Customer Reviews

Making Mechanical Marvels In Wood

5 star:		(7)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

This is a book filled with projects for machines that are fun to play with. Over the years I have built more than half of them. (And given them all away as Christmas presents.) The machines are unique and really fun to watch work. A relatively high level of woodworking skill is required.

I ordered this book for my dad last Christmas, and he has used all of the patterns at least once. He is constantly telling me how well-planned the book is. I'm not a woodworker, but my dad is, and he rates this book top notch!

I bought this book back in 1991 when it was new......and it set on my shelf for 17 years. In 2008, I made my first model...the wooden u-joint model. In the last few months I have made 6 more models. I have only had minor problems with a couple of patterns. The back plate patterns on a couple of models are very hard to follow...because he advocates making a jig......which is ok......except his jig is not the same size as the back plate......a minor issue.

I would rate myself an advanced woodworker with a full shop of tools.......and would rate these patterns challenging....but fun. My fellow engineers at work love playing with my finished models. They also would make great presents for the grand children.

This book gives really detailed instructions including dimensions on making wooden mechanisms. Most of them revolve around a crank and cam of some sort, but there are plans for everything you see on the cover and 4 or 5 more projects. This is the most extensive book I have seen on the subject and it is absolutely worth the price.

great book. it gives step by step instructions and patterns to use. lots of pictures to see how things are done. some color pictures to see what the finished product looks like.

There are some of the coolest little things to make in this book. If you're a wood hobbiest who likes to tinker, this book is for you. There are plans for making all kinds of items that you'd normally only build in a metal shop: gears, crankshafts, etc. You should also get Wonders in Wood: 46 Puzzles and Other Novelties to Make and Solve as a companion book.

This is a great book and delivers whats promised pity its out of print !