Why keep your process “power tool / Modern method free”?
Recently, as a result of some local demonstrations, I caught the eye of some curious neighbors who forwarded my experience over to the local media. They reached out for an email interview, which sounded great. Each question gave me great opportunity to carefully curate the word salad I hoped to in an online publication for others to read. Any PR right now is good PR for my mission.
One question struck me (below is the question and my response). It was an obvious question, and I am in no way coming to axe blows with it or the asker. It reminded me of a recent interview on the wonderful Cut the Craft podcast with guest Roy Underhill. Either Brian or Amy (hosts) asked about The Woodwright’s Shop, the classic PBS woodworking show that ran for nearly 40 seasons. When Roy pitched the idea for the show, it was set in the future. In 1980-ish, he had proposed a show about a completely human-powered, hand-tool (mostly) woodworking experience that was in the future, not in a rural pre-industrial era of the US, UK, or Europe as it would appear. WHAT? This blew my mind. (linked right)
I don’t exactly remember his response on the podcast, but his TEDx talk captures his response years earlier. (linked right) I like to think my response below definitely echos the inspiration of Sir Roy and his craft ethos.
Short answer to that title above: I am. I am using my power and the most modern, creative, and sustainable methods I can find. Working this way shows people what’s possible with simple tools. Each demonstration removes a barrier for someone.
Why keep your creative process power tool / modern method free? Does this make it easier or more difficult to create?
I'm glad you asked the question this way. My main tools are axes and various knives, but I also use hand drills, splitting wedges, and a foot-powered wood turning lathe that I created. I do use power drills and a chainsaw when I need to.
“I find it freeing to use tools and techniques that aren’t bound by any advanced technology that would break or ever make them obsolete. In that sense, I feel like I am using modern tools and methods that simplify the relationship I have with my craft.”
The techniques and tools I use have been in use consistently around the world since the invention of steel. I'm keeping information and a human-powered craft alive while creating unique items made of unique materials that you cannot readily purchase in stores. Everyone lives a very digital life these days, and these methods can really ground you in the human experience and re-establish the connection to the creation process.
Since I make a lot of spoons and bowls, it would be very difficult to work more efficiently than you can with a carving axe, saw, and knives once you have learned the technique. Unlike power tools, which need clamps, tables, benches, electricity, etc. to be used safely, you can use an axe, saw, and knife with just a simple stump chopping block. You can be a woodworker or woodcrafter with as little as 1 tool and some wood. It's fun, quiet, and relaxing this way too!
