STL261: Russ Filbeck – FineWoodworking

This interview is was done in 2019, and originally posted in 2020. It’s new to the podcast audience, and we thought the world could use a dose of Russ Filbeck right now.

For more information on Russ and to get a copy of his incredible book on ladderback chairmaking – https://russfilbeck.com/

	Bending Wood With Hot Water Russ Filbeck doesn’t use a steambox when bending wood for his ladderback chairs. Instead he uses a copper tray made by noted Shaker box maker John Wilson.
	Sharpening gouges and drawknives with a lapidary wheel Chairmaker Russ Filbeck demonstrates how he gets his drawknives and carving gouges sharp in short order using abrasive belts and a rubber lapidary wheel on his grinder.
	Russ Filbeck gives back through woodworking Russ Filbeck has been many things: submariner, woodworker, teacher, and philanthropist. In this interview, Russ shares his story, from how he started woodworking to his work helping President Carter raise money for his foundation, The Carter Center.

Every two weeks, a team of Fine Woodworking staffers answers questions from readers on Shop Talk Live, Fine Woodworking‘s biweekly podcast. Send your woodworking questions to [email protected] for consideration in the regular broadcast! Our continued existence relies upon listener support. So if you enjoy the show, be sure to leave us a five-star rating and maybe even a nice comment on our iTunes page.