IN REPLY TO WOODBLOKE (Rob)
Maybe this requires a thread of its own Rob.
I also have high regard for Krenov. (I was lucky enough to be able to buy his books when they first appeared over here.) Like you and me, he rarely uses sandpaper on his pieces.
Robert Ingham's designs are staggering, but there are times when I question the functionality of his work (Not often) .
I could question the functionality of Krenov's work too I suppose, because some of his pieces were much smaller in the 'flesh' than the photographs in his books suggest. Certainly at times, smaller than they should be to fulfil their role. (That's my opinion you understand.)
In the end, I like the relaxed, reflective approach of Krenov and the downright, honest to goodness everyday craftsmanship of Jim Kingshott. Not only a fine cabinet maker, who helped make Mosquito aircraft during the war, but a precise metalworker too, who made some fine bench-planes for himself.
In short Rob, I miss being able to pick up the phone to call him whenever things weren't going too well in the shop. He always had time for me, and I am sure for anyone else with a problem. I suppose I just miss the man and I doubt I am alone in that.
To return to the new magazine, knowing Nick Gibbs's journalistic talents, I am sure his magazine will be the best he can make it. So I am going to read it.
Someone said that American magazines are better than ours. There is certainly some fine photography, and the paper they use, generally is the best. They also have some talented artists who can convey a sense of atmosphere with their 'rough and ready' sketches, that really aren't rough and ready at all. But they do have more advertisements than our magazines. Also, they are not quite so receptive to 'unknown' woodworkers who submit projects to them, with a view to publication. I know that from experience.
So after this lengthy post, I am going back to my workshop, because I forgot to turn off the light in there!
Take care Rob
John
