The plans shown at left are from the Alfred Johansson Nääs model series from 1890. Click on the image to see a larger version.

At Clear Spring, we have been attempting to make these using bass wood, known for its excellent carving qualities. Join us in your own shop or classroom. You have the plans. These things are difficult at first, even when working with wood well regarded for its working qualities.

Instead of supplying the students with rough lumber as was done in the early days of Sloyd, I supplied dimensioned stock, and instead of relying on the knife alone to make the half lap joint, we've been using saws and chisels. But this project has been an excellent illustration of the process of developing skill. Normally in schools, there is time to touch on subjects or to memorize information, but skill comes from careful repetition, the critical observation of results and the refinement of actions toward the achievement of quality.