. Looking to clean old wood or prepare it for stain? Mineral spirits offer an easy, safe, and effective method for refreshing wood without damage. Whether you’re restoring vintage furniture or prepping trim for stain, this guide will show you how to use mineral spirits step-by-step—and why they’ve been trusted by generations of woodworkers. Key … Read more
There’s something satisfying about bringing old wood back to life. Whether it’s barn siding, an antique door, or a weathered cedar plank, wood has a story. But sometimes, that story is hidden beneath layers of grime, peeling paint, or old varnish. When hand sanding just won’t cut it, sandblasting wood might be your best bet. … Read more
Protecting your handmade wood furniture is just as important as crafting it. A single hot dish or a cold drink can leave behind lasting damage like water rings or burn marks. Sure, refinishing a table is possible—but who wants an extra project? That’s where coasters and trivets come in handy. In this extended guide, we’ll … Read more
Most people think of plywood as just cheap, utility-grade wood. For years, I thought the same—until I started working on weekend furniture builds in my garage and realized how much potential it actually has. I’ve used plywood to create pieces that look like solid oak, brushed metal, even marble. Some attempts were a disaster (don’t … Read more
So, I was halfway through building a couple of floating shelves when I stopped, looked at the plywood I was using, and thought — “Ugh. This just looks like plywood.” Not exactly the rich, oak look I had pictured in my head. Instead of scrapping the project or shelling out for hardwood, I started playing … Read more