Over the years, I have worked in my basements where projects had to be kept small, but the sawdust was always flying around. Then, of course there were the "garage of my own" days. Not the farm garage, but the city garage. You know... move the cars out, work a few hours, then clean up everything to move the cars back in. More time spent on setting up everything than actually working. Now I have a space dedicated as a workshop. No more sharing with laundry rooms or vehicles. Just a place of my own with tools I have traded and upgraded, as well as a vast collection of clamps and vises, sanders, and all the little nuts, screws, glue, rags and brushes that can stay out on the worktables or be put in their own special spot. I have found sources for wood and wood scraps that can be put to new life. (And I am always scouting for more.) My boyhood dreams come true.
While collecting the proper tools over the years, I have also worked on gaining skills and knowledge. Some I have gained through trial and error, some through reading and classes, and a lot from other woodworkers. I am active in the Alabama Woodworkers Guild. This is a great group of men and women who willing share their expertise with others.
As my own expertise has grown, I have developed a passion for making fine furniture. There are still many classes and workshops to attend and much learning to be done. I have a true desire to build all the wood furniture for my home-with a design that fuses Asian and Mission elements. I look forward to spending my retirement years happily sawing, drilling, sanding, planing, routing, and finishing amid the scents of sawdust, glue and lacquer. What a great way to stay out of my wife's hair!