I forgot to include the following entry in my Anarchist’s Gift Guide at Popular Woodworking. So I’m posting here because you are all so sweet.
Global Art No. 08 Palette Knife
This tool has been in my kit for 20 years know. When I use it a lot, I start to wonder about my level of craftsmanship. It’s the Global Art No. 08 palette knife, and I use it to sneak glue into tight spots for repairs. It’s also good for applying glue to dovetails and smearing glue on mortise walls.
The thin blade (.015” thick) can go places no popsicle stick (.08” thick) can manage. The knife is made from spring steel, so it is flexible and strong. The width (.625”) carries enough glue to smear on the affected area. And the tool is well-made – it even has a ferrule.
I bought mine at a Michael’s craft store, but you can find them online here or at your local art supply store. They are inexpensive – about $6 or so. (Avoid the plastic knives; they break.)
When the knife gets coated with glue or what not, use a scraper to remove it and you are back to new.
— Christopher Schwarz
