May 16, 2025
Each week, we round up a few links that we think will inspire, educate, or connect you with the broader woodworking world. Whether you’re just getting started or you’ve been building for decades, there’s something in here for everyone. Here’s what we found this week:
🛠 Beginner Project: 14 Easy Woodworking Projects (with Free Plans)
If you’re looking for an approachable way to build your skills, this post from Fix This Build That is a goldmine. It features 14 simple projects with free downloadable plans—everything from a kid’s bookshelf to a wall-mounted drying rack and a wooden doormat.
These are designed with beginners in mind: limited tools, clear instructions, and great results.
👉 Check out the full list and plans
🌟 Inspiration: How a Pandemic Hobby Became a Woodworking Movement
Tonda Thompson started woodworking during the early days of the pandemic, simply wanting a coffee table. That project sparked a passion, and today she runs She Slangs Wood, a business and a community rooted in creativity and empowerment.
Her journey is a reminder that a single project can change everything.
👉 Read the full story on The Guardian
📰 Industry Insight: Woodworking Execs Look Ahead to 2025
Wondering where the industry is headed? According to a recent piece on Woodworking Network, leaders across the sector are optimistic. The forecast: increased demand for custom work, better access to new tools and technology, and fresh opportunities for small shops to grow.
If you’re thinking about the future of your own woodworking practice, this is worth a read.
🎨 Local Highlight: Art Walk Middleton – This Weekend!
Saturday, May 17 from 10am–5pm
Downtown Middleton
Explore a wide range of local artwork—including woodworking—at this one-day outdoor event. It’s a great way to get inspired, connect with the creative community, and maybe even find your next project idea.
👉 More details at VisitMiddleton.com
We’ll continue to curate resources like this each week. If you’ve found something you think other Joinery members would enjoy, send it our way—we’d love to share it in a future post.
Until next time,
– The Joinery Team