Shop Tips

Learn tips and tricks that make your shop time more productive. Find out how to get the most out of hand tools and power tools, including your router and table saw. See tips on finishing, gluing, clamping, sharpening, layout, and more!

Finish frames faster and with finesse

I make a lot of picture frames, and have always sought a better way to hold them during finish application.

Buckle up for tighter miters

Rubber bands work fine for clamping tiny boxes and frames.

Jig simplifies difficult pocket-hole joints

Commercial pocket-hole face clamps work well for parts of the same thickness aligned flush, such as a typical box corner or face frame.

Cover-up clamp rack for added storage space

I needed a space-efficient storage solution for all my clamps. I found many plans for roll-around carts but couldn’t justify the loss of usable floor space.

Using a Saw Bench

Handsaw with confidence and accuracy using a saw bench that doubles as the sturdiest shop stool you’