Plywood vs MDF vs Particleboard — it’s one of the most common debates in woodworking and DIY projects. If you’ve ever stood in the lumber aisle trying to decide which sheet to grab, you’re not alone. I’ve used all three materials in cabinet builds, furniture projects, and shop setups — and they each have their … Read more
When I built my first set of kitchen cabinets, I had no idea there were so many types of plywood. I walked into the lumber yard thinking I’d grab “cabinet-grade” plywood and call it a day. But after dealing with warped panels, chipping veneers, and a cabinet box that wouldn’t stay square, I learned the … Read more
I’ll be honest—when I first tried staining pine, I thought it would be one of those easy wins. Grab a stain, swipe it on, wipe it off, and stand back to admire the grain. But what I actually ended up with looked like I dragged a wet sock through motor oil. That’s when I learned … Read more
When I started woodworking, I didn’t have a fancy shop or even a proper workbench. What I did have was a warped sheet of plywood, a half-dead drill I borrowed from my neighbor, and a wild idea that I could build something. It wasn’t pretty. It wasn’t square. But I made it — and that … Read more
I remember my first DIY project like it was yesterday — a wobbly shoe rack made from warped 2x4s and way too many screws. I was working out of a cramped rental garage with a folding table, a hand-me-down drill, and more enthusiasm than sense. I didn’t have a clue what I needed, so I … Read more