Tripacer

I am an Iraqi Freedom Vet. I am going through PTSD, A son who was shot and now paralyzed, and a son who committed suicide. All within a matter of 2 years. I have been going through therapy to deal with the carnage. I am also an equipment engineer for the Semiconductor industry.

One year ago, I came up with an idea to keep myself busy; creative; and artistic. All in efforts to overcome the above mentioned. On my own, I took my unfinished garage to develop a home workshop. I partitioned 3/4 of the garage (measured my wife's car to give her space (LOL)), insulated, drywalled, lighting, etc. (no help).

I refurbished Two antique powered tools. A 40's Delta Table and Jointer combination saw and a 50's craftsman scroll saw. I bought equipment cheap through auctions, yard sales, etc. I am currently making a thickness sander from scratch. I also built my own steam bender station and a heat blanket bending system.

All for a goal to be a luthier. I hope my efforts are not a waste of time. But know this, my mental health has turned for the better since starting this project.

Hi Bob - welcome to HomemadeTools.net :welcome:

Sounds like you've been through hell. Good to hear you are taking your recovery into your own hands; literally. We have lots of vets here, so you should find yourself in good company.

We love antique tools. Post some pics of your restorations, or your thickness sander or bending tools, we'd like to take a look :)

Welcome aboard Bob and I applaud your choices of therapy. What a tough row to hoe.

Too many are lost to substance and despair. I'm glad you decided to save yourself and the literal tons of fine old equipment in the process. And especially making more music and less conflict.

Good luck.