RIP James Krenov

[Racers]

Hi,

It has been reported on the Old Tool List that James Krenov has died, its a sad day, reading his books was a revaluation for me it made me think about woodworking differently.
That Sam Maloof and James Krenov we have lost in a short space of time.

Pete

 

[Philly]

Is this true? A sad day if it is
As you say, to lose Sam Maloof and JK in such a short time.
Philly

 

[Racers]

Hi, Philly

I was in Fort Brag a couple of years ago I called in on Ron Hock and he reckoned if I gave him a call I could have met him but I didn't. Now I can't sad day.


Pete

 

[Aled Dafis]

Very sad indeed.

Krenov's books are inspirational and are one of the reasons I seriously took up woodworking, if you haven't read them get down to your local library ASAP, they're that good. Don't expect a how to, type of manual though, his books offer more of a discussion about his approach. More of a why than a how to. Definately worth a read.

Cheers

Aled

 

[Racers]

http://www.finewoodworking.com/item/187 ... -1920-2009


Sad day.

Pete

 

[Dave S]

I still remember the first time I saw a picture of one of his cabinets. It just seemed so 'right'. Years later I am no better able to explain why, but his work has remained a favourite, and his work and his books continue to inspire.

In hearing of his passing, I feel not so much sadness as admiration and appreciation for a man who led a full life and who, through his work and his books, became one of the most influential craftsmen of his generation.

The legacy he leaves to his craft will live on.

Dave

 

[Paul Chapman]

Very sad A truly inspirational man.

Cheers :wink:

Paul

 

[Mr Ed]

I found his work a great inspiration.

On the one hand its sad, but on the other hand you can reflect on a great life. I wonder how many of us will leave a comparable legacy and have influenced so many people when we pass on...

Cheers, Ed

 

[Steve Maskery]

I agree. He was an old man who has achieved more than I could even dream of achieving. Time to celebrate a long and fruitful life.

I can't imagine what it must be like to lose one's sight. Mine has always been rubbish, and indeed, my eyesight is better now that it has ever been in my life, thanks to modern medicine and the generosity of two other people. I find it frustrating to have to wear reading glasses, which is perfectly normal, so what it must be like to go blind and have to relearn all your practical skills... it must be terrible.

I have his Impractical Cabinetmaker, which, TBH, I read once when I bought it, since when it has just sat on the shelf. I was not ready for it, it was too subtle and sophisticated for me, I wanted Projects. I think it's probably time to dust it off and see if I have grown up a bit.

Cheers
Steve

 

[newt]

Great man with wood.

 

[Phil Sewell]

I remember picking up one of JK's books in my early 20's and it having quite an affect on me, more precisely his work rather than the text (which I have to say I found hard work to read, in fact I'm ashamed to say I have all his books but have not really "read" any of them).

I was fortunate to be offered a place at the College of the Redwoods in 2005. JK had retired by then which was a shame, although there were/are some Krenov clones carrying on his teachings. He occasionally turned up at the college and there was a hushed silence, he never addressed the class though.

Things didn't quite work out for me and I came home earlier than planned although I enjoyed my time out there. If I hadn't already been self-employed before I went out I think I would have stayed on.

In real life sadly I don't think JK was quite the Zen like character you might think from his writings.

A truly gifted inspirational craftsman.

 

[big soft moose]

I have his Impractical Cabinetmaker, which, TBH, I read once when I bought it, since when it has just sat on the shelf. I was not ready for it, it was too subtle and sophisticated for me, I wanted Projects. I think it's probably time to dust it off and see if I have grown up a bit.

Cheers
Steve

I have "with wakened hands" which ive only read a couple of times - though i have also stared at the pictures in an if only i could do that kind of way a few more - in fact i think i'll read it again tonight in tribute to jk.

 

[woodbloke]

I bought many of his books in hardback version in the seventies and they've proved to be an inspiration as well as an entertaining and thought provoking read over the years. I also count myself privileged (along with Philly and Derek of Oz) to own one of his smoothers.
A sad day indeed - Rob...somewhere hot.

 

[Racers]

Hi,

There was an obituary in the Times on saturday http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/commen ... 831095.ece


I think I will make a Krenov smoother to honour him.


Pete

 

[afreegreek]

James Krenov is personally responsible (through his book, A Cabinetmaker's Notebook) for my career in woodworking.. I don't know whether to kiss or curse him for it... perhaps I'll dig out my little JK block plane (the first tool I made), make a few passes, look at the sheen it leaves behind and think about it for a while.. Thanks Jim