Woodworking

Not only is woodworking fun, there are so many other benefits that you might not even be aware of! 1. Reduces Stress and Anxiety When you find yourself weighed down by the hustle of daily life, woodworking can be a powerful way to ease stress and anxiety. For many, it’s a form of therapeutic engagement…

Need some extra durability for your projects? You’ve got options. Between polyurethane, lacquer, and wood oils – the choices can be overwhelming. I recently tried this Watco Spray Lacquer and here’s why I think it’s the best spray lacquer you can buy. What I Liked: Having worked on several woodworking projects, I appreciate a finish…

Woodworking gloves are an essential on my list of woodworking safety gear. After all, nobody wants an emergency hospital trip in the middle of a fun project! But since there are so many kinds of woodworking gloves on the market today, I felt inspired to make a list of best gloves for woodworking so you…

If you’re laminating wood, finding the right glue can be a challenge. I’ve tested some of the most popular glues to help you find the best choice. Here are my favorites! In a hurry? The best glue for laminating wood is Titebond III Ultimate glue because of how durable it is and it’s superior water…

There are many ways you can stain wood, but using a gel stain is one of my favorite methods. Gel stain works on bare wood and an existing finish, offering even more protection for your project. That’s why I tested some of the most popular gel stains you can find. Here are my favorites. In…

No matter what project you’re working on, sanding will come into play at some point. But what should you do if the wood is wet? In this guide, I’ll help you uncover if you can sand wet wood and some tips and tricks I’ve used. Can You Sand Damp Wood? Ultimately, sanding wet or damp…

Lacquer and polyurethane are two of the most popular wood finishes out there. They’re great for adding protection to your projects and getting the sheen you want. But which is better? I’ll show you the key similarities and differences in this lacquer vs polyurethane comparison. Let’s dig in! Differences Between Lacquer vs Polyurethane Durability In…

When browsing the lumber section at your local home improvement store, there are tons of types of wood. From plywood, to treated lumber, to common board – there are tons of options. In this guide, I’ll explain what common board is and if it’s a good option for your next project! What is Common Board?…

MDF, or medium density fiberboard, can be an extremely convenient and cheap type of wood that can be used on a variety of projects. It’s lightweight, easy to find, and very versatile. What’s not to love? But you might be wondering “does wood glue work on MDF?” Let’s find out! Can I Use Wood Glue…

Woodworking has been around for centuries and there are so many techniques and methods that it can be easy to miss some. There are tons of great woodworking books out there, but I’ve condensed them down into the 10 best woodworking books for both beginners and professionals looking to take their projects to the next…

If you’re a woodworker looking to bond two pieces of wood together, you might be tempted to use super glue. But does super glue work on wood? Let’s find out! Can You Use Super Glue on Wood? Yes, super glue does in fact work on wood. While it’s not recommended for all wood projects if…

Cedar is an extremely popular wood for a handful of reasons. Whether you’re using it for a fence, DIY project, or furniture – you might be wondering if you can paint it. Here’s what you should know. Can You Paint Cedar Wood? Whether you have cedar siding or a piece of cedar furniture, you might…

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been working on a project only to realize there’s a hole or crack that I didn’t fill. Aside from using wood filler to patch the hole, the key is to make it look like wood so you can get the appearance you want for your project. Here’s…

Whether you’re painting furniture, cabinets, or another wood surface, you might be tempted to bring out a can of spray paint to give your project a new look. After all, spray painting is fast and easy, right? But can you spray paint wood? Let’s find out! Does Spray Paint Stick to Wood? Spray paint, when…

Varathane and Minwax are two of the most popular wood finishing brands on the market. They’re both great for finishing wood and showing off your wood’s natural beauty. But which is better? In this post, I’m doing an in-depth Varathane vs Minwax comparison, focusing on which is better for your project and much more. Let’s…

When you need to make precise miter cuts in small workpieces, a miter box can be a tremendous help. I’ve used several miter boxes and have some strong opinions on which is best! Here are my favorites! In a hurry? The Stanley Miter Box is the overall best miter box for making angled cuts, as…

There are so many great wood fillers available, but two of my favorites are PC Woody and Bondo. Both of these fillers are excellent and are some of the best epoxy wood fillers you can buy, but which is better? Let’s dig in! PC Woody vs Bondo Wood Fillers Strength When working on wood repair…

Ever wonder why wood sometimes displays uneven color after sanding? This can be caused by a variety of sanding mistakes, but the good news is there’s usually a solution! So if you’ve been wondering why wood can be an uneven color after sanding and what can be done to fix uneven wood color, I’m happy…

Wipe-on polyurethane is one of my favorite sealants for a variety of reasons, but there are some problems that you can run into. The good news is most of these problems can be avoided and fixed pretty easily if you’re aware of them. Let’s get started! What Are Common Wipe-on Poly Problems? Uneven Application An…

When creating your home office, your desk is the most crucial piece of furniture you will need. But what type of wood is best for an office desk? In this post, I’ll explore the best wood for desks so you can craft the perfect desk for your needs. Let’s dig in! Best Wood for Desk…

If you’re looking to make a wooden mallet, using the right type of wood is essential. In the world of woodworking and carpentry, mallets are indispensable tools, utilized in everything from fine detailing to heavy-duty chiseling. But not all mallets are created equal, with the choice of wood playing a pivotal role in their effectiveness…

Pressure treated wood is a common material that’s extremely useful for outdoor applications. This type of wood can withstand the elements day in and day out, which makes it perfect for decks and other exterior projects. But can you use pressure treated wood indoors? I’ll explore if you can use treated wood indoors, the potential…

Hot glue is one of the most versatile glues you can find, but does hot glue stick to wood? In this guide, I’ll explore hot glue works with wood, how it compares to wood glue, and tips for applying hot glue. Let’s dig in! Does Hot Glue Stick to Wood? Yes! Hot glue does work…

Polyurethane is my go-to finish when it comes to woodworking and DIY projects, but it’s easy to get it stuck to your hands. And it can be harmful to your skin if left on for too long, so it’s critical to remove it as soon as possible. In this post, I’ll explore how to get…

If you’re dealing with old wood, it’s not uncommon to find a few staples buried in it. Whether you’re building something out of reclaimed lumber or ripping up your flooring, there’s a good chance you’ll find them here and there. Luckily, there are several different methods you can use to remove staples from wood –…

Imagine this – your favorite saw just broke, or you just realized you forgot to bring your saw to your jobsite. What do you do now? Sure, you could go to your local home improvement store and buy a new one – but who wants to do that!? Depending on the project, you might be…

Rounding wood edges can be an essential task for any woodworker and luckily there are several different ways to get the job done. If you want to achieve a professional finish on your projects, rounding wooden edges is key. Using a wood router is the obvious answer to round sharp edges, but what if you…

Woodworking projects can be a great hobby and way to pass time. But there’s no doubt you’ve probably run into a project that pushes your skills to the limit. For example, cutting square holes in wood. I’ve been there, and I’m sure you have been too. It can seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to…

If you spend a lot of time with wood, you know how inconvenient it can be to stop what you’re doing to get a drill out of the drawer only to find that it’s out of power. Although it’s a little trickier, you don’t always need a drill to screw it into the wood! In…

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve applied a polyurethane finish only to find out that I don’t like how it turns out. Maybe you used the wrong sheen of polyurethane or you’re trying to fix some polyurethane mistakes. In this post, I’ll show you exactly how to remove polyurethane from wood so you…

Whether you’re an avid woodworker like I am, or you’re a weekend warrior who doesn’t want to break out your saw to cut wood, you might be wondering if Home Depot will cut wood for you. If you’re wondering whether Home Depot will cut wood for you, what types of wood they will cut, and…

Spar urethane and polyurethane are two varnishes that I use all of the time. In many ways they’re similar, but they’re also quite different. Plus, there are many situations where one is decidedly better-suited than the other. But which is better overall? In this post, I’ll closely examine spar urethane vs polyurethane, which to use…

When it comes to preventing rust, nothing beats Rustoleum, as it’s the time-tested leader that can always be counted on. But can you use Rustoleum on wood? The short answer is YES, but there’s a lot more you should know before you start coating wood surfaces with Rustoleum. Let’s jump right in! Can You Use…

Polycrylic finish is one of the most common types of finishes I use for woodworking projects today. It’s a water-based protective finish available in several sheens, colors, and textures which I’m a big fan of. But how do you make polycrylic slippery? In this guide, I’ll show you exactly how to make polycrylic slippery for…

Whether you’re looking to refinish furniture or you’re looking to sand down a door – sheet sanders can be great tools to have in your workshop. I’ve tested and used many different finishing sanders over the years so you can learn from my experience and find the best sander for your needs. In this guide,…

When it comes to finishing oils, there’s a handful of choices for your wood projects. Two of the most popular include tung oil and teak oil. While they are pretty similar, they have some key differences you should be aware of. In this tung oil vs teak oil comparison, I’ll help you decide which oil…

Are you looking for a great table saw that doesn’t cost a fortune? Count me in! I’ve tested multiple saws to help you find the absolute best table saw under $500 for your workshop. Let’s get started. In a hurry? The SKIL 8-1/4 Inch Portable Worm Drive Table Saw is the absolute best table saw…

Looking to cut plexiglass? There are several different methods you can choose, but one of my favorites is using a jigsaw. In this guide, I’ll show you exactly how to cut plexiglass with a jigsaw and give you a few tips to help you avoid uneven cuts. Let’s dig in! How to Cut Plexiglass With…

Jigsaws are powerful and important cutting tools often used in carpentry, woodworking, flooring, and DIY projects. But there are several different types and styles of jigsaws with different features, so it’s important to choose the right one for your needs. Aside from choosing between a corded or cordless jigsaw, deciding between a barrel grip jigsaw…

Depending on your line of work, there’s a chance you’ll encounter situations where you need to cut circles in wood or a range of other materials. When this situation arises, it’s important to have the right type of saw for the job because not all saws are capable of cutting in circular patterns. In this…

Wood turning can be a fun hobby that allows you to create all sorts of wood craft projects. But sometimes you don’t need a full size lathe to complete your projects and a mini lathe is large enough. But finding the right mini wood lathe can be challenging, and that’s why I put this list…

Preparing wood for stain is an essential step for any wood finish to ensure an even coat of stain on your project. I’ve worked on countless DIY projects and can tell you from experience how important it is. In this guide, I’ll show you exactly how to prep wood for stain the right way for…

Miter saws come in all shapes and sizes. But if you want to take your saw on the go, or you’re working in a small workshop – having a compact miter saw is essential. But with so many miter saws to choose from, how do you know which is best? Don’t worry! I put this…

Combination squares are some of the most convenient and versatile tools every woodworker should own. But as with anything, some are better than others! That’s why I put together this list of best combination squares—to help you find the most suitable one for your needs and skill level. Let’s begin! In a hurry? The iGaging…

Polyurethane is one of the most popular finishes used by woodworkers. It’s often used to improve the appearance of wood and protect it from damage caused by UV rays and just normal wear and tear. Adding a little color to polyurethane is a great way to make your projects stand out. In this guide, I’ll…

Miter saws are sine if the easiest and most versatile saws you can own. Whether you’re a beginner woodworker, or you’ve mastered all of the techniques out there – owning a miter saw is a no brainer. But finding the best miter saw for your needs can be a serious challenge! Well, that’s exactly why…

When it comes to woodworking – sanding is part of the job. And while traditional sandpaper can get the job done, it’s one of the messiest, dustiest, and nastiest parts of woodworking. Therefore, liquid sandpaper was invented to circumnavigate this mess and hassle, creating a new way to remove the glossy sheen of a stained…

Are you looking to glue metal to wood? It’s actually easier than you think if you use the right materials and follow a few easy steps. In this guide, I’ll show you exactly how to glue wood to metal, the best glue for bonding wood to metal, and much more. Let’s dig in! How to…

The speed square is one of any carpenter’s best friends, as it combines so many useful measuring devices in one easy-to-use tool. But finding the best speed square isn’t always a walk in the park. Don’t worry! That’s exactly why I put this list together—to help you find the best speed square for your needs…

Wondering how to harden wood? If you’re using a soft wood on your project – there’s a good chance you’ll want to give it some extra strength and durability. And it’s easier than you think! In this guide, I’ll show you exactly how to harden wood so you can improve the strength and durability of…

Wondering how to glue leather to wood? Whether you’re working on leather crafts or perhaps some wood furniture – understanding how to glue leather to wood can be essential. In this guide, I’ll explain exactly how to glue leather to wood, some of the best glues for leather to wood, and much more. Let’s dig…

Whether you’re working on wood crafts, furniture, flooring, or other woodworking projects, choosing the right finish or sealant to protect your work is essential. In its natural state, wood is prone to water damage, rot, scratches, and other blemishes, and a stain or finish is the only way to protect it from these elements. In…

In its natural state, wood is one of the most beautiful and timeless materials for furniture, crafts, and many other purposes. However, while wood is beautiful, it’s also delicate and has the potential to scratch, dent, and bruise easily. So t’s often necessary to give wood products a protective coat of lacquer or polyurethane. Because…

If you’re a painter, woodworker, or DIYer, there’s a good chance you’re somewhat familiar with linseed oil. This unique oil can be applied to the surfaces of furniture, wood crafts, and other products for added protection for your projects. While linseed oil is a great, eco-friendly alternative to traditional stains and finishes, it has one…

If you’ve been turning wood on a lathe for a while, you probably have quite a few pieces, and you might be wondering what to do with them all. Why not turn your wood lathe projects into cash!? Selling your creations is just one great way to make money woodworking and it can be extremely…

Have you ever considered making your own bed frame? Trust me, even inexperienced DIYers and woodworkers can make their own bed frames! If you’re sleeping on an old metal bed frame or worse, a mattress on the floor, give your hand a try at making a bed frame for yourself. You’ll be surprised how much…

Let’s be honest – spaying paint is so much more convenient than brushing or rolling it on. It’s faster, you get a better finish, and you don’t get those annoying hand cramps. In this post, I’ll help you find the best HVLP spray gun for woodworking so you can spend more time painting and less…

I love the look of wood turned on a lathe, and I’ve found that some types of wood are better than others, especially for beginners. In this guide, I’ll help you find the best wood for wood turning and learn about the different types available. I’ll also share some tips for beginning woodturning to help…

Table saws are such a convenient power tool that’s perfect for woodworking projects, home improvement jobs, and more. However, they can be on the more expensive side when compared to other power tools. But one table saw that’s gained popularity is the SKIL table saw. In this review, I’ll break down everything you need to…

Whether you’re a painter, cosmetologist, or woodworker that uses solvents, it’s important to understand the difference between paint thinner and acetone. Although these liquids have similar chemical compositions and ingredients, they are not the same and have different uses. It’s important to understand how these materials are different and how they work so that you…

Bleach is one of the strongest chemicals on earth, and it’s incredibly good at sterilizing a range of surface materials. But will bleach stop wood rot? The short answer is YES, but there’s more to it than that. In this guide, I’ll explain if bleach can stop wood rot and some tips to keep wood…

Lacquer thinners and paint thinners are really useful (and sometimes stinky!) chemical solvents used to thin different lacquers, epoxies, and oil-based paints.  These substances really do come in handy when you’re trying to get hardened paint off certain surfaces or make viscous lacquers easier to work with.  The trouble is, while lacquer and paint thinners…

Are you trying to decide which finishing oil to use on your wood project? Two of the top choices are tung oil and linseed oil, but which one is best for your specific needs? In this post, I’ll take a deep dive look into tung oil vs linseed oil, to help you determine which is…

Spraying polyurethane is one of my favorite ways to apply wood finish for a few reasons. It’s easy, fast, and can deliver a smooth finish with ease. The best spray guns for polyurethane will feature an efficient and lightweight design that can deliver an even coat of polyurethane on your wood. In this guide, I’ll…

A midi lathe is the perfect tool for woodturning tasks that involve midsize workpieces, so long as it’s well-designed and equipped with all the features needed to achieve top tier results. That’s why I put this list together—to help you find the best midi lathe for your project! Let’s begin! In a hurry? The JET…

Wooden spoon making is a beautiful art form. Not only is this fun wood craft idea an ode to the natural elegance of trees, but it also has a delightfully functional end result. Just one quality wood spoon can last you 5 years of dining. These adorable kitchen eating utensils are also quite sellable, which…

Wood glue is one of the most indispensable supplies in my wood shop. It’s versatile, easy to use, and an affordable option to bond two surfaces together. In this post, I’ll show you exactly how to thin wood glue so you can use it over and over again without any problems. Let’s dig in! 4…

If you’re a beginner woodworker, you might not be familiar with C clamps quite yet. But these handy tools can be extremely helpful when working on wood projects, and many other tasks. In this guide, I’ll explain exactly what a C clamp is used for, the types of clamps available, and how to use a…

Lacquer is one of my favorite natural wood finishes, as it’s durable and easy to apply, yet it still can bring out all the unique features a piece of wood may boast. But before you can use lacquer properly, you need to know how many lacquer coats to put down and how long to wait…

Oops – you just got Gorilla Glue on your skin. What now? Gorilla Glue is one of the best adhesives in the game. In fact, it’s become a household name for its versatility in so many kinds of home and DIY projects.  If you’re a woodworker or crafter, you’ll probably find use for this powerful…

Is your dad a woodworker or handyman? Yeah, mine too. So I totally understand the struggle of trying to figure out what gifts to get him for his birthday, Father’s Day, Christmas – the list goes on and on. What does he need that he doesn’t have already? What would make him happy?  Don’t spend…

If you’re completing a wood project – there are many different finishes you could apply. One of my favorites is tung oil. But how many coats of tung oil should you apply? In this article, I’ll discuss how many coats of tung oil should be used for different kinds of wood surfaces, and I’ll also…

Looking to make your very own Adirondack chair? These chairs are some of my favorites and they’ve become a staple outdoor furniture piece for many homes. But what’s the best wood for Adirondack chairs? In this post, I’ll discuss some of the best wood options for Adirondack chairs, what you should consider when choosing the…

When it’s time to finish wood furniture, you have a variety of wood finishes to choose from, and one time-tested favorite of mine is tung oil, otherwise known as China wood oil. But is pure tung oil waterproof? In this article, I’ll discuss everything you need to know about tung oil’s waterproofness before you use…

Pure tung oil, otherwise known as Chinese wood oil, is a popular, natural-drying oil that’s been used to finish wood furniture for centuries. It has many attractive qualities to protect wood, but does tung oil darken wood? The short answer is no, but there are times when applying tung oil can make a surface look…

Polyurethane is an extremely popular type of finish used on wood surfaces like flooring, furniture, or countless other wood projects. It’s a great option to increase durability and give your wood the look you want. When using a polyurethane finish, you might be wondering “how long does polyurethane take to dry?” In this post, I’ll…

It seems that I use wood glue on almost every project I work on these days, but how strong is wood glue exactly? After all, you don’t want to use wood glue to bond something that needs superior strength, do you? In this post, I’ll explore how strong wood glue is, some of the strongest…

We’ve all been there. You’re at the hardware store, you see the perfect piece of wood, and then you realize that you don’t have a way to get it home or even cut it, for that matter. You could ask a friend for help, but they may not have the right tools, either. Or, you…

Looking to cut plexiglass with a table saw? If you’ve never done it before, there are a few steps you’ll want to follow to ensure a clean cut. In this post, I’ll show you exactly how to cut plexiglass with a table saw. Let’s dig in! How to Cut Plexiglass with a Table Saw 1….

When it comes to woodworking, having the right tools is essential for producing accurate, clean, and efficient cuts. And one of my most commonly used tools in my woodshop is my miter saw. These saws are super convenient and can be used to make all sorts of cuts. But there are plenty of options when…

If you have a wood project you want to seal, there are tons of different options. One of the most popular is polycrylic – a water based sealant that you can use to seal all sorts of DIY projects. But you might be wondering how long it takes polycrylic to dry once applied. In this…

If you need wood cut there are plenty of options. Whether you’re completing a DIY projects and you don’t have a saw or your saw has just bit the dust – finding a place to cut wood for you is easier than you might think. In this post, I’ll uncover some of the best places…

There are two types of wood rot, and the names can be misleading since moisture is an underlying factor with both. The two types are wet and dry rot, but don’t let the name “dry” mislead you, they’re both caused by fungi growing on wet wood, it’s just a matter of percentage of moisture that…

Kobalt is the flagship tool brand of Lowe’s, and though it’s not discussed often – it’s a brand worth considering since they offer quality tools at affordable prices. But how do Kobalt tools measure up to the tools put out by well-known tool manufacturer DeWalt? In this post, I’ll compare Kobalt vs DeWalt so you…

Varnish is a popular wood finish that’s used on everything from cabinets to furniture, as it accentuates wood grain and natural colors while providing superior protection for the wood. But how long does varnish take to dry, and what factors influence varnish’s drying process? Let’s find out! How Long Does Varnish Take to Dry? Oil-Based…

If you’ve worked on any sort of DIY home improvement project, chances are you’ve run into shelves or shelf-building at some point. Shelving is a super practical, handy fixture found in almost every home. Not only are shelves useful for storing and organizing items, but they can also serve as beautiful objects for displaying and…

The 2×6 may not be as well-known as the 2×4, but nonetheless it’s a common board that’s often used for structural framing. But is a 2×6 actually 2”x6”? The short answer is no, but why? In this post, I answer this question in depth so you can know the actual size of 2x6s as well…

One of the most commonly used woods is the classic 2×4, since its dimensions make it ideal for a variety of construction and woodworking projects. But is a 2×4 actually 2″x4″? The short answer is no, but why? In this post, I’ll discuss everything you need to know about the actual size of a 2×4,…

Wood comes in many shapes and sizes, and one of the most commonly used boards is the 4×4. In this post, I’ll discuss everything you need to know about a standard 4×4’s weight capacity, and I also explain the handful of key factors which determine how much weight a 4×4 can support. Let’s begin! How…

Here you are, looking for a gorgeous wooden cutting board for your kitchen. You know you want something artful that coordinates well with your kitchen design, while also being a functional piece of cooking equipment (being the master chef you are!).  Once you’ve decided against a plastic cutting board, you’re probably wondering now what the…

If you walk into any big box, home improvement, or hardware store these days and you are likely to find an array of choices on power tools available. Sometimes, the row of options seems endless, and choosing the right tool for your purpose can be a daunting task. Whether you are a home hobbyist, do-it-yourselfer,…

Woodworkers spend a lot of time on their joints, mortises, and bevels so their finished projects are dialed to perfection. All of that work can be for nothing, however, if an unsightly crack develops in the wood, especially if it threatens to spread. While some projects might call for the worn and weathered look, most…

When it comes to woodworking, polyurethane is commonly used to add protection and durability to your projects. But is polyurethane toxic? In this post, I’ll help you better understand how polyurethane works and how to stay safe when using it. Let’s dig in! Is Polyurethane Toxic? So, is polyurethane toxic? Yes…and no…Let me explain. Uncured…

So you’ve decided to try your hand at wood carving: good for you! Or maybe you’re just looking to test your skills with a new type of wood. Either way, choosing the right wood is essential for crafting something you’ll be satisfied with.   But there are so many wood options, each with different grain types,…

When you need to apply polyurethane, you’ll have a variety of applicators to choose from – spraying, brushing, rolling, and even wiping it on. Spraying polyurethane can be a preferred method of application for numerous reasons, but there are also notable drawbacks you’ll want to be aware of. In this post, I’ll explore everything you…

Plywood is such a versatile material that I use it a lot for my projects. It’s great for furniture, outdoor projects, and everything in between. But how do you stain plywood to get the style you want? In this post, I’ll show you exactly how to stain plywood so you can get the look you…

Do you have lovely wooden furniture pieces that you want to darken but don’t want to use traditional wood stain? In this post, I’ll show you how to darken wood without stain and answer the most common questions surrounding this method. Let’s dig in! Darken Wood without Stain Using Household Products Did you know you…

When it’s time to apply polyurethane, you have four options: you can brush, roll, spray, or wipe it on. Each application method has benefits and drawbacks, but I’m going to zero in on wipe-on polyurethane. So if you want to know how to apply polyurethane with a rag and the pros and cons associated with…

Before you start building a new deck or fence, you’ll probably ask yourself: What kind of lumber is good for rainy weather? Especially if you live in a rainy climate, knowing the answer to this question is essential, otherwise you may have to replace it sooner rather than later (no thanks!). Below, I’ll explore the…

Polyurethane is a popular finish that’s applied to a variety of materials, mainly because it makes surfaces more resistant to wear and tear while enhancing their visual appeal at the same time. But most polyurethane yellows over time, meaning it’s incompatible with numerous wood stains and paints, which is something you should know before applying…

Wood stains and polyurethane are two common finishes used on wood for protection and visual appeal. But how long should you let stain dry before polyurethane? In this post, I’ll explore both oil based wood stains, water based stains, and how long you should let each dry before polyurethane. How Long Should Oil-Based Wood Stains…

If you own a table saw, you’ve probably heard of rip capacity by now. But if you’re a beginner woodworker looking for a table saw, you might be wondering “what is rip capacity on a table saw?” In this post, I’ll explore everything you should know about rip capacities and why it’s important. Let’s dig…

Two of the most popular power tool brands on the market are DeWalt and Milwaukee. But which is better? Red or yellow? In this DeWalt vs Milwaukee comparison, I’ll explain the differences between both of these power tool behemoths to find out which you should buy. Let’s dig in! DeWalt vs Milwaukee Power Tools Quality…

A workbench is a woodworker’s best friend that gets used daily, which is why many people will spend years tweaking their workbenches so they’re just right. So what’s the best wood for your wooden workbench top? In this post, I’ll explain the best wood for your wood workbench that’s durable and long-lasting. There’s certainly no…

Table saws and circular saws are two of the most commonly used saws, so it should come as no surprise that these saws are often compared. Both saws have attractive qualities, and these make them great for a range of cutting tasks. But which is better overall between a table saw and circular saw? In…

Table saws are some of the best tools for making long, accurate cuts, at a production pace. Once you adjust the fence to the proper distance from the blade, you can feed board after board across the blade with extreme precision and speed. As is the case with most tools, however, there are many different…

Miter saws and table saws are two popular saws that woodworkers use to make a variety of cuts, but which is better overall and when should you use each one? In this post, I’ll explain the differences between miter saws and table saws, the types of cuts they can make, when you should use each,…

Although wood is usually stained before polyurethane is applied, you may find yourself in a situation where you want to stain over polyurethane. But is this even possible? The answer is YES, but there are some important things you need to know before you start staining polyurethane. In this post, I’ll explain if you can…

Polyurethane comes in many different sheens, but two of the most commonly used are satin and semi-gloss. In many respects these sheens are similar, but their differences are important to consider to get the look you want for your project. Ready to learn the differences between satin vs semi gloss polyurethane and which you should…

Two common wood finishes are shellac and polyurethane. These finishes are pretty similar, but there are also some key differences that you need to know. Below, I break down shellac vs polyurethane so you can know when you should use each and which is better overall. Let’s dig in! What is Shellac? Shellac is a…

New woodworkers are often confused about how to use wood glue. After all, there are multiple types of wood glue available, each with different applications, so choosing one can feel intimidating. These woodworkers are also worried they’ll make a mess and ruin their projects. However, wood glue is actually quite easy to use, and clean-up…

Palm sanders and orbital sanders are two common types of power sanders you can get your hands on. They offer plenty of similarities, but there are a few differences you’ll want to be aware of. So how does a palm sander stack up against an orbital sander? In this post, I’m going to compare palm…

Table saws and band saws are two common types of saws that woodworkers use all of the time. But what are the differences and when should you use each one? In this post, I’ll compare the difference between table saws vs band saws so you can know when to use each one. Let’s dig in!…

When most people think of sanding, they think of using a piece of sandpaper to make a surface smoother. This is known as dry sanding, and although it’s the kind of sanding most people know, it’s not the only kind! In this post, I’m going to compare wet sanding vs dry sanding, how you can…

Polyurethane finishes are a great way to protect your wood and keep it lasting for years. There are two main types of polyurethane – oil based polyurethane and water based polyurethane. But what’s the difference and when should you use each? In this post, I’ll compare oil based vs water based polyurethane so you know…

You’ll find many tools and fixtures in a home woodworking shop, and few are more important than the workbench. A workbench must be accommodating in a variety of ways, and the length, width, and height must all be right to ensure you can use the workbench for a wide range of tasks. In this post,…