George and Jimmy's Shop Tips

When Jimmy DiResta and George Vondriska team up in the shop, you can expect a wealth of useful tips and tricks being exchanged. In this video, George and Jimmy engage in a relaxed conversation in George’s workshop, discussing ideas that can help make your time in the shop more efficient and productive. Some of the topics covered in this chat include:

Measuring and marking techniques.

Jimmy DiResta shares his unique method for keeping track of his tape measure and discusses strategies he uses to work around his dyslexia, which makes tracking measurements challenging.

How to sharpen a pencil like a pro.

Both Jimmy and George have their own distinct ways of sharpening a pencil, with clear benefits for use in a woodshop. You’ll be surprised by the shape of the pencil tip that Jimmy’s method creates.

Sanding block shim

Jimmy DiResta demonstrates his technique for making custom sanding shims, which provide excellent flexibility for getting into tight spaces.

Home recipe for a quick finish

George reveals his inexpensive recipe for a quick finish that can quickly add a beautiful glow to a project. This blend of boiled linseed oil, shellac, and mineral spirits is especially great for turning projects, as the heat from the spinning workpiece helps it cure almost instantly.