Customer Reviews

Adventures in Wood Finishing: 88 Rue de Charonne (A Fine woodworking book)

5 star:		(5)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

This has been the most enjoyable woodworking book I have ever read. Mr. Frank's story makes fascinating reading, his knowledge of wood finishing is still amazing after eighteen years of "progress" since the publication of this book.

I don't know why Taunton has allowed it to fall out of print, but they need to bring it back.

It is rare that a book is both informative and entertaining, but this book fully fits that description. Frank grew up in post WWI europe and tells stories that also instruct. Frank is a master at coloring and finishing wood, whose life spanned 94 years. His advice is timeless, and the book, published in 1981, covers most finishing materials available today, as well as, finishing materials and methods that seem bygone now. Any woodworker will find this an incredible story.

I bought this book in 1983, shortly after the first edition was released. It is a wonderful account of the "old" days by one of the last of the great wood finishers. George's ability to weave a story in such a way in incredible. I was fortunate to meet and correspond with him on several occasions when he lived in Florida. He was almost boyish in his excitement when I asked him to autograph my book. A once in a lifetime read for anyone interested in the art of wood finishing.

Tastfully written account of a man who wrote the book on early finishing development.'Colorful' stories and accounts that take the reader on a journey to the European melting pot of furniture production in this early time period. Great technical information dressed in wonderful tales of George Frank's workplaces, employers and friends. Not to be missed!

Fun stories about the old days of wood working/finishing in Europe. It is more fun to read than one might imagine. Note the price for a new copy is near two hundred dollars ! I am glad I bought this book and can reread it over and over. Contains some practical how to info also. This is world class wood finishing by one of the all time masters for some of the most demanding customers on the planet.

If the reader is interested in high end wood working they will enjoy and treasure this book !