Back to the Shop!

If your New Year’s resolutions find you resolving to spend more time in the shop, Woodworker’s Journal knows where you’re coming from — and we’re here to help you out. Our editor in chief (who has his own new shop to go to) introduces you to poplar in our new hardwood series — and teaches you the steps to creating bandsawn boxes. Our tool experts take on biscuit joiners and drill presses; you’ll find instructions on making a rocking chair and a dresser valet, and a kitchen workstation — and, even though it’s the beginning of the year, you’ll find tons of information on finishing your projects in both a feature article and a new skill building series.

Shaker-Inspired Woven Rocking Chair: Yes, you can build a rocker — the author’s been tinkering with this basic design for years and has it down to a classic project that’s highly comfortable and relies on simple construction.

Wood Finishing Skill Builder: The first in Michael Dresdner’s series on all of the steps of finishing looks at the subject of surface preparation. Keep following the course, and you’ll be an expert in the matter by year’s end.

Woodworking Drill Presses: What you’ll find on the market these days are drill presses actually meant for woodworking. Chris Marshall takes you through the features that matter to you.

Kitchen Workstation: Laminated maple and painted poplar combine to form a sturdy, adaptable workstation to support your culinary pursuits.

Bandsawn Boxes Made Easy: Create a two-drawered box in no time flat — you’ll have no trouble turning out more.

Shop Test: George Vondriska gives you a guide to biscuit joiners.

Clean Up & Polish: Master woodworker Ian Kirby explains a time-tested process and finish that will bring your next project to a fitting end.

Blue-Collar Hardwood: What it lacks in beauty, yellow poplar reaps in utility. Meet an unsung hero in our brand-new woods of the world series.

Woodturning: Betty Scarpino tells you how to get a grip on bowl turning with an adjustable metal chuck.

Jigs and Fixtures: Sandor Nagyszalanczy’s simple tapering jigs.