Sunday, July 22, 2012

Wise words from Wille

"At one time, the kitchen was the room that was kept the warmest, and it was there that people spent the most time, making and repairing things.  The women carded wool, spun yarn, wove and knitted.  The men made utensils and other implements for the household and the farm.  For the most part, this sort of close, familial productivity is a thing of the past.  Because of the modern, sterile and well-polished standards of today's homes, making dust and shavings or putting a chopping block in the middle of the floor is not acceptable.  Woodworkers are not allowed to practice their craft in the house, only in the garage or basement.
Those who work with fiber and fabric are allowed to practice their craft in the home and to enjoy the company of others at the same time.  Why shouldn't the woodworker who carves be able (to) pursue his interest likewise?  To use a knife and ax, you don't need a special place to house yourself.  The ax requires a chopping block, but it doesn't take much room.  Why not carve on the living-room sofa?  I do that often.  I also feel that carvers should be able to take their work with them when they visit friends or sit in public places.  I even carve when I am traveling on the train."
-Wille Sundqvist

I was happy to learn from this that making wood shavings inside is more than something I enjoy, it is my heritage.  My gratitude to this wise Swede.