I've had a long-standing interest in woodworking but haven't had the chance to get formal training. I'm really interested in cabinetmaking, and my wife suggested I start with something basic, like carving spoons. I'm considering this approach, but I want to know if spoon carving is a helpful skill for cabinetmaking down the road. If it's not, what are some affordable woodworking projects I can tackle at home? I'm 28 and hold advanced degrees in unrelated fields. Am I being unrealistic about pursuing woodworking? Are there any experiences similar to mine that led to a positive outcome? I might be studying in France in the near future. Thanks!
4 Answers
You should definitely check out YouTube for beginner woodworking videos! A channel called "Woodworking for Mere Mortals" is great for starters, and the host Steve is super encouraging. Carving spoons sounds fun, but it won't really boost your cabinetmaking skills directly. Have you considered looking for an apprenticeship? That could be a fantastic way to gain hands-on experience. Good luck!
Steve really knows how to make it approachable for newbies! He emphasizes that there’s no one right way to do things, which is encouraging.
Are you looking to switch careers or just dabble in woodworking for fun?
I’d like to switch careers, but I’m fine starting as a hobbyist while I figure things out.
Carving is a different beast from cabinet making. Each area in woodworking requires its own unique skill set and tools. You might want to check out 'Bourbon Moth' on YouTube for engaging cabinet builds – he has a fun, straightforward way of explaining things, and it's good for picking up new ideas and techniques. Here’s a video that might help you get started: [https://youtu.be/89WeF52XwcI?si=ecrwe3K1If7R_wee](https://youtu.be/89WeF52XwcI?si=ecrwe3K1If7R_wee).
That sounds interesting! I’ll definitely give it a watch.
To get started, you might want to invest in some basic power tools, especially a table saw – it’s a game changer. Learn how to build jigs and sleds for it, like a crosscut sled; that will help you a lot! Also, get quality measuring tools and practice making exact measurements. If you're interested in hand tools, mastering sharpening will make a huge difference, and you can get good results from affordable chisels.
If you can set up your table saw correctly and build jigs for accuracy, you’ll be able to create nearly anything you want!
Solid advice! I really appreciate your insights.
Thanks for the tip! I’d love to find an apprenticeship, but I think it’s easier through formal programs. How else do people get into that? Don’t you need some type of training first?