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The Complete Manual of Woodworking: A Detailed Guide to Design, Techniques, and Tools for the Beginner and Expert
Designed to instruct and inspire every woodworker from the beginner to the most exacting expert, this authoritative guide is a must-have classic in the world of woodworking.
With more than 1,800 drawings, diagrams and photos, The Complete Manual of Woodworking encompasses the whole art and craft of woodworking. Includes a discussion of all the principal hardwoods and softwoods, how to choose and use hand tools, detailed information on every woodworking technique--jointing, bonding, fastening, laminating, and much more.
With more than 1,800 drawings, diagrams and photos, The Complete Manual of Woodworking encompasses the whole art and craft of woodworking. Includes a discussion of all the principal hardwoods and softwoods, how to choose and use hand tools, detailed information on every woodworking technique--jointing, bonding, fastening, laminating, and much more.
320 pages, Paperback
First published November 14, 1989
33 people are currently reading
788 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
January 6, 2015
I've only done a couple of woodworking projects, but I've enjoyed them so much that I'm certain I'll continue learning about this for the rest of my life. I agree with the authors when they say that "only by handling wood and experiencing the way it behaves can a full appreciation of its properties be gained".
The woodworker's paradox: "The problem for the woodworker is the dimensional changes that accompany these changes of moisture - wood shrinks as it loses water and expands when it absorbs it again. If this movement is restricted in any way, the wood will split or warp. Allowing for this movement to occur without detriment to the work is another aspect of the designer's job".
On sharpening stones: "With sharp tools woodwork is a pleasure - with dull tools it is a chore".
My favorite chapters were:
-Power tools: obviously
-Home workshops: note to self, get workshop.
-Joinery: this was the most valuable chapter for me. Assembly with elegance and precision is what tells an expert from a novice.
If woodworking is something you may be interested in, I strongly suggest you pick up this book.
The woodworker's paradox: "The problem for the woodworker is the dimensional changes that accompany these changes of moisture - wood shrinks as it loses water and expands when it absorbs it again. If this movement is restricted in any way, the wood will split or warp. Allowing for this movement to occur without detriment to the work is another aspect of the designer's job".
On sharpening stones: "With sharp tools woodwork is a pleasure - with dull tools it is a chore".
My favorite chapters were:
-Power tools: obviously
-Home workshops: note to self, get workshop.
-Joinery: this was the most valuable chapter for me. Assembly with elegance and precision is what tells an expert from a novice.
If woodworking is something you may be interested in, I strongly suggest you pick up this book.
February 4, 2011
Very good book on wood working with excellent illustrations. The book goes through the different types of wood, wood processing methods, tools and machinery, design basics for furniture projects. A great reference for anyone who is planning to start woodworking.
March 7, 2008
I knew nothing about woodworking when I read this and found it be incredibly informative and fascinating. It gave me a new appreciation of the craft. Not that I've built anything, mind you.
June 19, 2013
Great reference book for the beginner woodworker...
August 10, 2008
So far, I've been blown away about how well-written and the nice illustrations in this book.
August 27, 2023
If you'd have told me when I was 6 getting dragged to craft fairs so my father could sell wooden puzzles and coat hangers and clocks and such that I'd eventually be reading books on woodworking and looking to do some pretty ambitious wooden projects....there's no way I'd have believed you.
And yet here I am. I just refinished my dining/gaming room table and chairs and it was so goddamn satisfying to do. I want to start trying to make built-in bookshelf units for the bedroom and maybe try to replace the coffee table and side tables in the living room and such. Plus I want to get back to carving longbows and try my hand at being a luthier and making some violins.
This book was an excellent start. I'll admit I did skim over a lot of the detail in the section on specific joints, but I really learned a lot about all of the various tools I'll need. Similar to how I learned cooking and baking, I need to know what tool is used for each situation and why.
I'm eager to try out some of these techniques once I get this electrician to run power out to the garage and set up a workbench in there.
And yet here I am. I just refinished my dining/gaming room table and chairs and it was so goddamn satisfying to do. I want to start trying to make built-in bookshelf units for the bedroom and maybe try to replace the coffee table and side tables in the living room and such. Plus I want to get back to carving longbows and try my hand at being a luthier and making some violins.
This book was an excellent start. I'll admit I did skim over a lot of the detail in the section on specific joints, but I really learned a lot about all of the various tools I'll need. Similar to how I learned cooking and baking, I need to know what tool is used for each situation and why.
I'm eager to try out some of these techniques once I get this electrician to run power out to the garage and set up a workbench in there.
November 2, 2020
There scarcely is a book that makes you go on the web, create an account, and give it a 5-star rating. This book has had a huge impact on our brand vision and literally inspired our company. Consider it a comprehensive manual that includes everything imaginable or worth knowing about woodworking. Featuring an enthusiastic style of writing, it will certainly surprise you with its wit and humor. So don't expect a dry woodworking manual, it is much much more.
Our own platform is meant for the advancement of woodworking and aims to teach beginners how to start their creative endeavors. We have employed much of the same tactics from this magnificent book and have also expanded on some areas as well. If you finish this masterpiece of a book, do consider visiting us if you crave more. A highly recommended book!
Source: https://woodymanreviews.com/
Our own platform is meant for the advancement of woodworking and aims to teach beginners how to start their creative endeavors. We have employed much of the same tactics from this magnificent book and have also expanded on some areas as well. If you finish this masterpiece of a book, do consider visiting us if you crave more. A highly recommended book!
Source: https://woodymanreviews.com/
January 5, 2023
"Bend me, shape me, any way you want me."
This book is more than just veneer. It has the look and feel of a coffee table book. There are glossy pictures and plenty of diagrams. However, after the shock and awe, you will find this a great overview of many woodworking disciplines. This book has information on everything from the history and makeup of various kinds of wood to tools used in various types of woodworking.
My interest is mostly in turning and turning tools. There is a tab in the margin of the book page that leads you to similar information on the subject. This is the in-print version of a HyperLink.
After absorbing this book you will have a better feel for how you want to proceed. Then the book is still useful for reference. If you do not indulge, at least you can hold an intelligent conversation.
This book is more than just veneer. It has the look and feel of a coffee table book. There are glossy pictures and plenty of diagrams. However, after the shock and awe, you will find this a great overview of many woodworking disciplines. This book has information on everything from the history and makeup of various kinds of wood to tools used in various types of woodworking.
My interest is mostly in turning and turning tools. There is a tab in the margin of the book page that leads you to similar information on the subject. This is the in-print version of a HyperLink.
After absorbing this book you will have a better feel for how you want to proceed. Then the book is still useful for reference. If you do not indulge, at least you can hold an intelligent conversation.
March 28, 2021
About 50% through. I did wood shop at school and l am an engineer by profession. I'm at that point where I have projects around the home that need attention...
Also, I have always enjoyed working with woid.
So I have an ancient Craftsman Table saw. I have been educating myself how to more effectively use this tool and others that I have and wish to acquire.
So this particular book has chapters covering topics such as hand tools, power tools, home workshops and joinery.
The pictures are clear and the explanations easy to follow.
This is the type of book I would consider purchasing so it is handy on the shelf.
It is also a good introduction to wood working for most ages for people wishing to pursue some wool working skills.
Also, I have always enjoyed working with woid.
So I have an ancient Craftsman Table saw. I have been educating myself how to more effectively use this tool and others that I have and wish to acquire.
So this particular book has chapters covering topics such as hand tools, power tools, home workshops and joinery.
The pictures are clear and the explanations easy to follow.
This is the type of book I would consider purchasing so it is handy on the shelf.
It is also a good introduction to wood working for most ages for people wishing to pursue some wool working skills.
January 12, 2019
This book provides background for setting up a workshop, tools you'll need, and even some woodworking projects. Unless you are a lot more skilled than I am though, I recommend supplemented your choice of first projects with a few more beginner-based project books from your local library or with an online search. Knowing the whats, hows, and whys is a lot different than actually doing the work. I'd also recommend that you start your practice work on cheap cuts of wood. Also, practice cuts, drilling, and joinery on scrap pieces. When you move on to choice hardwood, start with a small project. Good luck!
January 13, 2023
Não quero esculachar muito o trabalho deles porque é um livro de quase 40 anos, mais que naturalmente a tecnologia e disponibilidade de materiais e acabamentos mudou grosseiramente desde a queda do Muro de Berlim. Embora algumas seções tenham sido bem úteis, o grosso deste livro dá pra se achar (em vídeo, atualizado) no YouTube.
September 24, 2023
This book will be super helpful when I do get to do wood working in the future. Unfortunately, that’s not anytime soon. Not suitable for leisure reading. But this book definitely has projects/stuff I want to try out. Mind you I’m a toddler when it comes to woodworking, so this isn’t technically a review. More so a note to my future self.
June 3, 2017
Very clear and informative.
July 14, 2017
This won't turn you into a master builder, like Norm Abrams, but this is a good place to start. A great book for the beginner and a great refresher for those who almost know most of it.
June 13, 2024
A lot of information to take in.
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January 11, 2011one of the best I've found yet on woodworking and material (wood) characteristics.
July 29, 2013
This is a great reference book, but a book that you will sit down and read.
December 18, 2019
Very comprehensive guide for beginning woodworkers.
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews