THE BEST JIG IDEA EVER
An incremental positioner turns a simple setup into a powerful system for ultra-precise, repeatable cuts. Build it into a table saw jig, and you can cut perfect tenons, joints, and micro-adjustments with speed and accuracy.
STRONGER CABINET FACE FRAME JOINERY
Choosing the right joinery—from mortise and tenon to no-joinery—depends on your cabinet’s size, load, and how much reinforcement the frame needs.
A DIY ROUTER TABLE THAT COSTS NOTHING!
This simple DIY portable router table turns a handheld trim router into a compact, versatile workstation you can build in about an hour from shop scraps. It’s cheap, clever, easy to store, and useful for far more than just cutting box joints.
FAST AND EASY DRAWERS: THE HALF-HALF-HALF METHOD
Build strong, precise drawers fast with the half-half-half method. One table saw setup cuts all joints—no dovetails or complex setups needed.
RED VS WHITE OAK - IMPORTANT DIFFERENCES
Red oak and white oak may look similar, but their differences can make or break your project. This guide cuts through the confusion with simple, woodworker-focused advice on how to tell them apart and when to use each.
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.
EDGE BANDING PLYWOOD
Edge banding doesn’t have to be frustrating—these pro tips will help you choose the right banding, apply it cleanly, and finish it smooth. From preventing “creeping” to trimming and filing, you’ll save time and get professional-looking edges every time.
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.
WAS NORM ABRAM WRONG ABOUT BISCUIT JOINTERS?
The biscuit joiner may not add brute strength like a Domino or dowels, but it’s a game-changer for fast, frustration-free glue-ups. If you find a good one at a yard sale, grab it—you’ll thank yourself during your next big panel or cabinet project.
WILL CLEAR VARNISH CHANGE WOOD’S COLOR?
Some argue that wood finishes actually alter the appearance of natural wood by adding a yellow or amber hue. A piece of maple, for example, might be nearly white when bare, but depending on the finish you apply, it can turn yellow or even brown.
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.
DO YOU NEED A SAWBENCH?
Every woodworker knows they need a workbench. We’ve made plenty of workbench-related tutorials—you can find those on Youtube. But do you also need a saw bench, or two? I think so—and that’s what this article is about.
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.
DO YOU NEED WOOD GRAIN FILLER BEFORE YOU FINISH?
Grain filler smooths out open-pore woods like oak, ash, and walnut to create a mirror-like surface before finishing, making your projects look more polished and professional. Whether using water-based fillers, pastes, or oil slurries, proper application and multiple coats ensure even pores and better light reflection.