JIM HOWE's Page

A rather “windy” comment for an amateur. I’m proud to be a member of the “Kreg-Jigs” Pro-Am group.

I retired from the world of computer software in 2001. Upon retiring, I got involved part-time with my church and school with networking and useful hardware & software packages. In 2007/2008 they had assumed the responsibility of their day to day activities, and I was expelled. So again, I was among the retired and facing our own DIY’s and “Honey Do’s”.

My Kreg Jig life started during the fall of 2007. At this time of my life of 77 years, I started looking for new hobbies that would help with the “Honey Do’s” and ease up some of my DIY projects. My first intro to Kreg Jig was through an ad in a handyman magazine. The ad had the internet address for Kregtool.com, and when I viewed the video, it was like manna for my ‘honey do problems’. I purchased KJ K3 Mater System from the local big box store. Having most of the sundry tools required, I started doing the jig on scrap lumber. It was GREAT and everything I had hoped for my projects.

My first project was fixing eight closet louvered doors 12x95 & 18x95, after 7 children. Over the years we were missing slats and the doors were sagging, the support rails were loose from the stiles, and dowels were broken. The doors were made-up of braced sets of 2’s door. I was required to make 24 slats, thankfully I had the tools to do them. I ran into some problems when I went to strengthen the rails and stiles. The K3 didn’t help in some tight places. I purchased the KJ Jr. (Great Jig) and it was just what I needed. This project was done and taken off the ‘Honey Do’. I got paid off with a hug and a kiss and a medium well steak, ummmm.

I was so pleased with this results and the working of the KJ K3 Master System that I purchased one for my son-in-law in Florida and one for my son-in-law in Winnetka, IL. They are in the trades and are using their jigs at home and on side jobs.

Summer of 2008
We have a summer cottage in Lake Delton, WI. (circa 1927). Using the KJ Jr. I was able to repair several old chairs and a few tables. I also built on the porch an 8 foot seat with space for wood storage and misc tools.

At home in my garage, summertime in Chicago, I had the opportunity of using my K3 Master System to accomplish a few hobby items. Sorry, no photos as yet, my “Kodak Brownie” is out of film, ha.
I created a table for my scanner with a drawer and shelf.
I created a Nightstand with a drawer and shelf.
I created a small Bookcase with a drawer and 2 shelves.
I created an End table with a drawer and shelf.
WHAT FUN!
These items have not been stained and finished. Cold weather in Chicago shuts me down just like my beloved Cubbies.

Summer of 2009
I’m looking to create some of projects that are being shown by fellow Community members. Thanks folks for the good ideas.