Ep 8. Dovetailed Grease Pot

In season 37, episode 8 of The Woodwright's Shop, titled "Dovetailed Grease Pot," we see host Roy Underhill dive into the world of traditional metalworking. The episode showcases the process of creating a dovetailed grease pot used for lubricating woodworking tools.

The episode begins with Roy demonstrating the use of a grease pot on a hand plane. He explains how the pot holds grease, which is then applied to the sole of the plane, reducing friction and making it easier to use. Roy talks about the history of grease pots and how they have been used for centuries by woodworkers.

Next, Roy introduces his guest, blacksmith Peter Ross. Peter explains the process of blacksmithing and how it differs from traditional metalworking. He showcases the tools he uses, including the forge, anvil, and hammer. Roy and Peter then work together to create the dovetailed grease pot from scratch.

The first step in the process is to create the metal base for the pot. Peter heats a piece of iron in the forge, then uses the anvil and hammer to shape it to the desired size and shape. He then creates dovetails on the sides of the base to allow the side walls of the pot to fit in snugly.

Roy takes over and uses a metal-cutting saw to cut the side walls of the pot from a flat sheet of metal. He then uses a metal-forming tool to shape the metal into a cylindrical shape. Once the cylindrical shape is formed, Roy and Peter work together to fit the side walls into the dovetails on the base.

The next step is to create the lid for the grease pot. Roy cuts a piece of metal to size, then shapes it into a dome shape using a metal-forming tool. He then creates a lip on the edge of the lid that will fit snugly onto the top of the pot. Once the lid is fitted onto the pot, Roy and Peter use a metal-cutting saw to create a hole in the top of the lid for the grease to be dispensed.

Finally, Roy and Peter use a drill to create a hole in the side of the pot for a metal loop to be attached. This loop will be used to hang the pot up when not in use. The finished product is a beautiful and functional dovetailed grease pot that will last for generations.

Throughout the episode, Roy and Peter talk about the traditional techniques used in metalworking and how they have been passed down through generations of craftspeople. They discuss the importance of preserving traditional techniques and using them in modern-day fabrication processes.

The episode also highlights the importance of collaboration between different types of craftspeople, such as woodworkers and blacksmiths. Roy and Peter work together seamlessly to create a beautiful and functional piece of equipment that will enhance the woodworking process for years to come.

Overall, season 37, episode 8 of The Woodwright's Shop is a fascinating look into the world of traditional metalworking. Roy and Peter's collaboration exemplifies the importance of preserving traditional techniques and the value of collaboration between different types of craftspeople. The dovetailed grease pot they create is a testament to the beauty and functionality of traditional craftsmanship.