A few years ago I got busy fixing a flat tire on my lawn tractor on a Saturday, and the job took much longer than it needed to. I also endured more anguish than necessary during the task, and I…
When my wife and I moved one of our sons into university for the first time I couldn’t help but notice all the posters around campus advertising free help for mental health issues. There were dozens of them. This is…
In this week’s video episode, learn how threads are cut on steel pipes with a machine; see a Milwaukee cordless pipe threader in action; understand how important cutting oil is to the process; watch curls of hot metal being cut from a pipe; and see how a simple clamp holds iron pipe securely while threading. Working with black iron pipe like this is the best kept secret of the workshop world.
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 above to see how I install and adjust fresh…
A few months ago I upgraded my bandsaw, and the quick video below that we made this past Wednesday shows me using it to make a 4×6 from a 6×6. That’s called “resawing” and it’s the heaviest job I’ve tried…
Click below to see an amazing magnetic drill press unboxing and use video tour. If you ever have to drill thick metal that can’t be put on a regular drill press, a magnetic drill like this is the answer.
Woodworking machines are great, but there’s more of a place for hand tools than many home woodworkers realize. Click above to watch how I refine the angled edge (called the “bevel”) for some raised door panels using a sharp hand plane….
You’re probably not a professional wood finisher, but if you’re interested in finishing wood well, you need to know about a very simple, inexpensive, reliable and effective spray gun called the Critter. I’ve used and tested many brands and types…
Click below to watch me apply a new, coloured version of a favourite outdoor wood finish of mine. It’s called Ecowood Treatment. Join me as I apply the “weathered wood” version to a new white cedar picnic table. I’ve never used…
Click above to watch a tour of what might just be the world’s best ratcheting screwdriver. It’s not often you get to see a tool like this cut open, but here you can. It’s also made in Canada (and isn’t…
A number of years ago I was asked to testify in a lawsuit involving a father who fell off a ladder building a shed for his adult son. This man was suing his son for not providing a safe working…
Got some painted solid wood trim at your house? You’ve probably got ugly knots showing through, too. Solve the problem once and for all using more than just hope and an old wives tale.