Ask the Expert
IF YOU HAVE A PRODUCT RELATED QUESTION, PLEASE USE OUR CONTACT US FORM FOR AN IMMEDIATE RESPONSE. THIS SECTION IS RESERVED FOR GENERAL WOODWORKING RELATED QUESTIONS.
Michael Van Pelt is the founder of American Sycamore Woodworker’s Retreat. He has a reputation as the tool guru. Mike has been in woodworking for over thirty years. His knowledge of tools comes from his many years of intertwining experience in the woodworking industry. Mike’s experiences include being active as an Industrial Arts Teacher, professional instructor of power machinery and tool techniques, tool sales, management and owner of woodworking tool retail store, Delta Machinery representative and technical advisory.
If you have a question for Michael, choose the Submit Question button to the right by November 30th. We will send you a reply with Mike's response in mid-December and then post it to this page for other members to view. You never know...someone else may have the same question
IF YOU HAVE A PRODUCT RELATED QUESTION, PLEASE USE OUR CONTACT US FORM FOR AN IMMEDIATE RESPONSE. THIS SECTION IS RESERVED FOR GENERAL WOODWORKING RELATED QUESTIONS.
Listed below are questions and answers that have already been submitted.
Questions
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8/6/2007
Youth Projects
Answer provided by Mike Van Pelt
| Q: |
I have a 10 year old grandson who is always
asking to build something in my shop. I
have hesitated due to the safety factor and not wanting for him to get hurt
using the machines I have. Any
suggestions of projects I could get him involved in. I sure would like to pass on the legacy wood
working. I got mine from my Dad. |
| A: |
Some of my dearest childhood memories
are with my Grandfather working with him in his workshop. We made wooden swords and shields from peach
basket lids. I am 52 years old now and I
have my Grandfather’s workbench table. I
think of my Grandfather often when using his bench. By all means, invite your
Grandson into your shop…..you will be creating memories that will last for
years.
Keep the projects simple and ones
that can be finished in a short amount of time.
Most 10 year olds do not have a lot of patience. Ask your grandson what
he likes to build and do not be to judgmental on his joinery….just make it
fun. Enjoy his youth and excitement.
Wear
safety gear and explain to your grandson the rules of the shop and enforce
them. |
