Don't have an answer on the finish, but GREAT JOB on the spoon!

You weren't kidding when you said monster piece. Oh and I think that warrants a you suck.LOL
Mel

I rented one from Menards several years ago. I had ordered the materials and asked them to be pulled. I went back a couple of hours later rented the truck and drove around back and waited an hour for the materials. Before I left the store, I went back in to front desk to let them know I hadn't left yet as the materials I ordered weren't ready and would appreciate if they reset the clock to 0:00. They did, so it turned out OK. If they hadn't, it would have been a little frustrating.

I have my own now, so no need...but I get the impression, they are pretty straight forward. You pay for the time, and not the mileage - right?

I seldom place aprons at the middle of the leg unless it's by necessity (skinny leg). On legs that big with a thick apron I might inset them 3/4", or a bit less than that. I also almost always use glue blocks on the inside, and that leaves more room for those.

Lee Valley sells a modern version and there are several tutorials online that show how to make one.

That's really cool! Glad to hear the kids are getting some hands-on experience with wood at school. It's about time that kind of thing came back in fashion.

Really a nice post! I have the feeling this info will help some other poor soul in the future. My compliments on your perseverance.

Have you tried asking your local full service lumber yard if they can order it for you? When I wanted some 4 x 8 sheets of 3/4" BB that's how I got it. Cost a fortune, but I got it. Another potential option would be a pro cabinet shop in your area. I used to buy Melamine that way. Another source would be a local company that makes steel ruled dies for die cutting. I'm not sure they use BB plywood but it's the nicest stuff I've ever seen, at least as good as BB.

John

I have the version from 2011 and all the magazines are in .pdf format, so you can print exactly what you want just like you would any other .pdf.

What lathe/banjo is this for? The way the banjo grips the tool post will dictate what type of adapter can be used.