In This Issue

Project Gallery

Is it wood or concrete?

When you see the latest designs from JM Lifestyles, a custom shop in Randolph, New Jersey, the dramatic rustic-style tables, countertops, and sinks will definitely stop most woodworkers in their tracks. Craftspeople will ask typical questions about the wood species and how each piece is made. But most won’t even think of the real question they should be asking: Is it wood or concrete? The answer is a marriage of concrete and high craftsmanship.

Woodworking Industry News

Bosch, SawStop officials react to ITC ban on Reaxx saw

While SawStop officials applauded a U.S. International Trade Commission decision blocking the import and sale of the Bosch Reaxx saw, Bosch officials are still holding out hope that presidential review will reverse the ruling. Concluding a lengthy investigation, the ITC on January 27 ruled that the Bosch Reaxx saw violates two patents held by SawStop for technology designed to protect users from accidentally being cut by the saw. The ITC issued a cease-and-desist order banning Bosch from importing or selling the saws as well as any supporting parts in the United States.

Lean Manufacturing

Employing buffer management for continuous flow

If you google “Buffer Management” you will get a variety of results that focus mainly on buffers used to pad time for a task in project management or a deliberate amount time built into a project management timeline to facilitate nuances that might occur. That sounds a lot like waste to me, and it in no way captures the essence of this article and how you can employ buffer management to create continuous flow.

Management

It takes more than optimism to move forward

As we near the end of the first quarter of 2017, I am still hearing mostly optimistic thoughts from people in the woodworking industry who I encounter daily. But I worry that too many take a passive approach to business, resigned to the ups and downs of an economy for which they have little control. That may be, but it still takes more than optimism to be successful.

Sanding and Finishing

Euro finishes come to America

Recent trends seen at such venues as the Kitchen and Bath Industry Show and the International Builder Show confirm an ongoing growth in premium European finishes for furniture, cabinets and other wood products. Those finishes range from ultra-high gloss to elegant satins. Capitalizing on the trend, Sherwin-Williams recently announced that it is offering Sayerlack brand finishes across the U.S.

FDMC Magazine

Tusk handles called "irresponsible"

Editor: Your recent magazine cover (FDMC January 2017) showing two elephant tusks is incredibly irresponsible and only highlights how ignorant you and your staff are. Elephant populations are being wiped out and to display these tusks that only promote and further the desire to own ivory is so careless of you. I would expect better judgment as you must be educated and aware of this problem. Even if they are fake it is equally irresponsible. Do you not have any regard for these creatures? I hope you exercise better judgment going forward. Thanks.