Hand Tools, power tools and machinery...TOOLS PLAY AN INTEGRAL PART IN MY CREATIONS
USING TOOLS
The use of tools was once thought to be a solely human trait and was what separated us from other animals. And whilst evidence of other animals using tools in nature is well documented, we are the predominant users of such items (as you don’t see many silverback gorillas in hi-vis and hard hats working on construction sites).
Within all of my creative endeavours, tools play an ever-present integral part in making the crazy ideas and designs in my head become reality. I am also a firm practitioner of the “correct tool for the job” ethos and of Adam Savage’s “First Order Retrieval System”, both of which please my OCD and satisfy my constant need for retail therapy, in equal measures. #ILoveTools
Highlighted below is a small selection of the tools I use regularly when I’m in the creative groove.
JAPANESE SAWS
From the heady heights of large industry down to the humble crafter, DIYer, hobbyist and maker, power tools and machinery are prevalent. And, whilst I do use power tools, I find it’s sometimes more convenient to grab a hand saw and a jig, than it would be to spend ten minutes setting up a table saw or mitre saw for one-off cuts.
I have fully converted to using Japanese Saws (after many years of using Western-style hand saws) and found that since taking the plunge and purchasing my first, my manual saw cut precision has greatly improved. The brand I use employs a replaceable blade system.
If you’re interested in using Japanese Saws and wish to know more about the difference between the many varieties, then you can check out my imaginatively titled blog; Japanese Saws, on this very subject.
CREATIVE PYROMANIA
There are two sides to my creative pyromania, each at opposing ends of the wood burning ferocity spectrum. At one end there’s the rather sedate “having afternoon tea in the gardens of a country manor on a summer’s day, with the local reverend in attendance” side, that is Pyrography. At the other there’s the intensely aggressive “getting concussion and requiring major dental work, after accidentally stumbling into the mosh pit at a metal festival” side that is Yakisugi. Whilst both processes require different tools and skill sets, they occupy both sides of the same coin, which (ultimately) calms my soul. #BurningShitIsTherapy
Pyrography: A relatively new crafting process for me that I’m still exploring all the creative possibilities with. My pyrography machine of choice is #MadeInSheffield, which was a real no-brainer for me, whilst I was doing the research. I do make my own burning tips, with various gauges of Nichrome wire, a few basic hand tools and a vintage Record Tools jeweller’s anvil.
Yakisugi: The Japanese process of wood preservation that was historically used for cladding houses, as the burnt wood is water resistant, insect resistant and fire resistant. I take this process a little further, by brushing off the char, which really brings out the wood grain.
PALLET BREAKING
Pallet Breaking is a frequent occurrence in my creative endeavours, so having a small selection of tools to hand makes the process all the easier. Using the most appropriate tools for this task also saves time, money and gains the most resource (reclaimed wood) from the pallet.
I use a range of tools from the mighty Pallet Buster, through flat pry bars, all the way down to the humble nail punch to reduce cutting or breaking the planks. For a more detailed look at every tool I use, when pallets are to be broken (and insights into the process I employ), then head over to my blog on Pallet Breaking.