How is Plywood Graded?
How is plywood graded? Well, the answer is not how well the plywood did on the history exam. Yes, yes, we know, a bad joke. But the question actually has many, many layers (pun intended). There are grades of plywood, …
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How to Perfectly Apply Polyurethane with a Rag For A Smooth Finish
I winced as I noticed every single stroke and drip of polyurethane that I’d carefully applied to my DIY shelving using a rag. It looked like a first-grader’s art project rather than a polished finish! Before you kick over that …
How to Sand In Wood Grooves and Tight Spaces: 6 Easy Methods
Sanding small grooves in wood can be tricky – especially when sanding furniture. This guide lays out practical methods to help every woodworker sand correctly. The real challenge? Getting into those tight spots without harming the wood. Here, you’ll find …
Does Super Glue Work on Wood?
When speaking with family and friends who are getting into woodworking, I’m often asked, “Does super glue work on wood?” QUICK ANSWER: Yes, super glue works effectively on wood, especially for small pieces. It bonds quickly and is versatile but …
Shellac Wood Finish Pros and Cons: Uses, Waterproofing, and More
Shellac wood finish, renowned among woodworkers for its natural origin and lustrous sheen, is very interesting and debated. But what makes shellac a contender on the workbench, and are there considerations you should be aware of? Knowing the pros and …
Is Purple Heart Wood Toxic?
Amaranth, more commonly known as purple heart (sometimes written as one-word purpleheart), is a particularly beautiful wood among exotic woods. It grows natively in the countries between Mexico and Brazil. The characteristics that set it apart from other exotic woods …
Is Polyurethane Food Safe? Water & Oil Based Finishes Explained
Polyurethane is a popular wood finish for woodworkers. It provides durability and enhances the look of wood. However, there are concerns about whether polyurethane is safe for kitchen surfaces and cutting boards. We will compare oil-based versus water-based polyurethane wood …
Who Owns Ridgid Tools?
If I own a mutual fund that has Google in its portfolio, does that mean I own Google? Or at least a tiny, tiny part of Google? That would be cool Ownership can sometimes be complicated, though, especially when you …
6 Portable Bandsaw Practical Uses: From Metal to Woodwork
Portable band saws are distinguished by their ability to perform complex cuts that other saws can’t do as efficiently. Whether it’s resizing structural steel in construction, cutting pipes in plumbing, or crafting decorative metalwork, these saws offer unparalleled precision. What …
What Size Miter Saw Should I Buy? (10″ Vs. 12″)
When selecting a miter saw, understanding the various types and their capabilities is crucial. This article aims to provide a comprehensive guide on choosing the most suitable miter saw size for your woodworking needs. From the compact 10-inch saws ideal …
How Many Watts Does a Reciprocating Saw Use?
Ever wondered about the power behind your trusty reciprocating saw? Understanding its wattage is key to maximizing efficiency and ensuring you have the right tool for the job. In this article, I’ll break down the watts a reciprocating saw uses …
Will DEWALT Batteries Fit Ryobi Tools?
We all know the square peg in a round hole analogy, and when discussing the use of one manufacturer’s battery packs in another manufacturer’s power tools, it may very well be an apt one. Is compatibility a problem? Are they …
Spraying Latex Paint with HVLP Spray Guns: Proper Techniques & Nozzle Sizes
Spray painting latex paint with an HVLP system allows DIYers and professionals to achieve smooth, flawless finishes. This article provides best practices for setup, techniques, and troubleshooting when using HVLP guns with latex paint. We will discuss proper paint thinning, …
Is Pecan a Hardwood or Softwood?
Have you ever wondered if pecan, known for its delicious nuts, is a hardwood or softwood? Read below to understand pecan wood’s properties, uses, and why it’s a favored choice among woodworkers and me! QUICK ANSWER: Pecan is a hardwood, …
What is a Doweling Jig?
We know dowels and dowel joinery. We’ve written about it in the past and distinguished it from biscuit joinery in an earlier piece which you will find here. Dowel joinery involves drilling holes in the two pieces being joined together, …
Are Kobalt And DEWALT Batteries Interchangeable?
Lithium-ion power tool batteries (such as those from DeWALT and Kobalt) have revolutionized job sites by eliminating the need for long cords and enhancing portability and efficiency. While not crucial for home workshops, they offer convenience for commonly used cordless …
Why Does My Circular Saw Keep Stopping? Tip & Trusted Fixes!
In woodworking, we often use power tools like the circular saw. But what if your saw suddenly stops? Maybe the blade gets stuck, or the battery runs low. This article will help you understand why this happens and how to …
How Does a Track Saw Work?
Track saws have an enclosed blade on the saw that has a base with runners that fit inside the grooves of a track; the grooves of the track hold the saw as it is moved along the track to cut …