Hey everyone! I'm diving into woodworking and have moved past the 'what tools to buy' phase. I've got a couple of panel saws, a back saw, some basic chisels, and wooden planes to get me started. I've been checking out some of the books and publications from Mortise & Tenon and am really inspired by their approach. I've read 'Worked' (on preparing stock) and 'Jointed' (covering dovetails, mortise and tenons, etc.) and I'm eager to apply those techniques. What I'm really looking for is recommendations for books that have a step-by-step approach to furniture making using traditional methods. Ideally, I'd love a sort of 'curriculum' to follow over the next year so I can get well-acquainted with crafting traditional furniture. Any suggestions or thoughts? Even if you think I should be starting differently, I'd love to hear it. I grew up working with metal, but I'm really enchanted by woodworking. Thanks a bunch for any advice!
4 Answers
Why not pick a specific piece of furniture you really want for your home and build that? Break it down into its parts and the techniques needed—it's a hands-on way to learn, and mistakes will just help you grow!
You might want to get 'The Anarchist’s Design Book.' It’s a fantastic resource that balances traditional techniques with some more modern takes on furniture design. Definitely worth a look!
Just a heads up—most furniture making often involves a lot of boxes! Seriously, you’ll find most pieces are just variations of boxes: bookshelves, dressers, side tables, and all the drawers in between. Just an idea if you're not set on avoiding box-making!
Check out Waters & Acland; they offer a digital course that seems to align perfectly with what you're looking for. It could be a great structured way to get started!
I totally agree! Plus, it'll make the process feel more rewarding when you're building something you actually want.