Creative Woodworks & crafts 2001-11, страница 24

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The Chimes of Normandy grandfather dock

John's most rcccni creation is quite remarkable. It is the "Chimes of Normandy" grandfather clock. Its name derives from the fact that it matches the original (c. 1880) "Chimes of Normandy" shelf clock. John has designed several grandmother and grandfather clocks in the past, but never one to be cut with a scroll saw. This is because the standard grandfather clock is made of solid wood 3/4" to 7/8" thick, includes two to four columns turned on a lathe, and requires lots of specialized, hard-to-make moldings. Furthermore, many scroll sawyers use .16" scroll saws, which limit the overall size of the parts that can be made. After wrestling with these constraints for two to three years, John finally emerged with the necessary solutions. The "Chimes of Normandy" can be made with a 16" scroll saw. does not require a lalhe for its four columns, and does not require a molding machine for the molding. Everything can be made using only the scroll saw, and to John, this is what is so special about the project. The clock stands 86" high and is 19" wide.

The overall design is modeled after a 1750 Pennsylvania grandfather clock, and has been designed to come apart for easy transportation. There are four subassemblies: the hood (which requires the most work), two "waist" sections, and the base. All four sections are fastened together with bolts, washers, and wing nuts. As you might expect, this is no beginner's project. Many components require accurate cutting and fitting together; just ask Warren Kafitz of North Carolina and Theo Kampes of Australia, both of whom have made the clock for John. Note: the patterns for this clock are available from Wildwood Designs, (see page 21).

Acknowledging other designers

In John's own words: "I have

The Chimes of Normandy grandfather clock.

been inspired in the past by folks like Dirk Boelman, Joanne Lockwood. Judy Gale Roberts, and Marilyn Carmin, just to name a few. Today, we have a new group of very talented people coming along in scrolling: Joan West, Dan and Ray Wilckens, Donna and Phillip Racine, and many others who will be the next 'wave' of designers to bring us all to an even higher level."

Hopes for the future

John believes strongly in SAW, The Scroll Saw Association of the World. He feels that in order to really popularize scroll sawing, an organization of this nature is essential. SAW has been around for about four years. While it has not yet become very large in terms of membership, its principles are near and dear to John's heart. He would like to see SAW accomplish the following goals in the near future: establish standards for scroll saw instructors, create a defined curriculum for scroll saw classes, and promote these classes worldwide. John also stresses the importance of introducing scrolling to young people, and believes thai SAW will take an active role in doing this. Another dream of John's is to establish a national scroll saw museum and he is currently exploring some options to this end. Finally, John strongly supports SAW's efforts toward developing regional chapters, local picnics, and other national events.

In addition (o his support of SAW, John is hoping to promote the teaching of scroll sawing to people who have drug and alcohol problems, mental disabilities, and autism.

Conclusion

John Nelson has been a "pillar" of creativity in the world of scroll sawing. While an enormous body of work has been authored by John, we know that many more significant designs will be generated in the future. It is with great pleasure that we present to you, our readers, in the pages that follow, four new and exclusive John Nelson projects. Enjoy! |f|

24 • Creative Woodworks & Crafts November 2001