Blog posts of '2023' 'September'

For woodworkers, the word "snipe" carries a lot of connotations and troubles. It is the frustrating imperfection that can ruin the otherwise flawless surface of your lovingly constructed wooden piece. But be assured that there are practical solutions to mitigate the harm it causes. In this blog post, we'll examine the causes of snipe and give you useful tips for reducing its frequency in your woodworking projects.

Unravelling the Mystery of Snipe:

Let's first obtain a thorough understanding of what sniping indicates before moving on to the solutions. Snipe occurs when your workpiece passes through a jointer or planer and a little piece of wood is rapidly removed from the front and/or back of your workpiece. Although it's a great irritation, it wouldn't be fair to put all the responsibility on the machinery. The operator's role can occasionally be crucial in preventing snipe.

Inadequate Support:

Insufficient support for the wood during the machining process ranks among the most prevalent culprits of snipe. To circumvent this issue, consider the following remedies:

Two-Person Approach:

If feasible, involve two individuals in the operation—one stationed at the infeed side and the other at the outfeed side. This arrangement ensures proper wood support and elevation to lay flat on the table.

Embrace Support Rollers:

Invest in support rollers; they prove invaluable additions to your workshop. These rollers not only stave off snipe but also prove versatile for various other woodworking tasks. They deliver consistent support and stability to your workpieces.

Mind the Dimensions:

Bear in mind that shorter and straighter wood pieces are less susceptible to snipe. When possible, opt for materials that conform to these specifications to reduce the likelihood of encountering snipe.

Tread Lightly with Tension:

Many machines offer tension adjustment for feed rollers. Exercise caution not to overtighten them, as this can lead to ancillary issues, such as stripped bolts.

Blade Configuration:

Snipe can also rear its head on your surface planer due to blade misalignment. When the blades protrude slightly higher than the outfeed table, they can nibble away at the end of your wood piece. Here's how to address this predicament:

Blade Descent:

In instances of excessively high blade settings, simply lower the blades to bring them into proper alignment with the outfeed table. This adjustment can significantly curtail the occurrence of snipe.

Outfeed Table Adjustment:

Alternatively, you can lower the rear (outfeed) table to facilitate a seamless transition for your wood piece as it exits the planer. This tweak can also serve to eradicate snipe.

In conclusion, snipe represents a vexing challenge for woodworkers, but it's not insurmountable. By grasping its origins and employing the practical solutions outlined here, you can achieve a smoother finish on your woodworking projects. Remember, a touch of extra care and a keen eye for detail can go a long way in consigning snipe to the annals of your workshop's history. Happy woodworking!

Gilding, an exquisite form of artistry, has not seen widespread use in South Africa in recent years. The scarcity of knowledge and limited access to gilding products have contributed to this decline. Strand Hardware is here to provide a solution that will rekindle your passion for this beautiful finishing art.

Unlocking the Magic of Gilt Cream:

At the heart of gilding's revival is a remarkable product known as gilt cream. This rich, wax-like paste is infused with metallic pigments, creating a stunning finish no matter where it is applied. Whether you're working on new or old wood and metal surfaces, gilt cream offers limitless creative possibilities.

Enhancing Protection and Lustre:

One of the unique qualities of gilt cream is its compatibility with a wax finish. Applying a protective wax coating ensures longevity and enhances the lustre of your gilded creation, giving it a timeless appeal.

From Old to Gold:

Imagine turning weathered, wooden picture frames or mirrors into something truly magnificent. Gilt cream possesses a magical ability to make them appear beautifully aged and uniquely charming. Moreover, even a brand-new frame can acquire the charm of a time-worn antique with the application of gilt cream.

Achieving Spectacular Results:

Gilding doesn't have to be an overly complex process. With just a few basic steps and some patience, you can embark on a spectacular project that will leave you in awe of your own craftsmanship.

All You Need, All in One Place:

Strand Hardware has your gilding needs covered. From the initial base coat to the finishing touches, you'll find all the products required for your project under one roof. Our goal is to make your gilding journey as convenient as possible.

Unleash Your Creativity:

The beauty of gilding lies in its versatility. Your project can take on various personalities, from a classic solid finish to an aged, worn look. The possibilities are only limited by your imagination.

Affordable Elegance:

You might have considered purchasing pre-gilded mirrors or picture frames, only to be deterred by their high price tags and rarity. The good news is that you can achieve the same level of elegance at a fraction of the cost with Strand Hardware's gilt cream. Plus, a single pot can be used for multiple projects, making gilding not just a creative pursuit but also a budget-friendly one.

Conclusion:

Gilding is an art form that can transform the ordinary into something extraordinary. With Strand Hardware's gilt cream, South Africans can rediscover the joy of gilding, regardless of their level of experience. Let your creativity shine and embark on a gilding journey that will leave you with stunning, one-of-a-kind creations. Visit Strand Hardware today and let the magic of gilding enrich your artistic endeavours.