In September 1999, we undertook the mammoth project of reprinting 26 issues of Popular Mechanics Shop Notes, starting with the first edition printed in 1905 and releasing a further issue each month. With the 1930 edition released in September 2001, the series from 1905 to 1930 is now complete.
Shop Notes were an annual collection of advice on jigs, fixtures, methods of work, processes and projects. The earlier issues had more emphasis on metalworking than woodworking but the focus was always on small shop practice. As years went by, the contents shifted more and more to woodworking and handyman projects. Whether it is describing how to put an end loop on a coil spring or how to make a simple beam compass, the advice is always direct and simple, using mainly tools that are available in a normal home shop.
The notes are profusely illustrated. The first volume has 385 illustrations and 200 pages but by the second year this becomes 555 illustrations on 228 pages and continues similarly in later years. The early years have excellent line drawings and engravings. Photographs start to creep in only after 1920. Each year has its charm but all issues share the attributes of being clear, concise, and widely informative.
Each Smyth-sewn softcover volume is 6-1/2" x 9-1/2". All issues are available. With the vast number of projects and ideas presented, either single issues or the sets make unique gifts for woodworkers, history buffs, engineers, and even students.
We have combined the indexes of all 26 issues into a single volume and sorted it alphabetically by subject. Our 512-page index contains over 29,000 entries. A good tool to make your Shop Notes more valuable. Softcover, 6-1/2" x 9-1/2", 2001.
To view excerpts from each volume, click on any of the individual books listed in the chart below.