Woodshop library
TABLE SAW FUNDAMENTALS, by Rick Peters, describes what to look for in a table saw and what a woodworker can do with the tool once they have one. From basic…
TABLE SAW FUNDAMENTALS, by Rick Peters, describes what to look for in a table saw and what a woodworker can do with the tool once they have one. From basic table saw techniques to more advanced uses, Peters' advice is simple to follow and a breeze to understand. It covers how to choose a table saw, basic and advanced techniques, and maintenance tasks. A chapter on table saw accessories describes what type of blade does what and includes solid information about dado sets and molding heads. The sections on extension tables and safety add-ons are a must-read, as each add-on literally expands the table saw's performance and the tasks it can accomplish. Projects and instructions for shop-made jigs are included, while reader-friendly diagrams and photos amplify the in-depth table saw information. Instructions are also provided on building a demilune table, bookcase, blanket chest, wall-hung tool cabinet and occasional table. The 192-page softcover sells for $17.95. Contact: Sterling Publishing Co., 387 Park Ave. S., New York, NY 10016-8810. Tel: 212-532-7160. www.sterlingpub.com
WORKSHOPS YOU CAN BUILD, by David and Jeanie Stiles, is for anyone who needs space for woodworking, art, writing, etc. It shows how to construct the needed space in a basement or garage, or build a new structure. From the basement to the attic, to the separate workshop or garage, the authors cover it all, offering simple solutions for the most difficult problems that will pop up along the way. It covers the planning and design phase, and provides an overview on foundations, framing, roofing and construction fundamentals. The book features 300 illustrations and diagrams, and 33 color photos of workshops and spaces, used by everyone from artists to craftspeople. The 224-page softcover sells for $19.95. Contact: Firefly Books Ltd., 4 Daybreak Lane, Westport, CT 06880. Tel: 203-222-9700. www.fireflybooks.com
FURNITURE WORKSHOP, A WOODWORKER'S GUIDE, by Kevin Ley, is a practical guide to starting a business as a woodworker. It's also a perfect book for the person who would just like to learn and expand on a growing hobby. From deciding if you can make a living as a furniture maker, to setting up a successful workshop and business, Ley adeptly explains what to expect and what reachable goals to strive toward. Shop safety and a rundown on what supplies are needed for a successful shop are included, with Ley laying out the 17 essential hand tools. Power tools — and the importance of insuring them — are also explained. It includes plans to build a drop-front desk with 12 secret compartments. Other projects include a Morris-style rocking chair, "classic" mahogany and cherry bookcase, Arts & Crafts-style bedroom suite, burl elm chest and walnut bureau. The 128-page softcover sells for $17.95. Contact: Sterling Publishing Co., 387 Park Ave. S., New York, NY 10016-8810. Tel: 212-532-7160. www.sterlingpub.com
TAUNTON'S COMPLETE ILLUSTRATED GUIDE TO TURNING, by Richard Raffan, is a step-by-step reference that covers all aspects of turning, including lathes, wood and technique. Beginning with what kind of lathe suits a particular woodworker's needs, to what tools to use with the new lathe, the book sets down a good foundation on the basics of turning. Sharpening, prepping blanks of wood, simple projects, lathe maintenance and advanced techniques are also covered. Raffan's description of how to set up a lathe is a breeze to understand and is vital for getting a lathe to work properly. How-to information is also provided for spindle and faceplate work, and turning bowls, boxes and hollow vessels. The book features more than 900 color photographs. The 256-page hardcover sells for $39.95. Contact: Taunton Direct, 63 S. Main St., P.O. Box 5507, Newtown, CT 06470-5507. Tel: 800-888-8286. www.taunton.com
MANAGING THE SMALL CONSTRUCTION BUSINESS, a compilation of articles written by contractors, provides the knowledge and information any contractor needs to deal with the business side of owning a construction or subcontractor business. The topics include bidding strategies, estimating, change orders, bookkeeping basics, overhead and markup, low-cost marketing, managing employees, customer service and conflict resolution. Authors specifically address hanging up the tool belt to focus on managing, ways to find dependable and productive employees, and how to retain good help. A full and informative index is a useful portion of this 324-page book. Black and white photos, diagrams and charts are included. It sells for $34.95. Contact: The Journal of Light Construction Books, P.O. Box 5000, Forrester Center, WV 25438. Tel: 800-859-3669. www.jlcbooks.com
— James Foye
