The Scale Cabinetmaker was a periodical printed from 1976 – 1996 on fine miniature making. I’ve perused the occasional volume here and there, but there are 80 issues in total so collecting them one at a time seemed rather daunting. You can find them in digital form from Dorsett Publications, but I prefer the physical booklets. As luck would have it, during one of the online shows there was a gal selling her mother’s estate. Included was a large selection of The Scale Cabinetmaker booklets. She was asking a good price, so I bought the lot. I found a smaller lot of 10 booklets on eBay, so I now have 61 of the 80 volumes. :] I still hope to collect the remaining 19.
I set out making a list of the projects that I wanted to try and noting the volumes with general instruction. I admit many of the projects are either over my head or are from eras I don’t plan to build. However, there is a wealth of information on techniques and tools as well as plenty of items I do want to make. The metal fire screen, jeweler’s saw and drill press classes opened up the possibilities as well. More things make sense to me now, so the classes more than pay for themselves. :]
I bought a triangular architect’s scale since most of the drawings are in full size measurements, though they do list the thicknesses of materials to be used. I understand the appeal of true to life measurements, but it will be a learning experience for me. It is great training for taking other real life projects and transferring them to mini. (As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.)
Of course, the project that really appeals to me is a double black diamond. It’s a combination wardrobe, desk and Murphy bed. I never do things halfway. :D
But, I shall start with smaller projects like a coffee table and magazine rack to get a feel for the scale measurements and instruction. Then I can move on to the Big Cheese.
