My friend, Paul Dayton was the most patient person I knew when explaining the techniques of pool cue construction. Don't get me wrong, he would grow angry when confronted by a technical question that started witht the phrase "but can't I just..."
There were no real shortcuts to true techniques and sound results for Paul. Paul spent countless hours over the phone explaining every aspect of his cue construction and in many cases, sent me examples-whether it was details on his point construction or what a perfect shaft looked and felt like or techniques for cutting rings consistently every time. After our conversations, I would sooner, rather than later, get a package in the mail containing all my questions answered in the form of actual pieces of Paul's work. I have never in all my life had a mentor, teacher or friend who was more concerned with me understanding what HAD to happen than my feelings about how it was being explained to me. Paul Dayton had probably forgotten more about cue making than I'll ever know. But he always treated me with respect, care and patience. Some of us are fortuante enough in this life to meet a true craftsman, a man who has come up through his various trades, absorbing everything humanly possible from each.
Paul Dayton was such a man. He has made his mark on this world. He will be sorely missed. Paul, thank you. You have my undying respect and love...Ray Weeks
There were no real shortcuts to true techniques and sound results for Paul. Paul spent countless hours over the phone explaining every aspect of his cue construction and in many cases, sent me examples-whether it was details on his point construction or what a perfect shaft looked and felt like or techniques for cutting rings consistently every time. After our conversations, I would sooner, rather than later, get a package in the mail containing all my questions answered in the form of actual pieces of Paul's work. I have never in all my life had a mentor, teacher or friend who was more concerned with me understanding what HAD to happen than my feelings about how it was being explained to me. Paul Dayton had probably forgotten more about cue making than I'll ever know. But he always treated me with respect, care and patience. Some of us are fortuante enough in this life to meet a true craftsman, a man who has come up through his various trades, absorbing everything humanly possible from each.
Paul Dayton was such a man. He has made his mark on this world. He will be sorely missed. Paul, thank you. You have my undying respect and love...Ray Weeks
