Hmm, good question; Let's assume firearms have ended, rather than diminished as that's most likely what will happen.
My grandfather was an expert wood carver and craftsman; He could do anything with wood from intricate, ornate and delicate carvings and french polishing to the construction of cabinets, tables, writing bureau's etc. Anything really. The thing is, that he never allowed me to use his carving tools and play around much in his workshop as I was a piano player and he was afraid I'd cut a finger off.
So, I think I'd get into that a little bit; Furniture restoration. I have done some already, a jewelry box and chest of drawers, stuff like that but nothing really complex. I'd like to get some tools and maybe go for some lessons, there's adult-education centres where I could go...Pick up stuff cheap and restore them and give it away, donate it. Taking something old and decrepit and improving it, upcycling it. Just for fun.
It probably all sounds terribly boring but I think it'd be cool and a nice way to feel close to my grandfather despite the fact it would be impossible to reach even half his skill. Faith and I want to do that together actually.
Not even boring in the least! I'm no carver, but I have built some cabinets and book cases but I too really like refinishing and recycling furniture. I've even learned a bit of upholstery in my quest...
Honestly? I really loved using hand planes. They fascinated me in form and function. I just love watching the wood curl over the blade.
Great answer. Thank you!
Oh yeah hand planes. I have one, the last of my grandfather's I managed to salvage. I also loved that thin curl of wood they would produce and the way they would come out of the tool as they moved across the surface of the wood.
Grandad had so many tools, a workshop full, from bandsaws and routers to planesaws and of course some very sharp carving chisels.
I've got loads of tools and have some skills, working with wood like my grandfather did would make me happy.
Wood is nice and I like working with it...One day I'll do it in a more sophisticated way than I do now.
Wood is like life, but more permanent. It can be made into most anything you want and even an ugly piece can have it's own beauty.
I agree, it's a nice material to work with and I like the idea of turning it into something, especially turning something that may otherwise end up burned or in landfill back into a productive item that may continue giving for years to come.