No matter how much time I have, there never seems to be enough. For that reason, I make many of my decisions based on efficiency. My decision to use a hand tool or a power tool for a given task is dependent on what I feel is more efficient for the task at hand.
In my effort to be more efficient, I also examine the processes that I’ve learned along the way and assess whether or not steps can be eliminated to save time. I encourage you to do the same, and if you think of any shortcuts, please share them here in the comments section.
In this video (duration: 10:41), I talk more about my thought process and explain my one-step joinery procedure which saves a lot of unnecessary time laying out, cutting, and fitting dovetail joints.
Sculptural Woodwork by Chris Wong 
Thanks for that :) My 6yo daughter was impressed with the efficiency.
Aaron,
Maybe you should make her a Miniature Monstrous Mallet?
Chris
Will Time Warp Toolworks be offering the monstrous mallet and whopping wedge as a combo deal? ;)
The production mallet will have brass inlays (for extra mass, so it will be just one tap) and we will be supplying the wedges in 4 packs, as we know you will be using this technique daily.
Extra mass, Garth? Who’s going to lift this thing? Truthfully, I could have been much more effective with the mallet on a lower work surface. The wedge? That’s a different story.
Chris
I love the simplicity, it looks so effortless, and with no reduction in quality of joinery. not often you get a combination like that. All it takes is 1, maybe 2 taps with that mallet. you shouldn’t call it the “monstrous mallet”, more like “magic mallet” to my eye.
I know, right, Jeremy?
Chris
Now THAT was awesome! I am certain I could find a place in my shop for this alongside my magic square!
With those two tools, in your shop what ever would you do with all your extra free time?
Chris
I must be missing something….
Like the date, Rob?
Now I see!
Heh