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Fred Woodall writes:
Stirring Tools
Before the world became greedy we always were rewarded a dozen stir sticks
when purchasing supplies. I suppose we have to come to the realization since a
box of toothpicks cost over a buck. The days of getting free stir stick are long gone.
We used them for everything but stirring anyway. Here is my collection of Stir Tools.
Reason I tell the story is the history and application behind each one.
A) Don Mashburn Stir Knife he purchased in 1948 while learning his craft in Chicago.
He joined my father in New Orleans in 1962 to start his first finishing shop.
That stir knife was the only one on the bench when I came on the scene in 1974
as a teen working in the summer. We estimated some time ago over 300 finishers
have used that stir knife over the last 50+ years. It is still the only one on my bench.
B) Russell Stirring Knife I purchased in 79'or 80'. Nothing really to say about
this one other than it is well used. When new the end of the blade was rounded.
Now it is flat from scraping the bottom of lacquer cans for 20+ years.
C & D) I keep both in a small holster which I wear every day.
C is a vinyl cutting knife used for trimming everything from carving work to plastic filler
(bondo). Also makes an excellent scraper. For the small minority in the trade
that know how to achieve a perfect surface. This tool is one not to be without.
D is a simple mixing knife. The blade is longer and wider than an epoxy knife.
It easily replaces the need for a putty knife.
These two instruments I use constantly in my work everyday and use them
most often by far. Without either I would simply have to find another trade.
Quick Stir
3' Threaded Rod 3/8's
Six Plastic Tie Downs
Drill a 3/8" hole (center) in a piece of plywood.
Attach a cordless drill and go at it.
You guys would be amazed how well this thing works.
Fred Woodall
Houston, Texas