Customer Reviews

Finish Carpenter's Manual

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

 

 

This is the finest "how to" book that I have ever read, regardless of the subject matter or discipline covered. It pre-supposes nothing on the part of the reader; it explains all techincal terms and techiniques that are introduced into any discussion be it simple base moldings or figuring return cuts for window aprons. Most importantly, everything presented is useful to the average woodworker or wannabe woodworker with average talent but above average desire.
The sad truth is that this fine book is but an introduction to a dying art. In attempting to install (my first) window trim I read and re-read all of the passages dealing with measuring the casings, determining the width of the stool (sill?) and, best of all, how to make the necessary cuts for the returns at the ends of the aprons.
At the same time I purchased this book I also purchased "Finish Carpentry" which turned out to be a collection of articles from Fine Homebuilding magazine showing finish carpentry in the homes of the wealthy and the very wealthy including door casings made of molded plaster and arches made of laminated mahogany, both of which I included in my baronial billiards room (I wish!). Fortunately, there was one useful article on scribing that happened to be written by Mr. Tolpin.
I recommend Mr. Tolpin's "Finish Carpenter's Manual" with great enthusiasm.

This book is outstanding. It has already paid for itself many times over. If you're doing a finish carpentry project or even contracting one out, then this should be required reading.

This is a well-written manual that covers all aspects of finish carpentry including pricing your work. The advice is sound and this book has saved me from making a number of mistakes. The best part is that Mr. Tolpin is a fine writer and he even manages to make this an interesting read.

If you're interested in finish carpentry this is a great book for you. I read this book while a contractor was building a house for me -- I learned enough to get him to correct some framing and drywall problems that would have hurt me later. I also learned what to do before the drywall went on to save myself time when I added the chair and crown moldings.

I am a retired aerospace engineer experiencing a "second life" as a woodworker/carpenter. Of all the finish carpentry books I have looked at, this one is better suited to the person going into the business (I am contemplating it). It offers a decent overview of the range of projects a carpenter will be called upon to do, and serves as a good general reference, though it takes on too wide a scope to go into much detail on all the topics it tackles. However, the last chapter, "Setting Up a Subcontractor Finishwork Business," is worth the cost of the book for someone who wants to learn about contracts, billing, and some of the management issues involved, which may be even more intimidating than the hands-on work. If you really get serious about the business, however, be sure to check out David Gerstel's "Builder's Guide to Running a Successfil Construction Company."

This book is a great recource for professional finish carpenters learning the trade. Step by step instructions help simplify common finish carpentry tasks, each section contains a list of man-hours per job to aid in bidding and the book lay out is very friendly.

I started a new carpentry business a while ago. This book really helped me out. Business wise, from figuring manhours, to giving job estimates and to actualy earning money. Skillfull tips such as scribing a jambless window sill and coping crown moulding. I've read many books on this topic, but I have to say this is one of the "best".

This book helped bring several of my carpenters up to speed on finish carpentry techniques. It has become the most checked out book in my library

I was expecting more detail and less overview. My fault for not researching it more before buying. The book feels dated and needs an update.

This is a good introductory book for people with little experience. It goes into enough detail about everything with good images so you could try the techniques on your own. It's a little old though with some methods being obsolete or seldom used. It's definitely interesting and helpful though. I will be keeping my copy as a reference for future work.

The Finish Carpenter's manual has many great tips, including estimating procedures and good business advice. It is obviously written by a master carpenter, but just as obviously has not been touched by a professional designer or editor.

Mr. Tolpin launches directly into step-by step instructions for complex operations. He refers to materials, methods and tools that may not be familiar to the layman, or even to experienced regional craftsmen. There is no glossary and the index is misleading, but, some pages after the subject is brought up, the reader may happen on illustrations and explanations that will ease the bewilderment.

If the material were rearranged to start with well-annotated pictures, then clear definitions and finally instructions, it would be much more valuable.

Don't let the cover fool you. This volume is dated in style and content. About 65% of it needs to be updated or written more effectively. The writer's original intent was good but not totally achieved. Passing years have eroded that mediocrity. An expanded revision could produce a solid classic, instead of an aging, overpriced tomb.