Woodshop library

CARVING 18TH CENTURY AMERICAN FURNITURE ELEMENTS features 10 step-by-step projects for carving authentic motifs found on 18th century American furniture.

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This book, by Tony Kubalak, guides you through every step of carving intricate period designs that include all the ornate detail that makes each element historically accurate and noteworthy. Every project covers the full process from shaping the surface through layout to rough carving and detailed carving. Clear, easy-to-understand photographs and diagrams illustrate every step of the carving project. Kubalak builds Queen Anne and Chippendale furniture reproductions in his workshop in Eagan, Minn. His work has been featured in numerous woodworking and craft publications, including Woodshop News. The 112-page softcover sells for $24.95. Contact: Linden Publishing Inc. Tel: 800-345-4447. www.woodworkerslibrary.com

BUILDING WOODEN SNOWSHOES & SNOWSHOE FURNITURE, by Gil Gilpatrick, includes several projects for building rustic, snowshoe-inspired furniture, like rocking chairs, foot stools and more with detailed plans and patterns - all perfect for cabins, cottages and other outdoor retreats. A master outdoorsman and woodcrafter, Gilpatrick has written several other books and is a member of the New England Outdoors Writers Association. The 160-page softcover sells for $19.95. Contact: Fox Chapel Publishing. Tel: 800-457-9112. www.foxchapelpublishing.com

WOODTURNING SPINDLE PROJECTS, by Alan Holtham, is a guide for the beginner and intermediate turner. Half of the book includes 18 projects for turning spindle projects, while the other half features basic turning techniques. The introduction includes information on setting up a turning workshop, using lathes, band saws, chucks and accessories, as well as important advice about tool grinders, abrasives and finishing. Step-by-step photos and instructions take readers through the projects, which include a lovely cabriole leg, peppermill, tool handle, lamp pulls and much more. Holtham has been involved in woodworking for more than 30 years and has a degree in forestry and wood science. He spent 20 years running his own retail tool and timber company and later set up a film studio where he produced instructional videos for woodworking machinery. The 176-page softcover sells for $24.95. Contact: Fox Chapel Publishing. Tel: 800-457-9112. www.foxchapelpublishing.com

PICKIN' STICK, by John Ressler, is the perfect introduction for aspiring luthiers. The pickin' stick is an easy-to-play, steel-stringed instrument with a diatonic scale. The book provides step-by-step instructions for building, stringing, tuning and playing the instrument. It features advice for choosing materials, along with charts, diagrams and tips for placing frets and tuning. It also has a mini chord book and a source list of retailers that carry the tools and necessary supplies. The 72-page softcover sells for $16.99. Contact: Schiffer Publishing Ltd. Tel: 610-593-1777. www.schifferbooks.com

This article originally appeared in the February 2011 issue.