Summary Category

Routers are among the essential tools for any woodworker. While in the past using the router required a lot of skill and experience, the advances of modern technology make the use of this tool accessible to those with fundamental skills and those that are just starting the hobby. Transferring stunning visual images and three-dimensional models is relatively simple using computer programs and … [Read more...]

In the interest of downsizing, when I moved, I gave away my extra wood to my woodworking friends. While it was hard to part with some of this wood, I knew it was all going to good homes. Ironically, when one of my woodworking buddies recently moved, he invited me to his shop to grab some of his extra persimmon boards. Wouldn't you know it, the boards I grabbed were the same ones I had given him … [Read more...]

Plank & Hide, the well-known home recreational and furnishings company has bought the outdoor furniture company 300 South Main. While the terms were not made public, the company's goal is to achieve value through offering trendsetting styles at competitive prices. They plan to expand their indoor and outdoor product offerings while continuing to provide their large volume buyers with build and … [Read more...]

A narrow console table can be used as an entryway table, hall table, dining room side table, media console, or guest room drop zone for phones, keys, etc. The plans are free and the table is easy to make with 2x4s, 1x8s and 1x12s. A video is available that demonstrates the build process. The first step is to build three identical leg sets from 2x4s. The next step is to add the shelves, and the … [Read more...]

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...]