Woodworking feels like it is becoming one of those things that "only old men do," or something of a time before ours. Even within the woodworking community, there are few and far between members who are my age (early 30s) and even fewer who are younger. There aren't very many shop classes in schools anymore - there wasn't when I was in school, either.
There are so many different reasons that could be the cause. And we won't get into those today, because they can lead to some pretty spicy thoughts and feelings.
But in my case, woodworking has been in my life since I was about 17 years old - so pretty much half of my life. Through those years, woodworking has been a consistent retreat for me to go to when I needed some time to myself and during life's happy moments.
If you've ever been in the shop with me while I'm working, you've probably heard me say a curse word or several (really it's not just limited to the shop, but that's not what we're talking about :) ). And if I've every taught you something about woodworking - or even talked extensively with you about woodworking. You've probably heard me say:
"You don't really learn to 'do woodworking.' You learn to fix the mistakes you make while trying to 'do woodworking."
And that's the gist of it. You can, and should, learn how to do things in woodworking, new techniques, and new tools, yes. But what woodworking really teaches you, is how to hide, fix, or otherwise make your project still work after you've made some sort of mistake.
Picture this... You are trying to make a gift for your friend's birthday. His birthday party is on Friday. It's the Friday before, and you've got all the walnut lumber you need and you've got it all cut down to the right dimensions, the joinery done and assembled, everything is ready for finishing, but one last piece. As you're working on cutting the dovetails, your chisel slips off the board and breaks off the dovetail.
The longer you've been woodworking, the less likely this will happen (because experience really is the best teacher), and if it does, the easier it will be to fix.
I LOVE the problem-solving aspect of woodworking. And in no way am I a motivational speaker or anyone who should be preaching on life lessons found in inconspicuous places, but it really does come on handy in day to day life. Ever hear the woodworker stereotype of being stoic, not excitable, thoughtful, patient, and methodical? Woodworking is a craft that fosters all of those things.
So my favorite thing about woodworking is..... the problem-solving predicaments we find ourselves in oh so frequently. I love puzzles!
Tell me what your favorite part of woodworking is in the comments below!
