Ep 10. Forging the Hold Fast

In season 37 episode 10 of The Woodwright's Shop, entitled Forging the Hold Fast, master woodworker Roy Underhill explores the art of blacksmithing to create a hold fast, a traditional tool used by woodworkers for centuries to secure workpieces to their workbench.

The episode begins with Roy explaining the purpose of a hold fast in woodworking, which is to hold a piece of wood firmly in place while it is being worked on, without the need for clamps or other fixtures. Roy demonstrates how to use a hold fast by pounding one into his workbench and securing a piece of wood in place.

After the demonstration, Roy meets with blacksmith Tom Latane at his forge to begin the process of creating a hold fast. The two talk about the importance of understanding the properties of metal and how to properly heat and shape it to form the desired tool.

Tom guides Roy through the process of heating the metal in the forge and shaping it on the anvil. As they work, they discuss the history of blacksmithing and how the skills and techniques have been passed down through generations of craftsmen.

As the hold fast begins to take shape, Roy and Tom discuss the importance of the tool's design for optimal functionality. They consider the length, thickness, and angle of the hold fast's arm and how it should fit into the workbench's dog holes.

As the hold fast nears completion, Roy and Tom work together to refine the tool's shape and finish. They discuss the importance of using a water quench to cool the metal and prevent it from becoming brittle.

Once the hold fast is completed, Roy takes it back to his workshop and demonstrates how to use the tool to secure a workpiece to his workbench. He explains how the tool's design allows for easy adjustments to fit different workpiece sizes and shapes.

Throughout the episode, Roy shares his appreciation for the traditional crafts of woodworking and blacksmithing, and emphasizes the importance of passing on these skills to future generations.

Overall, Forging the Hold Fast is a fascinating look into the art of blacksmithing and the important role that handcrafted tools play in traditional woodworking. Roy's enthusiasm for these traditional crafts is contagious, and viewers are sure to be inspired to try their hand at creating their own hold fast or other handcrafted tools.