I'm diving back into woodworking as I'm building a house and need a desk for my office. My wife has been dragging me around looking for a new desk, but I really dislike the mass-produced options I've seen. I believe I can create something nice on my own, even with my limited woodworking skills and modest budget for tools. I've designed a simple desk in CAD—70"x28"x30" with a waterfall edge on one side and a powder-coated steel U-shaped leg on the other. I once dabbled in woodworking years ago, but life got busy with kids and space constraints. Now, I'm seeking advice: how did you all get started? What pitfalls should a true beginner like me be aware of? What tools did you use for your first project? I'm overwhelmed by all the product options online. Also, what woods would be forgiving for beginners that aren't generic pine? I've heard that red oak and cherry are good choices.
3 Answers
Cherry is a fantastic choice for a beginner! It's not only beautiful but also works well with both hand and power tools. I suggest starting with a simple side table project using cherry; it's fairly priced and you'll need just a bit of lumber. Also, when it comes to tools, invest in quality ones gradually. I made the mistake of buying too many tools upfront that ended up gathering dust. Focus on your essential tools first!
For a waterfall desk, consider using slabs; they really highlight the wood's grain. Popular choices are walnut, cherry, oak, and maple—just check prices. As for cuts, a tablesaw or a track saw is great. Just ensure whatever you get can handle 45-degree angles for edges. Flattening can get costly and complicated, but if you're okay with decent quality, an orbital sander will do the trick. Good luck with your project!
Thanks for the tips! I'll need to research flattening options. If I'm making basic furniture, should I start with a table saw or a track saw?
I found a fantastic local wood supplier that offers much better prices than what my builder used. Their variety is great! For cherry, I was quoted about $50 for the top board and $25 for the sides. If I plan to join three boards for each side, that runs about $225 for materials. Definitely shop around for your wood choices—you might find a great deal!
Thanks for the suggestion! I love cherry! Do you have any recommendations for stains or finishes that work well with it?