Staff Writer

Michael knows that inspiration can be utterly unpredictable and we may find it in the least expected places. For him, as an artist, a large number of pieces made derived from a stump of the tree or the inlay of the backgammon board. These two mediums are widely different, yet Michael managed to bring them together and create art that connects them. The early fascination with these objects goes far … [Read more...]

When Steve started creating works of art using wood as a primary material, the experience was like a love at first site. The change was profound, and moved him from marketing world to the world of artistic work and passion. The beginnings were modest, since he was truly a novice and a mere hobbyist. His style is challenging for beginners, and it requires a lot of patience along the steep learning … [Read more...]

Today, the furniture-making community lost an icon. Gary Knox Barrett passed away at the age of 87. Bennett was known for his creativity, sense of humor, and generous work as a collaborator and mentor. His many accolades include a fellowship with the American Craft Council and an Award of Distinction from The Furniture Society. Bennett was a skilled craftsman and often designed series of pieces … [Read more...]

DIY chair repairs often include mistakes that can be avoided. One such mistake is using screws or nails to hold loose joints. The problem is the metal can damage the wood. Another common mistake is not taking apart the joints of a chair, but just applying glue and pushing things together. Some mistakes involve not knowing how to apply glue. Others involve using the wrong glue. Polyurethane glue … [Read more...]

Staining pine can be very intimidating. It is very easy to mess up. Before you stain, you should get familiar with your materials and test out the stain on an abstract, separate piece of wood. Then, fix all loose knots and sand the wood thoroughly. During the staining process, always use two coats of conditioner and two coats of dye. Brush it on very liberally. Do not forget to apply a … [Read more...]

Bonsai involves the careful cultivation of regular tree species to make them appear ancient and weathered. The art originated in 8th-century China, but was adapted by the Japanese, who gave it its name (which means “tree in a tray"). Traditionally, bonsai stands aren't considered part of the art. However, I like to integrate the stand into the story of the tree. When I create bonsai stands, I am … [Read more...]

Woodworking is a great hobby, but there’s definitely a learning curve to it that is often intimidated to many who want to try it out. Today, we are talking to two expert woodworkers who will let us know their thoughts on different tools. Rich can testify that it is his naivete that led him to believe that, when it comes to planes, skew and should cannot complement each other. If you try to do some … [Read more...]

As every woodworker knows, a good sanding block is an essential tool in their toolbox. There are many types of sanders, such as belt, orbiter and simple 1/4" sheets. The author of this article prefers the American made "Preppin Weapon Sanding block" which uses 1/4" strips of sandpaper with metal clips that sell for around $24. It's fun, sturdy and ergonomic. Another less expensive option is the … [Read more...]

A sheet of plywood can make for a great bottom to any wood box. It is a versatile material, easy to attach to a rabbet (the groove in the box), adds strength to the box, and makes for a great look. Before attaching a plywood bottom one can size, cut and glue a piece of veneer to the wood. Usually about an eight of an inch thick. Milk paint is a great way to finish the plywood. One can also add … [Read more...]

A bandsawn box is a box that looks like it was cut from a single piece of wood, but is cleverly cut and glued back together. It looks more difficult to make than it is, but the most important thing is to determine how and where to make the first cuts. There are two compartments to the box: a top compartment under a lid, and the drawer in the front. The idea is to make two distinct divots in the … [Read more...]