I've got to say that "modern methods" of frame building make things quicker and "easier", but there are still people that build frames using a bench vise and a good eye as their only jigs. All you need to build good frames is a vise (or "Park" stand), 3 files (if that even), some sanding cloth, tubeset, brazing rod and flux, a heat source, and some thought and care. This is something I've hear many, many builders say. Workspaces are only a place where you work, be it a clean room or the backyard. I know a builder that's built over a thousand frames with little more than the obove items and a barn. Sure we'd like to have "everything" but everything you add also adds to the cost. Think about one good milling machine all set up ready to use will run $3000 minimum. Now to recoup this takes 30 frames at a $100 upcharge. In the long run it'll help but is it really "needed." Judging from all the factories I've been in and pictures I've seen, most of the builders we revere used little more than what I've described and were lucky if they had a concrete floor. I don't think it matters where you build as long as you build. enjoy, Brandon"monkeyman"Ives
"Nobody can do everything, but if everybody did something everything would get done." Gil Scott-Heron
On Thu, 24 May 2001, Brian Baylis wrote:
> Since I know full that my legacey will have nothing to do with my
> workshop, only the quality and consistency of my work; and the fact that
> I never compromise or sugarcoat it in any way, I feel comfortable in
> contiuning as I have in the past. Don't know what Ron Coopers' shop is
> like, but whatever it is the result are fine frames being produced over
> the past 30 years.
> > I've seen others who create a fine
> > product, but do so inefficiently, at a casual pace and in a slovenly
> > environment. Not that this matters to the end consumer, but in the question
> > of what makes a great builder I'd say that these attributes are important.