Recently, for a variety of reasons, I've begun looking again at my older issues of Fine Woodworking. Some issues date back to the late 70's; others are just a few years old. While most of the product reviews are out of date, as are some author photos(!), I have been delighted and surprised by the amount of useful information each issue contains. It's clear to me that our craft is largely the same as it was thirty -- and more -- years ago. There are changes, of course, mostly in machinery and other aids. But in its essence the craft of woodworking is virtually timeless, as are the skills and temperament it requires.
But another idea warrants mention. As my woodworking skills and interests have developed, so has my interest in topics that would not have interested me several years ago. (Or perhaps such topics were clearly above my head back then.) The old saying that "everything old is new again" applies to back issues of FW -- and I'm certain of other woodworking magazines as well. So, if time permits, and you've been wise enough to hold on to back issues of your favorite woodworking magazines, take a look again. I think you'll make discoveries there that will please and impress you.
