Matt Hagens 
Proper sanding is a key step in almost all woodworking projects. While hand sanding is an option, it’s time-consuming (and not much fun). A more efficient choice is using a power sander, particularly a random orbital sander. As sandpaper wears …
Old school woodworkers were accustomed to simply wrapping a rectangular piece of sandpaper around a small block of wood to smooth down surfaces that could accommodate the block and then use their hands to hold the paper for the harder-to-reach …
Most woodworking enthusiasts, the home craftsman, know of compound sliding miter saws. The blade not only moves down through the workpiece, but it also slides out through it as well. It’s not uncommon to see a sliding miter saw in …
Many of us have kitchen “stuff” that once belonged to a grandmother or even a great grandmother. Treasured heirlooms, kitchen utensils no longer made but still used, or an old Fanny Farmer Cookbook from 1896, they all carry the energy and …
Building a picture frame consists of multiple steps: measuring, cutting, gluing, and clamping. The corner joints are the hallmark of a well-made frame. We describe 4 methods of joining the corners are described below. Tools for Making Picture Frames What …
Let’s examine the specifics of amps, watts, and volts and how these factors impact your table saw’s performance. Whether you’re setting up a new workshop or fine-tuning an existing one, understanding these electrical fundamentals is key to ensuring your table …
When the build is complete on your woodworking project, perhaps a side table, a dinner table, a desk, or a chair, it’s time to choose the wood finish. You probably had some idea of the type of finish before the project began, but maybe …
Antiquing furniture is a popular project for adding to a home’s decor. The introduction of antique pieces, whether genuine or faux, into a room’s furnishings adds to its ambiance and aesthetic, as well as its warmth. Finding just that right piece at …
Barnboard has become very popular in home decor; wood reclaimed from old barns being demolished. That rustic look left unfinished adds a warming, countrified look in both new and old houses. Home decor has also borrowed barn door design and functionality, …
Starting a woodworking project can mean needing special cuts in the wood, like grooves. Usually, a router does this job. But what if you don’t have one? No problem! There are other ways to get it done. This guide shows …
Almost all woods absorb moisture like a sponge. Of course, woods like teak and white oak are water resistant and will not warp, twist or crack. This is why they are good choices for outdoor furniture and in the case of white …
How many power tools, or more specifically saws, are there to choose from for your woodworking shop? And among them all, which ones are better to have than others? Are some considered indispensable? From table to band, to jig, to circular, miter, chop, reciprocating, and …
White oak is naturally durable and water resistant, making it a wise choice for outdoor furniture. This article provides a step-by-step guide for finishing and caring for white oak to withstand the elements. It covers proper surface preparation, an overview …
A well-equipped woodworking shop will have, at the least, a table saw and a chop saw/miter saw among its power tools. Each does what it is intended to do well and plays an integral part in the woodworking process. A very well-equipped woodworking shop will …
I stared hopelessly at the gummy mess left from my latest linseed oiling attempt, wondering if I’d ever master the art of wood finishing. Why couldn’t I get that smooth, magazine-worthy glow?! Before you resign yourself to a life of …
In my woodworking shop, I’ve found the French cleat system to be incredibly useful. It’s a simple way to hang tools and accessories securely on the wall. It’s not just practical but also easy to set up. In this article, …
Is a hardwood a hard wood? That may seem like a silly question, but it is a fair one, and the answer depends on something called the Janka test. It also depends on the wood to which one is being …
This question is crucial for planning and executing any woodworking project with a desired smooth, durable finish. Understanding these timelines is key to achieving the best results, whether you’re working on furniture, cabinets, or floors. I’ll guide you through the …