Steve Maxwell tips on Woodworking

HAND PLANES: Real Reasons to Like Them

In a world where power tools rule, hand planes still offer the chance to boost quality in a way you might not realize. No matter how good power tools get, there will always be jobs where a well-tuned hand plane […]

GAP-FREE WOODWORKING JOINTS: Simple Trick Makes It Easy

Sometimes a little woodworking trick can deliver a lot of value. That’s the case with an operation called “kerfing”. Click below to watch how I use kerfing to tighten up a visible joint that’s got more of a gap than […]

WOODWORKING TRICK: How to Replace Jointer Blades So They Cut Great

Every good woodworker needs to be something of a mechanic. That’s because all woodworking machines need tender loving care from time to time. The jointer needs this more than most. Click below to watch a video I made a few […]

INSTALLING TRIM: Five Tips for Great Results (Plus Two Videos!)

Installing trim? Be sure to see the five tricks that’ll make the job easier. Bonus video, too!

SHOP-CUT VENEER: How & Why I Like This Woodworking Technique

Sometimes the stability and strength of hardwood veneered sheet goods is perfect for a particular project, but they don’t make veneered plywood in the species you need. Or maybe you’re leery about using ready-made veneered ply where the veneer is […]

EDGE-GLUING SOLID WOOD: Three steps for success in the home workshop

Gluing boards edge-to-edge to make wider pieces is an essential woodworking skill. Learn these three tips for getting this job done right.

STAIR TREAD TRICK: See Simple Jig on Video

Are you building or renovating stairs? Do you need to precisely fit pieces of wood between two fixed surfaces? You’ve got to watch this video. It’s the first I ever posted online, it’s been public since November 28, 2008 and it’s […]

Quartersawn Wood Lumber: Why Woodworkers Should Be Looking At The Ends of Boards

UPDATED 26Sep2018: I’ve noticed that most woodworkers start assessing a board by looking at its face. But if this is where your investigations end, you’re missing out on insights that can lead to a lot of creative control and better […]

RAISED PANELS, HAND-PLANED: Make Solid Wood Panels Without a Router

Woodworking machines are great, but there’s more of a place for hand tools than many people think. Click below to watch how I refine the bevel on the edge of raised door panels using a sharp hand plane. The results […]

SPADE BITS: A Simple & Undervalued Woodworking Tool

Spade bits are one of my favourites for boring large holes in wood, and they’re useful in ways that other bits aren’t. And though every hardware store in the civilized world sells spade bits, I find that few people appreciate […]