Matt Hagens 
Wood comes in a variety of colors by name – redwoods, green wood, and even whitewood. Redwoods get their name because of the bark and heartwood, with their reddish-brown color. The color comes from a high tannin level in the …
When you’ve chosen the wood carefully for your project, chosen it for its natural beauty and the grain that will present when it’s seen, you want to preserve that beauty and allow the grain to show through. Paint will hide …
Wood kitchen countertops have become somewhat popular of late, and it’s an excellent choice for the home cook. We live near a sawmill and have access to slabs of a variety of woods at custom lengths. With a kitchen remodel …
When woodworking with plywood, having sharp, angular edges can pose safety risks and detract from a project’s finished look. Rounding over the edges is an easy woodworking technique to address both issues. This straightforward article will walk you through several …
The Craftsman Tools 20V lithium-ion batteries represent a major advancement over old batteries. This article will analyze Craftsman battery specs, lifespan details, and troubleshooting tips. Understanding your battery is key to maximizing the performance of your power tools. QUICK ANSWER: …
When it comes to power tools, having the right battery for the job is crucial. Brands like Black & Decker and Porter Cable offer lithium-ion battery packs designed specifically for their tools. But with the high cost of batteries, many …
In this article, I’ll walk you through the essentials of Festool track saw blades. We’ll cover everything from blade sizes and tooth designs to their best uses. Whether you’re tackling fine woodworking or cutting through tough materials, choosing the right …
Are you wrestling with a DeWALT FLEXVOLT battery that won’t charge? I completely understand the frustration. There’s nothing more aggravating for a woodworker than reaching for your power tools, ready to dive into an important project, only to find them …
Understanding the cut depth of a circular saw is crucial for quality woodworking. This article outlines the factors that determine cut depth, from blade size to saw design, and provides essential tips for safe and precise cutting. Understanding Circular Saw …
Every woodworking shop uses glue on almost every project, even if the workpieces are also being joined by screws. Pocket hole joinery creates strong bonds, but a little glue adds that extra measure of joint strength. Clamps are as ubiquitous …
Ever drilled a pocket hole and wondered, ‘Is this the right spacing?’ You’re not alone! I’ve been there, and now I’m here to share the secrets of perfect pocket hole spacing. I’ll guide you through the nitty-gritty of creating joints …
Understanding the difference between construction screws and deck screws is crucial for any building project. While seemingly similar, these fastners serve distinct purposes in woodworking and construction. The distinctions between these screws involve more than just size and shape. These …
Current home construction is most often with drywall and plaster walls unless a wall is finished with wood. The plaster finish is either painted or papered, paintings are hung, perhaps wainscoting covers the lower half of the wall, and the …
If your woodworking projects include tabletops or joints, gluing, or handsaw cutting, clamps come into play at some point. We love our power tools, of course, and hand tools often get forgotten. But clamps aren’t one of those forgotten hand …
When you find a product you really like and find it useful in many ways in your woodworking shop, you tend to stay with it. Such is the case with Rubio Monocoat Oil Plus. We use it, and we’ve written …
When selecting a wood finish for a tabletop, the choice often comes down to lacquer or polyurethane. This article compares these two popular finishes, highlighting their unique properties and suitability for tabletops, to help you make an informed decision for …
Choosing the right wood is important for any outdoor project. Pressure-treated wood is known for its sturdiness and longevity, making it popular for outdoor structures. On the other hand, many believe a solid coat of paint can give untreated wood …
Cedar trees and the wood they produce are known for their natural resistance to rot and insects and are a popular choice for outdoor furniture. Many woodworkers use the wood finish teak oil to help maintain cedar furniture’s appearance. But …