"Krenov invites the reader into his workshop where he shares his techniques and his uncompromising approach to craftsmanship, along with thoughts about his work and its place in the world. Photo sequences show how he composes a cabinet directly in the wood, without dimensioned drawings." -- Page 4 of cover.

"Krenov invites the reader into his workshop where he shares his techniques and his uncompromising approach to craftsmanship, along with thoughts about his work and its place in the world. Photo sequences show how he composes a cabinet directly in the wood, without dimensioned drawings."--Page 4 of cover.

With continual themes of perfection of technique and building to the limits of one's skill, this authoritative resource provides in-depth instruction for mastering the craft of cabinetmaking. A bevy of topics, including the proper way to sharpen and hone tools, hollow grinding methodology, and obtaining proper grinding angles, are detailed in this comprehensive cabinet-making sourcebook. Lessons devoted to using and understanding various woods, including common or exotic pieces, learning how to read grain, and the pros and cons in working with air-dried wood versus kiln-dried wood, will educate any level of woodworker. Chapters devoted to resawing as well as problems and concerns due to moisture content and wood movement are also included.

Cabinetmaking at the highest level is an art, a discipline, a philosophy--even a way of life--in addition to being a useful craft. In this book one of the greatest living cabinetmakers reflects on the deeper meanings of his craft and explains for less accomplished workers how the right attitudes toward materials, tools, and time can increase the joys of this complex activity. Craftspeople in every medium will be inspired by this account of getting started and developing habits that lessen the difficulties of a complex craft.

Krenov once again provides instruction and inspiration to his legions of fans. In this oversized format you'll find 100 black-and-white photographs, 47 in color, and an intimate text that showcases the peak of his talent. The pictures by Bengt Carlen reveal the signature on all of Krenov's pieces-- precision, delicacy, quiet strength, intricate grains, satin-smooth finishes, matched joints, attention to detail, and a respect for the tools and materials themselves. These are but a few of the more than 20 examples exhibited in this collection--*a cabinet of old Swedish elm *a writing table of Italian walnut *a no-glass showcase of lemon wood *a wall cabinet of English brown oak *plus numerous others. 128 pages (all in color), 8 1/2 x 11 1/2.

In the 20 years since he left Sweden and began teaching and writing in America, James Krenov has caused a quiet revolution among woodworkers and cabinetmakers. This volume presents photos of Krenov's own cabinets alongside furniture designed and made by his students. Included are short essays by Krenov, along with remarks by his former students on his role in their lives, their own views on craftsmanship, their material, and their lives as craftsmen. Krenov's thoughts on why he works with wood, on working with colour and figure variations in wood, and on crafsmanship will interest novice and experienced woodworkers alike.