Christmas in May

Rob Johnstone staff photo

About eight years ago, I got married for the second time. I was living in the country, and the “town” nearby had two bars and a gas station. Not quite enough of the services my new wife was looking for. Also, the house I was living in was where my first wife had passed away, and that was awkward.

So, Mary and I bought a new house together, close to each of our workplaces and with no history. Mary sold her townhome, and I sold my property along with my 40′ x 40′ heated, air conditioned and wired-for-220V woodworking shop. It was packed full of tools and lumber.

While I did my best to get rid of the tools and lumber, when it came time to move, I still had a ton of stuff leftover. The solution was a storage unit. I would keep it for about a year while I got rid of the rest of the stuff.

Eight years later, I am now emptying the storage unit. It is a lot of work, and some things I put in there I am simply throwing away on the spot. But other things…oh my, my! While it won’t take another eight years to get through all my stuff, I am being slowed up by finding and remembering all the groovy stuff I own. (I guess if I haven’t used it in eight years, I don’t really need it!)

Rob Johnstone, Woodworker’s Journal

Building a Basic Small Table

Continuing to build on basic woodworking techniques, Rob demonstrates how to craft this very basic but sturdy end table. You’ll also learn some lamination techniques to create the tabletop.

Click Here to Download the Plans.

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Wiping Walrus Oil finish on block cutting board
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Premium Project: Cedar Potting Bench

Cedar garden bench project
This spacious and stylish fixture for your gardening needs can also double as an outdoor bar with beverage cooler!

Premium Project: Arts and Crafts Nightstand

Table saw constructed nightstand
What makes this classic nightstand unique? All of the joinery for this functional yet beautiful cabinet was done on the table saw.

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