Replies

1. 
   hammer1 | Nov 21, 2008 06:06pm | #1

   Folks from the traditional apprentice training in Europe learned to use those frame saws like we use standard panel saws. They are a little challenging to control. One advantage that he doesn't mention is that you can twist the blade. This can be done with coping saws also. That's how you turn a tight corner. You'll notice that he starts the cut at the far end of the blade and then makes the bottom cut farther back on the blade. The blade turns the corner automatically as you push it forward. His method is fine for through dovetails but you will have to break out the chisels for half blind dovetails, the type that are usually used on furniture drawers.

   I always love these, "see how easy it is" videos. He uses the least challenging lumber, has mastered his saw, it's sharp, and they don't show a close up of the completed joint. Most of us would cringe at such a sloppy fit and we know you aren't going to pound on oak to make it fit. Interesting entertainment but it belittles the skills that good cabinetmakers have developed through hard work, lots of practice and mastery of their tools. It's paint grade work but don't forget to bring plenty of filler.

   Beat it to fit / Paint it to match

1. 
   breadman128 | Nov 21, 2008 06:41pm | #2

   That video is based on an article Frank did for Fine Woodworking years ago(I think the issue no would be in the forties).
   The original reporter commented on the fact that even his shipping boxes were dovetailed together. Frank showed him just how easy it was to make a dovetail by eye and that was the reason. The saw used has a special blade that is twisted 90 degrees and has a different set in the teeth from front to back. Frank could do it quicker then most with a hammer and nails. It was one of his trademarks.

1. 
   Sphere | Nov 21, 2008 07:10pm | #3

   I met him back around that time, when I was working for another WW'er named Ellis Walentine, he runs another forum.

   Frank was from Hungary and the cabinets there went with you when you moved, unlike here. Being as they are subject to that, the DT's are common. And like you noted, his crating is done the same way.

   When he does it for "real" it is pretty impressive work as far as accuracy, that vid. was just a quick and dirty demo. His work is really concise, in actuality. And, he is a very witty guy as well, and keeps ya on your toes as to guessing just how serious he is.Spheramid Enterprises Architectural Woodworks

   Repairs, Remodeling, Restorations

    

   They kill Prophets, for Profits.

    

    

1. 
   breadman128 | Nov 21, 2008 08:14pm | #5

   frank is also noted for the amount of handwork he does as opposed to machine work. He is just so efficient and never harried in his work.
   He was the first one that I discovered that you don't need a major shop full of machinery to produce a significant amount of work. And having spent some time in a production cabinet shop , using hand tools is so so so quiet! Gives you time to plan and actually enjoy the work. Great teacher !! Am envious that you have spent some time with him.. Bill

2. 
   MikeHennessy | Nov 21, 2008 08:11pm | #4

   "The saw used has a special blade that is twisted 90 degrees and has a different set in the teeth from front to back."

   Yes, I've heard him (and others) mention that type of saw blade, but if you look closely at the vid, it appears that he's just using a narrow blade that's twisted from vertical at the front to horizontal at the back.

   I tried this with one of my bow saws the other night and it worked OK, but my bowsaw with narrow blades is only a little over 1' long, so it wasn't ideal. I can see how it would work for a "quick & dirty" DT job with a longer blade tho'.

   BTW, I used to think I knew how to make DTs. Then Frank came along and showed me how wrong I was. Now I know how to make DTs. And it takes only 1/2 the time with better results. Can't beat that! Cool guy.

   Mike HennessyPittsburgh, PA

1. 
   breadman128 | Nov 21, 2008 08:31pm | #6

   That blade is so unique and works so well. Have been unable to find one and don't even know what it is called.Tried years ago at Jenks a major woodworkers hardware store in Washington but no luck. Maybe someone here would know. He's a great teacher!Bill

1. 
   MikeHennessy | Nov 21, 2008 08:34pm | #7

   I doubt anyone sells 'em stock. I think you'd have to make one. Maybe from a BS blade?

   Mike HennessyPittsburgh, PA

2. 
   Sphere | Nov 21, 2008 08:44pm | #8

   Exactly. You take a BS blade and drill it for pins ( Like a copeing saw blade) unless your bow saw has clamps on the blade holder, like a scroll saw.

   IIRC the twist is gradual, not a forced bend that is abrupt, more like a spiral than a sharp turn. AND, REALLY ,REALLY tightly stretched, the bow saw has an incredible amount of strength and the toggle or turn buckle is so simple, it's amazing. BTW the center pivot is not glued or wedged, it is a thru motice and sloppy, so that the arms can be tensioned and move freely at the joint.Spheramid Enterprises Architectural Woodworks

   Repairs, Remodeling, Restorations

    

   They kill Prophets, for Profits.