Woodworking Lesson: Coping Saw

To practice cutting holes in things, 

begin with a simple shape, 

his arched eyebrow, perhaps, 

or your own expressionless face. 

Start at the edge and work inward. 

Take your time. Work slowly.

Savor the image of the finished work. 

Savor the slowness.

Stop and take a breath 

from time to time, and when 

you think it’s time to make 

the final cut,

ask yourself if you are ready 

to let the center fall away. 

Then let it fall away.

[LSS, 12/21/20]

Woodworking Lesson: Coped Joint

In this application, the two form a tightly fitted corner.

The one is allowed to retain its original form.

The other is shaped to conform to its mate.

It takes a lifetime of practice to form such a joint.

Expect mostly failure.

[LSS, 12/21/20]