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260537 Tom Ellis 2016‑11‑28 BIO - Tom Ellis
In checking the archive I see that my original bio is missing.  So a replacement
is called for, I guess.



I started woodworking in the early 70’s with a RAS serving as a multi-tool -
cross cut, rip, router, drum sander, edge shaper, etc.  Very Norm oriented.
Then I read one of Krenov’s books, and a light went on.  This was probably in
the early 90’s or so.  Then we got the internet at work (software design and
development) and I found rec.woodworking.  Some of my posts there led to an
invitation to join something called the OldTools List in ‘96.  I had found a
place to follow up on what Krenov had started.



From the list and books recommended on the list I got quite a good education on
hand tool woodworking.  Among other things I learned what Flea Markets are for,
and especially how to make sense of Roy Underhill.  Today there is an incredible
amount of knowledge easily available in books, DVD’s, and YouTube, but when I
started the hand tool route there was Roy, the List, and a few reprints of books
from the early twentieth century.



During the late 90’s and early aughts I spent a lot of time helping my late wife
in making various Pukey Ducks (is this still a valid List term?), as well as how
to sharpen, fettle, and use a plane.  I didn’t start on dovetails until fairly
recently - it was so damn intimidating -  but I’m now getting closer to near
seamless fits (every once in a while).



My primary interest is in making cabinets of various types, and a long simmering
urge to build a Spinning Wheel.  Cabinets are of the American Country style,
including such things as Pie Safes and Dry Sinks.  As for tools I finally joined
eBay and am learning that there were a lot more brace accessories than I ever
dreamed of.



I’ve been without a proper workshop for four years – a long story – working now
in part of a 12 x 16 shed.  Hope to put up an outbuilding soon and get back on
my great grandfather’s bench.  Now working on a Borg special, made out of two-
by’s that belonged to my wife’s late husband.  I did recently build a leg vise
for it.  Why did these ever fall out of use?  It’s wonderful.


Tom Ellis

Jackson, GA

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