Woodshop Library
The COLLINS COMPLETE WOODWORKER, from the editors of Woodworkers Journal, is a reference guide covering every stage in the process of crafting furniture and other decorative pieces. Starting with the…
The COLLINS COMPLETE WOODWORKER, from the editors of Woodworkers Journal, is a reference guide covering every stage in the process of crafting furniture and other decorative pieces. Starting with the basics — the nature of wood, the tools required and setting up a workshop — the book then examines principles of three-dimensional design in depth, from inspiration to methods of construction. The ideas are then put into practice with a comprehensive look at the various skills and techniques a woodworker requires. Step-by-step illustrations demonstrate how to make every type of joint as well as for bending wood, veneering and marquetry, woodcarving and finishing. There's also a chapter on using materials such as metal, glass and leather in combination with wood. The 356-page hardcover sells for $34.95. Contact: Harper Collins Publishers, 10 E. 53rd St., New York, NY 10022. Tel: 212-207-6961. www.harpercollins.com
POPULAR MECHANICS WORKSHOP: JOINTER & PLANER FUNDAMENTALS, by Rick Peters, is a fully illustrated guide that covers basic and advanced techniques for the jointer and planer, showing users how to expand their capabilities when using both machines. It provides step-by-step instructions for three projects: a Shaker tray, a hall mirror and a plant stand. The author delves into every aspect of each tool — basic anatomy, features, motor sizes, dust ports, maximum cut and more. Readers can check out bench-top, stationary and portable models, and also learn about accessories such as push sticks and knife-sharpening jigs. Covered techniques include face and edge jointing, and staggered cut planing. Advanced procedures include rabbet cuts, tapering a post, ganged cuts and making moldings. There's also information on maintenance and repair. The 192-page softcover sells for $19.95. Contact: Sterling Publishing Co., Inc., 387 Park Ave. South, New York, NY 10016. Tel: 212-532-7160. www.popularmechanics.com
HARDWOOD LUMBER OF THE CENTRAL MIDWEST, a product of Purdue University College of Agriculture, is an interactive CD-ROM that provides technical and practical information about the 24 hardwood species commonly found and used in the Midwest lumber industry. Designed for lumbermen, hardwood manufacturers and woodworkers, it discusses the species' strength, mechanical properties, main uses, abundance, unique characteristics, color and grading information. The CD-ROM sells for $25. To order, contact the Purdue Extension Education Store at 888-398-4636, visit ces.purdue.edu/new, or write to Agriculture Communication, Media Distribution Center, Purdue University, 231 S. University St., West Lafayette, IN 47907-2094.
TABLE SAW PROJECTS, with Ken Burton, shows readers how to master the machine many dub as the heart of the workshop. Within the text, and through an accompanying DVD, step-by-step instructions are provided for making trivets, cutting boards, bookshelves, game boxes, bookstands, mirrors, occasional tables, entertainment centers, a cylindrical chest or drawers and triangle chests. Detailed photos, diagrams and sidebar tips are included for each project. Burton has been a professional woodworker for 24 years, and currently operates Windy Ridge Woodworks in New Tripoli, Pa. The 128-page softcover and 105-minute DVD, sells for $26.99. Contact: Popular Woodworking Books, F&W Publications Inc., 4700 E. Galbraith Road, Cincinnati, OH 45236. Tel: 800-448-0915. www.popularwoodworking.com
— Jennifer Hicks
