Hobbies Weekly No. 11
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PRESENTATION FRETWORK DESIGN WITH THIS NUMBER. fe ie ° For Amateurs of Both Sexes. “No. 11. VOL.1. DECEMBER 28, 1895. ONE PENNY. In view of the great importance of securing thoroughly good and suitable wood for making the MODEL OF A VICTORIA, the Design of which was presented with last week’s Hobbies, we have specially prepared a large number of parcels of SUPERIOR FRETWOOD, both Three-Ply and Solid. These parcels are ready for despatching, and will be sent off immediately on receipt of Order. THREE-PLY WHITE WOOD. Sufficient Three-Ply WHITE Sycamore or WHITE CHEsTNUT, ;3,-in. thick, PRICE, 1/9. POST FREE, 2/3. SOLID WOOD. Specially selected Papoux and MapLe (forming a judicious contrast as suggested in Hobbies), PRICE, 1/9. POST FREE, 2/3. PAAAAATATRAAAATAETT TTA ETAT J, H. SKINNER & Co., H Dept., Dereham, Norfolk. ee “HOBBIES” FRETWORK COMPETITION.
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cam 5 Arsas Ff t HOBBIES. er oh MACIC LAN IN A VILLAGE, Continued. LANTERN LECTURES PART 4. subjects for all the Lectures to the end of March, and have now only two evenings to deal with. with the Major in the chair. everything was going on satis- factorily. He had received a letter from the Schoolmaster, who expressed a wish to be allowed to provide the entertain- ment for one evening. The success of the Lantern Lectures had convinced him as to the great use that the Lantern could be put to as medium, as well as for purposes of entertainment. the following suggestion for the consideration of the Committee— viz., that, if they granted him an evening, he proposed in the first part to have an examination of the scholars, entirely by the use of Lantern Slides, in Physical and Political Geography, English History and Literature, and some simple questions and answers in Zoology and Elementary Botany. The second part would take the form of a concert, the pupils singing from the Tonic | Sol-fa Notation, and in place of the usual song books the words and music score would be shown upon the screen by means of the Lantern. | He had prepared many novel Slides, one of which was a photograph of boys and girls, who would each represent a note in the Tonic Sol-fa scale. These children would stand up in class, and would sing from his pointing on the screen. He might say the children were exceedingly anxious to take part in the eyening’s perform- ance, and as the School had earned the highest possible grant for singing, he thought that that part of the evening would give considerable | pleasure to the audience, and particularly to | parents. Whilst the choir were resting he had arranged for one or two recitals, and felt con- vinced that as the recitations would be given in | a darkened room the nervousness which so often spoilt a child’s rendering of a poem would be | The subject would be illustrated by | absent. Slides. See N our last chapter we fixed the | The Committee met as usual, | The Secretary reported that | an educational | The Schoolmaster submitted | | The Chairman said that he felt sure the Com- | mittee would be unanimous in giving their | consent to the Schoolmaster’s proposal, The | folks of the village would have an opportunity of | forming an opinion of how efficiently their | Schools were carried on. It was not the time or the place to eulogise or criticise their National Schools, but when the evening came round he should hope that some of the members of that Committee, who, like himself, were on | the Board of Management, would say a few | words to the parents, and explain to them the great advantages of free education as provided in Elementary Schools. The programme met with his very warm approval, and he should be glad to hear what others had to say. The Vicar said that the proposal came to him | quite as a surprise; it received his hearty sup- | port, and he felt that the present was a time when everyone should be at some trouble to see that the elaborate machinery of the Education Department was working satisfactorily. He was pleased to say that they earned a good grant, and that the parishioners, although they might differ in some matters, were unanimous in one thing, and that was the support of the village Schools. He thought the Schoolmaster was to be highly commended for haying grasped the opportunity of turning one of the Lantern evenings to such a practical purpose. The Professor said he had heard the suggestions of the Schoolmaster with much pleasure, and as they had now a permanent screen, compressed gas cylinders, &c., of their own, he should move at the next meeting of the School Managers that the School be provided with a permanent Lantern. He did not know whether they would be permitted to spend the School funds for the purpose, but if not, he felt sure that,as there were those in the village who, having already seen what good service the Lantern could do, the money to buy what was requisite would be | forthcoming. He should look forward with great delight to the ‘ Schoolmaster’s evening,” which he felt sure would be a great success. Another Committee Member said that as there was no time like the present, and as the old adage told us to “ hit the iron whilst it’s hot,” he rose to say that he would gladly give a guinea | towards the purchase of a School Lantern.
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HOBBIES. 243. The Major and two others also promised a guinea each, and the Secretary was asked to call upon one or two ladies and gentlemen in order to get the necessary amount, which he said would be from £6 6s. to £8 8s. The Secretary, proceeding with the business of the evening, said that he thought that it would be best to conclude the Lantern Lectures with the “ Schoolmaster’s evening,” and that his date should be fixed for the 22nd of April, that would give him ample time to get his pupils proficient in the various parts that they would have to take. This proposal was agreed to. The Secretary explained that they had now only one evening to fill up; he had hoped to have been able to arrange a lecture with a Fellow of the Zoological Society, who could have shown them and told them much about wild beasts and their habits, but the gentleman’s engagements were such that hecould notcome tothem. He had three proposals to submit, and it would be for the Committee to decide which oneshouldbeaccepted. First: Two friends of his would be willing to give lectures upon “ Norway, the Land of the Midnight Sun,” illustrated by photographs taken by themselves. These included not only the views of the prin- cipal fjords and mountains, but many picturesque photographs of inhabitants and their quaint customs. Second:—A most delightful lecture on “ Switzerland, its Glaciers and Ice Wonders,” by a highly cultured lady; and Third, a lecture upon the “ Land of Burns.” Many of the scenes well known in Scottish songs would be musically described by a small choir and a piper of one of Her Majesty’s Highland Regiments. The Major, rising, said they were indeed placed in an awkward position, as the choicest dainties had been left till the last, but he could see all through the programme that the Secretary had been combining the useful with the beautiful, and as a finish he wanted to give them the beautiful. For himself he would like to have them all. He loved Norway—adored Switzer- land—and as his wife came from *‘ over the Bor- der ” he could appreciate Bobbie Burns, whether set to music or not; the piper—well, sometimes, but not in their School-room he thought. He should like to hear what others had to say. Mr. Distemper was the firstto rise, and said, ‘‘Mr. Major, I’m a thinking as the people in our village won’t understand ‘‘ Land of Burns,” and lots of ’°em don’t know English, so I makes bold to say as I think they can very well do without them ’ere Scotch songs, and as to a piper, well there, if he do come, neither me nor my missus "ll be there; we can’t abear them squeaking things, and I’d as soon take physic, I would, as have to listen to ’em.”’ The Vicar, although not agreeing with Mr. Distemper on some points, was at one with him in thinking that possibly there were some in the village who would not value a lecture upon the ‘‘ Land of Burns” as he himself should. It appeared to him that the choice certainly laid between the other two, and he should give his vote for ‘‘ Norway, the Land of the Mid-night Sun,” especially as he knew the gentlemen whose photographs would illustrate the lecture. He did not say this out of any want of respect to the lady who had volunteered to lecture upon Switzerland, but it was of course quite impossible to have both. Some discussion took place, and it was unani- mously resolved that the evening of the 8th of April should be given up to the lecture upon Norway. The Major, rising, said that their labours had really come to an end until the close of the season. He felt, and he was sure that they all would feel, that matters might safely be left in the hands of their excellent Hon. Secretary. He had got together a programme for the Lan- tern Lectures in their village, of which, he was sure, they were all proud. He had no idea that there could be such originality of subject in connection with Lantern evenings. He hoped that their neighbours would not be above taking a leaf out of their book, and he was proud to think that through the Secretary they were able to “give them a lead.” It only remained for him now to thank them for their attendance and the handsome help they had given. ——:0:—— In the next chapter we shall elaborate the proposed ‘Childrens’ Evening,” and if space permits may give some further particulars of one of the other Lantern Lectures. (To be continued.) and slides. MAGIG LANTERNS & SLIDES. The best and cheapest house for the purchase (hire or exchange) of lanterns Walter Tyler, 48, Waterloo Road, London. Walter Tyler’s new pattern helioscopic lantern is far superior to any other lantern at the same reasonable price. The demand has been so great that new machinery has been made for their production, and helioscopics can now be delivered on receipt of order. Oxygen and hydrogen of the very best quality, compressed, in thoroughly tested and annealed cylinders, at a much cheaper rate than any other firm can supply. Special low terms for large consumers. Walter Tyler, 94, Waterloo Road, London. Walter Tyler, 48, Waterloo Road, London. Selling off a large quantity of second-hand single biunials and triple lanterns. stock. 50, Waterloo Road, London. Call and inspect immense Hire department is perfect. Best quality slides lent on hire cheaper than any other house. Waterloo Road, London. Walter Tyler, 48, Walter Tyler’s new catalogue, upwards of 500 pages, fully illustrated, now ready, post free, 12 stamps; smaller catalogue, 6 stamps; and second-hand lists, post free. Walter Tyler, 48, Waterloo Road, London. WALTER TYLER, 48 to 50, and 94, WATERLOO ROAD, LONDON, S.E.
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HOBBIES. | CHAP. XIL—QVERLAYING ON LEATHER, N this chapter, a few extra purposes to which Overlay work may be put, such as stamping Veneer Ornaments and Monograms on Leather Goods, Book Covers, Plush Photograph Frames, etc., will be pointed out. Here one approaches dangerously near the Sister-Art of Sawing in Ivory, Mother of Pearl, Tortoise Shell, Vulcanite, and Brass, which cannot well be discussed in this series ; but without touching on these matters, it can be shewn how to use wood in a similar way. INITIALS AND MONOGRAMS. When the Fretworker can trust himself to do really neat work, he should cut out Mono- grams to stamp on Card Cases, Blotting Pads, and on various Leather articles. In the case of a single Initial Letter (Fig. 51) it is preferable to use one-sixteenth inch wood, and the outline should be bevelled. For this purpose tilt the table to a slight angle; the slanting edge greatly helps the appearance. If Veneer is selected, there is obviously no use in bevelling. Initial Letters may be plain, as Fig. 51, or ornamented as Fig. 52. Many excellent examples can be found in old books; and sets of ornamental Alphabets, which Fie. 51. could be adapted for Overlaying, can easily be procured. Names are comparatively simple to cut out, and there is no difficulty in designing them, as everyone can at least write. Signatures may be enlarged and then sawn. As names are necessarily so delicate, all sand- papering and polishing should be done beforehand, The wood is then placed between two other pieces and thus cut. With a Monogram, such as Fig. 53, Veneer is preferable. Take as many pieces as are wanted, and glue a bit of thin tough paper to the underside of each. The paper helps to prevent the Veneer from break- ing, and also assists in holding it firmly to the leather. These Veneers must be held very tightly between two pieces of common wood ; indeed, the best plan is to glue the edges, and apply strong pressure till allis dry. Be careful, however, not to let the glue wander on to the part which is to be cut. REq “SCROLL-SAWING, IRILAY alo OVERLAYING Hs PeOypet <a WOR ETC. In a case of this sort,where the Letters often _inter- sect, it is ad- visable to give the Monogram a coat of Shellac, and then trace the crossing lines with Indian Ink, so as to give the ordi- nary effect of strap - work. This must be done accurately, and, of course, the Letters must cross each other alternately. Sometimes the letters are cut out separately, and then actually crossed in the regular strap- work method. (See Fig. 54.) This requires great care and skill; and unless the Veneers are exception- ally thin, it is difficult to glue them successfully to the article which the Monogram is to ornament, and there is considerable danger of breaking some extremities if much pressure is applied. Still, with such a Figure as this, the plan would be very effective, as three different Veneers might be used. A Satinwood J, a Holly H, and a Tulip C would make a very happy trio; and if three of each letter were cut out (one in each wood) three excellent Monograms, all different in colour, could be had. It should be said that every arrangement of Letters cannot be treated in this way. In Fig. 53, for instance, it would be well-nigh impossible to twist the Initials into their proper positions. Crests and Coats of Arms may also be adapted for Overlaying, if not too intricate in Design. Fie. 53. VARIOUS ORNAMENTS. For Borders, Corner Pieces, and Centre Ornaments, which might be stamped on Books, on Leather Portfolios. and on Velvet or Plush Work, the most suitable Designs will be found amongst examples of Typography. Old-
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HOBBIES. 245 fashioned Books, where engravings are surrounded with conventional borders, should be thoroughly searched. Modern advertise- ments, too, despised though they are, may occasionally furnish an idea. Instead of enumerating the uses to which such Ornaments may be put, it will be sufficient | to supply one or two sketches, which will give the reader a hint as to what he may do in this line. | end to the ways ee Fig. 57. In fact, there is no in which Overlaying may be used. The only difficulty is to secure suitable Patterns; and to find them, the Fret- worker must simply keep his eyes open, and pounce on a good Design when he sees it. From time to time examples will be found in the supplement sheets given with this journal. Fig. 58. Norr.—It must again be explained that very few of the sketches given here are full size. If any are used for Overlaying, they must be enlarged to suit the requirements of the article they are to ornament. (To be continued.) Fia, 55. Fig. 55 is a Cross of one-sixteenth inch wood, | to be stamped on a Bible. Bevel the edges, and | either Inlay the little scroll work, or Overlay with Veneer. Fia. 56. Fig. 56 is an idea for a Book Cover. ‘The | Border may be of Veneer, and the Monogram | of thicker wood, as found desirable. Figs. 57 | and 58 show other methods of treating Books or Writing Folios. FERETWORK & CARVING. HIGHEST AWARDS AND GOLD MEDALS received for our patterns in all parts of the empire. The special advantages we enjoy, coupled with the enormous stocks we hold, places us A 1 for variety, | quality, and price, three great things for purchasers to consider. ~) Our 2/6 Beginner's Outfit Consists of | 12 inch Steel Frame, 24 Saw Blades, 3 Files, 3 Designs, Awl, Cramp, Wood, and In- structions. OTHER OUTFITS: 3/6, 6/- & 12/6 each. +DUGt | Assorted Parcels of Fret- wood, 12 feet, 4/- | POST FREE. Oe Books of Fret AND | Carving Patterns ZaLf, ie OUR NEW CATALOGUE, conminine trations of Fretwork, Carving, Picture Framing, Bent Iron and Bamboo Work, Designs and Materials, 6d., post free. “ex GIVEN AWAY. 4. With this New Edition of 20,000 copies, we shall present a finely finished pattern of the Crescent Wall Bracket, HARGER BROS., Settle, vors.
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246 HOBBIES. LD-FASHIONED | the mere fact that they were the widely-known Side Shows can- | and popular comedians made their irresistible not be dispensed | fun all the more uproarious. No photographic with at Bazaars, | detail was omitted. The subject was posed, as many of them | the background arranged, the camera set and are very re- | focussed, the cap lifted, etc.—all accompanied munerative in| by side-splitting ‘‘business;” the usual rush character. Enter- | was made for the dark room, and in a few tainments such | moments the photograph brought out, carefully as the Gentle- | wrapped up in a piece of fine tissue paper. man’s Hat-Trim- | When the lady or gentleman who had been the mingCompetition | victim of all this elaborate humbug opened up are hardly novel, | the parcel, the photograph proved to be—a but they are | small bit of looking-glass. Amateurs could always funnyand | hardly expect to equal Mr. Toole at farcical seldom fail to | nonsense, but if a genuinely funny man hap- pay well. With | pened to be on the Committee, or within the a nominal price | circle of those interested in the Bazaar, a for admission, | Photographic Studio might be attempted. and a_ small entrance fee for AUNT SALLY. competitors, a large sum may soon be realised. The Side Show is too well known to require any detailed description, but it may certainly be classed amongst the remunerative ones. Tableaux Vivants have been well tried, and are somewhat hackneyed, but if a suitable corner can be found for holding them, and if any new and attractive subjects can be arranged, they should not be too readily dis- carded. Everything depends on the subject, costumes, scenery, decorations—in short, on the general effect, so that all the arrangements require careful management and rehearsing beforehand *Photographic Studios are got up in many Aunt Sally is such a well-known and much- different ways, sometimes genuine, but more | beloved relative, that she certainly needs no often as a “trick.” A very amusing enter- | introduction. Such a Side Show is very useful tainment of the latter kind was given at a | in summer time, when there happens to be a Dramatic Fancy Fair held some years ago at | field or some other suitable outdoor spot where the Crystal Palace, London, when the chief | theold lady may be set up. There are endless actors were no less eminent heroes of comedy | ways of arranging her, and the illustration than Messrs. J. L. Toole and Paul Bedford. | merely shows one out of many methods. The Their Show was a ‘‘ Photographic Saloon.” | Sally is fixed on the top of a short pole, with Mr. Bedford undertook the part of outdoor | the pipe in her mouth; the visitor then pays assistant, while the distinguished stage veteran | the small trial fee, walks quickly forward, and took the ‘“ photographs” inside. Naturally, | attempts to strike the pipe from the Sally’s the entire merriment was caused by the | mouth with a stick. We use the word incessant humorous talk of the Showmen, and | “ attempt’ because the task is by no means s0
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HOBBIES. | 247% simple as it looks. If the visitors who make the trial are compelled to shut one eye, the fun is greatly increased, as in many cases they will not even come within a foot of the pipe. The successful competitor (who is usually the know- ing schoolboy) wins a prize. THE FISH POND. to Bazaar organisers, but in many cases these are got up in such a crude fashion that they are far from attractive, and consequently do little to assist the general funds. Although the illustration here does not indicate the decoration, the following sug- gestions may be who wish to arrange an attractive Pond. ’Take a fairly large mirror glass and lay it flat on the floor. Ifa shallow zinc trough could be obtained, so much the better, as it could be filled with water, and a few gold fish and water plants placed in it. Glass, however, is very effective, and if the tank cannot easily be | procured it proves an excellent substitute. Round the edge of this flowers and large rock- | work stones should be placed—in fact, every- thing done to make the arrangement like a | The front edge and miniature artificial lake. the two sides of the glass (or trough) should be treated in this way, but at the back a more elaborate structure requires to be builtup. This need not be of any gigantic size, but must be sufficiently large to conceal an attendant who is stationed behind it. The best material for constructing this wall background is virgin cork, a large quantity of which may be obtained at a small cost. It must be thoroughly rustic in character, and some ferns and other plants should be introduced here and there to give it some life and variety. At the bottom of this wall a small aperture must be made, and a light curtain hung over it. The child—for, of course, it is a children’s Show—who is desirous of fishing for a prize, comes forward and pays down hissilver coin ; he is given a fishing-rod, which is usually provided with fairly strong tackle; he casts the line so that the hook goes through the aperture at the back, where an assistant is ready to attach some suitable prize. This done, he may draw the fish to land at leisure, or may adopt the usual plan of jerking it over his head. This little Side Show can be beautifully arranged, and if the grotto style were adopted and tastefully decorated it would prove a great attraction to children. (To be continued.) of use to those | Mineet Potro Frame Comprtirion. Many Fretworkers, and especially those who entered for our recent Midget Photo Frame Competition, will be interested to read the following letter which we have received from the Second Prize Winner, and which shews | what work can be executed with the simplest Fish Ponds and | Dips are not new | tools. “Dear Sir,—Your letter and Hand Fretsaw Frame came to hand on Wednesday. The | Hand Fretsaw Frame is quite up to my expes- tations,—one of the finest specimens I have seen. One of the Competitors, I notice, speaks of cutting his Frame witha Shilling Hand Saw, but the value of mine that I cut mv Frame with was less than a shilling; I think it was ninepence. It was nearly my first attempt at Fretwork since I was quite a boy, but seeing Hobbies advertised in Work, after some difficulty I procured the first number, and thought I would try my hand at Fretwork again. I did everything myself, glueing up the three-ply wood and polishing it, and it was all cut with my old ninepenny Hand Frame. It was my first attempt at Overlaying, which I think is a great improvement on the old style, and I must congratulate you on the original | Designs which are published in Hobbies. I think that cutting polished wood is more difficult than wood not polished, and great care has to be taken in not spoiling the surface of the polish. Thanking you very much, and wishing Hobbies every possible success, I remain, Yours faithfully, EDW. C. FLANN.” ILLUSTRATED CATALOGUE FREE. Liberal Terms and Free Samples for Agents. H. LINDNER, 170, Fleet St., London, E.C. BENT IRON, 64. Ib.; finest and cheapest in England. COPPER & BRASS, 1/3 per lb. PLIERS, 6d. and 74d. SCISSORS, 1/6. 14 Designs, i/- Guide Books, 1/- Enamel, 7d. Gold Paint, 44d. FRETWOOD from 2d. sq. ft. This week only, Star Saws, 3/1 per gross. Our 5/6 Set of Tools, worth 8/- Lists, 1d. LUNDS, Manningham Lane, BRADFORD. BENT IRON WORK. Our new original Design Sheet, with prices of Iron Copper, &c., and particulars of our New Tool, “THE IonrcAL,” sent on receipt of 1d. stamp. +t BAMBOO WORK, 3- Bamboos, Panels, and every other requisite at low prices. Our New Price List and Sheet of Designs sent on receipt of 1d. stamp. THE AMATEUR’S MARKET. 8 BRITANNIA BuILDiNes, LEEDS,
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HOBBIES. A Philatelic Causerie by Percy C. Brisuop, : Jeint Editor of the “Stamp CotLEctors’ Fortnicutry ;” Ex-Editor of “THE PHinaTELic JOURNAL” and “ PHILATELIC REVIEW OF Reviews ;” General Secretary of the LONDON PHILATELIC CLUB. NFORTUNATELY, we have not yet heard the last of the difficulty with regard to the illustrating of postage stamps. In the case against the proprietor of the Bazaar, as I mentioned at the time, the Bow Street magistrate granted the Inland Revenue authorities leave to appeal. This leave, I now hear, is to be taken advantage of; and it is quite on the cards that before this number of Hobbies reaches the reader the case will be again under discussion in the Courts. When all is said and done, it will be a great advantage to know exactly how we stand in this most important matter. ——:0:——— SAMOAN REPRINTS AND FORGERIES. I am not surprised that what I recently wrote on the subject of Samoan reprints has produced several letters from attentive Philatelic readers of Hobbies. One of them, “ P.J.B.,” of Glasgow, writes :— In reference to your article re Samoa Express stamps, I beg to state that a reprint may be dis- tinguished by the line above the “X” in “ EXPRESS.” In the original there is a break; in the reprint this break is joined, showing a slight curve. “P.J.B.” is both right and wrong. In effect his method of distinction is identical with that recently given to the world with a great flourish of trumpets by a London Philatelic journal, but, unfortunately, the distinction is utterly useless. All the reprints certainly have the break in the line above the word ‘‘ Express” clumsily repaired, but the same break repaired in exactly the same way appears in many of the original stamps. To make the thing quite clear I must tell the whole history of this Samoa ‘‘ Express” issue of 1877. Of the stamps which were really printed for postage purposes there were four editions, or to speak more correctly, four printings of all save the 2d. and 9d. values. The first printing took place previous to October, 1877, and the stamps of this batch may be easily sorted out from the subsequent printings by the top frame of the tablet containing the word ‘‘ Express” being unbroken. The second printing, in the latter part of 1878, is recognised by a break in the frame above the letter “X” of word ‘ Express.” break has been repaired, but in so bungling a manner that it looks worse than the break itself. All the reprints have the break patched up in the same way. I repeat my contention that there is no in- fallible test for distinguishing originals from reprints. In many cases, of course, one can point to an unused Samoa ‘ Express” and say with perfect confidence, ‘‘ That is an original ;” but such cases are few and far between. I again advise all readers to eschew unused Samoans of the 1877 issue, or, indeed, of any issue, and to collect only used specimens. There are many queer things about the stamps of Samoa, and one would like to see & little more soundness before investing very heavily in the stamps of this tiny State. One unique fact about Samoan stamps is that while they will frank a letter to any part of the world if sent via New Zealand, they are of no use at all if sent via San Francisco. Again, it is not a matter of general knowledge that the ‘‘Express” issue of Samoa has been somewhat dangerously forged—but, fortunately, not so dangerously as to deceive the “‘cognoscenti.” The principal differences are as follows :— the ;, In the third printing this ; In the genuine there are ten horizontal lines in - the tablet containing the word ‘ Express,” these lines being at an equal distance one from another. In the counterfeits, there are only nine lines, and the sixth and seventh from the top, between the “E” and “X,” are further apart than theothers. Inthe genuine, the first dot from the left in the lower semi-circle does not touch the line above, which it does in the forgery. There is a second forgery which, although very fine, is not so dangerous, the principal differences being as follows:—In the genuine, the eighth, ninth, and tenth dots in the upper semi-circle are nearer one another than the others, two of them being under the “‘M” of
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HOBBIES. 249, SAMOA. In the forgery these dots are at equal distances, and there is only one under the ‘“©M ’—exactly under the centre of this letter. Although I think I have now said all there is to say about Samoa, I shall be delighted to help any reader who still finds any difficulty. ——0: A suggestion made by one of the Philatelic readers of Hobbies meets with my hearty | approval, and I should like the views of other readers concerning it. The suggestion is that a competition be held among the stamp-loving section of the readers of this paper, in the form of an exhibition at some convenient London centre, of the albumsof all those readers whocare to submit them for competition. Theawards, of course, would not all go to the owners of the best collections—that would obviously be very unfair tothe beginners. The competitors would | be divided into sections, with prizes for each section. The arrangement of an album would in many cases be held to make up for any paucity of rare stamps. In short, every album or frame or sheet contributed for exhibition would be judged with a due regard to the age, experience, and opportunities of its exhibitor, and the prizes, medals and certificates, would be distributed with a view to rewarding and encouraging every class of competitor. But before anything of this kind could be attempted, | it would be necessary to feel assured that the | To do the thing | idea would be well supported. by halves would be worse, in our opinion, than leaving it severely alone. I therefore invite every Hobbies reader who | has some stamps (no matter how few) to exhibit, | to let me hear from him upon the subject. A postcard will suffice, and a hundred postcards promising exhibits will decide me in favour of the proposed show. Of course it is hardly necessary to say that, should the exhibition be decided upon, every care will be taken of every stamp sent, and, further, that the prizes awarded will be ones well worth winning. ——:0:—— NEW ISSUES OF STAMPS. «"» Items for this department will be gratefully re- ceived from any Philatelic readers who happen to receive early information of new issues, or of im- pending changes in the postal arrangements of any country. Eayrer.—The forthcoming Egyptian com- memorative issue is now in process of manufacture by De La Rue & Co., the printers of the present English stamps. There are to be three values only, and 100,000 of each kind is the number that will be printed. Each stamp will bear a picture representing a slice of Egyptian scenery—the Pyramids, the Nile, and so on. I warn my readers in advance against these so-called ‘‘stamps,” which are being brought out to catch the coppers of unwary Philatelists. Grenapa.—The new stamps for this Colony are now of the regulation Colonial type, as per annexed illustration. I believe the 24d., 3d., 6d., 8d., and is. values have already appeared in this new style, and the other varieties will follow in due course. What a sad falling off from a nN te} the beautifully printed stamps that once came to us from Grenada. Portucat. — Here we have a picture of Portu- gal’s latest effort. It is a distinct improvement upon the stamps of the existing issue. The values range from 24 reis | up to 300 reis, and the colours are mainly the same as in the previous issue. TuRKEY contemplates new stamps, if I may rely upon the accuracy of a news item in the Levant Herald. Whether an entirely new issue is contemplated, or merely a piece of “commemorative” humbug of some sort or another, I cannot say. Crynton.—Annexed is the type of stamp of the new envelope that has lately arrived from Ceylon. Grerce.—The current 25 lepta stamp has been changed in colour, or rather in shade, It is now appear- ing in a reddish mauve, instead of ‘pure violet as heretofore. Honianp.—For some time past there has | been considerable talk concerning a “find” at | the Haarlem Government Printing Works of | @ quantity of 5c. Dutch stamps printed in an orange colour. I have the best authority for saying that a sheet of these stamps was issued to the public by a mistake on the part of the postal officials, and that efforts were at once made to recall them. The stamps were never intended for issue at all in the orange colour. The sheet was simply a trial proof, or, to use | the official description, a ‘colour essay.” | Nevertheless, it is conceivable that some of them have paid postage, and such specimens should become valuable. Inp1a.—I_ now illus- trate the new high- value stamps of our | Eastern Empire, which have already been fully described in Hobbies. Mauritius (as I stated some weeks ago) is going in for a com- plete new set. The first—a 3c. lilac—is pee Cans | already to hand. : Design: Arms of the island in centre, ‘‘ Mauritius” above, value below. Watermark, ie = > EA Ed = amy iomtacavar = Crown and ‘“C.A.” ai MontTENEGRO has seen | ; 3 fit to inflict upon its unoffending people an 4 “acknowledgment ” of § receipt stamp, of which an illustration is given here, ; The perforation is 114, 2 the colours blue and red, the value 10 novitch.
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250 HOBBIES. Rovumania, too,is going in. for what would appear to be asuperfiuous luxury in the shape of | a special delivery stamp. This, a correspondent informs me, is of the same type as the Roumanian postage-due stamps but for the lettering, which now reads ‘‘ Taxa DE Facraqtu ” The value is 25 bani, and the colour red-brown. ——:0:—— THE PLATE NUMBERS OF ENGLISH STAMPS—Continued. THE FOURPENCE: (1855-84). Most interesting of all stamps, in the study of English plate numbers, is the fourpenny value, | with its infinite variety of lettering, water- marks, etc. Plates 1 and 2, issued 1855 and 1856 respec- tively, are indistinguishable, bearing no plate number. They are found with small, medium, and large garter watermarks, and exist both on ordinary white paper and on azure safety paper | The stamps are found in of varying thickness. On light and dark shades of carmine rose. ordinary white paper, with large garter water- mark, they are common, but for the azure | safety paper series, with small and medium garter watermarks, prices varying from 5s. to 40s. are asked. Plate 3 is the first of the numbered plates. The accompanying illustration shows clearly the position of the number. The water- mark here is another variety of the garter, known to specialists as the ‘“ garter of 1857.” An additions] distinguishing mark of plate 3 is a Roman numeral “T,” placed against each of the letter squares at the bottom corners of the stamp. Plate 4 is similarly distinguished by the insertion of the | Roman numeral ‘‘II.” in the same position, and | is further characterised by a secret hair-line crossing the letter-blocks. orange-red in colour, are comparatively common. Plates 5 and 6 were never used. Plates 3 and 4, both | The continuation of this article I must hold | over till next week, when I hope to give exact illustrations of the various watermarks alluded to. Without these, the descriptions of the 4d. plate numbers will prove of very little value to the novice. STAMP COLLECTORS Should send id. Stamp to Harry <jpa Hivcxes & Co., Ld., 64, Cheapside, j }e] London, £.c., for ‘ Specimen”’ copy lal of Stamp Collectors’ Fortnightly. Contains articles for beginners, as well as for advanced Collectors. BEST STAMP PAPER COINC! X THE TAKE YOUR CHOICE, : SET GF 19 FRENCH COLONIALS, or GRATIS SET OF 5 BOLIVIA, 1894, 10. TO 20c, Hither ONE of above fine sets will be presented Gratis to every purchaser of our Special “ XMAS” Packet, containing 96 Stamps, all different, including Perak, large tiger head, just issued; Chili, 20 c. black, scarce; Spain, 1879; Canada, 8c.; Java; Argentine; Cyprus; U.S. Unpaid, obsolete; Jamaica; Hyderabad; Swan River; Egypt, official; Zambezia, new ; Travancore; Italy, Parcel Post; Guatemala, bird; Congo Free State, magnificent view of bay; &c., &c. Free, 1/1. Selections sent on approval. Liberal discount allowed. Grand NEW Tllustraced Catalogue, 7TH Eprrion, for Collectors; or Wholesale List with Addenda for Dealers. FREE. Exchange Circular—largest published—16 pages. Free, 3d. FISHER, TITLEY & Co., Stamp Importers, BATH. atents of Anterest, A Very Succressrut Bazaar.—Something like a record has been made by the Manchester Bazaar in aid of the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty toChildren. The sum raised amounted to very nearly £10,000. SpEcuLaTion 1n Stamps.—The Singapore Free Press says; ‘‘ We hear a lot of money has changed hands over postage stamps during the week. One gentleman alone cleared over 400 dollars net profit. Surcharged three Cents. Perakstamps are rather in high demand at present, and realize 15 to 20 cents. a piece.” A Suacestion ror AMATEUR ComposERS.—The tune of “‘ Auld Lang Syne ”’ has been adapted to sacred words, and is received with much favour in the East End of London. The Musical Standard says that the composers of the Salva- tion Army are adepts at this kind of thing, but there is one tune which even they could not adapt, and that is ‘‘ There’s a Picture for you.” It has a terrible refrain, repeated eighteen times note for note. Auction Prices or Postrace Sramps.—Among the principal prices recently realized at Messrs. Ventom, Bull, and Cooper’s sale of Foreign Postage Stamps, held at the St. Martin’s Town- hall, were the following :— Ceylon, 4d. rose imper- forate, £22; Ceylon, 8d. brown imperforate, £22; Barbados, 1d. on half 5s., a pair, £18; New Scuth Wales, Sydney view, 2d. blue, unused, £25; South Australia, 6d. perforate and roulette, an unused pair, £15; a collection, £80. The total amount realized from the two days’ sale was £1,096. Tue Stamp or Vicrory.—The report that Japan contemplated the issue of a special postage stamp to commemorate her victory over China in the recent war is now confirmed. Japanese newspapers state that the Government has decided upon the issue of two adhesives of the value of 2 sen and 5 sen respectively. The new stamp will be oblong in form, after the fashion of the silver wedding stamps sanctioned by the Emperor in 1893. GESSO AND MODELLING. Notes on Gesso Work, by Walter Crane.—* For working in Gesso the best material I have met with - is called ‘ Denoline.’” The Studio. — “ For Modelling ‘Denoline’ is equally satisfactory.” To popularise “Denoline” with the readers of Hobbies we will send two ONE SHILLING Tins_ of “Denoline” and a Book of Instructions, post free, for 1s. 9d. and a Coupon, up to 3lst December, 1895. THE DENOLINE CO., 40, George St., Edinburgh. REGISTERED Phil May’s Winter Annual Of ali Booksellers, Newsagents, and Bookstalls. Publishers: WALTER HADDON, Bouverie House, Salisbury Square, London, E.G.
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HOBBIES. 251 FRAME. No. 11. Puorograrx Toilet Glass Pattern. S will be seen in another part of this week’s issue, the small ‘ Hobbies” | Tablet which is printed on the Supple- ment has no connection with the Weekly Design, but is merely the | subject for our Junior Fretwork Competition, | the particulars of which are now published. This little Photograph Frame is a novelty, and one which ought to prove attractive and | popular. The Fretworker can havea free choice | of all the fancy woods which are supplied, as the article is small and is not greatly affected by considerations of grain, etc. It is safer to use three-ply wood, not because there is much chance of the solid material warping, but because the fixing arrangements can be made more secure. A delicate projecting bit of solid wood frequently shews a tendency to split or break, whereas the same part in three-ply will easily bear the insertion of a small screw or nail. With this Photograph Frame, however, solid wood may be used without running much risk of having the article damaged when putting together. Here, certainly, as in many cases, the work of fitting together requires as much care as | cutting out. In sawing most Patterns, the | Fretworker’s chief care is to follow the line closely ; but in fixing he has often to rely on his | own skill and ingenuity, and unless he can use | hammer, pliers, and screws with some dexterity, and can apply glue neatly and effectively, his | article will have a clumsy, amateurish look | about it when finished. | London, E.C. | with back numbers of Hobbies. | after the date of issue.) | of Hobbies. Needless to say, both sides of each Support must be thoroughly well sand-papered beiore the Frame itself is attached to it. On the | diagram provision is made for fixing the Frame | permanently, and this method is strongly ‘recommended. It could be made to swing like an ordinary Toilet Glass by removing the projecting notches A, and fixing with a pin- hinge to the Supports. By this means, however, | the Supports would not be strongly joined | together, and the whole article would be rather shaky. If the Frame is put together as shewn, with the projecting notches A firmly glued in position, and fine screws driven in at points A and B, everything will be perfectly strong. Special care should be taken in fixing on the cross bar securely, as it greatly helps to steady the article. The question of polishing, or leaving piain, must be left to the Fretworker. As usual, we discourage the use of varnish, and for a small ornament of this sort we fancy that the pure, unstained wood will have a better appearance. But as tastes differ, and as much naturally depends on the actual wood which has been | selected, we shall leave the question open. The most useful thickness of wood to employ is three-sixteenth inch. [Additional copies of this Design may be had, | price 3d. each, on application to the Publisher of Bouverie House, Salisbury Square, The Presentation Supplements will be given during the current week of publication only, and will not be supplied All additional copies of the Designs will have the Threepenny Coupons, which are available for three months Hobbies, No. 12. ‘Swine-Boat” Marcu Box. rele, The above sketch is a miniature of the full- sized Fretwork Design for a MATCH HOLDER,| the form of a ‘ Swing-Boat,” which will be given away with every copy of next week’s issue The “Boat” is hung on a spindle and will swing back and. forward freely. Provision is made on the stand for striking the | matches.
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HOBBIES. NE approaches the question of Carving Tools with a feeling almost akin to awe. When we reflect on such technical names as Firmers, Gouges, Skews, V’s, Fluters, Veiners, Grounders, Bent - backs, Chasers, Pickers, etc., and when we calculate that with shapes and sizes there are from six to seven hundred (if not more) Tools to choose from, that all Carvers have their own individual tastes and | fancies, and would probably never agree on the half-dozen most suitable ones, it is not easy to lay down the law with any feeling of calm assurance that it will be religiously followed. Here then let it be said at the outset that, although it is highly necessary for everyone to know the various forms of Tools, and to under- stand their uses, no beginner should start with | more than ten or twelve. In the first place, the work which he tries does not require more; if he possessed a full stock, he would either attempt work for which he was not able, or else use the Tools for purposes to which they were never adapted. In the second place, the choice of Tools is really a matter for personal judgment, | and that can only be acquired after experience has been gained. There are “tastes” and “ pre- ferences ;” a practised Carver will pounce ona certain Gouge, as an artist selects a particular | brush, and when amateurs once understand the | uses of their first dozen Tools they will then have | a pretty fair idea as to which new ones will suit them. A third reason is that there can be no use in going to unnecessary expense until it is seen | whether the hobby is to be persevered in. The following Table will give an idea ot the various Tools. Table A will convey a rough notion of their general appearance; but more | will be learned from Table B, which shews the Sections. This list comprises about every Tool used in ordinary Wood Carving, and it must be remembered that each Section has a dozen or more sizes. (Only one size of each curve or shape is shewn.) Thus, to take a single example, —straight Gouges are made in seven different sections (not counting Fluters or Veiners), and each section is supplied in thirteen different sizes, making ninety-one distinct straight Gouges in all; so when curved, front-bent, and back-bent Gouges are added, it will soon be understood how the six or seven hundred are made. Almost CHAP. I1—YO | O1S. every Tool can be had as small as one-sixteenth of an inch in width. Veiners can be got at one- thirty-second. The sizes rise first by sixteenths, then by eighths, and go up to one-and-a-quarter or one-and-a-half inches, and in some cases to two inches. All these astonishing facts must not overwhelm the beginner. No one ever wants a complete set, although experienced practical Carvers may have about a couple of hundred Tools in their work- shops. If an amateur had that number he would be able to do little more than look at them. Certainly he would not do better work than with a dozen well-chosen ones. TABLE A, 1.—Chisel, or Firmer. 2.—Corner Firmer. 10.—Macaroni Tool.
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HOBBIES. 253 TABLE B. (Sections.) Firmers. Bent + Chisels. Ext. Flat Gouges. Corner Firmers Cor.-Bent Chisels. Straight Gouges. Curved Gouges. Front-Bt. Gouges. Back-Bt. Gouges, Fluters. Curved Fluters. Front Bt. Fluters. Extra Fluters. Veiners. V Parting Tools— Straight Curved Front- Bent. Tools— Straight Macaroni Curved. Ashortdescrip- | tion of Carving Tools may be found useful. The Chisel, or Firmer, is used for beyelling, and for cutting sharp clean corners. Skews, or Corner Firmers, are more generally useful for these purposes. They are also neces- sary for finish- ing the back- ground. When the relief is high, bent Firmers and Skews are wanted for the ground; the latter can be had either for the right or the left corner. Extra Flats are called upon to do_ pretty much the same work as Chisels. They are made in the form of Gouges,amongst which Tools they are classed, and for finishing purposes are more easily handled. Ordinary | Gouges are of four kinds— | straight, curved, front bent, and back bent, all varying in section from Extra Flats to Fluters. They are used for general work, and as a knowledge of their scope is acquired, favourite shapes and sizes may be selected. Fluters naturally take their name from being the tools which carve flutes in any frieze or pilaster. They are simply Gouges, but take a special technical name owing to their quick curve, and to the particular work which they have to perform. Extra Fluters are for deeper grooves. Veiners are of a similar nature, but are made in smaller sizes. They are used for veining leaves, dressing stems, and doing other delicate work. \-Parting Tools are required for all simple incising work, also for Scotch, Dutch, and some Elizabethan Carving. As they make a very sharp cut, they should not be used for foliated ornament. Macaroni Tools are for special purposes, and need not be included in an ordinary outfit. As for other names, they are pet terms given by Carvers to particular sizes and shapes; and as these technical names vary, it is unnecessary to confuse the reader with definitions. TABLE 1 (6 Tools). Firmer. Extra yor ee Flat. Se / NY 3 Gouges. Ww \V/ V Tool. TABLE 2 (12 Tools). Firmer. Corner Firmer. (2 Extra | Flats. Fluter. Veiner. V Tool. (2 Bent | Backs. Corner 3 Gouges. With regard to straight or curved Tools, front bent and back bent, their uses depend on the style of ornament. When the ground is sunk very low, straight Gouges or Chisels cannot well be hand- led, but the form of Tool used is regu- lated by the general lie of the pattern. These matters cannot be fully explained in writing, but will soon be understood after little practice. Three Tables are here given as a guide to amateurs who are going in for Carving. The first is for a set of six Tools, the second for twelve, and the third for twenty. Of course no law can a emphatically laid down on this matter, and as there may be great differences of opinion as to the right Tools to begin with, it is right to say that these Tables are merely offered as suggestions. As they explain themselves, they need not be further described. In laying in a stock of Carving Tools, after the first half-dozen or dozen have been secured, never buy recklessly. When a fresh Tool is wanted, get it; but be~sure of the size and section before purchasing. Good Carvers are as par- ticular in the choos- ing of a new article, as ladies are careful in the selection of a new hat; and so far as Tools are con- cerned, it is only when they are thoroughly under- stood, that it can be known when to fix on the right one. HANDLES» Tool Handles. should also be care- fully selected. It is a mistake to get cheap ones, as they are rough, and will
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254 HOBBIES. - soon blister the hands. The usual prices are— Beech, twopence; Box, threepence; and Rose- wood, fourpence. If many Tools are possessed, it is a good plan to have a different colour of Handle for the various classes of Tools, as they can then be known ata glance. This, however, only comes to be necessary when the stock is large. KNIVES, In addition to ordinary Tools, a Knife is ver handy. Itis chiefly wanted for Chip- Carving, but it is a generally useful article. suitable are — (1) the well- known Carving Knife, and (2) the Norwegian Pocket Knife, the blade of which is pulled out instead of opening up, thus causing the fingers to run less risk of being nipped off. The blades may be straight or curved. Norwegian Pocket Knife. PUNCHES. One or two Punches will be found serviceable. They are made in at least twenty varieties, but only a couple of the commoner patterns—say, dots and star—should be got. Some Carvers hold Punches in lofty derision, and scorn their use as a mechanical means of shirking difficulties and hiding defects, but for a certain class of owe eee eee O x & Punches. The most | Supply of Back Numbers. The first and second numbers of Hobbies having been long since sold out, while the demand for them shows but little sign of abate- ment, we have thought it advisable to have these numbers reprinted, so that recent Sub- scribers may be enabled to complete their volumes. These are now ready, and copies may be _ obtained through any newsagent, price 1d. each, work they are indispensable for the finishing of | backgrounds. Knives and Punches have been | mentioned in this chapter, as they are worked | upon the actual material, and can fairly be | termed Carving Tools. (To be continued.) FRETWOODS, Planed and Sandpapered both sides by our Special Machinery. For 5s., Post FREE, We will send, 2 SQUARE FEET each, 3-16ths in. Mahogany, ITALIAN WALNUT, Flowered Oak, Canary, White Holiy, Lacewood, 10 to 15 in. wide. For 2s. 6p., Post FREE, % square feet each of any three above kinds, or any three of the following—Hungarian, Japanese, or Black Ash, Birch, Teak, Cedar, Chestnut, Sycamore, &c. IMPORT ANT.—These are Sample Parcels of Best Quality Woods. DRY, SOUND, AND CLEAN. WRITE AT ONCE FOR LIST. STAR SAWS, 6 Dozen for 1s. 6d. HINDLEY & JONES, Fretwork Stores, NORFOLK MARKET HALL, SHEFFIELD. Cigar Store, £20 to £2,000.”— Tobacconists’ Outfitting Co. (Reg.), 186, Euston Rd., London. N.B.—Shopfitters and showcase makers for all trades. (Over 50 years’ reputation.) Mgr., H. Myers. TOBACCONISTS COMMENCING. See Illd. Guide & Catalogue. (259 pgs.) 3d., * How to open a { or direct from the publishers, price 14d. post free, Owing to the largely increasing number of annual subscribers, we have decided to suspend the rule relating to the non-supply of Presenta- tion Supplements with back numbers till the end of the year. Thus, till December 31st, we shall give away the Presentation Designs with all back numbers. Germs of Subscription 8. d. Three Months (including postage) ... Lies Six Months Do. “5° 18" 8 Twelve Months Do. oa All letters relating to subscriptions or back numbers should be addressed to the Publisher of Hobbies, Bouverie House, salisbury Square, London, E.C. TERMS FOR ADVERTISEMENTS. —_—- omnes Per Inch est = 5c 010 6 One-Highth Page _... see ee (4) One-Quarter Page ... dee 22 0 Half-Page . io 315 0 Page ... oe cone 700 DiscouNT ON A SERIES OF INSERTIONS a All Communications to be addressed to the Sole Advertisement Agents, JOHN HADDON & CO., Bouverie House, Salisbury Square, London, E.C NOTICE TO CONTRIBUTORS. —\_o——_ The Editor of ‘“‘ Hobbies” is always ready to | receive Suggestions for Articles for insertion in the paper. Any manuscript sent for his consideration must however be accompanied by a fully addressed and stamped envelope. Unsuitable contributions will be returned without avoidable delay, but it must be distinctly understood that the Editor will not hold himself responsible for the loss of any manuscript.
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HOBBIES, ay 255 “ VICTORIA” FRETWORK COMPETITION.” Owing to the really remarkable success of our Midget Photo Frame Competition, the interest taken in which far exceeded our expectations, we have de- cided to follow it immediately with another Competi- tion on similar lines. For this purpose we have had specially designed a Model of a Victoria, a copy of which was presented with last week’s Hobbies; and as we offer Prizes of a valu- able and useful character, we anticipate for this Com- petition a success even greater than that of the one which has recently been decided. For the best Fretwork Models made from this week’s Presentation Design we offer two Prizes :— First Prize—An “ImpPrRIAL” TREADLE FRETSAW, with Superior Tilting Table for Inlay Work, Vertical Drilling Attachment, and all Modern Improvements. Second Prize—A Finely Finished Treadle Fretsaw, mae Nickel-plated Tilting Table, Emery Wheel, ete. The choice of wood, method of cutting, and all matters relating to the actual work are left entire- ly to the Competitor. We would strongly urge, how- ever, that all Articles should be left plain, and that no polish, varnish, stain, or paint of any kind be used. Every Competitor should write his or her name clear- y a a label which must be attached to the Victoria itself. Articles sent in for Competition will be returned, and in every case it must be stated clearly whether they are to be sent back by post or rail. If by post, sufficient stamps must be enclosed, and these should be affixed to the addressed label. If returnable by rail, the name of the nearest Railway Station must be clearly given. As many of the Midget Photo Frames sent in for Competition were received in a damaged state, we would recommend that great care be taken in pack- ing the Victorias. We can assure Competitors that their Articles will suffer no injury in our office, and that all will be returned securely packed. As the work of unpacking and repacking these Fretwork Articles entails a great amount of labour, we must ask Competitors to adhere to our rules and suggestions as closely as possible. In the last Com- etition there were 60 or 70 cases either where an sufficient number of stamps or none at all were sent, and this naturally caused both delay and extra trouble. All Articles sent in for Competition should be marked “ Victoria,” and must be received at our office not later than Febrnary 29th, 1896. JUNIOR [FRETWORK COMPETITION. In order to encourage the large number of our younger readers who have adopted Fretwork as a Hobby, we have now arranged to have a Competition for Hand Frame workers under sixteen years of age. On the Supplement presented with this week’s issue will be found the Design for a small Tablet inscribed with the word ‘“ Hobbies.” For the best example of Fretwork, cut from this pattern according to the following conditions, we will give :— A Treadle Fretsaw Machine, with Tilting Table, Dust Blower, Drill, etc., and Three Additional Prizes of One Gross of the Best Fretsaw Blades each, ConDITIONS. 1—All Competitors must be under sixteen years of age. The exact age should be stated. 2.—All Articles must be cut with the Hand Fretsaw Frame. 3.—The choice of wood is left to the Competitor, but the wood used should not be more than 3/16 inch thick. 4—All Articles must be left plain, and neither polished nor varnished. | 5.—Competitors are allowed to send 1 more than one Article. 6.—A label with full name, address, and age of Com- petitor must be tied to the actual piece of work. Articles should be securely packed between two pieces ot wood (or stout cardboard), and must be received at our Office not later than January 31st, 1896. Address—The Editor of Hobbies, Bouverie House, Salisbury Square, London, E.C. Parcels should be marked “Junior Competition.” In order to save ourselves the very great time and labour involved in repacking and returning the large number of Articles which we expect to receive, we have purposely selected a Pattern which will be purely a test, and which is not of any value to the Competitor when cut out. The specimens submitted will therefore not be returned. Fretwork PHOTOGRAPHY. We give every month a prize of Ten Shillings for the best Photograph, not to exceed 74-in. by 5-in., and Five Shillings for the second best. The choice of subject is left entirely to the Competitor. Photo- graphs cannot be returned, and we reserve the right to reproduce any of them in Hobbies, if thought de- sirable. Photographs for Competition will be re- ceived up to the last day of each month, and those for this month must be sent to our office on or be- fore December 31st, marked “ Photo.” NEw InDooR HOBBIES. For the best suggestion for a New Indoor Hobby the prizes have been awarded as under :— First Prize (Ten Shillings): C. Laws NICHOLSON, Rock House, South Hylton. Second Prize (Five Shillings): H. G.§. FELL, Park End Road. Gloucester. The readers of Hobbies do not seem to distinguish themselves in Competitions where ideas rather than work is required. Nothing could have been more successful than our Fretwork and Photographic Com- petitions, and nothing on the other hand could well be more disappointing than the results of the Com- petition in which merely suggestions or new ideas areinvited. We had confidently anticipated that we should have been able to select from the letters sent, in response to this Competition, at least a page of suggestions for really new and interesting Indoor Hobbies which would have been of the utmost service to our readers as a whole; and as a matter of fact, nine out of every ten proposals submitted were absolutely devoid of originality, and the Competitors seemed to quite overlook the essential condition that the suggestions they sent in were tobe new. There is surely nothing very novel about keeping a canary in & cage, nor is there anything strikingly original about Photography as a recreative pastime, although the Competitor who referred to this Hobby was careful to mention the surprisingly novel fact that ‘ Photo- graphy is useful because you can take Photographs by it.” As an additional tribute to this Competitor's practical turn of mind, we may say that he suggested, as an alternative occupation, Electricity, “ because you can put up lights by it,” while he wound up his letter by saying, “ Please forward a ten shilling prize, as I think these ideas are about the best.” It pains us to disappoint him, but our sorrow is relieved Be the reflection that a gentleman with such pronounce opinions upon his own merits will probably find some compensation in the profound contempt he will no doubt entertain for our judgment. Seriously, though, there must be literally hundreds of our readers who follow some favourite home occupation which is not generally known. We should esteem it a really great favour if, apart from any question of Prize Competitions, they would send us a brief description of these little known Hobbies. In this manner the readers of the paper would be doing each other a real service, for we should gladly print a description of any work or pastime which promised to be of general interest. NoricE To COMPETITORS. All Articles, Sketches, etc., for Competition should be addressed to the Editor of Hobbies, Bouverie House, Salisbury Square, London, H.C. The name and full address of Competitor must in every case be sent. NotE.—No correspondence can be entered into with Competitors, and all awards made_will be final.
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HOBBIES. y, ; ae GBF THE INDUCTION GOI. ] G HOW FO MAKE AND USE IT. CHAP. VIII. == NE of the best and simplest forms of Condenser for imitat- ing thunder and lightning is that known as Franklyn’s Fulminating Pane, and it is so easily constructed that the reader can make it for himself. To do this, procure a sheet of glass about twelve inches square and two sheets of tinfoil nine inches square; round off the corners of the tinfoil sheets and glue them down, one on each side of the glass, leaving a mar- gin of an inch-and-a-half of bare glass all round each sheet of foil. The best glass for the purpose is that of a greenish hue, possessing good insu- lating qualities. Having secured the tinfoil sheets and removed all trace of superfluous glue, just go round the foil edges with a little varnish to improve the insulation. This done, the Pane will have to be supported on edge upon a stand, or it may be mounted in a little wooden frame, like a schoolboy’s slate, and suspended—see Fig. 28. It is charged in a precisely similar manner to a Leyden Jar. By keeping up a continuous process of charging, brilliant flashes will be seen to pass from foil to foil, leaping over the un- coated margins of the glass plate, and giv- ing forth loud reports. A very pretty experi- ment, due toa Dr. Wright, and illustrat- ing the force of cohesion, is performed as Fig. 28. follows: — One electrode from the Induction Coil is connected to.a sheet of metal, and upon this sheet is laid a pane of glass. About the middle of the Pane a globule of water is placed, and the end of the other electrode is then passed down through the liquid and held in contact with the glass. Assuming the Coil to be working, the water will gradually spread itself over the surface of the glass pane, not in a film, but assuming a variety of beautiful branching figures. To vary the experiment, solutions of different salts and acids may be used in the place of water, or a sheet of mica may be substituted for the glass, thus obtaining different figures. The simple secondary sparks which pass between the ends of the electrodes, when the latter are brought sufficiently near to each other, vary somewhat in their nature according to their length; thus the most intense heating effects are obtained from very short sparks, and it is these which are used to ignite combustible bodies, such as small quantities of gunpowder, gun-cotton, phosphorus, etc., cotton wool saturated with any volatile imflammable liquid, and also inflammable gases. The reader’s own intelligence will be sufficient to lead him right in such simple experiments as these without further explanations, and all that need be said is, that the spark must be made to impinge upon, or to pass through the body to be ignited. A blast of air from the mouth, through a glass tube, has a very marked effect on a short hot spark. On the opposite side of the spark, which is not itself detected, a tongue of flame will be seen to shoot out. This is due to the current of air being rendered incandescent in its passage between the electrodes. Fire and water are generally looked upon as such antagonistic elements that it may seem impossible at first sight to obtain sparks from the latter, yet this may be very easily accom- plished. It is only necessary to immerse the end of one of the Coil electrodes in water, and to bring the end of the other electrode suffi- ciently near to the surface of the liquid, and a stream of sparks will pass between the water and the electrode. Sparks through water may also be obtained when both electrodes are immersed. Flames appear to be comparatively good con- ductors, and may be used to lengthen or otherwise change the spark. On passing the spark through the small flame of a taper it will take a spheroidal shape and appear vividly incandescent.
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HOBBIES. 257 When short lengths of fine iron wire are used as electrodes, the deflagration of the metal itself may beshewn. On obtaining a continuous stream of short sparks, the end of one electrode will become intensely hot, and finally burn away. A bit of gold leaf, or Dutch metal foil, can be made to ignite in a similar way. A very effective little piece of apparatus, called the Sparkling Pane, is employed for rendering luminous any desired design, such as a fern leaf, or other pleasing object. It consists of a pane of glass, one face of which is pretty well covered by a long zig-zag strip of foil. This zig-zag strip is in reality made up of a number of horizontal strips, each one joined alternately at its ends, to its neighbour above and below, in such a way as to form one long continuous conductor. The design is marked out upon the Pane by scraping, or scratching away the foil at suitable intervals, thus providing minute spaces for a succession of little sparks to leap over. On connecting one electrode to one end of the zig-zag foil, and the other electrode to the other end, the whole design scratched out upon the Pane will be revealed by a succession of in- numerable small sparks. A mixture of two metals of widely different conducting powers, such as copper and iron, in a state of fine division (very fine filings for example) will also give some beautiful effects when a discharge is passed over it. The sparks in endeavouring to pass over the surface of the metal will fly hither and thither, becoming slightly coloured in their progress owing to the defiagration of some of the filings. A good many people are very fond of trying the physiological effects of the electric current, or in other words, taking an electric shock. Why this should be so is rather difficult to under- stand, especially as an even moderately power- ful shock is a distinctly painful sensation; but such undoubtedly is the case. An enthusiastic reader might think that there is nothing easier than to get a shock from an Induction Coil, and there, perhaps, he is right. Just lay a finger of each hand on each of the secondary terminals, and there you are, don’t you know. Just so, but you won’t stay there long, and you will probably get enough electricity in that first trial to last you out the remainder of your natural life. The usual mode of taking a shock is with the aid of a pair of metal handles, and a water regulator. The latter is shewn in Fig. 29. It consists of a glass tube fitted at the ends with brass caps; through the upper brass cap slides a brass rod, which may be raised or lowered any required dis- tance, up or down the tube. The tube itself is filled with water, and the two terminals on the base are connected, one to each of the brass caps. This regulator is joined up in the secondary circuit as follows:— One of the terminals is joined direct to one Coil electrode, and the other terminal to one of the metal handles; the other handle is then joined up to the second electrode of the Coil. On grasping the handles, one in each hand, the circuit will be completed through the body, and a succession of shocks experienced. To decrease the intensity of the shock, raise the brass rod up through the tube, and vice versa. In enumerating the preceding experiments no attempt has been made to give a complete list, but rather to point out those most generally interesting. The writer hopes that he has succeeded in this object, and that the reader may find a good deal of pleasure in following them out. «*, Some weeks ago we gave two short articles on ‘‘ How to Make an Electric Scarf Pin,” and as the subject aroused wide and general interest, we intend to follow it up with a series of short, complete articles on some useful pieces of Electrical apparatus, the first of which will be ‘An Electric Gas Lighter,’ and which will be described in next week’s Hobbies. XMAS GIFT. Electrie Lighting Just the thing for Genuine Watch Set. dark nights and winter mornings. Lights instantly. Two powerful Batteries and handsome Brass Fittings. Will not get out of order. Price 7s. 6d., post free.— H. PRICE & Co., 4, Berry Street, Clerkenwell Road, E.C. Our Advertising Goupon Acheme. ——o Every copy of our Weekly Presentation Supple- ment now contains a Coupon which, by special arrangement with our Advertisers, will, under the following conditions, be accepted by the Firms whose names are printed on the back of the Sup- plement as an equivalent of Threepence in Cash. Each Coupon is numbered and dated, and will remain good for three months. The Coupons will be accepted in payment, not only for any articles specifically mentioned in the advertise- ments in our pages, but for any goods sold by the Firms who have agreed to take them. The one consideration of any importance is that not more than five per cent. of the amount of any one order shall be paid in Coupons. For example, if it be desired to purchase goods to the value of 5/-, it would be sufficient to send a postal order for 4/9 and one Coupon; if the bill came to 10/- two Coupons and a postal order for 9/6 would be required; and it the amount were 20/-, a postal order for 19/- and four Coupons would need to be sent. Should less than five shillings worth of goods be required, the sender of a Coupon will be entitled to a discount of one halfpenny for every shilling. Coupons cannot be accepted for sums of less than one shilling. Further details of the scheme, with a list of Firms who have agreed to accept Coupons, will be found on the back of the Weekly Presentation Supplement. A Table shewing the system of discount from One Shilling to a Pound is also given.
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HOBBIES. NOTES ON SPORT. HE two exhibitions of cycles recently held in London add further proof of the extra- ordinary development of the bicycle. The manufacture of cycles is by far the most important industry of Coventry, and is, in fact, the staple trade of the place. Of late years, however, Birmingham has come rapidly to the front, and now turns vat as many bicycles as Coventry. The latter city is, however, the great seat of what is called the “part” trade. All parts, accessories of every description, are made here, from tube drawing down to the manufacture of such little parts as nuts and bolts. Wolverhampton has also largely increased its bicycle business, and the three towns named do between them something like 80 per cent. of the whole cycle trade of this country, to say nothing of a share in the trade of foreign countries. Cycle making has now settled down into a more satisfactory business than it was. All the leading manufacturers are agreed upon the question of general design, and departures from the standard patterns of the rear-driving “safety” are very rare. There was only one stand at the great National Show at the Crystal Palace where anything radically different was found. This was the “ Bantam” front-driver, and the sole relic of the flood of front-drivers which were placed on the market a few years ago. The chief advantage of the ‘ Bantam ” is the absence of the chain, and less liability to wear and tear of working parts. The rider sits as in the old high bicycle, and controls the steering with both feet and hands. The machine is not without gcod points, although it is without doubt extremely ugly. We think it would work much better if the position of the handles were similar to those of the old machine. Some fads, but much fewer than usual, are shown, but we will not waste time over these. There is a fair sprinkling of tricyles, and as considerable improve- ment has been made in these machines of late we should not be surprised to see them more popular. In the matter of price there is but little alteration since last year. The best and most advertised machines are commanding if anything higher figures than ever, but special efforts have also been directed towards the production of good sound medium priced bicycles. The market for £10 machines is already vastly greater than for those which sell for double the money. Ourideaof a sound price for a medium grade bicycle is about £12. When one goes much below that figure, some undesirable cutting and carving in the production is almost sure to result. We are by no means recommending all £12 bicycles as good, but there are undoubtedly a number of machines at about that figure which are but ttle behind the very best in point of quality.’ It is extraordinary how people will rush to see a novelty of almost any kind. The women racing at the Westminster Aquarium is a case in point. We have been to see the show and found just what we expected. Weneedsaynomore. Weneversaw worse racing (?) anywhere, but people who would never dream of going to see a really good cyclingimeeting flock to the Aquarium night after night. We saw the other day a splendid photo group of royal personages who cycle, which was taken at Copenhagen last summer. The picture was nothing more than an advertisement for the St. George’s Engineering Co., whose bicycles most of the Princes, Princesses, and titled persons were riding, but as a sign of the times the photo was most eloquent. Cycling has gained great popularity in France. Not only is it recognised and encouraged in fashionable circles, but great government departments go out of their way almost to do the pastime a good turn. Only the other day the French Minister of Public Works made an official donation of 200 francs for the purpose of assisting the Touring Club to erect danger boards at the top of steep hills. It is said, with what truth we are unable to say, that pneumatic tyres have been largely used for smuggling small articles of value which are placed inside them. Bicycles are undoubtedly examined occasionally with the object of detecting any such frauds on the revenue. On one occasion a customs officer is said to have pulled a badly fitting outer case off, when the released air tube of course burst out like a balloon and exploded with aloud report, to the great conster- nation of those present who were not quite up in tyres. Yorkshire and Lancashire have now met under the auspices of the Northern Union, and victory has gone to the first named. The day was a bad one, and the ground far too slippery to admit of much scientific passing. Yorkshire were much heavier forwards, and had the best of it both in the pack and in the open. We were interested to note the discussion on the question of a modified Rugby Game, which was held on the committee of the Northern Association. The proposal was to reduce the number of forwards from 8 to 6,and so play 13 men (4 three-quarters) instead of 15. The idea was to make the game faster and more open. Trial games with the 13 men aside have been played with fairly (but not strikingly), satisfactory results. When the matter came to be discussed, however, the innovation proved to be unpopular, and the proposed alterations in the rules were thrown out. In spite of this our belief is that some modification of the present Rugby system will be made sooner or later. Many people think, and we are inclined to agree with them, that the long tight pack represents a waste of energy for which neither the players nor the spectators get any adequate corresponding advantage. We do not believe that a looser, faster game would be any more trying, except to those lazy forwards who regard a scrimmage as a place where they can lean against the man in front and have a good rest. We doubt if a simple reduction in the number of forwards would be the best method for .bringing about the desired results. The Inter-University Rugby match resulted as was expected in a victory for Cambridge. The score (1 goal to nil) was a small one, but this is partl accounted for by the fact that play only laste 60 minutes. Cambridge claim to have secured a further try, but the point was disputed, and as the referee, owing to the thick fog, was unable to see the point, his verdict went for the defenders. The fog indeed seriously interfered with accurate or scientific play, the mist being so thick that the opposing backs could not see one another. The Cambridge team has now goneJon a northern tour, and met and defeated the Edinburgh Academicais by 3 tries to nothing on Friday last.
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HOBBIES. 259 *"s All communications to be answered in these columns should be marked ‘t Correspondence,” and must be addressed to the Editor of Hobbies, Bouverie House, Salisbury Square, London, E.C. In nocase can we reply to enquiries by post, CYCLING. J.B.P.—Vaseline will keep the plated parts of your Bicycle from rusting. Nunqvam.—Any oil is liable to smoke, and the best you can use for a Bicycle Lamp is that which is sold specially for the purpose. ELECTRICITY. A. Mitis.—“ The Dynamo, How Made and How Used,” by 8. R. Bottone, is published at 2/6 by Swan Sonnenschein & Co., London. H. Hopxins.—You may procure a Clockwork Motor from Mr, Ca: latzi, Chenies Street, Tottenham Court Road, if you state your exact re quirements. H. F. Exuiorr —The book you require is ‘“‘ Electrical In- strument Making for Amateurs,’ by Bottone, price 3/- This book explains the construction of many kinds of simple electrical apparatus suitable for beginners. Glad you find Hobbies so useful. You will find many good things in future numbers. Drewurret RuopES.—For the dimensions given, the iron core may be one inch thick, or about one-third the diameter of the Coil ; but it is practically regulated by the size of the hole running through the bobbin, which the core must be made to fit. With three one-quart cells, the Coil should give about half-an-inch spark in air, and a longer one with more. Asa matter of fact the length of spark depends very greatly upon the soundness of the insulation, and the thoroughness with which each layer of serondary wire is insu!ated from those above and below, by means of paperand varnish. FRETWORK, CARVING, &c. G.O.M.—You do not require special Saw Blades for Inlay- ing, but you should select fine ones,—say Nos. 00, 0, or 1. Fross and F. C. G.—We shall deal fully with Polishing in anearly numb:r. In these short answers we can hardly give satisfactory instructions. Cxas. Boaa.—We would not advise you to polish your Great Wheel Fretwork Model. Articles of this character look much better when plain. We shall give some hints on Polishing later on. W. Wies.—The Sawing Attathment of the ‘‘ Companion” Lathe and Fretsaw (which we said was suitable for fixing to a T'readle Sewing Machine) can be purchased from any of our advertisers who deal in Fretwork materials. N. Ropins.—(1) Satisfactory In’ay Work can hardly be done with the Hand Saw, but any Treadle Machine from a ‘Roger upwards will suit you. Use fine Saw Blades. (2) Your second question is not clear; can you explain? (8) We shall probably gire working drawings of small articles of furniture later on. _ARDENT READFR.—(1) The “cheapest and most serviceable Fretworking Machine for an amateur” which we can re- commend is the Improved “ Roger.” The price is only 16/- Hitherto these Machines came from Ameriva, but we understand that they are now made in England by Skinner &Co., of Dereham. (2) The shelf of the Gasalier Bracket (Design No. 7) should be the same thickness as the other parts. Ae to its value when cut out, everything really de- pends on the workmanship, and we cannot state a price. (8) We may have a Design for a Pipe Rack bye-and-bye, but can hardly venture to give the date. HOBBIES THAT PAY. W.H.W.—We shall certainly have some articles on Bee- Keeping. We have noted your suggestions. METAL WORK. C.J.C. (Cork).—You will require a heavy diamond-pointed Drill to bore holes in fern pots; an Archimedean Drill is too light: We fancy that you could get the work done at any pottery warehouse. P.G.L.T.—You do not state the size of Anvi’ you want. Smal] Bench Anvils suitable for Bent Iron Work may be had from 2/6 to 5/- Larger ones, from six inches in size, will cost from 8/- upwards. Possibly you could get a good second hand one for about half-price. PHOTOGRAPHY AND LANTERNS. H. J. W. Bray.—You can have the sets of Lantern Slides, but must return them within a week. ConsTANT RFADER.—We shall dea! with the colouring of Lantern Slides in a short article very soon. A. Goopa.—The size of a quarter-plate is 44 inches by 84 inches, and a half-p'ate 64 inch. s by 4} inches LANTERNIST.—It is not intended to run a “Lantern Slide Exchange” as you suggest, but we will consider your letter. JouN TCRNER.—Why not sketch them on very fine ground glass, and then coat with a thin varnish. Protect with cover glass and bind in the ordinary way. C. L. CamascHrita.—Thank you very mnch. At present we must leave the matter open. If you] ke to submit the article in January or February we will give it consideration. A.F.B.—Possibly it may be 80, we have no experience. Camphor certainly does improve the light from an_oil Lantern. We consider “ Stock’s’’ the best oil Jamp. You can get it at any photographic dealer's. CHARLES Jupp.—The difficulty you have exprrienced is a very frequent one. We should advise you gent'y warm- ing the glass before lightiny up the lamp; see that the piece of glass is quite free in the metal groove. STAMPS. “Priasm” and others.—We cannot possibly give an idea of the values of rare stamps without seeing them, as so much depends upon the quality and condition of the specimen. They should be sent per registered post, with sufficient postage for return. G.M.B. (Bedford).—Your 1d. Transvaals of the ‘‘ Commemo- ration” issue will never be worth much, we fear, for the simple reason that quite enough were issued to “go round,” and the majority of them were bonght up by stamp dealers and speculators. But ycu omit one very important detail :—are your specimens used or unused ? G.C.S. (London).—We should say about 10s.,if the specimen you have is a good one, lightly postmarked ; but of conrse it is impossible to value a stamp of this sort without see- ing it. Your collection of 2,200 is not at all bad. By all means keep out the Danish Locals. They are not “bogies,” but at the same time they are not “ postage stamps,” as Philatelists understand the word. K.G.H., J.G.H., K.L., F.S., T.F.S., J.J.W., A.F.T., W.F. Mc D., R.L.P., and others.——Many thanks for Sedang stamps. If any who have sent us specimens of these bogus labels can recall where, when, and from whom they bought them, the information would be wry valuable to us, as we have good reason to believe that at least ore aes dealer is still sellina this fraudulent ru ! E.L. (Brighton).—Yes, your other stamps are forgeries too
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260 HOBBIES. NOTES OF THE WEEK. N the occasion of the last Photo- Mechanical Meeting of the Royal Photographic Society, we note that Mr. EK. J. Wall read a paper entitled ‘‘ Notes on Three-Colour Printing.” Very beautiful colour- ed Photographic reproductions are obtainable by this means. Collotype plates are made from three separate negatives, and then three printings are made, each one being super-imposed and of a different coloured ink or pigment. The Liverpool Amateur Photographic Associa- tion now numbers 323 members. A distinct and popular feature of this Association is the Wednesday afternoon coffee meeting. The members foregather in large numbers, and over a cup of tea or coffee discuss Photography in a delightfully informal way. We have just seen a new form of Photographic Washer, the invention of Mr.D. Allen. In this, fresh water is admitted near the top of the tank. This water absorbs the chemical im- purities, and as it becomes denser sinks to the bottom of the tank and passes out through an opening there. An exhibition of Photographs is to be held at Brussels, and Mr. Walter D. Welford, 59 and 60, Chancery Lane, E.C., is undertaking to collect and forward them. All Photographs, which must be framed but not glazed, are to be sent to him on or before the 29th of January next. There are no charges for space, and Mr. Welford will gladly supply entry forms, &c., on application. One of the oldest firms of plate makers, Messrs, Wratten and Wainwright, have notified that on and after the 1st January they will reduce the prices of their dry plates, the “Ordinary” and ‘‘ Instantaneous.” Quarter- plates will be reduced from 1s. 9d. to 1s. 6d., the other sizes in proportion. The last work of the long life of Mr. J. Traill Taylor, of the British Journal of Photography, was to pass the proof sheets of the ‘‘ Journal Almanac” for 1895. This book, under his direction, has grown bigger every year and more useful ; the copy before us is as interesting and full of information as ever, containing many admirable articles by well-known writers on Photography. It is a vade-mecum which everyone practising Photography should possess. It has been called, and very rightly, the Whittaker of Photography. In the advertise- ment pages will be found the announcement of almost every firm in the kingdom manu- facturing and supplying Photographic apparatus or material. The frontispiece is an excellent collotype portrait of Sir Henry Trueman Wood, President of the Royal Photographic Society, from a Photograph by Bryne, of Richmond. We are pleased to notice that the Photographs exhibited at the recent Photographic Salon are to be reproduced in Photogravure, by Mr. Walter L. Coles, a gentleman who has gained much distinction in this beautiful art. In all some twenty Photographs will be reproduced. If successful the idea will be carried out each year. Writing recently upon Drop Shutters, a con- tributor to Photography says :—‘‘ Excellent drop shutters can be made by anyone who is handy with shears and soldering iron cut out of sheet zinc, which will be far neater, and work more pleasantly, than the usual commercial article. The drawbacks to the drop shutter are that its length is awkward, that the moving part is necessarily heavy, and the jar on the lens mount and Camera mount severe, and that its efficiency issmall. By saying that the efficiency is small, we mean that the total duration of the exposure is long compared to what it would be to get the same effect if the act of uncovering and recovering the lens took absolutely no time, a condition which is, of course, practically impossible. * * * * * If the exposure is shortened by the use of elastic bands the con- cussion is greater still, and the risk is increased of moving the Camera during the exposure.” There are means to prevent the jar, and in our opinion it is very questionable whether, as would be the case almost always, the jar, if any, comes after the exposure, any effect is traceable on the plate. We have before, in these columns, commended the use of a slow working drop shutter, and think that certainly for beginners it is the best form of shutter to use. At a demonstration upon ‘‘Enlarging,” given at Bradford, we note that some fine enlargements from 4 plate to 12 x 10 were made on “Barnet” paper, the incandescent gaslight being used as an illuminant.
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HOBBIES. 261 Mr, Alfred Watkins, who has for many years taken much interest in the question of Exposure, has turned his attention to the question of ‘Timing Development,” and has invented a small apparatus, as an aid to this end, called the Hikronometer. Instead of developing tentatively, as heretofore, it is now possible by using a known quantity of reducer and an accelerator to govern it—the quantities being kept within the limits found reasonable in practise—and multiplying by a known factor, the time taken for the half tones to appear to obtain a correctly developed negative. The reducer becomes a machine, and the accelerator the motive power to drive it. Mr. Watkins has proved time after time that his mechanical method of timing development can be relied upon. During the recent war Japan, a regular staff of employed, and the Japanese have kept a very complete record of all the principal engagements. etween China and A writer in a Photographic contemporary has | recently stated that there are five methods that can be adapted in optical projection, and by means of which a number of illustrated experiments may be shown :— First: the ordinary method, as when a Photographic Lantern Slide is used and projected by condenser and objective. Szconp: by throwing a shadow, by taking away the objective, and, in some cases, by using the electric arc light and removing the condenser. Turrp: the use of a vertical attachment, whereby objects that cannot be placed vertically can be thrown from a horizontal platform on to the screen. Fourrn: by using a pencil or parallel beam of light as a rod, which, by reason of the constant law of reflection, enables minute motions to be exaggerated and clearly seen by a large audience. Firre: by means of an arrangement called the Aphengescope, whereby opaque objects of a limited size can be projected upon the screen. Much controversy has existed ever since the advent of Photography as to what isa “‘safe light.” The safety of the light depends upon the power of the medium to kill white light, and many have now come to the conclusion that it is quite unnecessary to grope about in a dark room. A soft yellow light is considered by many to be perfectly safe. Immerse your dry plate with the developer, and it is no longer a dry plate but a wet plate, and as such will be much less readily acted upon by light. A red light is, to many persons, most injurious to the eyes, and the attempt to properly develop a negative in the dark is at the same time unreasonable, and we can assure our readers—quite unnecessary. Mr. J. S. Hodson, in an article upon “Concentration in Photographic Work,” writing of apparatus, &c., necessary, says:—‘ A fairly good Camera and rapid rectilinear lens, with a ‘wide-angle lens for architectural subjects, and a box of plates of ordinary rapidity, selected | almost at random from any reputable maker, are all the necessary requirements for good negatives. Add one or two printing frames to this list and select gelatino-chloride printing-out paper, and all the essential appliances for good Photographic pictures have been stated.” hotographers was | | | Zantern Hints ko ox for Amateurs, CHEAP SCREEN. A Lantern screen for home use may be made of continuous cartridge paper, two yards wide, mounted on a wooden roller, THREE GOOD BOOKS FOR LANTERNISTS. ‘Book of the Lantern” (Hepworth)... 3s. 6d. “Lantern Manual” (Hodges) ... .. 2s. Od. ““ Use of Compressed Oxygen” (Murray) 1s. 6d. LANTERN SLIDE MATS OR MASKS. To cut these neatly, quickly, and accurately, make a pattern the shape and size of the opening required of thin sheet brass. Bend it in the middle until the two sides almost meet. In using it, double the paper to be used in the middle and insert between the leaves of the brass pattern, holding it firmly between the finger and thumb ; then cut round with a pair of scissors. SMELL FROM OIL LANTERNS AND HOW TO REDUCE IT. The smell is mainly due to a thin film of oil spreading over the top of the oil reservoir. The heat of the Lantern evaporates the oil and so causes an unpleasant smell. To prevent this cover the top of the reservoir with a thin layer of camphorated chalk, which will act as an ab- sorbent and deodorizer. After use carefully wipe off the chalk. Care must be taken not to get the chalk on the wicks of the lamp. LANTERN SLIDES BY REDUCTION. Here is a method for securing sharp focus of the image when reducing in the Camera, given by a very experienced worker in America. He says:—‘‘T first get the size of reduction desired and an approximate sharp focus; it is here that at times it is difficult to decide on the sharpness of the focus. To render this easy I remove the | negative and replace it with a positive of a line subject—say a map of the streets; placing the film side towards the lens you can with ease and accuracy make a sharp focus, then replace the negative and make the exposure. A LANTERN TANK. To make a tank, take two pieces of wood eight inches long, four inches wide, and five-sixteenths of an inch thick; in the middle of each cut a hole three inches in diameter, then cut away the wood on one side to a depth of about a quarter of an inch, so that a shoulder may be formed all round the aperture, so that when the two pieces of wood are fastened together there will be an annular space without sides. Two pieces of glass are now required that will fit the inner side of the opening, these may be kept in place by the insertion of a piece of India rubber tube bent horse-shoe form, and they will form a water-tight tank,
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262 HOBBIES. e*, The charges for advertisements i ie om in this page will be sixpence for every twelve words or less, name and address inclusive, and one hal enny for every additional word. Single letters, initials and figures are each counted as a word; but undivided numbers (as 152), and prices (as 10s. 6d.) count as only one word each. In every case the name and address of the advertiser must be given for publication, and we cannct at present undertake to supply a private name or number and receive replies to advertisements at our Office. ever possible, payment should be made in Postal Orders, and not) stamps. All advertisements must be accompanied by remittances, otherwise they cannot be inserted. When- Letters should be marked " Advt.,” and must be addressed to the Publisher, Hobbies, Bouverie House, Salisbury Square, London, E.C, Norr.—Trade Advertisements can only be inserted in this page at the rate of one shilling per line. Bench Lathe, complete, 12/6. Photo and list, 6d. Lathe catalogue, 6d.—Stiffin & Co. Homerton, London, B. 2. Bind Your Own Magazines, etc.— Bookbinding at Home,” post free, 64d.—McCallum, Emma Place, Plymouth. Bookbinding.—All Magazines bound in half morocco from 1/- to 1/6 per vol.—H. Grimston, 9, Queen St., Mayfair, London. Cardboard Model of Great Wheel for self construction. Post free, 1/4.—Farrer, Stationer, Reading. Companion Fret Lathe, complete, quantity of De- signs, 4 Turning Tools, 25s.,a bargain, must sell.— Robb, Whittingham, Northumberland. Blectrical Coil and Battery.—Splendid instrument, approval, 5/.—Walker, 2, Chetwynd Street, teed. Blectric Bell, quart Leclanché battery, push, 50 ft. wire, staples, instructions, complete set, 4/6. Better value impossible. New catalogue, stamp.—Electric, Lord Street, Openshaw, Manchester. E. 3. Electrical Hobbies.—Write for New Enlarged List; will just suit you; prices low; best quality.— Electric, Lord Street, Openshaw Manchester. D. 1. Engraving for Sale, artist proof before letters, Luther burning the Pope’s Bull in the Square at Wurtenburg. — Apply, W., 47, Sillwood Road, Brighton. Ferreting.—To Christmas Sportsmen. Clean, healthy, working ferrets, ratters, 4/6, 5/-; large rabbiters, 5/-, 5/6. Sent immediately ordered.—Thos. Davey, Town Postmaster, Dereham, Norfolk. For Sale, good string Bass, or exchange for Goodell Fretsaw.—H. Dalton, South Wigston, Leicester. Fretsaw, Britannia, No. 8, as new, cost £3. Would exchange good English Lever, or offers.—Particulars, Hudson, Yarm, Yorkshire. Fretwork, Carving. Lists free. The Amateur, vols. I. to V., containing illustrated articles on Fret, Carved, Inlaid, and Bent Iron Work, 1/- per volume, free.—Henry Zilles, Wilson Street, Finsbury, London. Good Treadle Fretsaw Wanted, for Cash. Send particulars to Long, Potters Bar Station, Middlesex. @uns.—A. Ward’s single, top lever, central fire, breach- loading gun, 12-bore; cost £3 3s.; sacrifice, 17/6; money wanted.—W. Taylor, Gas Works, Merthyr. Handsome Mahogany Top Type Cabinet, holds six eases, cost £3 3s., price 35/.—Richford, Wells, _ Norfolk. - 3 High ‘Class Tools—For New Illustrated Price List, send 3d:;to. Osborn Brothers, Tool Merchants, 48, Fratton. Street, Portsmouth. M.6. How to make an Blectric Night Light that will ’ work well ;for years without attention, post free, 6 stamps; also how to attach an electric alarm to clock, 6 stamps.—James, 11, Stanbury Road, Peck- ham, S.E.. C. 3. Inlaid Walnut Writing Desk, splendid condition, sacrifice, 10/6.—Carr, 47, Brecknock Road, N.W. v Light Pneumatic Wanted, will exchange first-class Galvanic Battery, very powerful, all complete, fitted with lifting arrangements, fitted with Electric Lamp and Bell, all worked by one switch, no connections seen, in polished Walnut Box, Lock and Key; and an Electric Engraving Machine in polished Mahog- any Box, Lock and Key, all perfect and quite new value £5 10s., with little cash, Photo Stamp.—E.,, 8, Dale Street, Batley Carr, Dewsbury. Magic Lantern Slides.—To exchange for the above & nickel plated grammaphone, cost £2 12s., or cash offers.—Oldham, Chemist, Wisbech. Rubber Stamp Making Plant. Bargain. Particulars free.—C., 25, Spragg Street, Congleton. Student’s Electric Lamps, two-volt, tested, 9d., post free.—V. Spencer, 37, Hampstead Road, London, N.W. Tower Bridge Model, 50/-, or exchange anything useful.—A. Fisk, Westleton, Saxmundham, Suffolk. Turning, Carving, and Fretwork Tools Wanted; exchange melodeon, or buy.—Noah Robins, Yeovil. Watches.—Good timekeepers, crystal, keyless, levers, nickel silver, approval 7 days. Send Postal Order, 8/3, free.—Jones, 4, St. Philip’s Road, Dalston. Wylde’s Circle of the Sciences, two large, thick volumes, 2,340 pages, illustrated with hundreds of Steel and other engravings, splendidly bound _half- calf, gilt, clean and perfect, cost £5 5s., sell for 20s.—Henry Stead, Union Street, Heckmondwike, Yorks. 1/- Card Cabinets for Christmas. Four good tricks. Notes on shuflling, slipping, fitting. Best cards. Post free, 1/3—V. Spencer, 37, Hampstead Road, London, N.W. 2/6 Collection of Bulbs, 6 Hyacinths, 24 Crocus, 12 Single Tulips, 12 Double Tulips, 12 Narcissus, 12 Snowdrops, 12 Daffodils, 12 Iris, 12 Anemones, 12 Star of Bethlehem, 12 Wood Hyacinths, lot 2/6, as an advertisement of our Bulbs.—Theodore Turner, Great Sutton, Chester. C. 2. “HOBBIES” COUPONS ACCEPTED. JOHN GREEN, FR.HS., SUPPLIES EVERYTHING FOR THE GARDER: If you want anything, however small, state require- ments or send for Catalogues. All who make Gardening a Hobby should see psf Great Catalogue, which is up to date and full of the best novelties in Seeds and Plants. Price 1/- (which may be deducted from first order over 10/-). JOHN GREEN, F.R.H.S., NORFOLK NURSERIES, DEREHAM,
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HOBBIES. 263 THIS GHANGE SHOULD NOT BE MISSED. We wish to induce all who have not yet taken up Fretwork as arecreative pastime to give the work a trial. It is an occupa- tion which may be easily learned by any- one, and there is no recreation which yields such excellent results for so small / an expenditure of time and money. We | are therefore specially making 4000 FRETWORK CABINETS which we will supply at the extremely low price of 3/- each, or post free 3/6, which is far below their real value. The Cabinet is well and strongly made, and is stained ? and varnished. It has brass fittings, and contains a 12-inch Steel Fret Frame of our make, one dozen Best Saw Blades, a File, a Bradawl, and three Fretwork Designs, with sufficient planed Fretwood. Instruc- tions are also sent. Weare giving in these Cabinets exceptional value with a special object, but if any purchaser is not perfectly satisfied, he may send the Cabinet back carriage paid, and his MONEY WILL BE RETURNED. Full ‘particulars of more expensive tools will be found in our new Illustrated Catalogue, which will be sent post free for Hie , Sixpence, together with a Presentation Shilling Design for a Fretwork Model of the Clock Tower of the Houses of Parliament. JH. SKINNER & CO., H Dept., DEREHAM, NORFOLK. oil >, Sxf $0|6 , 1616 ¥ 3|- Whustiated (atelogues {ree oy applicati oy t gsr, Topp ¥ BAKD \/, gs Cheapside EC- on, \ 95" Regent SE ‘ Ay. \\\\) REDUCED FACSIMILE, NIB GUARANTEED 14 CARAT: GOLD-IRIDIUM PEN. : Vv
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264 HOBBIES. Highest Award at Food and Cookery Exhibition, LONDON, MAY, 1895. Abbhhhhh “—WvVVVVVY PROMOTE DIGESTION. = SUPPLIED TO THE QUEEN AND ROYAL FAMILY. MISS FRANCES WILLARD says:— “‘Hovis’ is a grand institution, | have almost lived on it since | found it out.” 6d. & 1/- SAMPLE OF BREAD & BISCUITS ON RECEIPT OF STAMPS. aarct ‘Imitation is the Sineerest Form of Flattery,”’ Pa The Public are cautioned against accepting from Bakers spurious imitations of ‘ HOVIS,” which, having met with such unprecedented success, is being copied in many instances as closely as can be done without risk. If any difficulty be experienced in obtaining “ HOVIS,” or if what is sup- plied as ‘ HOVIS” is not satisfactory, please write, sending sample (the cost of which will be defrayed) to S. FITTON & SON, —-S¢ Plillers, Wacclesfield, Ci i ili a i BEWARE! BAKERS RECOMMENDING ANY OTHER BREAD IN THE PLACE OF “HOVIS” DO SO FOR THEIR OWN PROFIT. BEWARE! : Printed and Published at the Office of ‘ Hoppiss,” Bouverie House, Salisbury Square, London, E.C. Bole Advertisement Agents,_JoHN Happon & Co., Bouverie House, Salisbury; Square, London, : E.C..