FEATURE Workshop Q&A
68 The Woodworker & Good Woodworking October 2019NEXT MONTH
In the next issue, we look around the workshop
of Devon-based furniture conservator,
Tony Vernon. We’d love to hear about your
workshops too, so do feel free to send in a
photo of your beloved workspace, and please
answer the same questions as shown here –
just email [email protected]- What is it – and where is it?
Newtown, Powys, Mid Wales, with
the River Severn as a background. - What’s the best thing about it?
It’s only 3m to the kitchen door, so tea
and biscuits are to hand. - And what’s the worst?
Being in rural Wales means materials
are not so readily available. - How important is it to you?
Very important, having retired some 20 years
ago. It’s my space and however long I wish to
work on whatever project I may have on the go. - What do you make in it?
Now I try my hand at making antique reproduction
using all kinds of solid hardwoods. I’ve worked
in the trade for 67 years – anything from
multi-storey blocks, churches (one in England,
one in New Zealand), luxury yachts and furniture
for Saudi princes. - What is your favourite workshop tip?
Keep the floors clean, and clean up after every
procedure. Ensure to be safe at all times around
machines, and I have LED lighting over each
machine in 600 × 600 panels.
Me and my workshop
A.B.Allwood- What’s your best piece of kit?
My spindle moulder due to its versatility. - If your workshop caught fire,
what one thing would you rescue?
Me. All others can be replaced by money. - What’s your biggest
workshop mistake?
Lack of hindsight after replacing the wood
flooring three times, remaking under-sized
wall panels and winders – I’ve said enough!
My new shed has a polished concrete floor, tiled
with glazed floor tiles, and measures 4 × 3.5m,
with 3×2 insulated studding and a long run iron
roof. It was built in 2017 by me and my sons. - What’s the nicest thing
you’ve ever made?
In 2010 I made a three-drawer solid oak
dresser with matching stepped bookshelves. - And what’s the worst?
Being young and eager when I built my
first workshop.
12. What’s the best lesson you’ve
learned?
First make a clean and clear story rod complete
with ALL FACETS of the item, then carefully check
again before you proceed.
13. If you won the lottery,
what would you buy for your workshop?
A rise and fall chair so that I can sit comfortably
at bench height and carry out the intricate
procedures required.
Mr. Allwood working on the current reproduction piece in his workshopThis month we head
to Wales and find out
more about the life
and workshop of
woodworker and
reader, A.B. Allwood