Words of wisdom from the workshop

We have put together a compilation of ‘lessons learned’, opinions, and FAQ’s aimed primarily at novice woodworkers on workshop related matters. How ‘wise’ these words are may be a matter of debate!

Woodworking machines

Woodworking machines are dangerous even when operated properly. If for any reason you believe a procedure is not as safe as you think it should be, think of another safer way to do it.

Cutting multiple boards

If you have several boards that need to be cut to the same length, you don’t have to measure every single board. Instead, measure the first board and cut it to length. Then, use that cut board as a guide for cutting the rest of your wood.

Workshop space

Your workshop itself is the most important tool; having space to move about and assemble projects is very important. Also being able to walk up and use your saw, workbench, and tool cabinet unhindered without having to plug it in or clean it off should be a primary goal. It would be nice if that is true of your other equipment as well but it’s especially important with these.

No-fuss finish

Want a no-fuss finish on your project? Try Tung oil, it is one of the only oils that actually dries and can be re-applied in layers for a hard, durable finish.

Table saw

In a typical workshop, the table saw is the core woodworking tool. The quality and usability of this tool is proportional to the potential quality of everything produced from it; you cannot buy a table saw that is too good.

The miter gauge