Woodshop library

ROUGH CUT: WOODWORKING WITH TOMMY MAC, by Tommy MacDonald with Laurie Donnelly, offers step-by-step plans to the 12 projects featured on the first season of “Rough Cut” on PBS.

The projects include a Shaker step stool and nightstand, trestle table, wall cabinet, octagonal Lazy Susan, keepsake box, flag box, serving tray, bread box, blanket chest, Chippendale footstool and trellis. Each project is based on a particular woodworking technique. There’s a “bonus” chapter on finishing, while MacDonald shares his tips and skill-building suggestions throughout the book.

The 186-page softcover sells for $24.95. Publisher: Taunton Press.

GETTING STARTED IN PINEWOOD DERBY, by Troy Thorne, is a step-by-step workbook that teaches adults and children how to spend quality time together while building their first Pinewood Derby car. Colorfully illustrated in comic-book style, this handy guide provides 12 patterns and paint designs from which to choose and ideas for personalizing a race car. It’s perfect for the woodworker who wants to share some shop time with a son or daughter. The 96-page softcover sells for $12.95. Publisher: Fox Chapel Publishing.

This article originally appeared in the February 2012 issue.