Precision Sawing with Christopher Schwarz
Tools, materials and information
 

Supplies and Equipment Required:
The instructor will supply precut stock to build the sawbench and bench hook. The materials fee is included in the tuition.

Saws required:
While you can use Japanese or Western saws for this class, I personally prefer Western saws because the teeth are more durable, the saws can be easily resharpened by the user and a sharp Western saw cuts as well as a sharp Japanese saw. However, all of the same principles apply to both types of saws, and I want you to be comfortable with your tools.

If you want to bring Japanese saws, you will need at least one dozuki (a Japanese backsaw) for cutting joints (I like the Dozuki "Z" saw #12F27, Price: $41.99); and a heavy-duty Japanese saw for sizing stock (such as the 250mm Bakuma, American Slim Cut #126311, price: $19.99 at Woodcraft). In general, I don’t recommend Ryoba saws for this class.

If you wish to use Western saws for the class, you should ideally have three backsaws: a dovetail, carcase and tenon saw. (I like the Lie-Nielsen, Adria, Gramercy and Wenzloff & Sons brands). Plus you will need at least one full-size Western handsaw. If you purchase one saw, I’d recommend picking up a Stanley Sharppoint saw at a local hardware store. However, the far superior way to go is to buy a vintage saw and have it resharpened and set up for you (I prefer a 7-point crosscut handsaw). If you go this route, which is the best way, you need to give yourself a couple weeks of lead time before the class.

If you don’t own a saw, I recommend you talk to Steve Cooke at Cooke’s Sharpening in York, Pa. Call Steve at: (717) 845-7297, or e-mail him at: sharpeningguy01@aol.com. Tell him you are looking for a couple good user saws; nothing collectible or fancy. A Disston D-23 is a good example of what I’d be looking for. He’ll sharpen them for you and charge you a fair price.

If you need more options, I have contacts in the business. Drop me a line for assistance with finding a saw or anything else related to the class at chris.schwarz@fwpubs.com.

In addition to saws, you are going to need a 12” combination square, a tape measure, a sharp marking knife, a sliding T-bevel, a mechanical pencil, a carpenter’s pencil, a sharp block plane, a sharp chisel and any other little tools that you cannot work without.

 

The school provides a full catered lunch each day and drinks and snacks are provided all day. Please let us know of any special dietary needs.
 
Make your lodging reservations.
 
Kelly Mehler (859) 986-5540 | kelly@kellymehler.com