There are times when an idea doesn’t pan out. It’s too complicated for it’s own good. By simplifying the design, execution excels and the end product improves. See how I simplify the design of these jewelry boxes to improve efficiency and the results.

A year of blogging in review. In this article I share what I learned and why I keep writing.

Beware. One of the most beautiful woods used by all YouTube woodworkers is a neurotoxin, for dogs. I’ll explain the symptoms and what to do if your dog has been affected by black walnut and I’ll share my story about how I, or rather my dog Ginger, found out.

Terminology is important. That’s why I did some research on the terms bookcase and bookshelf so I knew what to call a bookcase I made. Here’s what I found and my definitions and differentiation between the two terms.

Ever look at a really cool piece of wood and notice how it is shimmery or wavy? Ever wonder what that is? It is called chatoyancy, fancy right? Chatoyancy is the visual effect when a two dimensional object looks three dimensional because of the coloring or properties of the piece. In this article I will explain what causes it and why the tree decided it would form these pretty patterns for us to enjoy.

Sap leaking out of a board? Don’t panic, grab the heat gun and get to work crystalizing that sap so it stops running.

As I reflect on the making of The Ellie Bookcase I wanted to share what I did, why I did it that way, and my lessons learned to improve next time. This article will give you a glimpse beyond what I shared in the build video, for those curious folks who might want to try making one of their own.

How do you gain confidence? Experience is one way, but a faster way is to have a safety net. Knowing if you fail and fall but you will not be harmed gives you the confidence to try. Trying gives you experience and builds your confidence. All you need is that initial security, and a little push to start.

This week on the Friday Update I share my latest project, a bookcase I’m making for my daughter. I made a lot of progress, made a few mistakes, and had a bit of a redo setting the project back a few days.