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Erl Poulin
What is your specialty in woodworking? Primarily outdoor furniture, garden benches, porch swings etc. How many years have you been woodworking? Since childhood - I recall making a “Scratch-Backer” (Back-Scratcher, I know now!) for Mother as a birthday present when I was five years old. What is your favorite hand tool and why? My Grandfather’s marking gauges and a spirit level made of rosewood and brass, and dating back to the 1870’s What is your favorite power tool and why? The band saw - it was my first major tool purchase, and I’ve been able to cut most everything I need on it What is your favorite wood to use and why? I enjoy working with hard maple for indoor pieces, and Cypress or Ipe for outdoor items. It is very hard, and contains a lot of silica from the sandy soil in which they grow. This contributes to the decay and insect resistance of the woods What is your most favorite project you have built and why? The greatest joy comes from the work I’ve done on the annual Guild Christmas Toy Project. What is the best deal you have gotten on a woodworking tool? Grandfather’s hand tools - they were all free! What guild activities have you been involved in? In the fifteen years I have belonged to the Guild, I’ve held virtually every elected office - except Treasurer and participated in most, if not all, of the exhibits and trade shows, seminars, bus trips, excursions and other events the Guild has sponsored What has been your favorite guild activity? During the meetings, Show and Tell is always my favorite activity What Shop Tip can you give us? My shop tips are always along the lines of safety. When you are tired, get out of the workshop! That one careless moment of inattention is the one you will regret for the rest of your life. If you have to rush to complete a project, then your time was not well planned, and the item will not be ready for its’ recipient, even if tomorrow is her seventh birthday Thanks Erl for allowing us to feature you and your work this month!
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