Finding your niche with woodworking as an art is a great thing. It is quite fun and rewarding, but maybe you need some tips to set you on the right path to better projects. Keep reading to find out all about woodworking, and prepare yourself for the fun that lies ahead.
Test the stain before you apply it to the wood you are using in your project. If you test the stain color first, you will not have any unpleasant surprises. This simple testing tactic lets you counter the unpredictability of wood.
Know how much you can spend in order to create a project. It is quite common to be far more ambitious than the budget allows when working on a particular project. It is the worst when you are making a project and figure out you cannot afford to finish. Plan ahead and avoid surprises.
If you’re renting a new tool, ask for a brief tutorial. Oftentimes, they have someone available to train you with the tool. If you ask, they might have a list available with some other tips to help you later.
Never use your fingers when guiding the cut of a slim piece of wood. Instead, use a piece of scrap wood to safely push the lumber through your table saw. This will prevent you from inadvertently whacking off your fingers.
It is a good idea to keep a small ruler in your pocket, but you may find it falls out when you bend over because of the length. Purchase a metal ruler to carry along with a small telescoping magnet that is used to grab loose screws or nails. They’ll both stay in your pocket this way.
Golf Tee
If the hinges on your interior doors are loose, you can use a golf tee to fix them. Remove hinges and door from door frame and lightly tap one golf tee inside each of the screw holes. Cut the extra golf tee off and install the door again. The screw can bite into the tee.
Add some springiness to your grip. You might need to use spring clamps, but you may only have one free hand. It can be tough to open such clamps with a single hand. However, you can make things easier on yourself. Prior to starting glue-ups, gather your clamps and place them on one piece of wood with both hands. This will put them close to the jaw size for your piece, so you will not fumble around as much.
For people who love woodworking, understanding that your projects do not need to be perfect is important. They are your own personal creations which gives them special character. The more you practice, the better you will get, so remain patient.