Read More Articles by Bill Esler

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Bill Esler
ConfSenior Editor

Bill wrote for WoodworkingNetwork.com, FDMC and Closets & Organized Storage magazines. 

Bill's background includes more than 10 years in print manufacturing management, followed by more than 30 years in business reporting on industrial manufacturing in the forest products industries, including printing and packaging at American Printer (Features Editor) and Graphic Arts Monthly (Editor in Chief) magazines; and in secondary wood manufacturing for WoodworkingNetwork.com.

Bill was deeply involved with the launches of the Woodworking Network Leadership Forum, and the 40 Under 40 Awards programs. He currently reports on technology and business trends and develops conference programs.

In addition to his work as a journalist, Bill supports efforts to expand and improve educational opportunities in the manufacturing sectors, including 10 years on the Print & Graphics Scholarship Foundation; six years with the U.S. WoodLinks; and currently on the Woodwork Career Alliance Education Committee. He is also supports the Greater West Town Training Partnership Woodworking Program, which has trained more than 950 adults for industrial wood manufacturing careers. 

Bill volunteers for Foinse Research Station, a biological field station staddling the border of Ireland and Northern Ireland, one of more than 200 members of the Organization of Biological Field Stations.

Wood Veneer

How to Make Veneer? Boil Water, Add Log, Simmer, Slice and Dry

Every veneer maker has its own recipe for cooking logs to soften them up and bring out the wood grain and color. The overall steps are similar among veneer mills, but like a fine restaurant, it's the selection of ingredients, recipe and its execution that spells the difference in making veneer. M Bohlke Veneer Corp. in Fairfield, OH,  has been manufacturing veneer for almost 50 years. The privately held company focused for decades on exporting fine hardwood veneers to  Europe.
By Bill Esler, October 25, 2015 | 6:19 pm CDT
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Project Gallery

Turning a Profit on Wood Pallet Furniture

Wood pallets as raw lumber may not spring to mind when among seasoned furniture builders, but consumers love it, as a search for "pallet furniture" or a trip through Pinterest and Instagram will quickly reveal. Pallet furniture first gained momentum among crafters and co-it-yourselfers, but now the style has caught on among a broader swath of furniture consumers. Because the wood is rough and inexpensive, it has become a natural for outdoor furniture like Adirondack chairs, or as an alternative to wicker for patio furniture. 
By Bill Esler, October 25, 2015 | 3:17 pm CDT
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Project Gallery

Engravers Dungeon Laser Etches Pine Movie Posters

Engraver`s Dungeon was formed by a team of graphic designers and engineers passionate about science fiction, space, physics and horror movies. Using laser engraving the UK-based group combines its technical experience with its passion for the subjects.To create a laser engraved wood poster, they combine traditional woodcraft with advanced design programs.All the posters are made of quality solid pine wood. The are 7.5 x 11.5 inches, by 3/4 inches thick.Here's how they do it:
By Bill Esler, October 22, 2015 | 10:34 pm CDT