As you can imagine, I get a lot of questions from members about the space, the tools, the classes, and all sorts of things. Many things are straightforward for me to answer, and others require more time and consideration to ensure you, the member, get what you need.
Questions like,
Where Do I get lumber?
How do I learn the laser?
What should I build? This one question is among the top five most frequently asked questions I receive, and it is exactly what I want to focus this article on.
My initial response to this question was to direct the member to Pinterest or Fine Woodworking Magazine. Still, I now realize there may be more suitable suggestions. Why? While Pinterest is an excellent resource for generating inspiration and ideas, it needs more specific guidance on building the project. On the other hand, Fine Woodworking Magazine offers excellent plans and directions, but its designs can be complicated at times. Planning and executing some designs can be too challenging if a user is unfamiliar with a tool or process.
I’ve also discovered that as humans, we naturally want to understand everything, but not all at once. It takes time and practice to grasp the reasons behind using a tool or process and explore alternative approaches. For instance, I’m often asked if the Introduction to Woodworking class teaches how to make dovetail joints. My response is that it’s more important to start with the basics, learning the fundamentals of making good marks, cutting a straight line, and becoming comfortable with which tool to use and how to use it. If I were to start with teaching dovetail joints first, I’m afraid it would lead to frustration and the feeling that all woodworking is too tricky. Cutting dovetail joints is likely not too challenging for most of us, but it’s much better to learn to walk and then to run.
So, returning to the main question, “What should I build?”. My current advice is to build what you need. Build something utility, something handy, something that fulfills a purpose. Identify a problem that requires a solution you can provide and construct it. That’s all you need to get started. Don’t over think it. Consider some of these ideas to help you understand what I mean: Do you need a boost to reach the top shelf in the kitchen, you can build a step stool. Is your desk cluttered with bits and bobs, you can make a small box to organize them. Maybe you frequently lose the remote in the couch cushions, you can build a remote-control organizer for the coffee table. You get the point. There’s always something to start with. Don’t over think it.
Now you’ve got an idea of what you want to build, but how do you start? If you keep the “what” simple, the “how” can be just as straightforward. Begin by sketching out some basic ideas. What it looks like is always a good starting point. Determine the materials you want, such as hardwood, plywood, or construction lumber. Next, start with basic joinery, like a butt joint and some screws. Learn how to measure and mark the wood accurately. Also, master the art of cutting the wood. As you progress, you’ll naturally become more knowledgeable and equipped to ask the right questions. Before you know it, you’ll have successfully built something.
You might wonder, “Steven, where can I learn these basic woodworking skills?” Well, there are several options available. You can enroll in an Introduction to Woodworking class, seek guidance from experienced members, or explore online resources like YouTube University. The key is to take action and start making something. This hands-on experience will guide you down a path of learning and discovery. Keep striving for better techniques and continuously seeking knowledge; you’ll eventually find the answers you need.