Invisible joints, pocket-hole joinery, and dowels have something in common. They are all ways of hiding screws and nail holes. The use of wood filler is another when screws are countersunk or a nail punch is used. What about larger …
I like beeswax as a wood finish because it’s easy to use and safe. It’s natural, which is great for many woodworking projects. But it’s not perfect. It has some downsides, like not being very tough and melting easily. I’ll …
In every woodworking project, no matter the size, sawdust is a constant by-product. It’s easy to see it as just another waste material that needs to be cleaned up and thrown away. However, this seemingly inconsequential by-product holds a lot …
Venturing into the realm of luxury woodworking, you might wonder what makes certain woods command sky-high prices. I’ve encountered the allure of these rare woods firsthand. I’ll explore the world’s most expensive wood types used in furniture, from the striking …
Ever wanted to spruce up your home or workspace with some DIY flair? Plywood is a fantastic, versatile material that opens up a world of woodworking possibilities without needing to be a master carpenter. In this article, you’ll find 17 …
Choosing the right screw can make the difference between a project that holds up for years and one that splits, loosens, or looks unfinished. With so many options at the hardware store, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed — but most …
Woodturning is one of the most rewarding areas of woodworking, but it can also be frustrating if you start off with bad habits. The right equipment, good technique, and solid safety practices will make your time at the lathe smoother …
A wood stain application requires careful timing, especially when adding multiple coats. Done correctly, you get a flawless finish; when done wrong, you risk tackiness or uneven color. This article dives into stain drying times, environmental factors, and common pitfalls. …
Ever stood in your workshop, scratching your head, wondering if a combination square or a speed square is the right pick? You’re not alone! I’m here to break down the differences between these two. Types of Squares We have quite …
As a passionate woodworker, I understand how crucial it is to choose the right finish for your projects. In this guide, I’ll share insights into the origins, characteristics, application tips, and the pros and cons of both Tung Oil and …
Christmas is the perfect time to get creative in the workshop and make handmade decorations that add warmth and personality to your home. These woodworking projects are beginner-friendly, use basic tools, and can be customized to match your style – …
Ever feel like people just don’t get it? I’ll talk about a project and get blank stares in return. But to me, a rough board isn’t just wood—it’s potential. Every time I step into the shop, it’s like entering a …
Polyurethane is a common choice for finishing wood flooring and furniture, providing a hard, clear coating that safeguards against moisture and scratches. However, polyurethane’s drawback is its strong odor during application and drying. This odor is primarily due to VOCs …
Grandpa’s tools didn’t come from a catalog. They came from his father. And his father’s father. They were older than color TV, older than the interstate highway system, and somehow sharper than anything you could buy today. No fancy coatings. …
Learning how to avoid common gluing mistakes will make your woodworking projects stronger and look better. This article will teach you about 5 gluing mistakes and how to steer clear of them. With these tips, you’ll be able to create …
When I finish a woodworking project, I want it to feel finished—not just well-built, but protected and complete. A good finish adds that final touch. It brings out the grain, protects the wood, and helps the piece last. And if …
A quick note: The stories here are pulled from memories of workshops that somehow produced incredible work despite the hazards. I don’t have photos from those days, so I’ve done my best to recreate the scenes with illustrations. And let’s …
I’ve been making cutting boards for a while, but recently I found myself getting bored with the same old designs. I wanted to make a few as gifts for friends, but I didn’t want them all to look alike—or feel …
