The yarn bowl--final version

Here, at long last, is the final version of the yarn bowl I've been working on.  Patterns and instructions will be appearing in Scroll Saw Woodworking & Crafts, probably late this year.  I'm very pleased with the project, and hope that many knitters make good use of it.

For the bowl maker, it provides a new shape to work with, and a new technique--decorative cutting of the finished bowl. I took advantage of the few warmer days we had last month to get it finished, and am really looking forward to getting back to work in my shop.

WJ bow box pattern correction

It was just brought to my attention that the pattern for the ribbon loop for the holiday bow box in the December, 2013 Woodworker's Journal is incorrect.  The pattern for the face (striped) side of the loop should be 7/8", not 1".  Here's my original, hand-drawn version of the pattern, which is crude, but correct.

I'd suggest copying the pattern that appears in WJ, separating the two parts, then trimming 1/16" off each edge of the face side.  Tape the two parts together carefully, and you should be good to go!

A weighty matter

Thought choosing the best weights for the yarn bowl, or anything else needing weighting, would be simple.  Although I ordered slingshot ammo, I did want to check out the possibilities in lead.

So, I went to Sports Authority in Connecticut, where lead can legally be sold.  In NY, it can be used, but not sold.  Go figure!  I decided to get some egg shaped sinkers, since they were heavy, although not as cheap as I'd like.

I've concluded that the best choice for projects, depending on the size of the cavity to be filled and the amount of weight needed, would be either the smaller egg sinkers, or slingshot ammo, 1/4" or 3/8" in diameter.  I found price differences on the ammo between Sports Authority and Dicks, so it pays to shop around.  I didn't look into BBs, since that's a restricted product for NY residents, but I know that some folks use them.

First proposal submission for the actual project is in, and I'm awaiting feedback.  One way or another, I'm getting that bowl out there!

Too cold to work in the shop, so I spent the afternoon making pretzels. It's not difficult, and they really taste very good. Cooking and baking is also an ideal way to feel productive when you can't make sawdust. Enjoy!