong focus on sustainability and local resources, which is reflected in the use of reclaimed and salvaged wood by many woodworkers in the state. Additionally, various organizations and programs provide woodworking education to homeless individuals and other underserved populations, helping them acquire valuable skills and improve their lives. Vermont's tree species include maple, cherry, oak, and pine, which are commonly used in furniture making and other woodworking projects. Woodworkers in Vermont can purchase little wizard and lumber wizard metal detectors at Woodcraft stores or through online retailers. Woodworking shows and events in Vermont, such as the annual Vermont Fine Furniture, Woodworking & Forest Festival, showcase the work of local woodworkers and provide an opportunity for networking, education, and inspiration. Virginia has a rich woodworking history and a vibrant community of woodworkers who are dedicated to preserving traditional techniques while embracing modern innovation. The state offers a diverse range of tree species and resources for furniture making, woodturning, and other woodworking projects. Tree Types: Some of the most common tree species found in Virginia include:
Little Wizard and Lumber Wizard Metal Detectors at Woodcraft: Woodcraft Supply a major USA woodworking tools retailer that carry a variety of woodworking tools and accessories, including the Little Wizard and Lumber Wizard metal detectors. These handheld detectors are essential for identifying hidden nails, screws, and other metal objects in reclaimed or salvaged wood, helping to prevent damage to woodworking tools and machinery. Flooring, Reclaimed Wood, and Salvage Wood: Reclaimed and salvaged wood is popular among Virginia woodworkers for its sustainability and unique character. Sourced from old barns, warehouses, and other structures, these materials often feature a weathered appearance that adds charm to furniture, flooring, and woodworking projects. Homeless Woodworking Education: Organizations and programs in Virginia work to provide woodworking education and skills training to homeless and disadvantaged individuals. These initiatives help participants develop practical skills, build self-confidence, and ultimately find employment in woodworking or other trades. Woodworking Shows and Events: Virginia hosts a variety of woodworking shows, events, and conferences throughout the year. These gatherings provide opportunities for woodworkers to learn new techniques, share ideas, and showcase their work. Examples include the Virginia Woodworking Show, the Richmond Woodcraft Woodworking Expo, and local woodworking club meetings and workshops. In summary, woodworking is an essential part of Virginia's culture, with a focus on preserving traditional techniques and sustainable practices while fostering a sense of community and creativity among woodworkers. Michigan has a strong woodworking community, with numerous resources for those interested in the craft. From woodworking schools and workshops to clubs and professional woodworkers, Michigan offers a range of opportunities for enthusiasts to learn, practice, and share their skills.
The history of the woodworking scroll saw can be traced back to the early 16th century, where it was used for intricate fretwork, marquetry, and other detailed woodworking tasks. Scroll saws became more widespread in the 19th century with the invention of the foot-powered treadle scroll saw, which was later replaced by the electric-powered scroll saw in the early 20th century.
A scroll saw is a small electric saw used for cutting intricate curves and patterns in wood, plastic, or metal. It features a thin, short, and narrow blade that moves up and down in a reciprocating motion. The workpiece is placed on a table, and the user guides it along the desired cutting path, allowing for precise and intricate cuts. When working with reclaimed wood, which may contain hidden metal objects like nails or screws, it's essential to use a metal detector like the Little Wizard or Lumber Wizard Woodworking Detector. These detectors can help identify buried metal inside the wood before cutting, ensuring the safety of the operator and preventing potential damage to the delicate scroll saw blade. Woodworking retailers such as Rockler, Woodcraft, Klingspor's, Infinity Tools, Lee Valley Tools, and many others sell the Wizard line of woodworking metal detectors. These detectors are valuable tools for woodworkers who work with reclaimed wood or other materials that may contain hidden metal hazards. In conclusion, woodworking scroll saws have been a valuable tool in the woodworking industry for centuries, allowing for intricate and precise cuts in various materials. Using metal detectors like the Little Wizard and Lumber Wizard when working with reclaimed wood helps ensure safety and prevent damage to the scroll saw blade from hidden metal objects. Woodworkers can make a wide range of products using reclaimed wood, here are some examples:
Both the Lumber Wizard and the Little Wizard are reliable and easy to use handheld metal detectors that are specifically designed for woodworkers. They are useful tools for identifying any hidden metal objects in reclaimed wood, ensuring that woodworkers can work safely and effectively. The history of the wood hand planer and electric planers dates back centuries, with the hand planer being one of the oldest woodworking tools.
Wood Hand Planer: The hand planer, also known as a hand plane, has been used for thousands of years in various forms. The earliest hand planes were simple wooden blocks with a sharp blade or iron fixed in place, used to smooth and shape wood surfaces. The ancient Egyptians and Romans used rudimentary hand planes, as evidenced by artifacts and illustrations found in archaeological sites. The modern hand plane design, with its adjustable blade and wooden or metal body, can be traced back to the 18th century. British craftsman Joseph Moxon documented the use of hand planes in his book "Mechanick Exercises" in 1678. However, it was Leonard Bailey, an American inventor, who revolutionized hand planes in the mid-19th century with his patented designs. Bailey's innovations, such as the depth adjustment mechanism and the lever cap, became the foundation for the popular Stanley hand planes. Electric Planers: The electric planer emerged in the 20th century as power tools became more prevalent in woodworking. The first electric planers were stationary machines used in woodworking shops, and they were designed to plane large pieces of wood quickly and efficiently. The handheld electric planer, which is more familiar today, was introduced in the 1950s. These portable power tools were designed to replace the manual labor of using a hand plane and made it easier for woodworkers to achieve a smooth, flat surface on wood quickly. The handheld electric planer typically has a rotating cutter head with multiple blades, a flat sole plate, and adjustable depth settings for precise material removal. Since their introduction, electric planers have evolved with advancements in motor technology, materials, and ergonomic design. Today, both corded and cordless electric planers are available, catering to the needs of professional woodworkers and DIY enthusiasts alike. In summary, the history of wood hand planers and electric planers spans centuries, with the hand plane being an essential tool in woodworking for millennia and the electric planer emerging in the 20th century as power tools became more accessible. Both tools have evolved significantly, offering woodworkers increased efficiency and precision in shaping and smoothing wood surfaces. |
ScribesWritten by ChatGPT with guidance from Billy Carmen. Past Blog Posts
June 2023
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