This is the final entry in a nineteen part series that covers the construction of one of my saws from start to finish. For links to the other entries, please see the full chronological index. -Ed.
After a final dusting and a quick wipe-down with mineral oil (to fight rust and tarnish), the saw is just about ready to turn loose on the world. If the saw is a new design or uses a new or unusual piece of wood for the handle, I will take a few pictures of it at this point.
The finished saw: ten inch dovetail with apple handle.
Another view of the finished saw.
Another view of the finished saw.
Another view of the finished saw.
Finally, each saw is wrapped in VCI (Volatile Corrosion Inhibitor) paper, a ritual that is tinged with sadness and trepidation. Sadness because I will most likely never see or hold this creation again, and trepidation that the customer will find some fault with the saw that I overlooked. There is, however, a measure of comfort and pride taken from the thought that my work will live on in the value and service derived from this tool by the next and future owners.
After a final cleaning and wipedown with mineral oil, the saw is wrapped in corrosion-inhibiting paper before being sent out. It’s always a little sad to say goodbye…
By the way, I always appreciate receiving pictures of my saws in their new homes or in use. I likewise value any feedback, positive or negative, that my customers can send. At worst, it lets me know whether or not my product met your expectations; better yet, I may learn how to improve them.
Excellent walk through of your whole process! Enjoyed it greatly! Thanks for taking the time to write it all up.
Those last pictures threw me at first, though. Using my Feedly Reader, I was looking at smaller versions and the block of wood you were using as a saw rest looked like a brick!
Then I enlarged one of the images and saw what it was. But that would look cool, wouldn’t it? Picture of the saw, half way through a brick, with the tag line, “Blackburn Saws – Let’s See A Ginsu Knife Do This!”
You’re welcome.
Now that you mention it, I see a brick too. Although I am not sure that I could bring myself to let one of my saws touch a brick, it would be a memorable image and slogan.
Isaac
I understand your sadness and trepidation, because I feel the same sensations when I sell a restored and sharpened vintage saw.
Best regards from Italy,
Andrea
I did not realize how many people feel this way about this. It must be a natural consequence of putting a little bit of yourself into something you truly enjoy.
Isaac