Woodworking requires not only skill but also the right tools, and that includes proper electrical setups. Power strips are a common accessory in workshops, allowing multiple tools to be connected to one power source. They often come with surge protection, which is particularly important for delicate woodworking machinery. When selecting a power strip, consider the number of outlets, amp rating, … [Read more...]

Roaches are attracted to wood due to its ability to provide shelter, warmth, and moisture, all of which create an ideal habitat for them to thrive. Wooden structures often contain small cracks and crevices that serve as entry points for these pests. Roach infestations pose a nuisance and potential health risks, as their droppings, shed exoskeletons, and decomposing body parts can contaminate … [Read more...]

Routers are crucial tools in woodworking, used for shaping, grooving, and cutting various types of wood. They consist of a motorized handle and a collet holding interchangeable router bits, which determine the type of cut or shape that can be made. Routers enable woodworkers to create precise joinery, smooth hollows and curves, decorative edges and patterns, and can be used in crafting furniture, … [Read more...]

The article provides a comprehensive guide to the different types of screws used in woodworking. The primary role of screws in this field is to hold objects or pieces of wood together. They are driven into the wood by a screwdriver, which converts rotational power into force. The anatomy of a screw is broken down into five parts: drive, head, shank, thread, and tip. Drive is the mechanism that … [Read more...]

Popular Woodworking has featured a list of books recommended by young woodworkers. The list includes selections from notable individuals in the woodworking community, such as Lee from leebuild.com and Laura Zahn from offthesaw.com. The book "Good Clean Fun" is also highlighted in the list. Key Takeaways: Popular Woodworking has featured a list of books recommended by young woodworkers. … [Read more...]

Woodworking is a craft that involves creating items from wood, such as furniture or cabinets, using various tools. There are several types of woodworkers including cabinet makers, furniture makers, wood machine operators, and woodcarvers. Cabinet makers build kitchen cabinets and bathroom vanities, while furniture makers design and build furniture from scratch. Wood machine operators work with … [Read more...]

Choosing an appropriate miter saw is essential for successful woodworking projects. Miter saws allow for precise cuts at various angles and are indispensable for tasks such as framing, trim work, and furniture making. However, not all miter saws are the same, and selecting the wrong one can lead to wasted time and frustration. Understanding the different types of miter saws and their unique … [Read more...]

Parallel clamps, originally designed by Bessey in 1980, are a common tool for woodworking. A few key features of these clamps are often misunderstood or overlooked. Firstly, the heads of a parallel clamp do not need to be square. In fact, many are designed with a toe-in head, which helps the clamp achieve a parallel state under pressure. Secondly, all parallel clamp bars will deflect under … [Read more...]

Cabinet scrapers are an essential tool for woodworkers due to their versatility, affordability, and ability to perform tasks that more expensive tools struggle with. Unlike planes and chisels, which require a polished, acute edge free of burr, scrapers are designed to have a tiny, well-defined burr that is used to cut wood. Cabinet scrapers come in various shapes and are often sold in sets of … [Read more...]

The author shares his journey of learning woodworking through a relentless push to fail, and his objective was to tie a knot in a piece of wood. His first attempt was in 2016 when he selected straight-grained, air-dried ash, cut into square strips, and steamed them before bending them into a loop. Despite some failures, he managed to form a knot about 2 inches in diameter. In 2018, he attempted … [Read more...]