The video “I don’t get why beginners make these mistakes!” is by Lincoln St. Woodworks. In this insightful video, Jon shares his personal journey through woodworking and the mistakes he made as a beginner, along with valuable lessons that can help newcomers avoid common pitfalls.
Starting a woodworking journey can be overwhelming. Jon emphasizes that if he could go back in time, he would approach his projects differently. He begins by discussing the importance of understanding wood selection. “Buying wood is one of the most confusing topics out there for beginners,” he states. A 2×4 from Home Depot, often used for framing, is very different from the cherry wood he works with in his projects. While construction-grade lumber can be used, Jon advises that it often leads to unsatisfactory results unless one knows specific tricks.
For beginners, Jon recommends opting for hardwoods like red oak, poplar, or soft maple instead of construction-grade lumber. Not only do these options look better, but they are also easier to work with and often only slightly more expensive. This will lead to a more professional-looking finished product.
As Jon moves on to the next steps in his project, he highlights the need for jigs. He explains how creating a jig for angled cuts can significantly improve the accuracy and efficiency of a build. “Accuracy is overrated; repeatability is how you create a better finished product,” he shares. This is a crucial point for beginners who may feel overwhelmed by the need for perfect measurements.
Jon also stresses the importance of seeking help when needed. He encourages beginners to use plans crafted by experienced woodworkers rather than trying to design projects from scratch. This can help avoid the frustration of getting lost in the details too early in the learning process.
In addition, Jon introduces his beginner woodworking course, designed to guide newcomers through essential skills and projects. This course includes step-by-step instructions, tool reviews, and skill-building exercises, making it a fantastic resource for anyone looking to start their woodworking journey.
As he prepares to assemble his coffee table, Jon emphasizes the importance of planning ahead. He notes that beginners often get so caught up in cutting and assembling that they forget to sand and finish their pieces correctly. Proper order of operations can save time and reduce frustration.
While assembling the table, Jon discusses pocket holes, a method he found empowering as a beginner. He warns against using pocket holes in visible areas but highlights their usefulness in hidden places, like the underside of a table. “Don’t let gatekeepers discourage you from using pocket holes,” he advises, encouraging beginners to focus on practical solutions rather than adhering strictly to traditional methods.
Jon also shares a critical tip about having a flat assembly surface. He believes that an assembly table is one of the most crucial tools in a workshop, yet many beginners overlook its importance. He humorously introduces his two dogs, who serve as his shop supervisors, reminding viewers that having a supportive environment makes the process more enjoyable.
As the project progresses, Jon emphasizes the importance of finishing techniques. He warns against the common mistake of rushing through the finishing process, which can ruin hours of hard work. Instead, he advocates for wipe-on finishes, which are more forgiving and easier to apply than traditional brushing methods.
Lastly, Jon addresses the reality of woodworking: projects are unlikely to be perfect. He encourages beginners to accept imperfections and not let them deter their progress. The most important thing is to start building and embrace the learning process, as everyone makes mistakes.
In conclusion, Jon provides a wealth of practical advice that can help beginners navigate the challenges of woodworking. By focusing on wood selection, planning, using jigs, seeking help, and accepting imperfections, newcomers can build beautiful projects and enjoy the journey of woodworking.