Firstly, welcome to the new Woodworkers Institute! It is still the same great resource of all thing’s woodwork, but we’ve given it a little revamp to improve navigation, and to showcase details using high quality images that bring the articles and projects to life. So look no further for a regular posting of free content to inspire you to make your best.
Woodworking yarn of the week
The Great tool swap. During the COVID-19 pandemic, woodworking clubs around the world faced challenges in holding their usual meetings and events. In response, a group of woodworkers in North Carolina organised a socially-distanced “tool swap” event. Participants brought their extra tools, jigs, and wood stock to a large parking lot and swapped items from their cars. The event was a great success, with dozens of tools finding new homes and countless stories shared. It was a creative way to keep the woodworking community connected and resourceful during tough times.
WWI articles of the week
Published:
Rustic Coffee Table. Michael T Collins seizes the opportunity to reuse some beautifully weathered wood to make a traditional coffee table, complete with storage. Michael strips the process down by using the most fundamental tools. So, if you’re a hand tool enthusiast – especially wood planes – then this tutorial on the basics of table design and construction is bound to be of interest.
Upcoming:
Nutcracker – Variations on a Theme. With the browning leaves and falling hazelnuts of autumn upon us, what better excuse for heading to the ‘shop then giving these charming little creations a go. A fusion of form and functionality, these threaded nutcrackers make a wonderful gift, whilst putting the finer elements of turning to practice. Celebrate the fruits of the season by making your very own nutcracker.
Kingfisher on a Leaf. Did you know that there are around 90 groups of Kingfishers? Their bright plumage and typically brief sightings have spurred the imagination of watchers who seek to emanate their form – in the example of Kingfisher lager, even to promote beer! Keen for a challenge? Have a go at carving your very own kingfisher with this step-by-step tutorial by Paul Purnell. Featuring next week on the Woodworkers Institute.
Videos of the week
We’ve trawled the web to bring you some informative and entertaining woodworking watches.
- Wow! The largest woodturning project we’ve ever seen. Watch HERE
- A fascinating documentary about the quiet revolution of timber usage in the construction industry. Watch HERE
- How not to do it? Some downright dodgy approaches to cutting, splitting and mauling wood. Watch HERE
Competition
Don’t forget – In honour of our much missed and respected former editor Mark Baker, we have launched the Mark Baker Woodturner of the Year Competition. This is open to all ages and abilities, with tool sets, cash prizes and magazine subscriptions to be won. Make sure you submit your finest wood working piece at www.woodworkersinstitute.com for a chance to win some fantastic prizes.
Got some free time this weekend? Make a start on a project – there are hundreds to choose from on the Woodworkers Institute. And be sure to follow our social media channels to stay up-to-date with all the latest from the Woodworkers Institute.