{ "version": "https://jsonfeed.org/version/1", "title": "Workshop on jabel", "icon": "https://avatars.micro.blog/avatars/2021/97100.jpg", "home_page_url": "https://jabel.blog/", "feed_url": "https://jabel.blog/feed.json", "items": [ { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2026/06/23/i-love-this-video-on.html", "content_html": "

I love this video on shillelagh making by Eoin Reardon. Also, from another of his videos, I learned the wonderfully symmetrical rule about renewing the finish on a handle (and maybe a walking stick?): re-oil once a day for a week; once a week for a month; once a month for a year; then twice yearly.

\n", "date_published": "2026-06-23T10:06:36-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2026/06/23/i-love-this-video-on.html", "tags": ["Workshop","Videos"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2026/06/20/i-made-a-walking-stick.html", "content_html": "

I made a walking stick and posted a short video about it.

\n", "date_published": "2026-06-20T15:12:45-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2026/06/20/i-made-a-walking-stick.html", "tags": ["Workshop"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2026/04/12/projects-update-f-and-gardening.html", "title": "Projects update: F150 and gardening", "content_html": "\"\"\n

A few small tasks completed on the F150 this week:

\n\n

I had hoped that replacing the door striker on the driver side would fix the not-fully-shutting problem. It didn’t. Looks like it may be that the door hinge pin and bushing are worn out, making the door sag. Thankfully the replacement pins and bushings are inexpensive—though taking the door off looks like a job.

\n

Garden

\n

I mentioned earlier this week that Rachel has bought some new trees for the yard. We planted the juniper that day. On Saturday, we planted the first of the three serviceberry trees. The call-before-you-dig folks still need to mark our tree plat before we can plant the other two serviceberries.

\n

By the way, what do you call that strip of ground between the sidewalk and the road? We call it the tree plat but the internet tells me that’s very much a minority position. Apparently some people call it a “nature strip” (ugh, so many problems with that term) or a “tree strip.” As I was sitting on the front porch contemplating this question, the word “verge” bubbled up into my memory. I actually like that one.

\n

Anyway, so trees will be planted soon. We also built a string trellis system for Rachel’s heirloom tomatoes. Those things have broken every system we’ve tried to order their vigorous growth. We’ll see how this one does.

\n

The lilacs have been perfuming our house all weekend. Glorious.

\n", "date_published": "2026-04-12T20:12:06-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2026/04/12/projects-update-f-and-gardening.html", "tags": ["Workshop","Gardening","F150"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2026/04/06/rachel-is-making-spinach-pasta.html", "content_html": "

Rachel is making spinach pasta today.

\n\n", "date_published": "2026-04-06T12:39:30-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2026/04/06/rachel-is-making-spinach-pasta.html", "tags": ["Workshop"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2026/04/05/projects-update-an-unexpected-task.html", "title": "Projects update: an unexpected task", "content_html": "

No F150 work this week—waiting on parts.

\n

This week was an unplanned project. I have a neighbor I’ve talked to here and there over the past year, but never at length. Then out of the blue last Monday, he walked over and asked if I’d work on something for him. He had noticed I do a bit of woodworking and he needed a cover for his stove that would double as a cutting board. He had already purchased the aspen cutting board and the boards that would raise it above the range top. I say “cutting board,” but it was really one of those 3/4” thick edge-glued planks.

\n

I told him I’d be glad to work on it. I stopped by on Tuesday evening to let him know that I’d be by to measure on Wednesday. We ended up talking quite a while, and he opened up to me about some health troubles he’d been having lately. Being resolutely anti-advice, I tried mostly to listen and empathize. In the days since, we’ve talked several times and even exchanged phone numbers in case he ever needs anything.

\n

I finished it this afternoon, before his wife returns tomorrow from a family visit. He seemed happy with it. I hope it works out, though I suspect aspen may be too soft for this purpose.

\n

The important work this week was not this particular cutting board, but making a connection with a neighbor. Being an introvert, it’s not something I easily do. Getting a job in my own town, volunteering at the community foundation and the homeless shelter, talking to neighbors—it’s all part of my larger effort to embed myself fully in my community. Localism doesn’t do any good if it’s confined to your head.

\n", "date_published": "2026-04-05T20:11:38-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2026/04/05/projects-update-an-unexpected-task.html", "tags": ["Workshop"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2026/04/04/working-on-a-project-for.html", "content_html": "

Working on a project for a neighbor but I need one final measurement from inside his house. I keep looking over to see if he’s up and about. Reminds me of when I was a kid and the neighbor always opened their door when they were home, which was my signal that I could go ask Timmy to play.

\n", "date_published": "2026-04-04T08:57:21-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2026/04/04/working-on-a-project-for.html", "tags": ["Memories","Workshop"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2026/03/30/projects-update-pond-f-scrapple.html", "title": "Projects update: Pond, F150, scrapple", "content_html": "

We got a lot done this past weekend.

\n

On Saturday, we had a good, full day celebrating our anniversary. We actually left the city limits! 😊 We drove up to Bloomington, went to the greenhouse and a few other favorite shops, and went out to lunch. Then we picked up some honey from a beekeeper near Spring Mill State Park and drove home through the country. Later, we went to the theater to see “Project Hail Mary.” It was fine but, honestly, I don’t get all the buzz around it.

\n

Pond

\n

On Sunday we re-lined and built up the pond. Look at how sad it was when we started.

\n\"\"\n

We wrestled the (thicker than original) lining into place and rebuilt the waterfall. The fountain, by the way, is an old butter churn that was left in the house when we bought it.

\n\"\"\n

Finally, we got all the rest of the limestone in place, filled in with gravel, and got the perching stick back into place. We still have more aquatic plants to put into place but it’s much better!

\n\"\"\n

F150

\n

If you recall, my driver side inside door handle looked like this:

\n\"\"\n

I got all the parts in on Friday. I never did find the part number for the U nut I needed. The ones I bought weren’t exactly right but they were close enough. In the end, I had to buy a different bolt and a smaller washer (total: $0.58) and temporarily remove the handle in order to get it to fit. I got to use a hand riveter for the first time and that was fun!

\n\"\"\n

I’m hoping to give the truck a really good wash tonight or tomorrow night. It’s pretty grungy and I’d like to start driving it to work. I’m not a person who cares about a spotless vehicle, but even I have a point where it starts to bother me.

\n

Scrapple

\n

The scrapple-making was a success! Rachel helped a lot, for which I’m thankful. The smell was intense in the first hour of cooking. After that, it either mellowed or I went nose-blind. David’s recipe was easy to follow and it all came together well.

\n

I fried up a piece this morning for breakfast and it was much more mild than I expected. I was expecting a very porky flavor. Tomorrow morning I’m going to experiment with a thinner slice, which is apparently less traditional. But I think I’d enjoy it better without the mushy middle that comes with the thicker slice.

\n

What a great weekend!

\n", "date_published": "2026-03-30T08:46:30-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2026/03/30/projects-update-pond-f-scrapple.html", "tags": ["Workshop","F150"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2026/03/22/projects-update-pond-f.html", "title": "Projects update: pond, F150", "content_html": "

I used to post notes about what I was working on and I’d like to get back into that habit. Not because it’s particularly noteworthy—just because I like revisiting these memories.

\n

Pond

\n

The big job this weekend was to get the pond ready for the year. Rachel did most of that work on Saturday while I piddled with other things, like building a new sugar snap pea trellis in one of the raised beds. Rachel drained the pond and power washed all the limestone. Unfortunately, after she refilled the pond, she realized the pump wasn’t working. That was a discouraging development, since that meant we would have to empty the pond by hand in order to extract the pump cord and hose from behind all the rocks. I talked her into leaving it for the next day.

\n

The next morning (today), she found that the pond was half-empty. That meant, she said, we either had helper fairies or a leak. She refilled the pond about halfway and we left to visit my mom and pick up a new pump at Lowe’s. By the time we got back, the water level had not gone down, but we also noticed that the liner looked pretty threadbare in spots. We again drained the pond, got the new pump in place, and then partially refilled it. This week she’s going to contact the pond store in Monrovia to see if they have better liner than what we got at Lowe’s when we built it a few years ago. We’re likely going to be rebuilding the whole thing at some point this week.

\n

F150

\n

I inherited from my dad a teal green 1996 Ford F150. We’ve used it a lot over the years to haul trash, dirt, and mulch, as well as move friends and family all around the county. But honestly, it’s pretty neglected. Last year, during one of my rants about “cars these days”, I realized I had a perfectly repairable pickup sitting outside. I know basically nothing about cars. At best, I can do routine maintenance. But that day I decided to learn how to work on this particular pickup. It should be relatively simple to learn; there’s plenty of room under the hood and it has power nothing. Even the windows are hand crank. I bought a Haynes repair manual and started making a list.

\n

First task: repair the driver’s side inside door handle. Right now when you want to exit the truck, you have to roll down the window and use the outside handle.

\n\"\"\n

See that torn metal? There’s supposed to be a tab there where the handle attaches. I found a reinforcement plate at broncograveyard.com that I can pop rivet over the top of that area. Apparently this is pretty common on old F150s. I ordered it plus some door panel clips today.

\n

Also, the gear shifter is sloppy. I already knew the solution here: tighten the bolt under the dash that connects to the shifter tube. Since we had been driving it a bit more lately, it had worked itself loose again. Today I read a suggestion of some blue threadlock to keep it in place. I did that a few minutes ago. Here’s hoping it holds.

\n", "date_published": "2026-03-22T18:27:28-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2026/03/22/projects-update-pond-f.html", "tags": ["Workshop","F150"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2026/03/14/garage-cleaned-and-arranged-a.html", "content_html": "

Garage cleaned and arranged! A pickup filled with trash! Some good, free stuff on the front lawn (come and get it!)! Whew, so happy to get that done. It’s been bugging me every time I pulled into the garage this past winter.

\n", "date_published": "2026-03-14T16:18:41-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2026/03/14/garage-cleaned-and-arranged-a.html", "tags": ["Workshop"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2026/01/01/made-a-small-table-out.html", "content_html": "

Made a small table out of a piece of firewood and some kindling (black walnut, I believe) that I’ll use when I have fires in the backyard. It’s the first project where I’ve made significant use of an axe and sloyd knife.

\n

\"\"\"\"

\n", "date_published": "2026-01-01T14:05:22-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2026/01/01/made-a-small-table-out.html", "tags": ["Workshop"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2025/12/27/been-having-a-good-time.html", "content_html": "

Been having a good time working on a rough table for outdoor, fireside use. This is a piece of firewood that caught my eye. Used a hatchet to trim off the bark and then a sloyd knife to clean it up. I think it’s black walnut? Creamy sapwood and chocolate brown heartwood.

\n\"\"\n", "date_published": "2025-12-27T18:09:02-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2025/12/27/been-having-a-good-time.html", "tags": ["Workshop"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2025/12/06/made-an-early-christmas-present.html", "content_html": "

Made an early Christmas present for Rachel today: an oak rolling pin. Started out square but with a saw, belt sander, draw knife, and some time, I got it functionally round.

\n

\"\"

\n", "date_published": "2025-12-06T18:19:41-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2025/12/06/made-an-early-christmas-present.html", "tags": ["Workshop"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2025/11/20/whoever-designed-the-battery-placement.html", "content_html": "

Whoever designed the battery placement on a 2014 Chevy Malibu is a malicious, hate-filled demon. Just look at how much has to be removed to get to the battery! Two and a half hours and $300 later, my daughter’s car battery has been replaced.

\n", "date_published": "2025-11-20T21:53:48-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2025/11/20/whoever-designed-the-battery-placement.html", "tags": ["Workshop"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2025/11/16/test-run-at-handdipped-candles.html", "content_html": "

Test run at hand-dipped candles, using old candle nubs and a can. Obviously greater volume of wax will be needed for proper length candles but I’d call the test successful.

\n

\n", "date_published": "2025-11-16T17:26:33-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2025/11/16/test-run-at-handdipped-candles.html", "tags": ["Workshop"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2025/10/11/ive-often-thought-of-patrickrhones.html", "content_html": "

I’ve often thought of @patrickrhone’s “master generalist” self-description. I may adapt it for myself as “master piddler.” At this moment, for instance, I’m in my garage writing this instead of working on the shadow box. Also, the greasy burger joint is about to open and I’m hungry. The box’ll wait.

\n", "date_published": "2025-10-11T10:56:07-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2025/10/11/ive-often-thought-of-patrickrhones.html", "tags": ["Workshop"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2025/10/04/i-completed-a-spirit-house.html", "content_html": "

I completed a spirit house today. Inspired by (but not intended to be exactly like) Thai spirit houses, this will be our shrine to the spirits of place.

\n\"\"\n", "date_published": "2025-10-04T17:04:25-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2025/10/04/i-completed-a-spirit-house.html", "tags": ["Workshop"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2025/04/16/one-of-my-projects-for.html", "content_html": "

One of my projects for next week’s vacation is to restore an old chair. The seat will need caning, and I plan to have an Amish shop do that part. I’ll do the cleanup, repair (if needed), and painting. I’ll be using milk paint for the first time.

\n", "date_published": "2025-04-16T07:53:46-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2025/04/16/one-of-my-projects-for.html", "tags": ["Workshop"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2025/02/28/spring-is-coming-and-im.html", "title": "Spring is coming and I'm making lists", "content_html": "

Also, I’m putting off reviewing financial reporting this morning.

\n

Projects to complete in the next couple of weeks:

\n\n

Projects to complete over the course of the summer:

\n\n

Warm weather explorations:

\n\n

Skills to build:

\n\n

Oh, I could go on but I really need to start reviewing those reports…

\n", "date_published": "2025-02-28T11:29:04-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2025/02/28/spring-is-coming-and-im.html", "tags": ["Workshop","Gardening"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2024/10/26/i-mentioned-a.html", "content_html": "

I mentioned a few weeks ago that a neighborhood cat has taken up residence in our backyard. Today I built him a house out of (mostly) scrap. We put a brooder heater in there to keep him warmish over winter.

\n\"\"\n", "date_published": "2024-10-26T17:17:31-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2024/10/26/i-mentioned-a.html", "tags": ["Workshop"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2024/10/24/repaired-and-refinished.html", "content_html": "

Repaired and refinished a cedar chest I picked up over the summer.

\n

Before:\n\"Auto-generated

\n

After:\n\"Auto-generated

\n", "date_published": "2024-10-24T17:31:37-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2024/10/24/repaired-and-refinished.html", "tags": ["Workshop"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2024/10/17/rachel-has-more.html", "content_html": "

Rachel has more or less finished the floor refinishing project. I think it looks wonderful! She also made herself a great reading corner.

\n

\"\"\"\"

\n", "date_published": "2024-10-17T20:37:37-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2024/10/17/rachel-has-more.html", "tags": ["Workshop"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2024/10/04/rachel-continues-to.html", "content_html": "

Rachel continues to do great work on the floors. The living room is now done; we can start moving furniture back in by Monday. The floor is pine, which is notorious for rough grain and not taking stain evenly. Some people say it’s a mistake to stain pine but I think it looks great. Another thing about pine: it turns orange as it ages. In our case that means our stain—Minwax “early American” which is brown—actually ended up looking more red. Two coats of polyurethane as a finish.

\n

\"\"\"\"

\n", "date_published": "2024-10-04T12:41:11-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2024/10/04/rachel-continues-to.html", "tags": ["Workshop"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2024/09/07/id-like-to.html", "content_html": "

I’d like to find out more about this Divine Glory brand sandpaper I pulled off this old belt sander but all the search results are Christian allegories.

\n\"\"\n", "date_published": "2024-09-07T13:06:24-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2024/09/07/id-like-to.html", "tags": ["Workshop"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2024/08/25/as-of-yesterday.html", "content_html": "

As of yesterday, I finished my two big summer projects: refinish my in-laws’ dining set and build a cabinet for a friend. Today I cleaned and organized the garage, which was getting quite out of hand while I was working on those projects.

\n

My remaining to-do list:

\n\n

Plans for next projects:

\n\n", "date_published": "2024-08-25T15:20:51-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2024/08/25/as-of-yesterday.html", "tags": ["Workshop"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2024/08/24/a-few-months.html", "content_html": "

A few months ago, a very generous friend decided to give me some of his grandfather’s tools: a bench grinder, a small drill press, and a benchtop disc sander.

\n

All he asked in return was an open-front, mobile cabinet that he could use in his garage and for cookouts. He already had a countertop. So I built it of birch plywood and added four lockable wheels and adjustable shelves.

\n\"Auto-generated\r\n

I also surprised him with a memorial to his grandfather burned inside the cabinet.

\n\"Auto-generated\r\n

I experimented with burning through the paint on some scrap and it looked okay but it also had a decent chance of going wrong. I decided to leave it unpainted and then finished the spot with some spray polyurethane for protection.

\n

Here it is in its new home

\n\"Auto-generated\r\n", "date_published": "2024-08-24T19:57:45-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2024/08/24/a-few-months.html", "tags": ["Workshop"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2024/08/16/bad-news-i.html", "content_html": "

Bad news: I got a minor cut from one of my chisels. Good news: I’ve successfully put a sharp edge on a chisel.

\n", "date_published": "2024-08-16T10:42:54-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2024/08/16/bad-news-i.html", "tags": ["Workshop"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2024/08/12/over-the-weekend.html", "content_html": "

Over the weekend, Rachel harvested 3.5 pounds of Concord grapes and made jelly! I’m having some on biscuits now. So cool!

\n", "date_published": "2024-08-12T07:29:03-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2024/08/12/over-the-weekend.html", "tags": ["Workshop","Gardening"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2024/08/11/easily-my-favorite.html", "content_html": "

Easily my favorite, most used flea market tool is a Klein folding rule. Sturdy, compact, and better than a tape measure in several ways. And the solid feel when each section snaps into place is satisfying. 😄

\n\"\"\n", "date_published": "2024-08-11T08:16:01-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2024/08/11/easily-my-favorite.html", "tags": ["Workshop"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2024/07/25/two-unlikely-dreams.html", "content_html": "

Two unlikely dreams re: the Bedford pie safe:

\n
    \n
  1. Acquire one of the 16-20 known to exist and preserve it. Something this unique shouldn’t be allowed to vanish.
    2. \n
  2. Build a reproduction. I will never have the skill of an actual 19th century professional cabinetmaker but it would be a heck of a project.
    3. \n
\n", "date_published": "2024-07-25T17:00:54-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2024/07/25/two-unlikely-dreams.html", "tags": ["Workshop"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2024/07/24/pickled-some-banana.html", "content_html": "

Pickled some banana peppers tonight. Should be about a week until they’re ready to eat.

\n\"\"\n", "date_published": "2024-07-24T19:46:56-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2024/07/24/pickled-some-banana.html", "tags": ["Workshop"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2024/07/19/work-has-begun.html", "content_html": "

Work has begun on my next project: building a cabinet for a friend. It’s in trade for some of his grandpa’s tools. He already had the countertop so I’m building the carcass and attaching it.

\n\"\"\n", "date_published": "2024-07-19T15:34:23-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2024/07/19/work-has-begun.html", "tags": ["Workshop"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2024/07/16/before-and-after.html", "content_html": "

Before and after on the table and chairs refinishing project for my in-laws. I have one chair (not shown) I’m going to start over. Apart from that, I think I’m done.

\n

Before:

\n\"Auto-generated\n\"Auto-generated\n\"Auto-generated\n

After:

\n\"Auto-generated\n\"Auto-generated\n", "date_published": "2024-07-16T07:08:27-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2024/07/16/before-and-after.html", "tags": ["Workshop"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2024/07/15/i-mentioned-recently.html", "content_html": "

I mentioned recently that this apocalyptic humidity is wreaking havoc on the finish on the table and chairs I’m working on. The lovely and talented Rachel came up with a great solution: finish them in her parents’ garage, which is climate controlled. They agreed and the finish is looking better.

\n", "date_published": "2024-07-15T06:33:09-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2024/07/15/i-mentioned-recently.html", "tags": ["Workshop"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2024/07/12/this-humidity-were.html", "content_html": "

This humidity we’re having. My in-laws want a polyurethane finish on their table and chairs. When I spray a coat on a chair it goes cloudy. (I’m doing this in my detached garage with no AC.) So I’ve brought a chair in to my nasty but climate controlled basement and will try it there. Fingers crossed

\n", "date_published": "2024-07-12T07:43:58-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2024/07/12/this-humidity-were.html", "tags": ["Workshop"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2024/07/11/im-nearing-the.html", "content_html": "

I’m nearing the end of the table and chairs restoration project for my in-laws. It’s taking me a long time—thankfully they’re not in a hurry. I’ve had to learn a lot as I go. But now that I can see the end, I’m planning more restorations. Like this rocker. Looks like I’ll be learning rush weaving!

\n\"\"\n", "date_published": "2024-07-11T15:54:53-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2024/07/11/im-nearing-the.html", "tags": ["Workshop"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2024/07/08/as-if-i.html", "content_html": "

As if I wasn’t already behind on my projects, I picked up a chair today for $5. I don’t know anything about identifying chair styles or age. Obviously that square of wood nailed to the top of the seat isn’t original. Maybe it used to have a drop in seat or was a rush seat?

\n

\"\"\"\"\"\"\"\"\"\"

\n", "date_published": "2024-07-08T16:51:11-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2024/07/08/as-if-i.html", "tags": ["Workshop"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2024/07/05/from-american-peasant.html", "content_html": "

From American Peasant, a new book by Christopher Schwarz:

\n
\n

So then, what does the craft [of woodworking] demand? 1) An understanding of its essential tools, materials and processes; 2) a commitment to repeating them until they are internalized and performed competently; and 3) a level of competence that allows its knowledge and skills to be taught to others.

\n

And no more.

\n

The craft welcomes you. And it begs you to find your place in it. To unearth a little bit of its history, embrace it and share it with others before we are drowned in a sea of plastic and petroleum by-products.

\n
\n", "date_published": "2024-07-05T08:02:30-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2024/07/05/from-american-peasant.html", "tags": ["Workshop","Quote posts"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2024/06/23/went-to-my.html", "content_html": "

Went to my favorite junk store and spent a total of $11 for a Winchester and a Blue Grass brace bit plus a Klein folding ruler. I’ve been picking up any Blue Grass tools I can find, mostly because they were based in Louisville (less than two hours from here).

\n

\"\"\"\"

\n", "date_published": "2024-06-23T09:04:02-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2024/06/23/went-to-my.html", "tags": ["Workshop"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2024/06/12/robin-wall-kimmerer.html", "content_html": "

Robin Wall Kimmerer:

\n
\n

The animacy of the world is something we already know, but the language of animacy teeters on extinction—not just for Native peoples, but for everyone. Our toddlers speak of plants and animals as if they were people, extending to them self and intention and compassion—until we teach them not to. We quickly retrain them and make them forget. When we tell them that the tree is not a who, but an it, we make that maple an object; we put a barrier between us, absolving ourselves of moral responsibility and opening the door to exploitation. Saying it makes a living land into “natural resources.” If a maple is an it, we can take up the chain saw. If a maple is a her, we think twice.

\n
\n

Note that she says “we think twice”—because we do in fact sometimes take up the chainsaw.

\n

I believe this is what a truly functional animism offers over generic environmentalism. The latter too often drifts into the idea that the world would be better without humans. It’s too cause and effect—rooted in dead materialism—where animism is more relationship focused.

\n

When I was a vegan, I came across that sort of environmentalism. To clarify, I’m talking about ethical, animal rights-style veganism—not the sort that seems to be a current diet fad.

\n

What ultimately turned me away from ethical veganism was the realization that it is utterly unnatural—that predation is at the heart of the living world. In short, the ethical veganism I was familiar with at the time needed a strong dose of animism.

\n

Back to the chainsaw, one of the questions that first confronted me when I started woodworking was how to square it with my values. How can a self-confessed tree-hugger build things from intentionally killed trees? I believe the answer has to do with the long-standing relationship between humans and trees and humanity’s role as a beautifier and craftsman.

\n

As with humans eating animals, there are two opposing but complementary mistakes with regard to trees. One is that humans must never cut down trees and the other is that trees are “natural resources” that must be “managed.” The mistakes are complementary because they forget relationship, in opposite directions. Humans and trees, however, have had a long, mutually beneficial relationship.

\n

What would an animist woodworking practice look like? I have a few preliminary ideas, which I will continue trying to integrate into my life. Such a practice might:

\n\n

Early on in my gardening experience (2020 or 2021, probably), I was working on something in the raised beds and worried about killing some creature as I worked. At the time, the pendulum was obviously swinging a bit too far in one direction. The thought occurred to me, “We cannot be precious about death.” This arrested the swing of the pendulum.

\n

Death is a part of life; in fact, it is necessary for its continuance. A healthy perspective–whether it’s animist or whatever perspective is most meaningful to you–takes this into consideration. There is no standpoint of purity; we’re all guilty of violence, one way or another. In a properly constituted relationship, however, the violence is not psychologically repressed. It is understood, and made whole by reciprocity and sacrifice.

\n", "date_published": "2024-06-12T12:48:30-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2024/06/12/robin-wall-kimmerer.html", "tags": ["Workshop","Longer writing"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2024/06/10/ive-just-sent.html", "content_html": "

I’ve just sent a chair restoration question to Tom Johnson of Thomas Johnson Antique Furniture Restoration in Gorham, Maine. (If you were a fan of his channel, you’d find that funny.) I edited the message a few times to tone down the fanboy. But, really, I find him very inspirational.

\n", "date_published": "2024-06-10T11:42:01-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2024/06/10/ive-just-sent.html", "tags": ["Workshop"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2024/06/08/i-got-a.html", "content_html": "

I got a bit aggressive while sanding off the old finish and it introduced a waviness to one side of the table, which became obvious after I applied a finish. Today I’m going to sand that down and try again. My goal for this weekend is to completely finish the table and get started on the chairs.

\n\"\"\n", "date_published": "2024-06-08T09:24:36-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2024/06/08/i-got-a.html", "tags": ["Workshop"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2024/05/27/rachels-dad-was.html", "content_html": "

Rachel’s dad was cleaning out his garage and offered me this rickety workbench. I took it home and built a new top for it out of some salvaged studs from a hundred year old house. I fastened it to the wall and now it’s solid and serviceable.

\n

\"\"\"\"

\n", "date_published": "2024-05-27T18:18:05-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2024/05/27/rachels-dad-was.html", "tags": ["Workshop"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2024/05/23/its-been-a.html", "content_html": "

It’s been a frustrating few days trying to get the finish right on this leaf of my in-laws’ table—and I still don’t have it right. But I’ve learned a lot more about finishes and techniques so 🤷‍♂️

\n", "date_published": "2024-05-23T19:29:58-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2024/05/23/its-been-a.html", "tags": ["Workshop"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2024/05/13/one-of-my.html", "content_html": "

One of my finds from my Friday drive was a Stanley no. 80 cabinet scraper. $15, which I thought was a pretty good price for one in such good condition. There was minor rusting on the hardware that came right off after a few hours in vinegar. Replacement blade coming from Lee Valley Tools.

\n

\"\"\"\"\n\"\"

\n", "date_published": "2024-05-13T10:52:58-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2024/05/13/one-of-my.html", "tags": ["Workshop"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2024/05/05/a-good-weekend.html", "content_html": "

A good weekend for cheap, reused stuff:

\n
    \n
  1. I came across a thrift/junk store (location: secret) with a large selection of old tools. I didn’t have time to look around much but I will go back next weekend.
    2. \n
  2. My in-laws gave me a couple of old garage cabinets. Ain’t nothing fancy—but it freed up a lot of room.
    3. \n
  3. An acquaintance gave us one of those roller composters. We’ve struggled with that kind of composting in the past but we’ll definitely try it again for free.
    4. \n
  4. We found a bathroom cabinet for $10 in good condition. Rachel has had an eye out for one for a long time. Minor repairs, replaced a bit of hardware, painted it black.
    5. \n
\n", "date_published": "2024-05-05T17:33:07-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2024/05/05/a-good-weekend.html", "tags": ["Workshop","Gardening"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2024/04/06/i-built-a.html", "content_html": "

I built a serving tray out of a gate I found alongside the road a few weeks ago. Plenty of flaws, but it was fun.

\n

\"\"\"\"

\n", "date_published": "2024-04-06T16:10:54-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2024/04/06/i-built-a.html", "tags": ["Workshop"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2024/03/24/door-is-done.html", "content_html": "

Door is done! Now everything around it needs new paint.

\n\"\"\n", "date_published": "2024-03-24T16:46:41-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2024/03/24/door-is-done.html", "tags": ["Workshop"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2024/03/20/new-video-screen.html", "content_html": "

New video: Screen door, before painting.

\n", "date_published": "2024-03-20T18:32:52-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2024/03/20/new-video-screen.html", "tags": ["Workshop","Videos"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2024/03/16/im-hoping-to.html", "content_html": "

I’m hoping to finish the screen door today. This morning I’ve been planing it to size. Maybe I’m sorta kinda almost maybe figuring out how to use planes? Also smoking pork spare ribs on the grill for the first time. And listening to a red-shouldered hawk make its way around the neighborhood.

\n\"\"\n", "date_published": "2024-03-16T12:01:36-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2024/03/16/im-hoping-to.html", "tags": ["Workshop"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2024/03/10/no-one-is.html", "content_html": "

No one is more surprised than me that the screen door I’m building is square and the half-lap joints are mostly okay. Tomorrow I’ll put dowels in the joints.

\n\"\"\n", "date_published": "2024-03-10T16:00:58-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2024/03/10/no-one-is.html", "tags": ["Workshop"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2024/03/07/rex-krueger-says.html", "content_html": "

Rex Krueger says “don’t measure”—and I’m trying to live by that as I build a new screen door for our back porch. I was recently burned by over-reliance on a tape measure when building a garage shelf.

\n", "date_published": "2024-03-07T09:56:57-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2024/03/07/rex-krueger-says.html", "tags": ["Workshop"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2024/02/24/i-have-a.html", "content_html": "

I have a very special sweetgum tree in my yard. I’ll tell you the story sometime. But it does require a lot of raking: we fill a few of these barrels with their spiky seed pods every year.

\n\"\"\n", "date_published": "2024-02-24T14:44:46-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2024/02/24/i-have-a.html", "tags": ["Workshop"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2024/02/14/after-our-mishap.html", "content_html": "

After our mishap last weekend, we got the new part in today and now we have a working stove.

\n", "date_published": "2024-02-14T14:35:44-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2024/02/14/after-our-mishap.html", "tags": ["Workshop"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2024/02/06/well-other-projects.html", "content_html": "

Well, other projects have been put on hold since our screen door has gone from “let’s fix that this spring” to “it’s falling apart in our hands.” So I’m going to attempt (something like) Tommy Silva’s design.

\n

I cleaned up a couple of pieces of that century-old trim I picked up from my in-law’s remodel last year:

\n\"\"\n

Those will be the rails. I’ll have to buy some lumber for the stiles since I don’t already have anything long enough.

\n

Also, I found this gate on the sidewalk beside a trash barrel. I’ll take it apart and find some use for it!

\n\"\"\n", "date_published": "2024-02-06T19:56:17-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2024/02/06/well-other-projects.html", "tags": ["Workshop"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2024/01/14/im-disappointed-that.html", "content_html": "

I’m disappointed that it’s too cold to be in my garage working on my weekend project but I’m going to console myself with a big breakfast for lunch and reading Wendell Berry this afternoon. I’ve nearly finished Nathan Coulter.

\n", "date_published": "2024-01-14T11:54:06-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2024/01/14/im-disappointed-that.html", "tags": ["Workshop"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2024/01/11/i-have-my.html", "content_html": "

I have my weekend project: a router sled. Attempting to surface my low bench with a hand plane didn’t work for a few reasons and it beat the hell out of the blade because the bench is built from rough old lumber. This will allow me to keep moving on the project and make plane adjustments later.

\n", "date_published": "2024-01-11T21:32:39-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2024/01/11/i-have-my.html", "tags": ["Workshop"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2024/01/07/woodworking-notes.html", "title": "Woodworking notes 1/7/2024", "content_html": "

Well it’s been about ten months since the last of these. I continued building things in 2023 but just didn’t keep track of them in this format:

\n\n

So what did I do this weekend?

\n\n

\"\"

\n\n", "date_published": "2024-01-07T19:17:34-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2024/01/07/woodworking-notes.html", "tags": ["Workshop"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2023/12/24/my-first-attempt.html", "content_html": "

My first attempt at a Black Forest cake won’t win me a spot on the Great British Baking Show—but hopefully it tastes good at lunch tomorrow.

\n\"\"\n", "date_published": "2023-12-24T20:00:15-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2023/12/24/my-first-attempt.html", "tags": ["Workshop"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2023/12/23/todays-task-black.html", "content_html": "

Today’s task: Black Forest cake for Christmas lunch. None of the elements seem particularly difficult but the decoration will be something more than I’ve ever attempted. Also, what do we think about freezing it until Sunday night? Would that harm it in any way?

\n", "date_published": "2023-12-23T10:22:29-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2023/12/23/todays-task-black.html", "tags": ["Workshop"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2023/11/11/i-made-indian.html", "content_html": "

I made Indian Pudding and whipped cream. (Not exactly the most accurate or sensitive name for it.) It’s pretty good! The molasses makes it taste old-fashioned, so maybe not for everyone. Rachel says it tastes like the Depression. 😂

\n\"\"\n", "date_published": "2023-11-11T17:58:59-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2023/11/11/i-made-indian.html", "tags": ["Workshop"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2023/10/25/speak-softly-and.html", "content_html": "

Speak softly and carry a big stick. (I cut a limb from a recent oak fall and now I’m lugging it back home to make a walking stick.)

\n\"\"\n", "date_published": "2023-10-25T19:58:39-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2023/10/25/speak-softly-and.html", "tags": ["Workshop"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2023/10/14/i-built-a.html", "content_html": "

I built a candlestick out of a limb that fell from our sweetgum tree in the front yard. The base is made from salvaged door trim. I was slightly concerned that it would catch fire, but so far so good.

\n

\"\"\"\"

\n", "date_published": "2023-10-14T20:10:21-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2023/10/14/i-built-a.html", "tags": ["Workshop"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2023/10/08/i-believe-these.html", "content_html": "

I believe these are red oak acorns. Whether they are or not, I’m processing them using these old farmers almanac instructions.

\n\"\"\n", "date_published": "2023-10-08T19:04:14-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2023/10/08/i-believe-these.html", "tags": ["Workshop"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2023/09/25/rachel-made-persimmon.html", "content_html": "

Rachel made persimmon drop cookies!

\n\"\"\n", "date_published": "2023-09-25T14:41:46-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2023/09/25/rachel-made-persimmon.html", "tags": ["Workshop"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2023/08/30/my-make-things.html", "content_html": "

My “make things, not content” t-shirt gets a surprising number of compliments. The number of people who see the sickness in the usual mode of life online and the need for a more embodied experience is not small.

\n", "date_published": "2023-08-30T12:47:21-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2023/08/30/my-make-things.html", "tags": ["Workshop"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2023/08/12/made-a-pasta.html", "content_html": "

Made a pasta tree for Rachel to dry her homemade pasta.

\n\"Sixteen\n", "date_published": "2023-08-12T12:39:42-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2023/08/12/made-a-pasta.html", "tags": ["Workshop"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2023/07/27/rachel-made-a.html", "content_html": "

Rachel made a zucchini pie and–you know what?–it’s really good. (Y’all, we have so many zucchinis.)

\n", "date_published": "2023-07-27T14:41:18-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2023/07/27/rachel-made-a.html", "tags": ["Workshop"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2023/07/23/you-know-what.html", "content_html": "

You know what? The pickled kale is fantastic. Crisp and sweet and sour. It would be good on sandwiches or just by itself. Good use of a pound of kale from your garden.

\n\"\"\n", "date_published": "2023-07-23T09:13:28-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2023/07/23/you-know-what.html", "tags": ["Workshop"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2023/07/22/today-pulling-nails.html", "content_html": "

Today: pulling nails on salvaged, century-old 2x4s and listening to Colter Wall’s new album Little Songs.

\n", "date_published": "2023-07-22T10:06:21-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2023/07/22/today-pulling-nails.html", "tags": ["Workshop"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2023/07/21/attempting-pickled-kale.html", "content_html": "

Attempting pickled kale, using this recipe. I added two cloves of garlic and a jalapeño. Now it sits in the refrigerator for two days.

\n\"Glass\n", "date_published": "2023-07-21T08:16:52-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2023/07/21/attempting-pickled-kale.html", "tags": ["Workshop"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2023/07/15/make-your-own.html", "content_html": "

Make your own toothpaste: 4 tbsp melted coconut oil, 3 tbsp baking soda, 3 tbsp bentonite clay, 10-20 drops peppermint essential oil. Reduces plastic use when compared to standard toothpaste. And fewer chemicals, if that’s a concern.

\n\"Containers\n", "date_published": "2023-07-15T17:50:07-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2023/07/15/make-your-own.html", "tags": ["Workshop"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2023/07/10/plans-for-my.html", "content_html": "

Plans for my next woodworking project:

\n\n", "date_published": "2023-07-10T10:24:12-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2023/07/10/plans-for-my.html", "tags": ["Workshop"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2023/07/09/inspired-by-this.html", "content_html": "

Inspired by this video from Rex Krueger, I decided my best way into hand planing would be to go cheap and put some work into making them better. Coincidentally, I won a Target gift card in a contest at work, which I used on the two inexpensive Stanley planes on the ends. Then I went to an auction and got the three in the middle for a few dollars. So now I’ll be following Rex’s instructions on getting them set up and sharpened.

\n\"\"\n", "date_published": "2023-07-09T12:50:10-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2023/07/09/inspired-by-this.html", "tags": ["Workshop"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2023/07/05/using-apocalyptic-sunbeams.html", "content_html": "

Using apocalyptic sunbeams to make tea.

\n\"\"\n", "date_published": "2023-07-05T15:39:51-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2023/07/05/using-apocalyptic-sunbeams.html", "tags": ["Workshop"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2023/07/04/i-had-a.html", "content_html": "

I had a four day weekend due to Independence Day and I spent it closing in about half of the open stud walls in my garage. It was about a million degrees so I got impatient a few times and made some obvious mistakes, but I also learned a bit and now have wall space to build cabinets and hang tools.

\n", "date_published": "2023-07-04T17:53:30-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2023/07/04/i-had-a.html", "tags": ["Workshop"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2023/06/24/todays-smoothie-consists.html", "content_html": "

Today’s smoothie consists of greens and mint from the garden (left) and raspberries and chicory flowers gathered from the trail near my house (right). Turns out not too pretty, but tasty!

\n\"\"\n", "date_published": "2023-06-24T11:56:28-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2023/06/24/todays-smoothie-consists.html", "tags": ["Workshop"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2023/06/18/one-of-my.html", "content_html": "

One of my favorite tools: my dad’s Petersen Manufacturing (Dewitt, Nebraska) Vise Grips, complete with his initials etched into it. He worked as a signal maintainer for the railroad in my early childhood—a job he was always proud of. His work there ended when he seriously injured his back.

\n

\"Vise\"Vise

\n", "date_published": "2023-06-18T10:59:40-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2023/06/18/one-of-my.html", "tags": ["Workshop"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2023/06/17/the-previous-owner.html", "content_html": "

The previous owner of my house left behind some heavy duty Lyon shelving in the garage. It is a heap of trouble to disassemble and reconfigure but I’m going to hold onto it because it’s older than me and will probably outlast me.

\n\"\"\n", "date_published": "2023-06-17T19:06:24-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2023/06/17/the-previous-owner.html", "tags": ["Workshop"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2023/06/03/i-rescued-a.html", "content_html": "

I rescued a good bit of old trim from a nearby remodel. It was just going to go into the trash! It’s basically identical to the beautiful old trim on our house. I think I could make some nice small pieces (boxes, picture frames, etc) from this stack. But holy crap they loved to drive the nails.

\n\"\"\n", "date_published": "2023-06-03T13:02:08-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2023/06/03/i-rescued-a.html", "tags": ["Workshop"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2023/05/30/one-last-picture.html", "content_html": "

One last picture of the completed project. It’s definitely utilitarian carpentry but it solves a few problems for us. Rachel put some struggling spinach plants in it for the time being but I doubt they’ll recover as the heat ramps up.

\n\"\"\n", "date_published": "2023-05-30T16:16:59-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2023/05/30/one-last-picture.html", "tags": ["Workshop"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2023/05/29/now-it-just.html", "content_html": "

Now it just needs a few pieces of trim, some paint, and a pile of dirt. I’ll post a final picture once it is finished and planted.

\n\"\"\n", "date_published": "2023-05-29T14:20:10-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2023/05/29/now-it-just.html", "tags": ["Workshop"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2023/05/28/the-supervisor-inspecting.html", "content_html": "

The supervisor inspecting our work. He has requested that we use the space to plant peanuts.

\n\"\"\n", "date_published": "2023-05-28T14:53:07-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2023/05/28/the-supervisor-inspecting.html", "tags": ["Workshop"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2023/05/28/work-on-the.html", "content_html": "

Work on the raised bed within the back deck has begun in earnest.

\n\"\"\n", "date_published": "2023-05-28T12:10:18-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2023/05/28/work-on-the.html", "tags": ["Workshop"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2023/05/26/i-may-attempt.html", "content_html": "

I may attempt this wall mounted tool chest from the New Yankee Workshop someday–but, of more general interest, it begins with one of the best looks at the famous Studley Tool Chest I’ve seen online. It’s an absolute gem of design and craftsmanship.

\n", "date_published": "2023-05-26T08:07:03-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2023/05/26/i-may-attempt.html", "tags": ["Workshop"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2023/03/27/woodworking-notes.html", "title": "Woodworking notes 3/27/2023", "content_html": "

\"\"

\n\n", "date_published": "2023-03-27T11:05:03-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2023/03/27/woodworking-notes.html", "tags": ["Workshop"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2023/03/15/finally-completed-and.html", "content_html": "

The bookcase is finally completed and set in its corner of the dining room where I work. I’ve placed on it a mix of things I need every day and things I need to see every day. On the bottom shelf is a blanket made for me by Rachel. Also, my ten key that’s been my accounting companion for over twenty years.

\n

\"\"

\n", "date_published": "2023-03-15T19:04:48-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2023/03/15/finally-completed-and.html", "tags": ["Workshop"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2023/03/15/build-things-not.html", "content_html": "

Build things, not content.

\n", "date_published": "2023-03-15T09:01:44-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2023/03/15/build-things-not.html", "tags": ["Workshop"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2023/03/14/woodworking-notes.html", "title": "Woodworking notes 3/14/2023", "content_html": "\n", "date_published": "2023-03-14T10:53:56-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2023/03/14/woodworking-notes.html", "tags": ["Workshop"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2023/02/18/proof-of-concept.html", "content_html": "

\"\"

\n

\"\"

\n

Proof of concept for some shoe boxes I’m making for Rachel.

\n", "date_published": "2023-02-18T20:33:20-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2023/02/18/proof-of-concept.html", "tags": ["Workshop"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2023/02/14/woodworking-notes.html", "title": "Woodworking notes 2/14/2023", "content_html": "

\"\"

\n\n", "date_published": "2023-02-14T17:00:02-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2023/02/14/woodworking-notes.html", "tags": ["Workshop"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2023/02/06/woodworking-notes.html", "title": "Woodworking notes 2/6/2023", "content_html": "\n

\"\"

\n", "date_published": "2023-02-06T11:03:55-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2023/02/06/woodworking-notes.html", "tags": ["Workshop"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2023/01/29/dana-odriscoll-writes.html", "content_html": "

Dana O’Driscoll writes about “The Way of Wood”—about humanity’s interaction with wood, the loss of that interaction, and ways to find our way back to it.

\n", "date_published": "2023-01-29T09:40:22-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2023/01/29/dana-odriscoll-writes.html", "tags": ["Workshop"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2023/01/21/i-finished-a.html", "content_html": "

I finished a wooden mallet today with some scrap leather on the ends. It’s very amateurish but I am an amateur.

\n

\"\"

\n

\"\"

\n", "date_published": "2023-01-21T19:18:16-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2023/01/21/i-finished-a.html", "tags": ["Workshop"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2022/12/27/the-nowtime-of.html", "title": "The now-time of the hands", "content_html": "

Caroline Ross:

\n
\n

When we cannot touch, cannot be held, do not regularly make things with our hands, work so hard that we do not have time to press seeds into the ground in a garden, nor to sew the button back on our shirt, which is so cheaply made we throw it away rather than invest our precious finger-tip-time, which anyway we must keep sacred for our devices… We no longer settle into the never ending now-time of the hands. And thus, with a cold excision, we are severed from the real.

\n
\n

One of the requirements to move beyond the candidate stage in the AODA is to spend at least twenty hours learning a new creative practice. Woodworking is something that I’ve been considering off and on for a while, so this seemed as good a time as any to start.

\n

I say I’ve been considering it off and on for a while–and the reason I haven’t started before now is the cost and noise and danger of so many electric woodworking machines. That’s why I’ve been attracted recently to more traditional woodworking with hand tools. That’s not to say I won’t be using machines, of course. Some machines perform their functions both safely and efficiently and it would seem masochistic to do without them. The balance of the work, though, I would like to do by hand.

\n

My hope is that woodworking–particularly woodworking in a more patient, traditional way–will help me find the “now-time of the hands.” To occasionally move out of abstraction and into the real and tangible world.

\n", "date_published": "2022-12-27T11:04:20-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2022/12/27/the-nowtime-of.html", "tags": ["Workshop"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2022/12/21/happy-winter-solstice.html", "content_html": "

Happy winter solstice! I went into the woods yesterday intending to cut a larger Yule log from a downed tree but working with a hand saw lowers your expectations. 😂

\n

\"\"

\n", "date_published": "2022-12-21T09:54:42-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2022/12/21/happy-winter-solstice.html", "tags": ["Workshop"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2022/12/13/im-making-fire.html", "content_html": "

\"\"

\n

I’m making fire cider in an attempt to beat back all the sickness going around right now. Unfortunately it won’t be ready for a couple of weeks. Anyone ever tried this stuff?

\n", "date_published": "2022-12-13T20:46:18-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2022/12/13/im-making-fire.html", "tags": ["Workshop"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2022/11/23/floofy-pie.html", "title": "Floofy Pie", "content_html": "

\"\"

\n

Rachel and I made Julia Child’s “Fluffy Pumpkin Pie”—which will forevermore be called Floofy Pie in our house. Rachel used Julia Child’s pie crust recipe and it was outstanding. We used fresh pumpkin instead of canned and this, I believe, was the source of the only problem we had: too much liquid. The pie did firm up but the bottom crust wasn’t as dry as we’d like. Cooked, not raw, but also not dry. The finished filling was also a little looser than it should be. So next time (which may be today) we will strain the cooked pumpkin to dry it out. If we can get that right, this will be a truly perfect pumpkin pie.

\n", "date_published": "2022-11-23T10:40:19-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2022/11/23/floofy-pie.html", "tags": ["Workshop"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2022/11/16/the-best-hot.html", "title": "The best hot chocolate", "content_html": "

Makes two servings of rich, not overly sweet, hot chocolate. You’ll never use those packages of hot chocolate mix again.

\n\n
    \n
  1. Mix sugar, cocoa, salt, and hot water in a sauce pan.
    2. \n
  2. Stir frequently (and into the “corners” of the sauce pan because the cocoa will want to clump there) until mixture comes just to a boil.
    3. \n
  3. Add milk and stir until steaming hot but not boiling. Stand there and watch it. Think about something. Don’t pick up your phone.
    4. \n
  4. Remove from heat, add vanilla and (optional) liqueur. Alternately, the liqueur can be added to individual mugs after step five.
    5. \n
  5. Whisk until frothy.
    6. \n
\n", "date_published": "2022-11-16T12:30:33-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2022/11/16/the-best-hot.html", "tags": ["Workshop"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2022/05/29/i-made-some.html", "content_html": "

\"\"

\n

I made some pawpaw muffins this morning using this recipe. I would have liked them to have a stronger pawpaw flavor, so maybe the pulp should be increased. (I cut everything in half because I didn’t have enough unfrozen pulp to make the whole recipe.) The recipe is actually for bread but I had a notion to make muffins instead so I used this article as a reference for how to convert a quick bread recipe into muffins — basically increase the heat and decrease the time.

\n

Pawpaws are the largest edible fruit native to North America. They’re often described as a mix of banana and mango flavors. This National Park Service article describes the tree and fruit and says the trees are becoming increasingly dominant in the understory because deer do not like them. An interesting case of the interrelatedness of the ecosystem: as deer population increases due to a decrease in predators, pawpaw trees increase because deer don’t eat them and instead eat other species. As pawpaw trees increase, the NPS says, the forest canopy may become more patchy or shorten (see the article for the reasons why).

\n", "date_published": "2022-05-29T08:00:42-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2022/05/29/i-made-some.html", "tags": ["Workshop"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2022/04/26/homebrew-the-second.html", "content_html": "

HOMEBREW 2, the second mailing of what I’m grandiosely calling an analog media project, was dropped off at the post office today. If you’re interested, you can see pdf scans and/or find out how to sign up for mailing list on this page.

\n\"\"\n", "date_published": "2022-04-26T18:30:25-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2022/04/26/homebrew-the-second.html", "tags": ["Workshop"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2022/04/11/122934.html", "content_html": "\"\"\n", "date_published": "2022-04-11T12:29:34-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2022/04/11/122934.html", "tags": ["Workshop"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2022/04/04/looky-what-i.html", "content_html": "

Looky what I got today. I believe it’s a Royal Empress. Once the ribbon arrives I can start clacking out all sorts of words.

\n\"\"\n", "date_published": "2022-04-04T13:17:25-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2022/04/04/looky-what-i.html", "tags": ["Workshop"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2022/03/30/ive-kept-a.html", "content_html": "\nI've kept a very inconsistent journal since 2006, beginning with my first Father's Day. I wish I had written more consistently, but I still managed to get a lot down.\n

After reading this post by Patrick Rhone (others have also talked about this but I can’t find it right now), I decided that I needed to print whatever I really wanted to keep. So I collected my journals, a few social media posts, and some other miscellaneous writing into roughly equal documents. Then I printed them and created four saddle-stitched books. I’ve left them in a pretty rough-and-ready state because I like the DIY look.

\n", "date_published": "2022-03-30T17:15:18-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2022/03/30/ive-kept-a.html", "tags": ["Memories","Workshop"] }, { "id": "http://jabel.micro.blog/2022/01/30/plans-for-the.html", "content_html": "

Plans for the next issue involve cardboard and spray paint.

\n\"\"\n", "date_published": "2022-01-30T18:19:53-04:00", "url": "https://jabel.blog/2022/01/30/plans-for-the.html", "tags": ["Workshop"] } ] }