Woodworker's Central Woodworker's Gazette Gazette Archive 7/2/00

A book review: Dave Griessmann Title: Stickmaking Handbook Authors: Andrew Jones & Clive George Published by: Sterling Publishing Co. Inc. 387 Park Avenue South New York, NY 10016-8810 ISBN 186108126 Price Softcover: $12.95 (Canada $17.95 ) 160 color pages Based on the authors' "Stick Making: A Complete Course", Andrew Jones and Clive George, devote the first chapter of this book going over finding, cutting, seasoning sticks what types of wood are used, as well as the tools used. They go through everything, not only in text, but they provide pictures too. After the introduction, the authors jump you straight into the techniques used in strengthening your sticks to be used in building your projects. The projects outlined range from thumbsticks, walking sticks, wooden crooks, market sticks and much more. This book also shows you how to make specialty heads for your canes, providing detailed instruction for a dog's, duck's or a pheasant's head. My favorite aspect of this book are the authors' use of diagrams and pictures to help spotlight the detailed narrative. Also, each project has detailed descriptions of what material is needed and how to shape everything from the wood for the shaft to using bones and horns for the handle. There's no more guesswork on what tool is used to make or do what! This book is well thought out and is geared toward the more experienced woodworker. I enjoyed this book and look forward to completing one of the projects. Overall, I recommend the purchase of this book. Dave Griessmann The Woodshop Editor's Note: Sterling Publishing has graciously donated several books for review which are passed on to our members free of charge in exchange for thoughtful, honest reviews. Thank You!