Basic Built

"Basic-Built" is WOOD® Magazine's initiative to provide simple, yet high-quality woodworking projects that can be completed with a minimum number of tools and skills. Here are the three rules we've laid down for all Basic-Built projects:

• Rule #1: No expensive tools required. No tool in the Basic-Built Toolbag costs more than $200, and most cost far less.
  
• Rule #2: You can buy everything at a home center. This ensures that wood, hardware, finishes, and other supplies are affordable and easy to find.
  
• Rule #3: No complicated joinery. Expect screws, butt joints, and half-laps: whatever is simple yet plenty strong without sacrificing style.

You'll find a Basic-Built project in nearly every issue of WOOD Magazine, with supporting technique articles, how-to videos, and more projects below.

In the Basic-Built Toolbag, inexpensive tools RULE. You'll need common hand tools and measuring equipment you probably already have.

Watch and learn in these easy-to-follow videos from the experts in our own WOOD Magazine workshop.

If you don't have a shop full of tools, yet you love working with your hands and creating your own good-looking projects, the Basic-Built projects are just for you. We've designed several pieces that can be completed with a minimum number of tools and rudimentary woodworking skills.

You don't need to know how to hand-cut dovetails or create inlay to build your own furniture. We're here to help with these basic skills to get you started.

Once you've cut the pieces, putting them together (and keeping them together) is the next step toward a well-built project.

Choosing lumber and sheet goods at your local home center can be a daunting experience. Learn how to buy materials for your next woodworking project.

You can spend a fortune on tools, or you can start with just the basics and add more later. Here's a wealth of information to help you make better buying decisions with your hard-earned dollars.

Shop-built jigs and helpers need not be complicated, expensive, or difficult to build or use. Here's a collection of jigs and devices that have proven their worth in the WOOD Magazine shop. Put them to work for you!

Staining and finishing wood has less to do with big secrets than attention to small details. Here's a handful of finishing tips and tricks you can put to use to get a smooth, clear finish on all your projects.

Whether you're working in your basement, garage, or an outbuilding, here are some ideas and simple projects you can build to better organize whatever area you work in.