James Krenov, Worker in Wood [Hardcover]

James Krenov (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: July 1981

Krenov once again provides instruction and inspiration to his legions of fans. In this oversized format you'll find 100 black-and-white photographs, 47 in color, and an intimate text that showcases the peak of his talent. The pictures by Bengt Carlen reveal the signature on all of Krenov's pieces-- precision, delicacy, quiet strength, intricate grains, satin-smooth finishes, matched joints, attention to detail, and a respect for the tools and materials themselves. These are but a few of the more than 20 examples exhibited in this collection--*a cabinet of old Swedish elm *a writing table of Italian walnut *a no-glass showcase of lemon wood *a wall cabinet of English brown oak *plus numerous others. 128 pages (all in color), 8 1/2 x 11 1/2.

--This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

Product Details

• Hardcover: 127 pages
• Publisher: Van Nostrand Reinhold Company; First edition (July 1981)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0442263368
• ISBN-13: 978-0442263362
• Product Dimensions: 11.6 x 8.5 x 0.4 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.2 pounds
• Average Customer Review: 4.2 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (4 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #262,349 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

5 of 5 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Wonderful book, many examples, details..., May 31, 2004

By A Customer

This review is from: James Krenov, Worker in Wood (Hardcover)

This book is not like his first three books; readers should not expect this book to be the same becasue it was NOT INTENDED to be the same. i feel it is unfair to say this books does not give instruction or that it is not "hands on" and give it a low rating when this book was not written to be "hands on." this book contains many beautiful photos, though many in black and white, of krenov's great works. this book contains pictures of krenov's work that are NOT in his other books and with many close-up shots of details. This book, in conjunction with his first three, gives the reader a satifying number of photos and details of krenov's work to look at. Invaluable when you are working on your own piece that you aspire to make as fine as krenov's and would like to see how Krenov detailed the back of his cabinet, or the stand which is sits on, or when you are lost and don't know how it should be done. There is a bit of text here and there, though not that much, mostly explaining a certain piece or how he arrived at it's final appearace - all very important if you are trying to understand how a master craftsman thinks. overall a great book that no real krenov fan should be without.

4.0 out of 5 stars It is Krenov, October 7, 2010

By 

Thomas( Doc Savage 45) (St. James, MN United States) - See all my reviews
(VINE VOICE)   

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This review is from: James Krenov, Worker in Wood (Hardcover)

When I read reviews I look at the 1 star and 2 star reviews. Especially in tools. If there was a problem I will get that problem. Would give this book five stars, but like me you might think...I won't find what I need? I got what I needed from James Krenov. James Krenov can suprise you, and inspire you. He tells us how it feels to be a woodworker. He always said it feels great to be able to do this and get paid for it. ( Not in so many words...:) ) He credits the photographer for giving us the feel and spirit of his pieces.

For many woodworkers and others he has triggered a change in how we work and why we work, Mr. Krenov was instrumental, along with others in promoting a new way of making furniture with the craftsmanship of the person who creates rather than follows a pattern/plan.

This is not a detailed "how too." Really none of his books are. There are many better "plan books" and tool books out there. He is however, a must see, must read? At least for me? I have been on a journey. I asked to gopher for some old timers to learn what they "know", but no takers? Perhaps because like another reviewer I am what might be considered "too old." Oh yeah, I can't afford to go to a woodworking school?

Mr. Krenov died in 2009, but continues to be my mentor. I study this and other Krenov essays, and find new inspiration each time I look. Also to help me in the process. Mr. Krenov did not want to be called a master. He made mistakes. he worried if others would like what he made.

When I showed my wife his cabinets when I was first reading the "impractical cabinetmaker" she said "something like "they are not very functional." I was filled with inspiration when I asked her because I wondered what she saw? If you like art, craftsmanship, and inspiration, then like me ya gotta have it. LOL

5.0 out of 5 stars KRENOV RULES, August 27, 2010

By 

B. Erdman (Wi) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

Amazon Verified Purchase

This review is from: James Krenov: Worker in Wood (Paperback)

This book is a "must have" for anyone over 60 so they can see what they should have done with their youth. That is my humble opinion.

I just can't believe I didn't read this book 29 years ago. I am sure glad I was blessed with the chance to read it now..!!

Bruce at [...]