Projects

Behind a distinctive double-arched door are unknowns and secrets. While surfing the Internet for examples of spice boxes, I stumbled upon an antique box with a distinctive door. While I’m [...]

Not too big, not too small. This chest is a handy size for a basic set of tools. Editor’s note: This article originally appeared in the June 2009 issue of Popular Woodworking Magazine. It’s [...]

Another guard style that’s especially popular with students is the faceted guard. This design is easy to lay out using a small straightedge or a 6″ ruler. Once the front-view design is [...]

This fence is designed to be used at a drill press or router table, and features built-in dust collection for keeping your shop, and lungs, clean. Project #2505 • Skill Level: Beginner • Time: 2 [...]

This winged box is turned fast, and the end result will leave people asking how you did that. Project #2504 • Skill Level: Advanced • Time: 4 Hours • Cost: $20 Before beginning this project, I [...]

Last time, I talked about potential shapes for the handle and pommel. In this entry, we’ll shape the blade and introduce the first of several guard designs. If possible, shape the blade [...]

Professional-sized ladder golf sets are larger and more robust than the chintzy ones you usually find in yard game kits. This project is a great way to use some long skinny scrap pieces too.  I [...]

After my student finished forming the cross-lap joints (see part 1), I asked what kind of hilt they envisioned for their sword. Should the grip be tapered and rounded? Should it end with a [...]

This handsome hanging storage unit is a snap to build with screwed butt joints.

One of the most popular projects my students ask to build is a sword. Alongside boatmaking or crafting a gnome house, swordmaking has become one of the signature fourth-grade projects we do once [...]

This small linen chest can be made in batches, and the lid presents some fun challenges during the process. Project #2502 • Skill Level: Intermediate • Time: 2 Days • Cost: $20 Inspiration for a [...]

I recently made a few softwood handles on the table saw using a method that streamlines a simple yet elegant design—handles that can handle a lot. These handles are thick, tactile, strong, and [...]