Tortoise or Hare – woodworking personalities

A good friend once told me that restaurants have menus because not everyone likes green beans. In other words, everyone is different. I have found this is true in learning woodworking also. I have eight students all day so to make things easier on me I have been giving all the students the same assignments. To my amusement one is more concerned about being first and finishing first than the craftsmanship (the Hare). Another one is more reluctant to go early in the rotation so he can learn from the mistakes of others.  Although his craftsmanship is the best in the class he always finishes last (the Tortoise). He is more concerned about getting it done right than the learning process.  This week I began with different assignments for each student.  Although it creates more work on my part it forces the students to focus on their project and learn on their own at their pace.  So don’t let your personality effect your craftsmanship.  Learn to focus on the woodworking task before you and you will be rewarded with a quality piece when done.

Enjoy your shop time!

Jerill

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About Jerill Vance

I was born and raised in West Virginia where I learned carpentry skills at an early age by assisting my grandfather and father. In 2009, after more than 32 years in the chemical industry, I left and enrolled in college. I obtained an Associate of Applied Science degree in Fine Woodworking from New River Community and Technical College in Lewisburg, WV in December of 2010. I am now able to enjoy the profession of custom designing and building furniture. I also enjoy mentoring or teaching new woodworkers.

Comments

Tortoise or Hare – woodworking personalities — 5 Comments

  1. Great example. People “traits” show up in everything…..even woodworking.

  2. Thanks Jerill. This is a good concept to keep in mind. So often some of us feel pressured because the group is at a point but we are still learning. I’ll keep your post in the back of my mind.

  3. Very interesting Jerill make you stop and thank the job over. What it going to look like when I finish.

  4. Great thought Jerill, Though I don’t really consider
    myself a tortoise or hare, I’m more the follow the
    leader type of woodworker. I just pray I’m following
    the right leader.

  5. Hard to find good people who gives your good advised at the rite time. And you gave task of woodworking to your student that’s also good for your students too.