Thanks for the helpful hints. I started the hummingbird project and was about half way through when, again, I had a chip break out ruining the project. Part of the problem is this wood is some I had on hand and is probably 20+ years old. Additionally, the quality isn't great either. I do plan to purchase a better quality wood but as I'm sure you have experienced, wood prices are through the roof. I've even resorted to breaking down old cabinets and furniture looking for usable wood. (No, I'm not destroying my home and contents, this is material that was stored in an old shed and the owner no longer wanted. Although, I do have a dining room table that is solid oak that is probably 150 years old.) Just kidding.
