Workshop
Woodworking, metalworking and repairs all happen in workshops, and this is where you’ll find lots of inspiration and information
Review the entire Archive of Workshop Articles here, or do a more in-depth search to find what you’re looking for.
Why Craftsmanship Matters
We’ve all heard the word “craftsmanship”, but it’s one of those terms that needs more clarity if the idea is…
RECIPROCATING SAWS: Why These Power Tools Are So Useful
That’s me holding a small, 12-volt cordless reciprocating saw. Both blades and the saws themselves have gotten a lot better…
HOW TO BUILD SAWHORSES: Building Plans & Video Tour
Want to build some good, old-fashioned wooden saw horses? Watch the video above to see how I do it. Downloadable,…
Dowel Joint Strength Stress Test
Watch me conduct a stress test on a dowel joint in soft wood. Dowel joints are strong, but let’s see…
5 Woodworking Tips to Boost Your Efficiency
One great thing about woodworking is that you can work smart and create a great deal of beauty. However, even…
MIG WELDER BASICS: See How the World’s Easiest-to-Use Welder Works
MIG welders are the easiest of all welding equipment to use, and there are plenty of great DIY-grade machines on…
“Is a Wood Planer Worth Buying for a Basic Shop?”
Question: I’m planning to buy one of the benchtop jointers you recommended in your kitchen and bathroom cabinetmaking course, but…
“How Can I Stop My Tools From Rusting In My Garage Workshop?”
How can I stop my tools from rusting in their toolbox? Read on for Steve’s advice.
VEHICLE WORK: Trick For Drilling Holes Under a Vehicle
If you’ve ever had to drill into a vehicle frame or other heavy steel with a hand-held drill, you’ll want…
Watch a Cool Handsaw Cutting Trick
Watch how fast this Irwin handsaw can cut through construction lumber and learn one cool trick for making square cuts…
When Do I Need a Contractor, and When Is DIY Okay?
Home improvement projects can either be rewarding or challenging activities, but one question does seem to pop up: do it…
Wheelchair Ramp Video Guide
This video provides an overview of technical issues. It’s what you need to understand to get a safe and effective…
BUYING TOOLS? Why Serious Amateurs Should Consider Pro-Grade Gear
Do you have aspirations to develop your ability to build and fix things? If you do, then I want to…
WOOD FINISHING: Get the Most From Water Based Stains
Steve Maxwell, “Canada’s Handiest Man”, shows how DIY homeowners can get the most from water based wood finishing products.
ANCHORING TO MASONRY: Check Out These Options for Success
Concrete, brick, and stone play large roles in home building and renovations. Steve Maxwell gives a few key strategies on…
WORKSHOP SKILLS: “Why Do My Projects Take So Long To Complete?”
Workshop Skills Q&A Question: Why is it that no woodworkers I watch on YouTube tell viewers specific amounts of time…
7 Benefits of Using a Tool Cart
Every workshop, garage or job site, requires a certain order to run things as they ought to be run. For…
“TRACKING POINT” SAW BLADE: Better Tooth Design Means Better Cutting
If you’re gearing up for deck building, constructing a dock, picnic table, gazebo or verandah, you should know how much…
“How Can I Stop Sap From Bleeding Out Of My Tongue And Groove Siding?”
Sap oozing from softwood lumber beams is a perennial problem, especially with thick wood in sunny locations. Stain blocking primer…
OIL FINISHES FOR WOOD: A Beautiful & Repairable Option
Steve explains an under-appreciated option for finishing interior wood using a mixture of oil and varnish.
Never Cut Freehand on a Table Saw
A table saw is a great woodworking tool, but you need to use it right to avoid serious injury. The…
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Woodworking, metalworking and repairs all happen in workshops, and this is where you’ll find lots of inspiration and information.