Your right about wood lift but that's a good thing as it makes you hold the wood down and that way you have more control where the blade goes or doesn't go.
I have this pattern,but was never brave enough to tackle it.Splendid job Roly,I was wondering why you were so quite this year with projects nearing Christmas!!!!!!!!!!!
With a dremel with a small course sanding drum on it,does a smooth sanded job and cuts fast,just a quick test,Look up coconut carvings and see some real beauty's!
Yes,I have lots of diversions here ,musical instruments,feed the squirrels,tinker,organize,dig in the dumpster daily ,amazing what gets thrown out.I got plenty of saleable stuff from it.