Matt Hagens 
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 …
A properly functioning dust collector or shop vac system in your workshop is necessary for shop cleanliness and convenience – and your health. It is as important as wearing safety goggles and a mask that covers both your mouth and nose. …
Unlock the full potential of your woodworking projects by understanding the benefits of running your router bit at high speed. Discover how this simple technique can transform your cuts and elevate the quality of your work. So it is with …
Woodwork hobbyists know of the mess they create in their woodshops, those piles of chips and shavings that collect beneath your table saw or planer. For many, dust collection probably means a dustpan and brush at the end of the day, …
When it comes to woodworking and door installation, you want to make sure the door hinges are properly fitted. This sets the stage for straightforward installation. Selecting the right router bit is vital for creating precise hinge mortises – the …
As a seasoned woodworker, I’ve often encountered the challenge of joining wood pieces without a biscuit joiner. In fact, I usually prefer the methods below. While biscuit joiners are a popular choice, they’re not the only solution. In this article, …
When you’re shopping for sandpaper, grit size is one of the most important things to get right. Coarse grits (40–80) remove material quickly, medium grits (100–150) help smooth surfaces, and fine to extra-fine grits (180–320+) are ideal for prepping a …