Fine Woodworking

How-To

Featured

A Trick for Cutting Smooth Curves on the Bandsaw

Using the back edge of the bandsaw blade to pivot through curves leads to less waste and more accurate cuts

How to make a rule joint

This joint links drop leaves to the tabletop and looks good with the leaves up or down.

The art of marquetry

Learn the double-bevel technique from a master of the medium

Build an adjustable tablesaw L-fence

Rabbets, tenons, flush-trimming, miters, and pattern work all get significantly easier when you build an adjustable L-fence like this one by Bob Van Dyke

How to make a knuckle joint

Steve Latta demonstrates how to create a knuckle joint, the heart of a period drop leaf table.

Recent How-To Stories

Handplane a twist out of a board

June 1, 2021

To flatten a twisted board, Bob Van Dyke first determines which corners are highest and then systematically planes sections until the board is flat.
Create a continuous-grain apron and drawer

May 18, 2021

Mike Korsak demonstrates how to cut the apron and drawer front from the same board for perfect continuous grain.
Add Richness to Mahogany

May 14, 2021

This recipe creates an aged look for new mahogany.
What to Think About When Designing Any Table

May 12, 2021

Although tables come in many designs, there are a few basic forms, with many variations. Here is a look at all of them.
The best woods for steam-bending

May 11, 2021

Brian Boggs has steam-bent dozens of different woods over the years. Here he tells his favorites and why.
Dialing in a dado stack on the first try

May 10, 2021

Grooves, tenons, bridle joints, rabbets—this affordable tool cuts them all.
Seven tasks for a block plane

May 4, 2021

One of the most versatile tools in the shop, the humble block plane is essential to Mike Korsak's production of accurate and precise work.
Thumb molding by hand

May 3, 2021

Megan Fitzpatrick creates a half thumb molding on the edge of her toolbox lid by hand, in only a few minutes.
How to make a simple box-joint jig

May 3, 2021

The key to Mike Pekovich's box joints is a simple jig that allows him to quickly work toward a perfect fit.
Milling parts for perfect drawers

April 21, 2021

If the drawer parts don't fit properly, it doesn't matter how perfect your dovetails look.