Document Your Progress

摘要

Sometimes, I leave the shop and don't get back until a week or more has passed. The lapse of time can make it hard to remember details. Suppose, after measuring a cabinet opening at the end of a previous shop session, I decided to widen the stiles for the door I'm about to build. Or did I? With no reminder, I might go merrily on my way at the start of the next session, milling the pieces to the width shown on the drawing, and end up having to remake them. To avoid such gaffes, take detailed notes about what you are doing and thinking before you leave the shop. A quick note-"widen stiles 1/4 in."-will put you right on track when you return. In addition, a note or two made on your original drawings will help you keep track of modifications to the design should you decide to build the piece again.