TIPS AND TRICKS FOR CHOOSING AND USING WOODWORKING DRILL BITS
In its simplest form, woodworking is a lot of cutting shapes and boring holes. To work at an acceptable level, you must cut and bore accurately. We've made plenty of cutting videos—but very few about boring. That changes today!
CHECK THIS OUT BEFORE BUYING TURNING TOOLS
Discover the real differences between carbide and traditional woodturning tools, including ease of use, performance, and overall cost. A clear, updated guide to help beginners and hobbyists choose the best turning tools for their goals.
HAMMERS AND MALLETS WOODWORKERS NEED TO KNOW ABOUT
Choosing the right hammer or mallet for the task can make woodworking safer, more precise, and more efficient. From cross-peen and ball-peen hammers to dead-blow, lump, and brass mallets, each tool has unique uses that every woodworker should understand.
WHEN A KNIFE IS BETTER THAN A PENCIL
Choosing the right marking tool can make a huge difference in woodworking accuracy and efficiency. This article explains when to use pencils, mechanical pencils, marking knives, and marking gauges, with practical tips for selecting the proper tool for rough layout, precise joinery, and everything in between.
IS JAPAN SLOWLY KILLING WESTERN-STYLE SAWS?
But there’s still a great deal of confusion about how these saws work, the differences between the types available, and whether a Japanese saw is right for you. Most videos and articles focus on the benefits of these tools while largely ignoring the downsides. In this article, I want to present a clear, concise guide to the pros and cons of the three most common types of Japanese saws, so you can make an informed decision about which to try—if any at all.
ADDRESSING THE STROPPING MYTH
There is so much misinformation out there about stropping your woodworking tools, even I was confused for a long time. Does stropping make tools sharper? Is it necessary for woodworkers? Will soft leather round over the edge? Why not use MDF instead? What about charging strops with paste?
In this post, I’ll try to cut through the nonsense and answer those questions so you can get the edge you need with minimal expense and hassle.
WHY A LOT OF TOOL STEEL IS BAD
At some point, every woodworker is confronted with the argument that old tools—particularly chisels—are superior to new ones. It's not uncommon for some to pay more for an antique chisel than for a new, high-quality one. But is it true? Are these old tools, made in an era when quality was prioritized over cost, truly better than most modern chisels?
THE ONLY 3 BANDSAW BLADES YOU NEED
When was the last time you had to buy a bandsaw blade? It was confusing, wasn’t it? Different types of metal, varying tooth counts, and geometry—these are not meaningless choices. Choosing the right blade can make a big difference in how your next project turns out!
HOW TO READ A TAPE MEASURE WITHOUT LOOKING LIKE AN IDIOT
Believe it or not, the first question on some job interviews in industrial trades is, “Can you read a measuring tape?” That may sound silly to a lot of you old-timers, but you'd be surprised how many younger folks never make it past that first question because they have no idea what they're doing with this simple tool. So, in this post, I’m going to share with you how to teach a poor, ignorant kid in your life.
THE FORGOTTEN HISTORY BEHIND JAPANESE CHISELS
While Japanese chisels as woodworking implements have existed for centuries, it was the makers of the famed samurai swords that may have given us the chisels OF today. In this post, I'll share that forgotten story and help decode the fascinating technology that makes Japanese woodworking chisels so different from modern Western-style chisels. By the end, you'll have a whole new respect for this strange little tool with the dented backside.
WILL A CHEAP 2X6 PINE WORKBENCH LAST?
It’s been 8 years since I made this workbench in a two-part series on YouTube. In that time, this bench has seen a lot of use across three different workshops. Since it's made entirely from old construction lumber I thought some of you might be interested to see how it’s held up and if there’s anything I would change in its design.
CHOOSING A TABLE SAW
Confused about which table saw to buy? Learn the differences between portable, contractor, hybrid, and cabinet saws, including pros, cons, and expert tips to pick the right saw for your shop and budget.
JOINTER VS PLANER VS SANDER - WHERE SHOULD YOU START?
Not sure whether to buy a jointer, planer, or drum sander first? This guide explains their roles, differences, and which tool to prioritize so you can flatten, thickness, and smooth boards effectively without wasting money or effort.