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Here's My Woodworking!

by Ira Penn
Bellingham, WA

Click on any picture to see a larger version.

I took up woodworking about 8 years ago. Not knowing if I'd like it, I started slowly by upgrading my old circular saw and buying a miter saw and drill press. It didn't take long until I was hooked and one piece of equipment followed another.

I learned by reading books and magazines, watching videos, and messing up a lot of wood. I've never taken a class. I'm not afraid to fail because when something turns out right it makes up for all the wood that went into the scrap pile. Besides, knowing how to fix your mistakes is one of the most valuable things a woodworker can learn. I use no plans and the designs are my own. Most of the stuff I've made has gone to help furnish my two sons' homes.

About 18 months ago I got a lathe. It's opened up a whole new world of woodworking enjoyment, but more on that in a future column in The Highland Woodturner . I now have a complete shop—and no plans to purchase anymore tools. Of course plans can always change!

Walnut Buffet with Quilted Maple top

Spalted Maple, Cherry, and Koa Buffet with Padauk top

Bubinga and Quilted Maple Console Table

The 24" x 60" mirror was my latest project.
It's made from Spalted Pin Oak

White Oak Morris Chair/Ottoman/Side Table ensemble

Cherry and Quilted Maple Dressing Table

Inkle Loom — Maple and Cherry

Walnut and Birdseye Maple Hope Chest with Cedar lining

Hickory Clock

Walnut and Quilted Maple desk and leaning bookshelf


Would you like to see your woodworking in this column? We invite you to SEND US PHOTOS of your favorite woodworking projects along with captions and a brief history of your woodworking. (Email photos at 800x600 resolution.) Receive a $50 store gift card if we show your stuff in a future issue.


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