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.
Smaller, Lighter More Powerful
Steve Maxwell, Canada’s Handiest Man, explains how Lithium-ion batteries and brushless motors boost cordless tool power-to-size ratios to new levels.
Some call it a Mitre Saw others a Chop Saw: How to Buy the Right One
Steve explains the difference between simple, compound and sliding compound mitre saws, also known as chop saws, and gives some…
Irwin Box Beam Levels
Steve Maxwell, Canada’s Handiest Man, tells you about a new hand-held level from Irwin Tools.
Bradley Burner Pellet Grate
Steve Maxwell, Canada’s Handiest Man, informs homeowners about the Bradley Burner for wood pellet burning stoves.
Ryobi TEK4 Cordless Tools
Steve Maxwell, Canada’s Handiest Man, writes and raves about Ryobi TEK4 cordless tools.
MITRE SAW OR TABLESAW Q&A: Which Should I Buy First?
Q: What tool should I buy first, a mitre saw or a table saw? I’ll be using the tool mainly…
I love mission style furniture, but oak is expensive! Can I use pine?
I’m thinking of building a bed in the Mission style, but would like to make it with knotty pine instead…
Poor results from staining have me steaming, how can I fix it?
I have an outdoor oak bench and cedar chairs that I assembled and finished last year with a clear water…
How can I best protect my outdoor wood furniture?
My wife and I are building a couple of Muskoka chairs out of eastern white cedar. Since I’m making them…
Where can I purchase the mandrel which was in your video on using a buffing wheel?
On April 17, 2012, after watching my video on using a buffing wheel, a homeowner asked about where to get the…
Could you please tell me more about the metal clips you had used on a wooden table which you built?
An underside view of a wooden table I built showed metal clips, which sparked a homeowner’s interest. On April 17,…
Should I use wide boards for my woodworking project?
I’ve read conflicting advice about the use of wide boards for furniture woodworking projects. Some say its okay, others recommend…
Can I use plastic lumber to build some Adirondack chairs for my cottage?
Can I use plastic lumber to build some Adirondack chairs for my cottage? It’s now time to replace the wooden…
What can I do to repair the finish on the old wood?
Four years ago I had the first part of a solid cherry cabinet set installed in my kitchen. Unfortunately, the…
What should I use for dust control in a basement woodworking shop I’m creating?
What should I use for dust control in a basement woodworking shop I’m creating? I’ll be using a tablesaw, router…
What kind of portable tablesaw should I buy for building a new house and outbuildings?
What kind of portable tablesaw should I buy for building a new house and outbuildings? I’m not a professional, so…
How do i get smooth results when sanding?
All my woodworking experience so far has been with home renovations, but I’ve just started to build furniture and I’m…
What are my options for a finishing nailer without a compressor?
I want to buy a power nailer tool to drive small finishing nails, but don’t want to get a compressor…
Is it okay to strip lead paint with a heat gun? What other options are practical?
I’m stripping lead paint from a bunch of wood trim and doors, and I need some advice. I’ve tried different…
In general, should all woods, including hardwoods, be pre-conditioned before staining?
I’m making a small hall bench using maple and cherry wood, and I have a question about finishing. I intend…
How can I apply a smooth finish on indoor wood?
How can I apply a smooth finish on indoor wood? I’m never satisfied with the quality of finish I manage…
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Woodworking, metalworking and repairs all happen in workshops, and this is where you’ll find lots of inspiration and information.