This Month's book, "The Intelligent Hand," by David Binnington Savage, brings insight into what it's like to be a professional woodworker, with the added bonus of incredible building techniques and designs via David's artistic illustrations. Not just a how-to on running a business, there are nuggets of information here that even the most savvy woodshop owner would cherish; from basic sawing techniques to the nuance of design, this book covers all fronts.
Of course, I chose a long book for February, our shortest Month. I don't expect everyone to finish this book cover to cover. But the way it's written, it can be used as a reference for information alongside a beautifully told story of someone's life. There is no expectation or test at each meeting. Enjoy reading by finding the parts that you connect with and sharing those with the club; similar experiences and lessons learned are always welcome topics for discussion. That's why we joined the club, to connect with the authors, connect with each other, and connect with the craft.
I will leave you with a quote from the introduction that speaks to David's ability to understand the balancing act of doing what we do successfully. "But get it right and deliver the piece and she says, "Wow, David, I knew it would be good, but not this good." Get this right, over deliver and soon you don't need too many more new clients, for she will want this experience again and again. We have been making for the same clients now for most of my woodworking life. They get it, they like it, and they have the means to pay for it. Your job is to do it well enough to get the "Wow, David," have the satisfaction of doing it right, get the figures right and feed your children. Not easy I grant you, but for some of you it will become a life well lived ."
Also, If you are interested, here is a link to a wonderful bio on David Binnington Savage from our friends at Lost Art Press.
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