Shop Refuge

Rob Johnstone photoApparently, something important is going on today here in the U.S. So many people I know are pretty worked up — scared, sad, angry, worried, frustrated…the list goes on. I confess that I am a person who pays way too much attention to politics. But here are a couple of things I know to be true. Tomorrow and the next day and the next will continue as they always have. And it is better to spend those days in the shop than nearly anywhere else.

As Solomon said, “There is nothing new under the sun. But there are woodworking shops, and that’s pretty cool!” (That second sentence, I’ll admit, is challenged by some scholars…)

So I hope today finds you focused on mortises and tenons, gluing up lumber and cleaning your shop — all things that we have a chance of controlling (the cleaning part is questionable in my shop). Remember, the only two things in life you can’t avoid are death and wood movement.

Rob Johnstone, Woodworker’s Journal

Project Plans for Holiday Gifts

Barrel stave candle holder project

Get a head start on your holiday planning with our collection of gift ideas, most of which you can make in a weekend!

Table Saw Comparison – Contractor Saw vs. Cabinet Saw

Take a closer look at the differences and similarities you’ll find on a contractor table saw and a cabinet table saw. We compare the SawStop Contractor Saw to the SawStop Pro Cabinet Saw.

From Our Sponsor

Free Shipping on Orders of $39 or More from Rockler

If you’ve ever found a color of paint and thought it would look great as a wood stain, you’re not alone, but did you know that there is a simple process to make it happen? Discover how in the Skill Builder video below.

Wiping paint across a piece of lumber

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