Custom Bats Cricket Forum
Equipment => Bats => Bat Making => Topic started by: Beachcricket on February 07, 2010, 10:17:49 AM
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Bat number 4 included
Bat number 3 included, seemed like a waste of space to start another thread.
Firstly, Thank you to Matt from H4L for the willow and his excellent service.
Here is a bat I made yesterday, I'm not sure if it's finished as I may reduce the spine near the bottom and the toe. But at the moment this is it. It weighed in at 2.14 - 2.15 (my scales are temperamental) before grips and binding. Like this it weighs a hernia inducing 3.2
(http://i570.photobucket.com/albums/ss147/Beachcricket_photos/CIMG0493.jpg)(http://i570.photobucket.com/albums/ss147/Beachcricket_photos/CIMG0494.jpg)(http://i570.photobucket.com/albums/ss147/Beachcricket_photos/CIMG0491.jpg)(http://i570.photobucket.com/albums/ss147/Beachcricket_photos/CIMG0484.jpg)
It picks up okay for a 3.2 and needs some knocking in.
Advise from bat makers on where to take weight away from would be grateful. Constructive criticism and gentle praise are both welcome.
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what weight r u idealy looking for mate ?
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love the profile of it mate !
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I'm by no means a bat maker... just aspiring to be! But my thoughts are looks really nicely done, well done! Looks like a great finish. If you'd like some feedback I'd say could maybe do with a more pronounced middle, i.e. a little less weight further up for balance, but just my opinion, as that's obvioulsy just how I like them, so it's about what feels right to you (or the person buying). great job!
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easiest places to remove weight from are the toe and shoulders generally. it looks as if you have a large toe so im sure a decent slice of wood can be removed from that area.
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But then the middle would be the toe. Unless you always toe the ball then it doesn't relly work lol :D
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I was looking to get it to 2.12 but I liked the shape I'd created originally. It's now been changed slightly, the toe and edges are slightly thinner and the spine and shoulders are a little lower. It's helped the pickup tremendously and is 3.1 but it feels a lot more balanced.
Thanks slogger02, your suggested alterations made the difference.
I'll post a photo of the changes once I've sanded it again.
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I cant help but notice no convaving, Its truly the most enjoyable part i reckon, plus, it makes balancing a bat so much more easier.
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(http://i570.photobucket.com/albums/ss147/Beachcricket_photos/CIMG0501.jpg)(http://i570.photobucket.com/albums/ss147/Beachcricket_photos/CIMG0508.jpg)
This is a picture of the changed bat. It's been a great learning experience and I do appreciate the feedback from everyone.
genralcustard - There is perhaps some concaving on this changed one but it's very minor if that. I'm not a huge fan of concaving on bats but I agree completely when you say it's fun to do.
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I think you have done a pretty good job, it does look a bit of a beast, with quite a low middle.
Have you dared use a mallet on it to see what the rebound is like yet?
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Alright sweet, looks a thumper of a bat.
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Good effort Beach! And actually having the guts to go back and improve it is commendable!
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looks like a rite belter Id be very impressed if that was my attempt so I tip my hat at you sir!
Keep going and soon you'll master it I am sure
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We could have a 'Beach Cricket' brand on here before we know it!
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Hmmm... "Beach Cricket" I like that, your cheque is in the post petehosk. ;)
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Here is the bat I've made with the second cleft from Matt. Totally different shape but still kept it on the larger side, was too worried I'd ruin if I took off more. Still got to go through some sanding, does anyone know what the buffing compound bat makers use is called?
Approx 2.13 no grips, few blemishes in the wood which were really hard to work around, still fun though.
(http://i570.photobucket.com/albums/ss147/Beachcricket_photos/CIMG0536.jpg)
(http://i570.photobucket.com/albums/ss147/Beachcricket_photos/CIMG0537.jpg)
(http://i570.photobucket.com/albums/ss147/Beachcricket_photos/CIMG0538.jpg)
(http://i570.photobucket.com/albums/ss147/Beachcricket_photos/CIMG0539.jpg)
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thats a nice shape matey :)
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What grade is that BC?
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Both clefts were grade 3, they have a few blemishes but are respectable to look at for G3.
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Could do a bit of concaving
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Both bats look really good mate, fair play, what were they like when you bought them, handled and Pressed?
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Just a quick update, I read on CSF (post by PunterPonting) a while ago that Julian Millichamp sometimes placed bats spine down on the radiator to reduce the weight. I decided to give this a go. Firstly I must say that I have electric scales now so they provide a more accurate reading and the 2.13 was the average of weighing it on kitchen scales a few times. Anyway! I placed the bat on a radiator for 2 weeks and it lost 1.5 ounces.
I've just started netting with the second bat after some healthy preparation and it's brilliant! Perhaps a testament to Matt's pressing skills rather than my bat making talents.
I know what you're thinking, but I'm as surprised as anyone.
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Nice bat, looks a bit Mjolnir'ish to me :)
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Again thanks must go to Matt @ H4L for the willow and excellent service. Greatly appreciated.
Got some time off so I bought another 2 clefts, both have heartwood and plenty of grains. It seems I have a default shape that I make without intending to, This 3rd bat is a similar shape to no.2. There was unfortunately some tear out on the face of the raw cleft which I had hoped would come out in sanding/finishing. It's not really that bad at all. Matt had said the edges on the clefts were thinner than normal but I was very happy with the willow.
Lots of pics :D
Forgot to say it's 2.12 with one grip.
(http://i570.photobucket.com/albums/ss147/Beachcricket_photos/CIMG0973.jpg?t=1277635062)
(http://i570.photobucket.com/albums/ss147/Beachcricket_photos/CIMG0980.jpg?t=1277635125)
(http://i570.photobucket.com/albums/ss147/Beachcricket_photos/CIMG0978.jpg?t=1277635155)
(http://i570.photobucket.com/albums/ss147/Beachcricket_photos/CIMG0976.jpg?t=1277635189)
(http://i570.photobucket.com/albums/ss147/Beachcricket_photos/CIMG0984-1.jpg?t=1277635289)
(http://i570.photobucket.com/albums/ss147/Beachcricket_photos/CIMG0986-1.jpg?t=1277635481)
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Looking very nice, as for a default shape, try drawing the shape you would like to produce on the side of the cleft before you start? just try to make it the same on both sides! Give you something to work to?
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I did that with the toe and edges, but usually then change my mind when I pick the bat up half way through making it. This bat picks up very nicely for 2.12, I won't claim it feels like 2.5 but I have no intention of keeping it so will be selling it in due course.
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Bat 3 = 2lbs 11.5 ounces It's lost some weight over the last day or two whilst just being sat there. I've knocked it in a bit and have to say I have very proud of it, the quality of the willow is evident and I've done it proud.
Bat no.4 now done.
Grade 2
Weighs 2.9 and a half.
just under 30mm edges. (sorry I didn't have a 50p)
Pickup feels good
Gentle concaving
(http://i570.photobucket.com/albums/ss147/Beachcricket_photos/CIMG1013.jpg)
(http://i570.photobucket.com/albums/ss147/Beachcricket_photos/CIMG1022.jpg)
(http://i570.photobucket.com/albums/ss147/Beachcricket_photos/CIMG1017.jpg)
PS - Forgot to say there are a few knots near the splice and one near the toe but they have no effect and don't bother me.
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very very nice, not bad at all for a 4th attempt!!
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New bat made with a heavy low grade cleft, as you can see from the pics it has some water damage(?) but it's still a nice bat in my eyes. I wanted to make a big bat that was heavy like that Collingwood practice bat, I was going to make it narrow but it wouldn't have been heavy enough. The weight is 3lbs 5oz with one grip, 50mm edges at their thickest point. Hope you like it.
I'm not sure what the 3rd photo is? It was a brown bit of wood that fell out while making it anyway I liked the mark so I left it, looks rustic.
(http://i570.photobucket.com/albums/ss147/Beachcricket_photos/CIMG1119.jpg)
(http://i570.photobucket.com/albums/ss147/Beachcricket_photos/CIMG1113.jpg)
(http://i570.photobucket.com/albums/ss147/Beachcricket_photos/CIMG1121.jpg)
(http://i570.photobucket.com/albums/ss147/Beachcricket_photos/CIMG1110.jpg)
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Wow, you've certainly maxxed the shape from the cleft, an absolute beast of a bat.....
I still have a spare handle here for you, let me know if you still want it.
The chunk missing is the bark, the cleft has been cut tight to the outside of the split and a little has been left behind and then fallen out, I did have a beauty made with a huge groove similar to a scoop with moss growing on the bark, sadly when it was left for sanding someone thought that it had been left in the back by mistake and binned the bat.
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think im in love with those edges haha :D all of these look like top efforts
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that 50p looks tiny
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This bat is certainly the first I have seen to reach out a laugh at the BES - but then at 3lbs 5 it is a monster.
Really good work.
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Thanks for the nice comments, it turned out better than I expected.
Talisman - I won't need the spare handle but thanks for your help, I made the handle much shorter and got it to fit. I don't think I will ever splice and fit the handle myself again, doing it with hand saws was difficult to say the least. I made a crude jig to align the saw but it still needed cleaning up.
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Thanks for the nice comments, it turned out better than I expected.
Talisman - I won't need the spare handle but thanks for your help, I made the handle much shorter and got it to fit. I don't think I will ever splice and fit the handle myself again, doing it with hand saws was difficult to say the least. I made a crude jig to align the saw but it still needed cleaning up.
handling is a right pain in the ass with anything other then table saw thingy
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that's a good effort mate.
if i were you i'd keep it as it is as your first bat, finish it off and keep it, unless you can find someone strong enough to wield it?
if you can get hold of some kashmir willow practice this shape at lesser weights on them, cheaper and less important if they go wrong.
love the shape, but edges a bit thick for my personal taste.
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handling is a right pain in the ass with anything other then table saw thingy
nice and technical norbs!
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3lb 5 is heavy but that is still massive for the weight!!
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I usually use a bat that's 2.13 but now it feels light a matchstick compared to this.
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edges too thick? is that posible lol
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The bat with the purple grip is this seasons match bat, took a while to play in but it's a belter. Anyway I've made a copy of an old Hunts bat I have. It's 2.12 with one grip, edges are 30mm at their thickest, VERY gentle concaving and it's a G1 cleft. A lot of sanding and a sore throat later (note to self: must buy face masks) it's finished. Hope you guys like it.
(http://i570.photobucket.com/albums/ss147/Beachcricket_photos/CIMG1288.jpg)
(http://i570.photobucket.com/albums/ss147/Beachcricket_photos/CIMG1282.jpg)
(http://i570.photobucket.com/albums/ss147/Beachcricket_photos/CIMG1279.jpg)
(http://i570.photobucket.com/albums/ss147/Beachcricket_photos/CIMG1283.jpg)
(http://i570.photobucket.com/albums/ss147/Beachcricket_photos/CIMG1290.jpg)
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Looks fantastic - you've obviously spent a lot of time on the sanding! Nice shape, looks professional, you should be very proud of that!
Out of interest - are you buffing them or is this just very fine sanding?
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amazing work mate! it really is a skilled task!
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in a common phrase u hear down here in the outback "ee's a nice un" some serious tekkers gone into that bad boy!
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Love that shape, which Hunts model were you replicating?
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Love that shape, which Hunts model were you replicating?
It was an "Edge". It's not exactly the same shape but it's as close as I could get it.
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Ahh the Edge. One of my favourite bats, good job!
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You can quite easily see your improvement over time... Thats a cracking looking bat ...well done
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Cracking effort, really nice looking bat there.......
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Out of interest - are you buffing them or is this just very fine sanding?
Sorry didn't see your question, no buffing just fine sanding at the moment.
I wish I had a buffing wheel though.
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Loving that latest bat, really well done, I bet you are really pleased with the finished article.
Hopefully you will use the bat to good effect, it certainly looks the business, was the cleft from Matt at H4L again?
I used my 2nd effort in a 16 over thrash last night, only faced 4 balls but hit 3 4's and the 4th was going quite nicely until a youngster somehow clung on to it in the finger tips of one hand at full stretch >:(
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Do bats have to have that Type/grade A sticker on them? as some I've seen do and some don't.
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no they dont
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Do bats have to have that Type/grade A sticker on them? as some I've seen do and some don't.
In order to be used in games played under MCC Laws, bats must have their Type denoted.
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Thanks, ANOTHER little sticker to design then. Not even got onto the back yet. Yikes!
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really tom :S ????
where do kooks say the grade etc? or GN's ?
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really tom :S ????
where do kooks say the grade etc? or GN's ?
It's often included on the handle sticker, although it may be on the little holographic one or the one at the base of the back of the blade that says Handmade English Willow and in tiny type face Type A, as here:
(http://i493.photobucket.com/albums/rr293/tim2000s/2011-09-27byEye-Fi/P1040193.jpg)
(http://i493.photobucket.com/albums/rr293/tim2000s/2011-09-22byEye-Fi/P1040180.jpg)
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I think Grays is on the toe sticker
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Simmy - the Grade A is required to confirm that the brand is happy that the bat is within the laws and guidelines (e.g. no lams!!) I used to think (before the forum) that it was to do with the grade of willow!!! But you live and learn.....slowly in my case! ;)
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In order to be used in games played under MCC Laws, bats must have their Type denoted.
Does that mean on every bat or can the manufacturer register the bat design somewhere, designating it Type A so not needing the sticker?
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Does that mean on every bat or can the manufacturer register the bat design somewhere, designating it Type A so not needing the sticker?
Every single bat has to have a sticker.
Simmy - the Grade A is required to confirm that the brand is happy that the bat is within the laws and guidelines (e.g. no lams!!) I used to think (before the forum) that it was to do with the grade of willow!!! But you live and learn.....slowly in my case! ;)
Yes, calling it Grade was a bad move by the MCC. They have since renamed it to Type.
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Simmy - the Grade A is required to confirm that the brand is happy that the bat is within the laws and guidelines (e.g. no lams!!) I used to think (before the forum) that it was to do with the grade of willow!!! But you live and learn.....slowly in my case! ;)
And a handy identifier of a clueless seller or a rubbish bat (if they start their ad with "Certified Grade A Quality...") ;)
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well you learn something new everyday!
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A massive dump of photos form 2 bats I've made recently.
This has been a stop start bat making adventure this time. The aim was a 2.9 mid to low middled bat. I think this fits the bill but then again I have little experience of making bats at this weight. I was desperate not to rush this and have spent a considerable amount of time on it. It's a good job I don't charge by the hour.
Here are some photos of the process, I tried to take a picture every time I thought the shape had changed significantly.
Some delicious willow shaving shots to start us off...
(http://i570.photobucket.com/albums/ss147/Beachcricket_photos/CIMG1550.jpg)
(http://i570.photobucket.com/albums/ss147/Beachcricket_photos/CIMG1551.jpg)
Anyway, moving on.
Here's how the edges started. I marked out two lines on each side neither of which ended up being the edge profile but it provided a starting point and target.
(http://i570.photobucket.com/albums/ss147/Beachcricket_photos/CIMG1541.jpg)
(http://i570.photobucket.com/albums/ss147/Beachcricket_photos/CIMG1545.jpg)
Some marks began to appear as I removed some willow. At this point I was hoping they weren't going to get worse and as I dug deeper it became apparent they would disappear.
(http://i570.photobucket.com/albums/ss147/Beachcricket_photos/CIMG1556.jpg)
Still over 3lbs in the photo below, but slowly a shape is appearing, You can just see I've gone down to the first edge line and have left the second intact.
(http://i570.photobucket.com/albums/ss147/Beachcricket_photos/CIMG1558.jpg)
Now I began to relax as the marks on the back start to come to the surface meaning they should disappear. I actually like these kind of things in bats, they add rustic character.
(http://i570.photobucket.com/albums/ss147/Beachcricket_photos/CIMG1559.jpg)
Gone down to the second edge line now.
(http://i570.photobucket.com/albums/ss147/Beachcricket_photos/CIMG1564.jpg)
(http://i570.photobucket.com/albums/ss147/Beachcricket_photos/CIMG1565.jpg)
Almost gone, looking cleaner with every misplaced gouge of my drawknife.
(http://i570.photobucket.com/albums/ss147/Beachcricket_photos/CIMG1567.jpg)
(http://i570.photobucket.com/albums/ss147/Beachcricket_photos/CIMG1571.jpg)
As I move away from the drawknife to other tools, some lovely figuring in the willow begins to appear.
(http://i570.photobucket.com/albums/ss147/Beachcricket_photos/CIMG1574.jpg)
All bar some fine tuning and finishing, this one is almost done.
(http://i570.photobucket.com/albums/ss147/Beachcricket_photos/CIMG1575.jpg)
(http://i570.photobucket.com/albums/ss147/Beachcricket_photos/CIMG1577.jpg)
Some final finishing and a grip to go before it's complete but here it is.
(http://i570.photobucket.com/albums/ss147/Beachcricket_photos/CIMG1579.jpg)
(http://i570.photobucket.com/albums/ss147/Beachcricket_photos/CIMG1583.jpg)
(http://i570.photobucket.com/albums/ss147/Beachcricket_photos/CIMG1584.jpg)
(http://i570.photobucket.com/albums/ss147/Beachcricket_photos/CIMG1586.jpg)
Needs a little bit more work but, I'm fairly chuffed with this one.
The heavy cleft and how it turned out:
Here it is bound and gripped. I can honestly say that whilst this bat has come out looking nice and responsive, it was one of the hardest clefts I've ever tried to work with. The weight barely changed as I stripped away more and more willow, only when I got deeper into the cleft did the weight start to change significantly. I can only guess that this was just a heavy cleft, but a fantastic learning experience. It now sits proudly a 3lbs 0.2oz, not huge for the weight but certainly balanced. I'd recommend to anyone to try making a bat out of a heavier cleft, you learn so much more about effectively using the resources you have available to you. Making a "Big Bat" went out the window early on during this one.
This may sound strange but it's almost like there's a bat shape hidden inside each cleft that the bat maker just finds rather than makes. I always get the impression that the cleft is encouraging me to make a certain profile. If I'd tried making a 3lb Solution shape with this cleft it would have been a true disaster. However I'm open to opinion on this idea.
(http://i570.photobucket.com/albums/ss147/Beachcricket_photos/CIMG1525.jpg)
(http://i570.photobucket.com/albums/ss147/Beachcricket_photos/CIMG1523.jpg)
(http://i570.photobucket.com/albums/ss147/Beachcricket_photos/CIMG1524.jpg)
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Well, the repair of my own bat has taken a back seat as I've now begun another bat for someone from Australia. After quite a few emails back and forth, we settled on a suitable cleft and today I took the first tentative strokes with the drawknife.
The cleft is beautiful, and I'm quietly confident at this stage it'll make a nice bat. Having said that, there's a long way to go, and as always there will be bumps in the road.
(http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-66TYQzINYdo/T1y3DGskphI/AAAAAAAAADc/vqlJk_F7pRQ/s640/CIMG1602.JPG)
Not a blemish in sight
(http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--cat55SVQC4/T1y3HyohjnI/AAAAAAAAADk/rtfxvSi2Z58/s640/CIMG1604.JPG)
Now this cleft weighs in a 3lbs 11.4 oz. The request from the customer was for 2.11 in the shape of a Hunts County Edge copy that I'd made a good few months ago.
(http://i570.photobucket.com/albums/ss147/Beachcricket_photos/CIMG1288.jpg)
(http://i570.photobucket.com/albums/ss147/Beachcricket_photos/CIMG1283.jpg)
Now I'm always up for the challenge of making bats from heavy clefts as it's a real test of your skills and a great way to learn how to get more from less. It'd be a lot easier to shape a bat if the cleft started off at around 3 ounces above the desired weight, but life isn't that convenient.
Something important I've learnt today is that my bench moves, It's pretty substantial in weight but it's not perfect and the floor is stone. I made the bench, but as many people know, you need a bench to make a bench. As a result the joints aren't perfect and the top's not flat but adding some cross braces and sand bags should remedy this until I no doubt decide to build a super Roubo/Holtzapffel workbench (Bitten by the hand tool bug, Thanks Christopher Schwarz).
Another thing is that I'm not keen on my drawknife. It's a Arno French pattern model, that takes a good edge and cuts superbly. You'll be saying "What's the problem then?"
The bevel angle, it's too steep for my tastes. A drawknife usually requires some force to get it going, it is after all just a large knife that you're pulling through the wood, but I can't get on with the feel of this one. Perhaps someone else's cup of tea.
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Flamboyance can have consequences...
It's mid March and the weather seems to be getting warmer, or I'm getting used to the cold, and winter nets is now very much underway. The first net is always an eye opener. A winter of listening to the BBC's splendid Test Match commentary gives you delusions of grandeur. You stride into the nets with the confident swagger of Viv Richards, take guard with the poise and precision of Jonathan Trott, and stare the bowler down... he knows what's coming, an onslaught!
The bowler runs in... you lift your bat... the ball is released... THEN?
You don't move your feet, you miss the ball by a considerable margin and you're only explanation for what's happened is that it must have moved square, swung a mile and the pitch is making the ball do all sorts of ungentlemanly things.
The reality is that my cover drive doesn't look like Kumar Sangakarra's, I don't pull like Ricky Ponting and I have no idea how Viv Richards used to walk across his stumps and smash it over mid wicket. My philosophy is that "a leave is a wasted opportunity to score".
Despite this, we all want to play some outrageous shots in the nets. We now have an example of one of those flamboyant strokes that if pulled of makes us look dismissive and arrogant. Conversely, it can make us look like a fool.
This bat has, in part, succumbed to one of those shots.
A slightly mis timed flick of the ball had smashed into the back of the edge. Now unfortunately, Willow is a naturally soft timber and the only reason it stands up to the punishment of a cricket ball is because it's pressed using one of these...
(http://www.cricketinsight.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/18-300x231.jpg)
They look a little bit more modern nowadays, but essentially they serve the same purpose
This machine compresses the fibres of the face and edges but doesn't make much difference to where this ball hit.
Please bare in mind that I forgot to take a photograph before I repaired it. All the wood that's glued down in the first two photos was blown out the back. The fibres had been crushed together quite badly and it became apparent the repair was essentially going to be cosmetic. I picked out as much wood as I could to allow the glue to have something to stick to, in the end it looks considerably better than when it came to me.
(http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MSiJ_pUAFEE/T1-RbGcMkBI/AAAAAAAAADs/bXrI9dle6nQ/s640/CIMG1654.JPG)
(http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dwIjjGzBUlg/T1-RgiOHf_I/AAAAAAAAAD0/BbM-ornx-5s/s640/CIMG1655.JPG)
The splits show where the wood was poking out the back
(http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-a50bHoPmfJA/T1-Rlbi2EQI/AAAAAAAAAD8/q7XLOMxsMf4/s640/CIMG1668.JPG)
Glue and sandpaper are your best friends
(http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6LKt96cPC40/T1-Rp9-Br7I/AAAAAAAAAEE/bRPsXycDrIk/s640/CIMG1670.JPG)
GONE!
Whilst the chosen shot was no doubt the main reason this happened, undeniably a factor that contributed was the rock hard bat breaker of a cricket ball. Every club has someone who turns up with a new ball at nets, sometimes it's a good quality ball that will age beautifully and last a season if cared for. The other type of new ball you see are up there with Diamond on the Mohs Scale, they have been dipped in lacquer and baked in the oven at 4000ºC!!!
I don't begrudge anyone bowling with a shiny new ball, after all no one likes bowling with the tatty sponge that floats around at the bottom of the bag of practice balls. I do dislike someone hurling a 5.5 ounce concrete sphere at my pride and joy. No! Not that pride and joy... the one in my hands... No wait, that came out wrong... you know what I mean.
To those of you who own these "bat breakers", bat makers around the world want to tell you off. Or give you a better ball, actually we'll do that instead cause we can be guaranteed they'll be destroyed, never to be unleashed at someone else's pride and joy.
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Well very impressed with the efforts, both shaping and photography.
What weight was the cleft to start with?, the lowest I've seen for a shouldered and toe'd one is 3.1, normal would be 3.8.
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Well very impressed with the efforts, both shaping and photography.
What weight was the cleft to start with?, the lowest I've seen for a shouldered and toe'd one is 3.1, normal would be 3.8.
Thanks, very kind of you to say.
Which bat are you referring to?
The cleft for the 2.9 bat, was 3.9 when it came to me.
The cleft for the 3lbs bat was 3.13 when it came to me.
The cleft for the 2.11 bat going to australia was 3.11 when it came to me.
Does that make sense or help to answer your question?
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It does, but were the clefts shaped big or simply just pulled down at the shoulder and toe?
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Okay, they had a small amount of willow removed from the toe. Here's a picture of the profile of the clefts as they came to me. Is that of any use?
(http://i570.photobucket.com/albums/ss147/Beachcricket_photos/CIMG1507.jpg)
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Beautiful pictures and lovely finished article.
It does gives an insight on your personality.
You take your time and give all the attention and have loads of patience required for such creation.
Whether it is the finished bat or the photos or even the content on this post.
All the best and keep up this intensity.
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Beautiful pictures and lovely finished article.
It does gives an insight on your personality.
You take your time and give all the attention and have loads of patience required for such creation.
Whether it is the finished bat or the photos or even the content on this post.
All the best and keep up this intensity.
Thanks, I'm trying to put out as much as I can for people to enjoy. It's good to document it for myself and others, people can take it or leave it but at least it's out there.
I try to remember to take photos as much as I can. I have so many on my computer that never get posted. on here or the blog.
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No that is how I thought they would be, top job as full shaping needs a good eye, I found the shapes similar to SAF, Norbs would be proud.
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Beachy is mine next ;)
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If Sir Buzz is reading this please correct me but that 3lb bat looks like your kinda shape.
Beach, I love this page so much, echoing what others have said, your detail, photography and dedication is brilliant as well as being awesome at shaping bats. That Edge shape is a lovely profile and the finishing is top notch.
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Beachy is mine next ;)
It would be but I'm still trying to get my hands on some decent wood for a mallet.
Thanks Colesy. I like making that Edge shape as well, it's quite a simple profile but it balances nicely.
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top work! very impressed with the finish your getting.
Havent you thought about screwing the bench to the wall? Would sort our the movement issue.
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top work! very impressed with the finish your getting.
Havent you thought about screwing the bench to the wall? Would sort our the movement issue.
i did this a few months back. got annoyed with ending up the other side of the workshop. works a treat now. doesnt take much
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I have, but I want to build an all singing all dancing workbench in time. I can cope for now as I want to also build a case to cover the corner so I can hang my tools up. They get scattered all over the bench and I hate being untidy.
I bought this book by Chris Schwarz.
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Workbench-Design-Christopher-Schwarz/dp/1440310408/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1331904874&sr=8-2
Very interesting and useful.
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It would be but I'm still trying to get my hands on some decent wood for a mallet.
Thanks Colesy. I like making that Edge shape as well, it's quite a simple profile but it balances nicely.
haha no pressure beachy :), i just love reading your posts and like to butt in with "mine next ;)" don't mind waiting...great job..are you branding your bats or thinking about it? I know you had written that at the moment you are only focused on learning but i see these early bats & posts as great collectors items in future :)
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may be worth scanning and uploading some useful pages? ;)
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i did this a few months back. got annoyed with ending up the other side of the workshop. works a treat now. doesnt take much
same problem with mine until i screwed it back :D
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I will be branding in time, I have my labels ready to go but I've had a change of heart and started to question why I'd had them printed.
I doubt my bats will be collectors items, they'll make good firewood once used though.
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I couldn't do that to "The Schwarz" as he's affectionately known by some people (Not by me :D). His blog is worth reading, Lost Art Press Blog.
He's got loads of videos scattered around the internet and articles on his blog about bench design.
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New post on the blog . It's would take me ages to reformat it for the forum as it has a lot of photos.
Hope you guys like it, let me know what you think.
http://wieldingwhitewillow.blogspot.co.uk/
Some photos of the bat once finished.
(http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nd3vNZITCLI/T2XkbiKWkAI/AAAAAAAAAJM/VyEcITp8kGI/s640/CIMG1694.JPG)
(http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-njV6zSR5pjs/T2XkqzXicqI/AAAAAAAAAJk/EDGVzWrBdZ4/s640/CIMG1700.JPG)
(http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-s_dpTuh8x6M/T2Xkwx2GQUI/AAAAAAAAAJs/lzVtnm7t268/s640/CIMG1703.JPG)
(http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--YEwvfiWX28/T2Xk1ycrUrI/AAAAAAAAAJ0/_6YqNAf4J6A/s640/CIMG1704.JPG)
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Really lovely finish on that bat, like the blog as well!
Keep up the good work.
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Fantastic blog mate. Really inspiring!
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sorry but is it just me?
This is my Travisher. There are many like it, but this one is mine.
My Travisher is my best friend. It is my life.
I must master it as I must master my life.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2G551KpNnA0
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sorry but is it just me?
This is my Travisher. There are many like it, but this one is mine.
My Travisher is my best friend. It is my life.
I must master it as I must master my life.
[url]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2G551KpNnA0[/url]
As soon as I wrote "This is my Travisher", I thought of that film and couldn't help myself.
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i thought same obv haha very good write up well worth 30 mins of my time :)
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Thanks for the nice comments, much appreciated. Might be making a round bottom plane, I can't decide what to do.
It took me about 3 hours yesterday to put all the pictures in, I had a folder of 50 I'd chosen and then had to whittle it down.
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Didn't make a plane, decided to fix my travisher by adding a mouth that makes it useable. Posted on the blog in three parts.
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I've really enjoyed reading your blog, you should get it on here as a thread of its own so the masses can read it rather than hide it away. Quality.
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Thanks, I would but I'm still having issues with formatting when I copy and paste over. The pictures disappear or they have weird symbols surrounding them.
To be honest I'm just glad people look at the blog, but you're right. It would help to post some more of the content even if it was a few pics.
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what sanding and buffing process do you use?
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I don't have any machines so I do it all by hand. I try to avoid using wax on my bats as I'm not comfortable I can get it right every time although I have used it occasionally.
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what grit do you use?
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Just read your blog. Love it!
Wonderful to see the bat taking shape and your finish on it is amazing!
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Who did you buy the cleft from?
Looks like a finished bat rather than made today, might be wrong but nothing to point to freshly made from the pictures.
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Didn't you ask him?, I'd be curious.
What tools did you use and on what part?
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You've really done a good job, made it look like a shop bought bat, can we have a picture of the binding please, I'm curious to what binding you used and where you got it from?
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Look forward to them, I presume you spiked the toe to get it to stay in the lathe and tentioned the binding while it spun?
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Observations can be a wonderful thing lol
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Some natural skills at work, I've watched men with 30 years experience struggle with it, the proof is in the pudding though, look forward to the pictures.
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I tried this on my lathe and nearly got a black eye for my trouble! I'll settle for turning it manually while i'm not turning out 10 bats a day ;)
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Hahaha I found hand binding a bit of a ball ache really, so a few burnt fingers later I managed to do this one on the lathe, will go back to hand binding now though, just wanted this one finished haha
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Burn't fingers? You did use a wooden block to take the tention, you can't bind with fingers alone or you'll cut them to the bone on a lathe, or did you wear thick gloves?
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Hahaha I found hand binding a bit of a ball ache really, so a few burnt fingers later I managed to do this one on the lathe, will go back to hand binding now though, just wanted this one finished haha
any pics of it in the before stage mate?
be nice to see what it looked like to start with
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This thread went crazy after I went to bed. Strangely enough I'm off out today to sort a binding solution, to be cont'd...
what grit do you use?
People keep asking me about it and I don't know what to say. I don't do anything different to anyone else. I don't have a buffing machine or a drum sander, I do my finishing by hand. It's more about what type of sandpaper you use not the grit, 120grit for one brand won't cut in the same way 120 in another brand will.
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its because u cant really see any sanding marks! finish looks awesom
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I think the secret ingredient is "elbow grease". I work hard to get a good finish because I think it represents how much care has gone into the bat.
Straight from the blog:
The tale of a travisher and my cricket bats
For anyone who hasn't come across a travisher, it's a woodworking tool that has seen extensive use in chair making. In recent years, the travisher and cricket bat makers have crossed paths and it now seems that they adorn every pod shavers workshop.
(http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YqfEcChI_lE/T2YhFHjtfKI/AAAAAAAAAJ8/-RrevT7EF-s/s640/CIMG1643.JPG)
This is my Travisher. There are many like it, but this one is mine.
This tool has the potential to remove a great deal of wood very quickly and used in the right circumstances it can be very helpful.
Unfortunately I don't share the enthusiasm for this tool. The one I own has the most bizarre mouth design. The blade is bevel up, but you have to lean the tool so far forward to get the front and mouth to make contact with the surface that instead of the blade being presented at roughly 30º it ends up being closer to 55º or 60º. You then a scraping action rather than a slice. Even with a razor sharp blade it takes some force to use. More Force = Less control.
If it was bevel down it might be better suited to this mouth design but it seems my only option is to make a new mouth or leave it in the tool box.
I'd recommend a round bottom plane instead, far easier to use.
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The tale of a Travisher 2: This time it's personal
The courier arrived mid morning and picked up the bat destined for Australia. I was happy to see the package leave as it'd been sitting in the hallway bugging me, but quite sad at the same time to see it go. It seems every bat I make ends up being the "best one I've made so far", whether it is or not is up for debate but in my eyes it becomes the new favourite.
With my views on the travisher committed in writing, I thought this morning to myself "Why don't I make a new front mouth for it?"
I've been in the process of making a bat width gauge for someone, for weeks. They wanted something similar to one I made a month or so ago...
(http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pmlzbnT_Jrw/T2d0dEAMeFI/AAAAAAAAAKE/uR2qNYsIqU8/s640/CIMG1492.JPG)
I've had 3 attempts at making another and 3 failures. I therefore have some scrap bits of maple needing to be used. So I set about rejuvenating a tool destined for the "big toolbox in the sky".
In my last post I mentioned that the bevel up blade presentation and the angle that you have to present the tool makes for an awkward cutting action.
(http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uLHXe3tKhk4/T2d2ASyztFI/AAAAAAAAAKU/Nntw27VZ6zA/s400/CIMG1706.JPG)
Firstly I had to mark out what I was going to remove. In hindsight, chopping off the whole front would have been easier to do than cutting out a strip but you live and learn.
I make a pencil line and then use a chisel to chop into that line all the way across.
(http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-N-uZTSfGIrk/T2d3UwOwPfI/AAAAAAAAAKc/ITMGzCeYcfs/s640/CIMG1709.JPG)
(http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IaqkczJEVZY/T2d3aSCwptI/AAAAAAAAAKk/IHYOPx7obFk/s640/CIMG1710.JPG)
Paring out a small bit of wood lets your saw fall into place and makes it easier to make an accurate cut
(http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-09NZCUTMIWo/T2d3fSXbgXI/AAAAAAAAAKs/gtLwfQTypIw/s640/CIMG1711.JPG)
Not turning back...
(http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CcYz7Sm1iKQ/T2d3kt6fHmI/AAAAAAAAAK0/Eu5XIBsrKMg/s640/CIMG1714.JPG)
Needs some cleaning up with a chisel.
(http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UPdVvk66Tog/T2d3pJZJmkI/AAAAAAAAAK8/FbzvqRgVinQ/s640/CIMG1715.JPG)
Slowly looking better.
Getting the joint right was quite difficult, which is why I probably should have chopped the whole front off. Eventually I get there and it was a nice little project for the afternoon. I'm currently trying to find some suitable wood for a mallet so I thought I have a go at this in the meantime. I almost got stuck into a wooden plane I'd made as I'll be converting that into a round bottom plane.
(http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AFOadf4QpcE/T2d3t3F1oeI/AAAAAAAAALE/PRT2-m48gSs/s640/CIMG1716.JPG)
All glued up, we'll see how it looks in the morning.
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Back in favour?
Got up this morning and checked how well the gluing had gone.
(http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qUhlssC1PM4/T2iQeCa-wuI/AAAAAAAAAL8/93_ECVOdKnI/s640/CIMG1718.JPG)
After taking off the clamps it looked okay, the glue had dried and all that was left was to shape it down.
This part took a while, perhaps 3 or 4 hours. Whilst this was an experiment since I had nothing to lose, I didn't want to ruin it with a stray chisel stroke. I removed most of the bulk with a saw just save time.
(http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0LStWDx0U9Q/T2ifl4VC36I/AAAAAAAAANM/nX68TfTtp_I/s640/CIMG1719.JPG)
I bought some amazing Narex Chisels last year from Workshop Heaven. If you're considering your first set of chisels or looking to upgrade you can't go far wrong. They are superb quality and cheap, it seems too good to be true but it's not. They sharpen beautifully, slice through the hardest of woods with ease and are a pleasure to use. Matt at Workshop Heaven is incredibly helpful and the service they provide is superb.
(http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iPXlM7RDdno/T2iTKiZAOuI/AAAAAAAAAMM/j239x3_kFjE/s640/CIMG1720.JPG)
Getting there slowly
(http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-z5gFOAp0UJI/T2iTPLwzzlI/AAAAAAAAAMU/gkVOz7RY0r8/s640/CIMG1721.JPG)
Just after I took the above photo I put the blade in for a quick test fit and realised I needed to take off a lot more wood to present the blade. The good thing was I'd left enough on to give me chance to fine tune the front. Which after a bit of chisel work and sandpaper looked like this...
(http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_KuL5kWWFh0/T2iVfOJmu7I/AAAAAAAAAMc/FatOejXup28/s640/CIMG1723.JPG)
I quickly refinished it and put the blade in.
(http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tTRWGx6XaDs/T2iWIrfmZxI/AAAAAAAAAMk/rToL8zzOM2w/s640/CIMG1724.JPG)
(http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qIUjD2J1dh4/T2iWO6nImlI/AAAAAAAAAMs/C2gEdnzDQLI/s640/CIMG1727.JPG)
(http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sJyB01RLz-c/T2iWTVvwq5I/AAAAAAAAAM0/5ywEdaGln9M/s640/CIMG1728.JPG)
(http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Z5LlxR0rAXk/T2iWZQSy5ZI/AAAAAAAAAM8/30AjLibjBSk/s640/CIMG1729.JPG)
The front edge is screaming out for a bevel or curve.
(http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bAYzMhnfvwI/T2iWfGwVLSI/AAAAAAAAANE/oT2Aj8iz6WE/s640/CIMG1730.JPG)
A few simple shavings illustrate the difference it's made.
It's like a different tool. My travisher actually takes shavings rather than scrapings. The true test will be when I'm making a cricket bat but right now I pleased as Punch.
Let me know what you think, any questions get in touch.
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unbelivable jeff!
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I'm going to have to issue an invite....
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this makes me want to buy tools from you Beachy...i read the blog last night and good to see are able to move the posts here. Lovely work...
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Leachy, you gonna get those pics of your bat making up that you said you would?
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Wanted tools on Monday, made a bat on Tuesday
Someone snap the lad up. Great stuff
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leachy just admit u didnt make the bat why are u lying to everybody just be a man and admit it lol
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Are those pics up yet leachy?
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Give him time, it's not easy taking off binding from a pre done bat and redoing it by hand lol. :D
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I think someone is busted :D
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I did, I had other attempts before, and I bought it part shaped, but I actually did, if i took some close up pics there are a fair few sanding marks etc, from all my sanding
you asked for bat making tools! aday before u posted this up u got them tools well fast didnt u?
if u just sanded it fair enough but thats it
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Wanted tools on Monday, made a bat on Tuesday
Someone snap the lad up. Great stuff
The craig david of the bat making world....Kez get me travisher ya (No Swearing Please)
Shamoooon
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I believe in you Leachy, don't listen to those bitter old men.....
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Less of the old thanks!
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Haha unbelievable bat making tekkers if he has turned it around in a day.
Innocent until proven guilty, proce us all wrong lad :D
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He is a God walking amongst mortals, he isn't a very naughty boy, he's the messiah.
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He is a God walking amongst mortals, he isn't a very naughty boy, he's the messiah.
ahaha!
I wonder if he got the cleft delivered by Owl?
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I think he is more a Brian than a Harry....
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Pics leachy please! Or admit you didn't make it. Please :)
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This is Beach's thread; methinks it has been sullied enough. Back on topic and admire some real handiwork I say.
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This is on the blog, plus a piece I wrote about my views on Pod Shaving
From the blog:
Since I'll shortly be tackling some figured maple for the making of a hand plane, I thought it would be a good idea for me to close the mouth on a wooden plane I already made. Whilst it functions admirably, there is room for improvement. I had a couple of ebony offcuts that were tidied up on the shooting board (already worth its in Gold) and set about removing some wood from the sole.
(http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Y-pKc2xzmIE/T27n1iEe2_I/AAAAAAAAAOY/_C-GjBxE_L0/s640/CIMG1740.JPG)
Using the projected blade to rest the ebony block against, I mark out the area with a knife
(http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XHzkGHSO8yk/T27n7z9CPNI/AAAAAAAAAOg/pz4Le6KONs0/s640/CIMG1742.JPG)
The piece of ebony in question, all squared up.
(http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aGeATDmV1aI/T27oBaYnr6I/AAAAAAAAAOo/T7RBS495Xk0/s640/CIMG1743.JPG)
(http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Td5lz9yX2mY/T27oHAKgxEI/AAAAAAAAAOw/ywqSsc6rVTc/s640/CIMG1744.JPG)
Cleaned up and flattened.
(http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_t49PCtoOUU/T27oMrh7slI/AAAAAAAAAO4/ugrH1LrNQBw/s640/CIMG1745.JPG)
I probably should have had the grain running down the sole, but it may prove to be a nice contrast once cleaned up.
(http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-D8JJbb8pRCo/T27oR5AVj-I/AAAAAAAAAPA/8IqCE-2v8lI/s640/CIMG1746.JPG)
Glued and clamped
I'll see what it looks like in the morning.
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Nice one Beachy. I need to do something like this with my home made concaving plane. You're full of good ideas! Do you work as a carpenter full time or are you a talented amatuer?
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Just an amateur who loves making stuff, I wish it was my job. It's quite common to need to do this for old wooden planes but it's the first time I've had a go. I've posted the next part of this on my blog, I'll put it here soon.
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A quick look this morning revealed that the ebony block had glued in nicely. So I set about cleaning up the sole.
(http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9iOonKiYE7w/T28quyEsIWI/AAAAAAAAAPI/TPErPJCbCzY/s640/CIMG1747.JPG)
A block plane worked perfectly but I went on stroke too far as can be seen by the gap. Ooops!
(http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UwtUc3S5jCY/T28q1o7bfcI/AAAAAAAAAPQ/h3DzApwNWgo/s640/CIMG1748.JPG)
Some 60 grit sandpaper stuck to a piece of MDF works perfectly to quickly remove the bulk of the waste on the sole.
(http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mGS8jHorT48/T28q9REl7HI/AAAAAAAAAPY/HMRNfWnYLL4/s640/CIMG1749.JPG)
A few areas around the edges remain untouched but the majority is nice and flat.
(http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5uuZTK6ao08/T28rCVd7wXI/AAAAAAAAAPg/1D18k0E_TL8/s640/CIMG1750.JPG)
A vast improvement
The small chips you can see in the blade are incredibly frustrating. I have spent hours trying to get a uniform edge but the blade continues to flake when I start to sharpen or use it. I don't have a grinder and I do my sharpening by hand so the blade has never been overheated. The grinding marks are from when I first bought the iron, so as you can see it's barely been used.
Edit: Now sorted the edge, I needed to increase the bevel angle on the tip. Thanks to Phil from Philly Planes.
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A new round bottom plane I've finished today. This was made for Marcus at SAF but I'm mildly tempted to keep it.
More pictures on the blog,
http://wieldingwhitewillow.blogspot.co.uk/2012/04/who-doesnt-like-nice-round-bottom-plane.html
Let me know what you think, comments and constructive critique is always welcome.
(http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CBobdob-su4/T38rpIfIckI/AAAAAAAAATM/UiRu0UVCvQg/s640/CIMG1826.JPG)
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Superb stuff mate. Very sexual indeed!
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Dear dear me, that is woodwork tool porn right there!
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you are brilliant with this stuff!
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I want one :D
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You really love this stuff. I won't be surprised if you are already getting requests to get some tools made. Perhaps right time to launch a website. Not many possess such exquisite talent.
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Nice work again beachy, was reading you blog, hope you got your bench fixed and stop kicking :)
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I was gutted but not surprised when it happened. It was lucky, because it was your bat in the vice. I've shoved a load of glue in it today and some dowels hoping that will suffice until I sort out an alternative.
Thanks for the nice comments, it looks a little bit fancy but works nicely.
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I was gutted but not surprised when it happened. It was lucky, because it was your bat in the vice. I've shoved a load of glue in it today and some dowels hoping that will suffice until I sort out an alternative.
Thanks for the nice comments, it looks a little bit fancy but works nicely.
I know :), yes you have mentioned in your posts before abt the bench. Considering how you make your bats and tools, if you ever decided to make a bench I would love to see it too..
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It's either buy a bench or buy a planer machine and do a proper job of it this time. If anyone wants to make a suggestion and help me make my mind up that would be greatly appreciated.
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Finished this bat a couple of days ago. The rest of the shaping is on the blog or CI website.
2lbs 11.6, slim edges, no concaving.
(http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4ZMX_g-94FE/T4Xj8j4WEpI/AAAAAAAAAVM/cEQinLmgzt4/s640/CIMG1884.JPG)
(http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-keP-cjupfHk/T4XkF9n8J7I/AAAAAAAAAVc/R9sAOodUceE/s640/CIMG1886.JPG)
(http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zS_Gs6o91eY/T4XkKEYo24I/AAAAAAAAAVk/RDEvDDNJmzg/s640/CIMG1889.JPG)
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When you get the finish just right, there's fewer parts of the process that can be as satisfying. Seeing the grain of the wood come to life, along with the blemishes is rewarding. Usually, people want to cleanest looking, straightest grained piece of willow they can find, but the blemishes add character in my opinion.
Despite my usual enthusiasm for finishing, it was not an enjoyable experience with this bat. I've been experimenting with different abrasives and techniques recently. Whilst my finishing is satisfactory, the time it takes is not. The longer I stand there sanding, the dustier I get and the more worn my hands become. I'd like to say that my hands are like those of a seasoned lumberjack...
(http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sqlnJm11JPY/T41mkdM7tII/AAAAAAAAAWU/curUqoBl3Jg/s400/plaid8-lumberjack-550x312.jpg)
They're not though, so I need to start finding alternatives. That doesn't mean I'll be buying a sander, I'd rather buy The Anarchist's Tool Chest by Christopher Schwarz.
Given that we have a good idea of how the finishing went, we'll get onto the shaping part of this bat. It weighed a whopping 3lbs 13oz, so barring a small miracle I could safely assume that I wouldn't be making a 2lbs 6oz bat with 40mm edges.
I started out wanting to make a bat that had edges that were at their thickest just under half way up the blade and no concaving. But as always the shape changes.
(http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FW5p3-luDmU/T41wtvwTB8I/AAAAAAAAAWc/nfU1faCoXcM/s640/CIMG1901.JPG)
(http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9nAPgZ9gMkc/T41wyo-5h0I/AAAAAAAAAWk/DoDMkBN9t1U/s640/CIMG1902.JPG)
(http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-N8m_XmrGPiE/T41w3sbat9I/AAAAAAAAAWs/rsxNvXm4Yg8/s640/CIMG1903.JPG)
(http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_wwapm4T9vQ/T41w84hzU-I/AAAAAAAAAW0/Jy28B32-Cos/s640/CIMG1904.JPG)
(http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8pNnXKDtea4/T41xCcXBqBI/AAAAAAAAAW8/I4kZd9fWyYY/s640/CIMG1907.JPG)
(http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--O-Ct2VdbMk/T41xHNpdPWI/AAAAAAAAAXE/mf5EETgL_Pw/s640/CIMG1910.JPG)
I had to use my spokeshave across the grain here for some reason. When I went up or down the blade it was having none of it. Weird?!?!
(http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XJhniKbzpic/T41xQfbQsXI/AAAAAAAAAXU/00LsC61Qqxc/s640/CIMG1936.JPG)
Blending the area around the swell of the middle.
I should mention I have started to use my round bottom plane and travisher to take some weight out. I'd reached a point where I was going to be taking height from the spine after having reduced the edges considerably. In other news, my travisher is now in my tool rotation again. The new mouth I made has had a dramatic impact on the quality of the tool, it makes me wonder why it was originally made in the manner it was.
(http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UHpbk0ifzsM/T41xUsDI0gI/AAAAAAAAAXc/RN8dhoj6ze0/s640/CIMG1938.JPG)
SCRATCHES!
(http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kqr1OrN2SSo/T41xZgw6dDI/AAAAAAAAAXk/bBj1YixSCUA/s640/CIMG1944.JPG)
(http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kmTpa_Un9fE/T41xeHaHEBI/AAAAAAAAAXs/FZGyf5hkLlg/s640/CIMG1949.JPG)
(http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wTXhomevwX4/T41xi4T6HRI/AAAAAAAAAX0/a3EgmkUT7Js/s640/CIMG1953.JPG)
I'm not sure if the three pictures above are from when I finished it for the second time or third?. Either way we know how that turned out.
And now for something completely different...
This window has been stuck shut for a while, but a rubber mallet solved that. As soon as it opened the air was so much cleaner. A nice little breeze helped to get rid of the dust from sanding, rather than it just settling on EVERYTHING!
(http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sUrC8DCGjwU/T41xooXSzeI/AAAAAAAAAX8/NItr-mNJEg8/s640/CIMG1960.JPG)
Hello to fresh air.
(http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Pgtse8Hq7bI/T41xt7HC5oI/AAAAAAAAAYE/AWQqpHhzgB4/s640/CIMG1967.JPG)
(http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-i3s5uMAtFzY/T41xyRiyEVI/AAAAAAAAAYM/69ZrD4Lz3tI/s640/CIMG1969.JPG)
(http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hbC3AqFFBPw/T41x27gnU5I/AAAAAAAAAYU/p1Jk9uykx3c/s640/CIMG1972.JPG)
(http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IMgNRAypCGo/T41x7XPGE5I/AAAAAAAAAYc/obSJzs6kP8A/s640/CIMG1973.JPG)
(http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XOxOM47kG7M/T41x_Id85ZI/AAAAAAAAAYk/ejVYDYlwZ5Q/s640/CIMG1974.JPG)
It weighs a healthy 2lbs 15.6oz with one grip. I didn't make it for anyone in particular, just a good learning experience making a bat with a heavy cleft. I quite like the balance of the bat for something this heavy, but I can't justify having three match bats...
...or can I?
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That is gorgeous.
Many many thanks for all the pics and explanations. I wouldnt have a clue where to start if presented with a cleft. I am really enjoying following your work. You make some class bats.
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love the finishing mate. Really top notch.
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Beachy's finishing is fanstastic, recieved a bat yesterday from him and was pleasantly surprised with how well it is finished, am also very impressed with the balance and shape of the bat.
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Beachy a question for you mate;
Since hand finishing is a lot more time consuming, energy consuming and what not! Why don't you take option of power sander, finish majority of the bat and then give final coat with hand ensuring finishing is as good as you current work. Surely that means less work, no ?
Looking forward hearing your response.
Beachy's finishing is fanstastic, recieved a bat yesterday from him and was pleasantly surprised with how well it is finished, am also very impressed with the balance and shape of the bat.
No pictures = no bat
Simples :D
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No pictures = no bat
Simples :D
They are already here, second last post from Beachy is my bat :), I will take somemore tonight and post them..
http://custombats.co.uk/cbforum/index.php?topic=4335.msg276026#msg276026
or here
http://wieldingwhitewillow.blogspot.ca/2012/04/traditional-touch.html
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I think for the number of bats I'm making, buying a specific piece of equipment to do the sanding would be a waste of money. If I was going to buy anything it would be a pneumatic drum sander, but they're pricey. The sanding that I do by hand that compares to that done by a power sander is over pretty quickly. The finishing only takes me a long time because I get really fussy about it. I try to get it as good as I can.
If you can suggest alternative power sanding equipment I'd welcome it, if there is a quicker way that will yield similar or superior results I'll happily use it.
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It's the same with a buffing machine, I'd love to have one. However I don't have the money to spend on a piece of equipment I don't know how to use efficiently.
I could buy a bandsaw, disc/belt sander or planer/thicknesser and get good use from it because I have projects that would use that piece of equipment regularly.
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I've finished a new bat, weighing 2.14lbs. This one will be up for sale, perhaps going to ebay as it seems the heavier bats don't sell very well on here.
I won't add the whole blog post as there's 26 photos, and formatting back and forth would take forever.
http://wieldingwhitewillow.blogspot.co.uk/2012/04/special-bond.html
(http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gNFAa_RZByQ/T5gNT4-kxGI/AAAAAAAAAcg/oFfQEGNHsqs/s640/CIMG2015.JPG)
(http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YWQfv_39oig/T5gNaa3_COI/AAAAAAAAAco/pxXVIvh-uPk/s640/CIMG2017.JPG)
(http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mvas93iGGCo/T5gNpAFhxiI/AAAAAAAAAdA/MaOmYAYx51k/s640/CIMG2023.JPG)
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Wow! Every time I read your blog i'm blown away by the quality of your workmanship, Keep up the good work. What do you use for finishing BTW?
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Apart from sandpaper, sometimes I use wax but I keep trying different brands but I'm not that keen on the finish I get yet.
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Beachy, Hope you approve :D
(http://i1212.photobucket.com/albums/cc453/tusharsehgal/Raffle%20Bat%20-%20Boom%20Boom%20Gloves/007.jpg)
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Looks good, so long as it performs well for you I'm happy.
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What a difference a few ounces makes. You may remember I made a bat using a heavy cleft (or the heaviest cleft I had at 3lbs 13oz) and that whilst shaping that cleft a few truths became apparent to this novice bat maker. Making a bat with a lighter cleft isn't necessarily easier, it's just that you don't have to make half as many sacrifices along the way. With that heavy cleft I had to completely forgo the possibility of making a BIG bat, it had to subtle and sedate. A lighter cleft gives you so many more options.
I picked the lightest cleft I had for this bat which was 3lbs 7.4oz. I'm not sure if this is a light cleft in the grand scheme of willow or how light they can go but for me it's certainly the lightest I've ever had the fortune of shaping. Just to give you an idea of how versatile a lighter cleft is I decided to leave part of the spine as high as it arrived until finishing. I didn't go crazy with concaving and the edges are only 23mm at their thickest, it's all spine.
I'd been asked if I could make a bat in the region of 2lbs 7oz but this one should be 2lbs 9.5oz gripped and bound. One important lesson I have learnt is being able to realise when enough is enough. When the naked weight got to 2lbs 7.5oz, I figured I should stop before I ruined it. Having said that, I did have to change the edges from their original profile. I slipped with my round bottom plane and took a generous slice of willow from the edge by accident. It was easily fix though.
(http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dZGdyofcmNM/T7P11HvjQ1I/AAAAAAAAAgM/9cw_sljO__Q/s640/CIMG2051.JPG)
(http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dcEyDtPxn60/T7P16N2xJ1I/AAAAAAAAAgU/1j7yVVLMYUE/s640/CIMG2052.JPG)
(http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CyaibMNGxhQ/T7P1-8E_krI/AAAAAAAAAgc/acbpRoHUwcw/s640/CIMG2054.JPG)
(http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AsCsTMhKtBc/T7P2EWhcz4I/AAAAAAAAAgk/E5PyXt2DXDM/s640/CIMG2055.JPG)
I'm trying to shape the toe of the bat with a bit more of a concave profile, just for something different.
(http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-P0c9fEEtuik/T7P2I0zVCCI/AAAAAAAAAgs/vHwLRDz9dbU/s640/CIMG2061.JPG)
This rough bit is the rough cut spine, I used this little slither to illustrate how I left the spine as high as I could.
(http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IIMd7tpXUCE/T7P2OOITyBI/AAAAAAAAAg0/8r61HnwHQoo/s640/CIMG2062.JPG)
(http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GBQlfhCZRIM/T7P2T8TyyTI/AAAAAAAAAg8/S2TNFrGkt18/s640/CIMG2063.JPG)
There's that rough slither in the middle again, lots of spine and the weight was coming off with ease, I love light clefts.
(http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VyuoQA6XXmw/T7P2YxP7pqI/AAAAAAAAAhE/3zn94yjuPmc/s640/CIMG2064.JPG)
(http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QgcNYHU22nU/T7P2eMM6jTI/AAAAAAAAAhM/9n4tk-UpnJM/s640/CIMG2069.JPG)
(http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XHQAD6bv0MY/T7P2iwqFbtI/AAAAAAAAAhU/-MSEN3tuOgA/s640/CIMG2073.JPG)
The slither was a little bit narrower once I'd refined the back, but still there.
(http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4bRidLZEuUM/T7P2oSpwOmI/AAAAAAAAAhc/nY4QGhDX_2E/s640/CIMG2074.JPG)
Edges have gone down and the swell moved upwards, huge improvement on the balance of the bat.
(http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sOtnYKvtLUs/T7P2tOgqB3I/AAAAAAAAAhk/cGlR1y_ONfQ/s640/CIMG2076.JPG)
As finishing begins it starts to disappear. Goodbye old friend...
(http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-y5rqbBd12Oo/T7P2xtzn35I/AAAAAAAAAhs/2j6HHpPCADk/s640/CIMG2078.JPG)
Not a face for the "blemish free/straight grain" crowd. But once you burnish the face and edges these marks look beautiful.
(http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kjEqunh44KE/T7P22UmtcZI/AAAAAAAAAh0/26txNPGE98c/s640/CIMG2079.JPG)
Remind me to focus my camera before taking photos, Tisk tisk!
(http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kCzKRWZETLo/T7P27V2YH7I/AAAAAAAAAh8/d_qrlStEQw8/s640/CIMG2080.JPG)
Small edges, big spine and only approximately 2lbs 9.5oz. The spine has to be around 60mm or more, it's larger than an 3lbs bat I have.
(http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hl-crkWieLY/T7P2_aFgl1I/AAAAAAAAAiE/D9q_42bMbN8/s640/CIMG2083.JPG)
These are great, the wood twists and turns. A nightmare to finish sometimes though.
(http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-K5S3mtN_owQ/T7P3EFtFRvI/AAAAAAAAAiM/XZsHg5K4mtU/s640/CIMG2085.JPG)
(http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oKTGRYVK1bM/T7P3IgdOPyI/AAAAAAAAAiU/U1GtzHBvvDg/s640/CIMG2087.JPG)
As enjoyable as it was to make a bat with a lighter cleft, I have to admit a heavy cleft present more challenges and as a result you feel like you're learning more. Don't get me wrong, I'd happily use lighter clefts all the time but there are certainly issues that you'd never come across with a cleft at this weight or lighter. You can ask yourself "How much more do I want to take off?" rather than "How much more do I have to take off?". I'm not sure about you but I know which one I'd rather ask myself.
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Finally got it formatted.
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Marvellous, loving your work.
I am interested in your love of the concave toe, I can see you making a reflex shape before long! Personally I am going through a phase of liking a convex toe shape (which means a lower middle) - and would love to see you try and make one like that...
I think the user of this bat will be absolutely delighted with it.
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These bats are beasts! Im a 2.12 + man - loving your work!
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is this for sale?
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Thanks, I tend to make a convex toe and then flatten it out at the end. I've tried going the other way to see how it changes the way I shape the rest of the bat. I should do a really convex toe next time.
Deano - This bat is for sale.
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Making the fighting weight.
For just a small moment we'll put aside the mallet from "Progress on the mallet amongst other things.", as a bat needed making. There was a whisper of anticipation in the air... my new drawknife awaiting its first helping of willow cleft for breakfast, the tools laid out across the bench, a cup of tea on the window sill and a skip in my step. Not in the workshop obviously, that would be showing a total disregard for Health and Safety. Not on my watch!
I'd like to repeat my words and say "Oh dear...". The workbench is on its last leg, literally. Every leg joint is showing signs of wear and only one looks like the repairs will hold for any decent length of time. I keep saying it I know, but I've got to build a new bench sooner or later...
Back to the cricket bat though. It was another request for a bat in the style of the Hunts County Edge, it's a popular shape it would seem. The cleft weighed 3lbs 10.1oz and I was looking to get it down to 2lbs 10oz to give myself a good chance of meeting the ceiling weight of 2.12. So with all that willow to be removed it was time to unleash the new drawknife on the cleft. The difference is significant but it has both positives and negatives at this point. Yes the cut is cleaner and it's faster at removing wood but it's difficult to control. We've gone back to the start almost in terms of technique, it's a new learning curve and a couple of times the cut was getting away from me...
(http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CqGsSSQboVI/T9CH86VTlMI/AAAAAAAAAoY/pjW-qtSMmRE/s640/CIMG2212.JPG)
We went just a little bit too deep, I quickly measured the edge to check what was left.
(http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Rj2lQDPKHms/T9CH4r2YF_I/AAAAAAAAAoQ/Z93q1eyFLnI/s640/CIMG2206.JPG)
As you can see from the marks, we have a constant battle between Man and Drawknife.
(http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-K4ccxP8lSCo/T9CR-1KbvGI/AAAAAAAAAow/cUQl61pKka8/s640/CIMG2204.JPG)
(http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1Z15NDB7V5M/T9CSEYPnP3I/AAAAAAAAAo4/Ef-iQJHJX0g/s640/CIMG2205.JPG)
It wasn't long before the hand plane got in on the action to clean things up.
(http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gW32xf1BSIU/T9CSJr8dGbI/AAAAAAAAApA/u5La3PLaqLY/s640/CIMG2214.JPG)
(http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HbRycIFV-kM/T9CSOiQeLRI/AAAAAAAAApI/eZUf11X9GK8/s640/CIMG2216.JPG)
(http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gQt1jlAAfE0/T9CSTvcNCoI/AAAAAAAAApQ/m6hnxT5lsEc/s640/CIMG2217.JPG)
(http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bcE5QwaW9SY/T9CSY50p8YI/AAAAAAAAApc/eSl01S2reHk/s640/CIMG2219.JPG)
I left the rough sawn timber again, I like to use it as a guide for shaping.
(http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tvYQ9-ijXFQ/T9CSdXLpigI/AAAAAAAAApk/ovGkpyWNwZw/s640/CIMG2220.JPG)
(http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NgdWcnD1160/T9CSiePcX4I/AAAAAAAAAps/7zKx3izDOg4/s640/CIMG2221.JPG)
Starting to look almost like a cricket bat.
At this point, I think it's worth noting the difference in shape between the above photo and the one below.
(http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0sZO2DYAhDI/T9CSnv6I_1I/AAAAAAAAAp0/YE9nH55HbQw/s640/CIMG2223.JPG)
I've mentioned a couple of times that each willow cleft is unique and making copies is always tough because you have to accommodate the qualities of the willow and not compromise the cleft by forcing it into a shape. I could get the ruler out and make as close a copy as is humanly possible but that wouldn't benefit the bat and therefore the customer. The dramatic difference in shape you see in the two pictures above not only represents the need to remove weight but more importantly the change in shape I've had to make to accommodate the willow cleft.
(http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZAG0mAQVaFk/T9CSsyJNJ-I/AAAAAAAAAp8/td0aHuqxnCM/s640/CIMG2224.JPG)
(http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-77LHAOpK0cU/T9CSx92X_2I/AAAAAAAAAqE/KzAcFaPh8IE/s640/CIMG2225.JPG)
(http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AOtwgsU_bbo/T9CS29wUyfI/AAAAAAAAAqQ/Fb0CwY-mkT8/s640/CIMG2226.JPG)
Rough sawn willow still there and some round bottom plane action had begun.
(http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dLmreEKWChw/T9CS7kOaW-I/AAAAAAAAAqY/_GlQiaBV2qg/s640/CIMG2227.JPG)
You can see the chatter marks my spokeshave is leaving, needs a sharpen and some tool TLC.
(http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dWh1Fls0X1I/T9CTBHKKPUI/AAAAAAAAAqg/uZLn1-NHSsc/s640/CIMG2232.JPG)
(http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-etQq4FVq7_I/T9CTGW-rRjI/AAAAAAAAAqo/XpqJ09-sZ4g/s640/CIMG2236.JPG)
(http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-S5_U-zwJRhM/T9CTLpqoWJI/AAAAAAAAAqw/P7XsoNRQFj4/s640/CIMG2241.JPG)
(http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-z4xMSNd12i8/T9CTR1xO4fI/AAAAAAAAAq8/MUr2J27V2-Y/s640/CIMG2250.JPG)
(http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1Z5-CpDQOoc/T9CTWu1uF2I/AAAAAAAAArI/9C9pgZO5F4A/s640/CIMG2251.JPG)
(http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nTKPAt_UmTE/T9CTbCcgl-I/AAAAAAAAArQ/53KE01ME0ko/s640/CIMG2255.JPG)
These marks are fantastic, they catch the light at different angles and give the wood character.
(http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-abOea-m1hzg/T9CTgOtsa0I/AAAAAAAAArY/S5rUdN2fSfo/s640/CIMG2259.JPG)
(http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gE3bcJsxVeM/T9CTlnCwjWI/AAAAAAAAArg/emj3e236fi8/s640/CIMG2261.JPG)
(http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-K7-qwR_bAH4/T9CTqrqVSqI/AAAAAAAAAro/MQiShxHreyI/s640/CIMG2262.JPG)
(http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tNEeNj5VSws/T9CTvPZR1LI/AAAAAAAAArw/ZwS0KSy4fjM/s640/CIMG2263.JPG)
(http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TYdbKzIitb4/T9CTzc_QZWI/AAAAAAAAAr8/0oGTj5Z2Q0s/s640/CIMG2264.JPG)
Like a veteren boxer, this bat came in exactly at weight once gripped and bound. You know you've made a decent bat when you can't suppress a big cheshire grin after giving it a gentle rap with a mallet. I can only hope the customer is as pleased as me, because I really enjoyed making this one.
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Top work, I especially love how you keep as much of the wood in the spine as possible, it certainly does look a big bat.
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Lovely bat again mate, some of the things your making are truly stunning
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delightful again beachy...
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Another stunning bat. I really like how you keep a photographic diary too, gives it a personal edge.
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bat looks top notch. great work and a great post
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Straight from my blog...
As unlikely as it may seem that Shakespeare was thinking of cricket when he wrote Iago's immortal words "It is the green-eyed monster which doth mock the meat it feeds on.", the phrase is certainly apt here. Sometimes you hear something that stops you in your tracks and makes you wonder if you imagined it happened. Whilst I'd hoped this view was not prevalent in cricket, I am realistic enough to know it was only hope.
For whatever reason cricket bats have become bigger in the last decade. Whether this can be put down to pressing techniques, drying, changes in the willow tree, optical illusions or black magic, I can't be sure. But I do know it's happened. If this is Fashion or Progress can be debated but what I heard highlighted something far more concerning than bat size.
It made me pose to myself such questions as How have we come to this? Where did we go wrong? Was it something I said? What the hell is going on?
The phrase was...
"His bat is bigger than mine"
That's right, take the stumps out the ground, pack your bags and lock the clubhouse. We've reached the end of the line. The green eyed monster is no longer twelfth man, he's in the team and we can't drop him. What is the purpose of the pursuit of size? Perhaps it's the pursuit of confidence, I can fully understand the link between confidence in a bat and size but that doesn't mean the perception is based on any hard evidence. Prove to me beyond a doubt that a bigger bat is consistently a better bat. We've seem the explosion of bigger bats on the market with most manufacturers offering a cricket bat's inside leg measurement as some marketing madness.
The "flat face" pressing was a laughable example of this. The sales pitch was that it helped you direct your shots better as the ball didn't roll off the face, in reality it was simply there to add a couple of mm's to the edge. However you only had to round those edges over when you knocked the bat in.
I know I sound like a broken record, constantly harping on about perception. But at every stage of the process we find our choices being influenced by factors which often have little or even no bearing on a cricket bat. We show off our new cricket bats to our friends, team mates, to those we don't even know and offer details that after consideration can't really properly communicate the quality of cricket bat. After all the only way to know if a cricket bat is truly any good is to use it.
Perhaps we have started to use spine height, edge size and other physical qualities as a way of providing ourselves with some objective tools to assess a cricket bat before we part with our hard earned money. As is outlined in this article, we can also easily compare our bat with another. Having said this we know that each piece of wood is unique and we have the unenviable task of comparing something subjective with objective tools.
Why should we care if someone has a bigger bat than us, shouldn't we be in pursuit of a bat that performs? The argument of increased size = increased confidence is understandable but seeing the ball rocket to the boundary is surely the greatest confidence boost for any batsmen.
A big bat looks like it'll hit the ball hard but that doesn't mean it will. Power and volume are no doubt related but not to the extent to which people attribute such great importance. Mass is hiding in the background, ever present but often overlooked. If we're getting bigger bats for similar weights then something has changed. Units of mass haven't changed, a pound is still a pound. Big edges haven't appeared out of thin air, the wood must have come from another place on the bat.
Concaving?
Concaving is a tool I use to balance a bat, to allow me to leave the most mass in the swell. Simple as that. If you're focused on finding the biggest bat rather than the best bat then you may as well be comparing your manhood in the shower.
(http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-64-dzlyX7-Q/UIcDquxUGII/AAAAAAAABBA/FQ72tOSx3k8/s640/CIMG2378.JPG)
12 or 15mm edges on a 2lbs 5oz Gray Nicolls Powerspot.
(http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-C6SBs4MTUDI/UIcDviBXZ3I/AAAAAAAABBI/GPVql_nRGdk/s640/CIMG2379.JPG)
Look at those MONSTER Edges, I need to sit down.
I'll leave you with this...
Ask yourself if some of the wood in those 40mm edges could be put to use more efficiently elsewhere?
Now this one is only my perception, opinion and view on this subject. It's not right nor is it wrong.
(http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BrCMJUB7hQI/UIPwuCm3-kI/AAAAAAAABAI/qdOJa9izyuE/s640/Anchorman_039Pyxurz.jpg)
If you like it, you can take it, if you don't, send it right back.
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Nice piece bud!
No wonder we talk for ages! Although I'm claiming the shower comment ha ha ha
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what I really likeabout that photo-diary is seeing how rough the bat looks pre finishing, yet home superbly ita ll comes together in the end. That to me is the essence of craftsmanship!
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Nice piece bud!
No wonder we talk for ages! Although I'm claiming the shower comment ha ha ha
I'm happy to say it was you who came up with that. And more importantly got me to finally finish writing this article, it's been lingering for a few weeks now in various forms.
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I'm happy to say it was you who came up with that. And more importantly got me to finally finish writing this article, it's been lingering for a few weeks now in various forms.
Well as we said its all about getting the right motivation. ;-) as you did for me yesterday... Lit a few fires and kept Vodafone in business.
The best thing about the blogs and posts is that they offer more than you think from first reading... And the more new guys come in and see the more they speak to you.
I look forward to seeing you in a few decades ;-)
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Hi Beachy, just read the whole thread and been looking at the bats you have been making and i must say they are very good espically the edge copy from the a few coupke of years back.
Do you make bats just for yourself or will you make to order? If so can i PM you with some details?
Oh could you let me know cost please and do yhey come plain for me to add my own stickers to or do you have a boutique company etc.
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Hi Beachy, just read the whole thread and been looking at the bats you have been making and i must say they are very good espically the edge copy from the a few coupke of years back.
Do you make bats just for yourself or will you make to order? If so can i PM you with some details?
Oh could you let me know cost please and do yhey come plain for me to add my own stickers to or do you have a boutique company etc.
Hello,
I do make bats for other people and they come plain. Send me a PM if you have any other questions.
Beach