HAMMER AND SAW: An Introduction to Woodworking

by Harvey Weiss ‧ RELEASE DATE: Sept. 2, 1982

The author of books on how-to-build-virtually-everything here gets down to basics: ""the right way"" (i.e., ""the best and the easiest way"") to saw, to nail, to measure, drill, and plane. Also: how to select a suitable wood and how to Finish it. In the book's second half come an array of projects--from a checkerboard to assorted cabinets to a dog house, ship models, and toys (not omitting a workbench). The instructions are clear and precise--with explanations of why. The illustrations both complement the text (e.g., on how to distinguish a crosscut saw and a ripsaw) and amplify it (e.g., via captioned drawings of other than the common hand saw). The project section begins with a pitch for making a working plan (or, ""if you want to do a really professional job,"" a scale drawing); the youngster inspired to build a dog house is advised, insightfully, to take thought of the dog's comfort (an unused dog house would be a lasting reproach). Weiss writes about these matters with practiced ease and his accustomed care--and, as usual too, no condescension. A superior send-off for the neophyte of any young age.

Pub Date: Sept. 2, 1982

ISBN: N/A

Page Count: -

Publisher: T. Y. Crowell

Review Posted Online: N/A

Kirkus Reviews Issue: Sept. 1, 1982

Categories: NONFICTION