THE CHALLENGES OF MIXING WOOD FINISHES
Mixing wood finishes doesn’t have to be a gamble—this guide breaks down which oils, polys, shellacs, and waxes play well together (and which don’t). With clear rules and pro tips, you’ll avoid sticky disasters and get the finish you actually want.
A SIMPLE TRICK FOR MAKING ARCS EASIER
Learn how to make and use bow arcs for woodworking. These simple tools, crafted from hardwood and string, allow you to trace symmetrical and asymmetrical curves effortlessly, improving accuracy and efficiency in your projects.
BONDO IS A LIFESAVER FOR WOODWORKERS!
Body filler isn’t just for hiding dents in old cars—it’s a versatile, affordable tool that belongs in every woodshop. From smoothing painted projects to repairing templates and jigs, this underrated material can save the day when nothing else will do.
THE SECRET TO CUTTING COMPLEMENTARY CURVES
Several years ago, I made a video about creating complimentary curves with a router. A lot of people were very complimentary about that video. Others, however, were a little confused. So, I’ve decided to revisit the concept from that video, showing a similar method but with readily available bits. This is such an amazing technique with so many creative uses that you’re definitely going to want to know about it.
HOW TO MAKE RAISED PANELS WITHOUT EXPENSIVE TOOLS
Raised panels are a fundamental part of cabinets and furniture. If you're into woodworking, you'll eventually need to make them—and when you do, you’ll be bombarded with videos and articles that demonstrate all sorts of methods using tools you probably don’t have. In this article, I’m going to walk you through how to make raised panels quickly, easily, and safely with just a regular straight router bit.
MAKE YOUR OWN WIPE-ON POLYURETHANE
A lot of new woodworkers buy wipe-on polyurethane because it promises to be easy to apply. And that’s true—it is easy to apply. But more experienced woodworkers rarely buy the pre-made stuff. Not because they don’t like wipe-on poly, but because they don’t see the point of paying extra for what is essentially regular polyurethane diluted with inexpensive mineral spirits. You can make it yourself for a lot less money.
A FINISH DURABLE ENOUGH FOR A WOODEN COUNTERTOP
In this article, I’m tackling one of the most common questions viewers ask: How do you choose and apply a durable finish for wooden countertops?
VENEERING BASICS FOR THE WEEKEND WOODWORKER
Veneering isn’t just for pros—it’s an approachable, game-changing technique that can elevate even small woodworking projects. From contact cement to vacuum pressing, this guide breaks down three practical methods to help you achieve clean, stable, professional-looking panels.
HOW TO SAFELY AGE HINGES AND HARDWARE
Cheap hardware-store hinges can look and function like premium hardware with a few simple fixes and aging techniques. This guide shows how to tighten loose barrels and apply three different patina methods—from natural aging to fast chemical finishes—for a custom, vintage look.
BUTT JOINT VS MITER JOINT: WHICH SHOULD YOU USE?
Learn how to choose and execute miter and butt joints for large wood panels like countertops and desktops. Discover tips for handling wood movement, alignment, and fastening to create seamless, durable corner joints.
DON’T THROW THAT UGLY WOOD OUT!
With clever techniques like book-matching, veneering, and using plywood backers, even flawed or sapwood-heavy lumber can be transformed into stunning furniture panels. This article shows practical tips for making the most of every board, creating balanced and eye-catching designs from pieces many woodworkers might discard.
HOW A LITTLE WEDGE MAKES THE STRONGEST JOINT EVER!
The wedged mortise and tenon is one of the strongest mechanical joints in woodworking, combining resistance to shear and tensile forces with a visually striking design. This article walks through every step—from cutting the mortise and shaping the wedges to fitting and gluing the tenon—offering practical tips to avoid common mistakes and achieve a perfect joint.
DO YOU NEED A WOOD MARKING GAUGE?
A marking gauge is a timeless woodworking tool that provides precision and repeatability that pencils and rulers alone cannot. This article explores different types of gauges—pin, knife, and disc-style—explaining their uses, proper technique, and applications for joinery, layout, and surface marking.
READ THIS BEFORE USING OIL-BASED POLY FINISHES!
Today, I want to talk about oil-based polyurethane. It’s a very durable finish that’s well-suited for both indoor and some outdoor projects. It’s not difficult to apply, but I think my method will give you the best results.
HOW TO GROUND YOUR DUST COLLECTION
So in this article, I will teach you how to ground a PVC dust collection system properly, including answering some of the most common questions people have—such as how to address your flex hose, whether to run wire inside or outside the ductwork, and how to get that charge from the pipes and hoses into the physical ground.
JOINERY LESSONS FROM THE DOUBLE BRIDLE JOINT
The double bridle joint is a great way to practice precise, repeatable joinery on the table saw, and it teaches you how to sneak up on a perfect fit instead of relying solely on pencil lines. With a simple tenon jig and the right blade, you can create a strong, attractive joint that’s customizable and clean.
ADDRESSING THE STROPPING MYTH
Learn the truth about stropping woodworking tools—how leather, light abrasives, and proper technique can keep chisels and plane irons razor-sharp without expensive sharpening stones. This guide breaks down compounds, materials, and methods so you can sharpen faster, cheaper, and with better results.
A CLEVER WAY TO MAKE BOXES, CABINETS, AND DRAWERS
The locking rabbet joint with a hidden groove creates drawers and boxes that are self-aligning, strong, and almost as durable as dovetails—without complicated setups. Using just a router and a few clever fence adjustments, you can make professional-quality cabinetry quickly and easily.
THE ONLY 3 BANDSAW BLADES YOU NEED
Learn how to choose the right bandsaw blade with this simplified guide covering blade width, steel types, tooth geometry, and the best all-purpose recommendations for woodworking. Cut cleaner, straighter, and smoother with the right blade for your projects.
WORLD’S STRONGEST CORNER JOINT!
Discover how to create the Triple-Castle Joint—an elegant, ultra-strong woodworking joint made from three identical pieces and four simple cuts. This step-by-step guide covers layout, hand-sawing tips, assembly, and finishing for a stunning joinery project.