See the Light

In the 1950's, Delta sold an accessory, known as the “Retirement Lamp” for its scroll saws. Most saws are missing this feature and originals now sell for around $100. I tried to use an articulated desk lamp for years. It either got in the way or provided poor light. I recently decided to reproduce the retirement lamp.

Lowes sells a 6” reflector lamp for under $10. Combined with shop scrap, a little labor, and a cool-running LED bulb, I now have perfect lighting for my scroll saw. I wish I had built this 20 years ago. Think I’ll make one for my band saw.

Sassafras Tea?

I made two of these boxes fifteen years ago. Intended to be shooter’s range boxes, they turned out to be too heavy and clunky for that use. I now use one as a traveling tool box, the other for storage. Dimensions are 22 by 10 by 10 inches. A sassafras carcass, with mixed hardwood interior fittings. Half-inch box joints are left proud for visual interest. There are three layers of storage, two being removable trays.

          

With the exception of a fitted tray of carving gouges, the box is only populated with a specific selection of tools when traveling. Why sassafras? My lumber yard had wide planks.

Historic Expansive Bit

This historically significant bit is the first  patented (1852) expansive bit known to have been manufactured. It is considered rare. It was invented and manufactured by Charles L. Barnes of New York City. It has a range of 5/16” to 1/2”. Two other sizes, 1” and 2”, were made.

I acquired this bit about a year ago for $3. It was very junky looking, but identifiable as an expansive bit. Nobody thought to identify it at that time. That took some recent on-line research. Other than the patent listing, there is an article, which includes this bit, by Eric Brown in the E.A.I.A. Chronicle, March 2019.