A Juki on the bench
A Juki DDL-8700H has arrived at the bench, and the plan is to test it on scraps of real cloth before any cut piece goes under the needle.
Read noteBench Notes
Thoughts from the workshop. On making, materials, mistakes, and everything in between.
19 bench notes
Choosing needles for waxed canvas
Waxed canvas keeps every hole you punch in it, so pick a sharp denim-style needle in the right size, keep it clean, and swap it early.
Read noteBuilt one at a time
Why small batch isn't a marketing line. It's the only way I know how to do it.
Read noteThe case for visible repair
Repair should not disappear. It should tell the truth about use.
Read noteCrafting Elegance: The Art of Handmade Fur Coats
A deep dive into the meticulous process of creating a fur coat by hand, highlighting the craftsmanship involved.
Read noteCrafting Warmth: A Coat from Chiengora
Exploring the journey of transforming dog fur into a cozy, handmade coat.
Read noteCraftsmanship of the Sea: A Reflection on Tall Ships and Canvas Sails
Exploring the artistry of shipwrights and sailmakers through the lens of traditional craftsmanship and modern admiration.
Read noteFirst prototype
The first prototype is often flawed but serves its purpose by quickly uncovering design issues such as incorrect pocket placement, narrow straps, and illogical seam order. Its ability to reveal problems indicates that it has fulfilled its role effectively.
Read noteLeather patina
Good leather doesn't just wear in. It tells the story.
Read noteMaking a frock coat for pirate kit
AA long-skirted coat has to look the part, move well, and survive more than standing still.
Read noteMaking a leather tricorn for pirate kit
The hat has to hold a silhouette without feeling like a prop.
Read noteMeasure twice, cut once
A reminder I still need more often than I'd like to admit.
Read noteNotes on selvedge
The sweet spot. Tough enough to last, comfortable enough to live in.
Read noteWhy I keep coming back to old machines
Old machines are slow in the right ways: legible, repairable, and stubborn.
Read noteReflections on Dovetail Joints and Chisel Maintenance
Exploring the intricacies of dovetail joints while emphasizing the importance of maintaining sharp chisels for precision in woodworking.
Read noteReviving the Canvas Rucksack: Re-Waxing with Otter Wax
A step-by-step guide on how to effectively re-wax your old canvas rucksack to restore its water resistance and appearance.
Read noteRe-Waxing the Canvas Rucksack: A Step-by-Step Guide
A guide to re-waxing a canvas rucksack using Otter Wax, detailing preparation, application, and the benefits of improved water resistance and appearance.
Read noteThe Art of Sharpening: A Journey to Perfection
Exploring the meditative process of sharpening a plane blade to achieve a mirror finish.
Read noteThread matters
On choosing the right thread, and why cheap thread isn't cheap.
Read noteNo bench notes match that filter.