By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Mike_D_Lee]Mike D Lee
Woodworking is the best way to enhance a kid's puzzle solving skills and unleash their hidden creativity. It is natural for kids to be excited when working with small wood projects. Every little project that he could finish will improve his self-esteem and slowly improve his skills. Who knows? Your kid may be the next woodworking master in the future.
Woodworking is a great dad and son bonding activity and a great hobby, but always remember that a child is still a child. The wood he's using could still chip and form sharp edges, so it is the best that you don't allow your child to complete his small wood projects by himself. A good mentor should always be by his side to direct his moves -- and take note, only to direct his moves. If you are going to use power tools, make sure that you stand a safe distance away from your child before using it and never allow him to try the tool out.
Safety First
Choosing a woodworking project for a kid is quite simple. As explained above, always put his safety first. Don't pick projects that require you to use professional tools. Your kid will not have fun with woodworking if you do everything. Choose small wood projects that he could perform easily by himself and require minimal assistance. This will allow him to grow and give him personal insights to how things work.
Start Easy
Remember that every project he completes will improve his self-esteem and get him all charged up to start with the next one. Choose small wood projects that are fairly easy to do for a kid. It will also help greatly if he could use or display the project he will work on. Some ideas for wood projects include a simple tray for his toys, or a small chessboard. You can look for woodworking ideas on the Internet, which includes comprehensive and easy to follow guides for professionals, beginners and kids.
There are all kinds of woodworking projects for kids available on the Internet. A good project plan includes easy to follow step-by-step guides and a full list of the different materials you need. Assist your kid to collect and remember the names of each material. Also, let him make out the instructions by himself and assist him only if the instruction requires the help of a parent, like it is hard to understand or if he asks you to show him how to do it. Just remember never to leave his side while completing a small wood project. Moral support is the best assistance you could give him!
Do you want small wood projects which comes in step by step, easy to follow instructions which you can use as woodworking projects for kids? Gain access and download these professional plans at http://www.tedswoodworkingreviewsite.com
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Small-Wood-Projects---How-to-Find-the-Most-Suitable-Woodworking-Projects-for-Kids&id=6696507] Small Wood Projects - How to Find the Most Suitable Woodworking Projects for Kids
Saturday, February 11, 2012
Thursday, February 9, 2012
Handmade, Homemade Rustic Dining Table
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Aigo_Shimonaka]Aigo Shimonaka
Being that the dining room is one of the main communal rooms of the house, I think it's certainly worth investing in durable, aesthetically pleasing furniture. If you have more people than can comfortably sit around one table, you should consider getting one larger table instead of two smaller ones. Larger single units of furniture rather than several smaller pieces make the room less cluttered.
I personally like the rustic-style furniture where pieces are built big, heavy, and durable. Of course, there are many different styles and motifs to choose from, and they all have their own unique pros and cons. Not everyone digs the country flavor. One big reason some opt for other styles is that individual pieces are often more expensive than the equivalent in other styles due to often being hand-made and requiring more expensive materials.
Our prior setup was honestly, not all that flattering. We have a rather large number of people living here making it necessary to have at least two dining tables. The problems we faced were these:
They were both different heights.
They were both different colors.
They were both different sizes, shapes, and styles.
Bottom line - it looked pretty darn bad. Using Google Sketchup I created an initial model of the table from where I then exported several screen shots of key angles. By printing out the relevant screen shots and clipping them onto a clip board for example, you don't have to keep referring back to the Sketchup file while in the workshop. All components should be made to life-size and dimensioned for accuracy.
Software programs like Sketchup help tremendously when dealing with angles and notching. The 3d model, when made to life-size, allows you to accurately integrate any angles you desire in any position and size. More specifically, the precise integration of notch-work to accommodate an inlay-style of component attachment is made not only possible, but quite simple, by such 3d software.
To Notch or not to Notch...?
I strongly recommend notch-work for furniture as it makes it considerably more stable over time. As you may know, wood tends to change shape over time due to the absorption and desorption of moisture from its surroundings. This is why high-quality hardwoods that have been seasoned thoroughly are most commonly used by furniture makers.
But even then, and more so if you're using lower-end wood, notch-work is often necessary to prevent the components from warping, twisting, and pulling themselves out of alignment. Young, unseasoned lumber is extremely unstable, and if you find yourself using this type of wood, I would advise notching all joints at least a quarter-inch or about 5 millimeters to prevent the above kind of behavior.
By using a combination of notch-work, appropriate fasteners, and glue, as well as sealing the entire surface area of each component, you can create furniture that can rival most professionally made pieces. Sealing the surface area is important as this is where moisture enters and leaves. In most cases, you would probably do this via a rel=nofollow [http://freeandhandy.com/homemade-stain/]stain or varnish anyway, for looks.
If you liked my article please visit my website at [http://freeandhandy.com]Free and Handy for more, thanks!
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Handmade,-Homemade-Rustic-Dining-Table&id=6696872] Handmade, Homemade Rustic Dining Table
Being that the dining room is one of the main communal rooms of the house, I think it's certainly worth investing in durable, aesthetically pleasing furniture. If you have more people than can comfortably sit around one table, you should consider getting one larger table instead of two smaller ones. Larger single units of furniture rather than several smaller pieces make the room less cluttered.
I personally like the rustic-style furniture where pieces are built big, heavy, and durable. Of course, there are many different styles and motifs to choose from, and they all have their own unique pros and cons. Not everyone digs the country flavor. One big reason some opt for other styles is that individual pieces are often more expensive than the equivalent in other styles due to often being hand-made and requiring more expensive materials.
Our prior setup was honestly, not all that flattering. We have a rather large number of people living here making it necessary to have at least two dining tables. The problems we faced were these:
They were both different heights.
They were both different colors.
They were both different sizes, shapes, and styles.
Bottom line - it looked pretty darn bad. Using Google Sketchup I created an initial model of the table from where I then exported several screen shots of key angles. By printing out the relevant screen shots and clipping them onto a clip board for example, you don't have to keep referring back to the Sketchup file while in the workshop. All components should be made to life-size and dimensioned for accuracy.
Software programs like Sketchup help tremendously when dealing with angles and notching. The 3d model, when made to life-size, allows you to accurately integrate any angles you desire in any position and size. More specifically, the precise integration of notch-work to accommodate an inlay-style of component attachment is made not only possible, but quite simple, by such 3d software.
To Notch or not to Notch...?
I strongly recommend notch-work for furniture as it makes it considerably more stable over time. As you may know, wood tends to change shape over time due to the absorption and desorption of moisture from its surroundings. This is why high-quality hardwoods that have been seasoned thoroughly are most commonly used by furniture makers.
But even then, and more so if you're using lower-end wood, notch-work is often necessary to prevent the components from warping, twisting, and pulling themselves out of alignment. Young, unseasoned lumber is extremely unstable, and if you find yourself using this type of wood, I would advise notching all joints at least a quarter-inch or about 5 millimeters to prevent the above kind of behavior.
By using a combination of notch-work, appropriate fasteners, and glue, as well as sealing the entire surface area of each component, you can create furniture that can rival most professionally made pieces. Sealing the surface area is important as this is where moisture enters and leaves. In most cases, you would probably do this via a rel=nofollow [http://freeandhandy.com/homemade-stain/]stain or varnish anyway, for looks.
If you liked my article please visit my website at [http://freeandhandy.com]Free and Handy for more, thanks!
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Handmade,-Homemade-Rustic-Dining-Table&id=6696872] Handmade, Homemade Rustic Dining Table
Tuesday, February 7, 2012
Beginner Woodworking - A Simple Guide
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Amante_I_Gorospe]Amante I Gorospe
Beginning a woodworking project is very daunting, especially if you don't have a good plan to follow. A good woodworking plan is the best company for beginner woodworking projects. Finding the right woodworking plan that matches your level of expertise is very crucial. Back then, woodworking is more of a hobby to our grandparents, and plan is not necessary. They just build whatever comes in their mind. Fast forward to today's time, woodworking plan is a must.
Things to consider before starting out a woodworking project:
Idea - getting a woodworking idea is somewhat a problem for a beginner woodworker. A good idea on what to build is the key to everything. It is a must to have an idea on project to start with. Most of the time, the idea just sparks out of your mind due to necessity.
Plan - be ready to start your project with a good plan on how to finish it to save time and money. Expect to make a few mistakes and blunders on the way, but make this as a learning process mistakes.
Ask yourself these questions before starting a woodworking project:
What am I going to build? What would be my benefit in building it?
Does my skill match what I am going to build?
Is there a space where I can work on without being interrupted?
Will time be a problem when I start this project? How much time do I need?
Do I have the financial resources to buy the materials and tools needed for the project?
Answering these questions will equip you in starting your project, with a goal of finishing it.
Get a good woodworking plan - as soon as you decided on what to build according to the skills you have, a good woodworking plan is needed. This is the step-by-step instructions on how to build your project. A good woodworking plan also gives you all the list needed to finish your project, like tools you will need, the materials to use and where to buy it.
Lastly, be safety conscious - this is extremely important! It is a must! It is better to be safe than sorry. Using power tools, if you have to, must be used with caution. You should also use protective gears such as safety goggles, working gloves, safety shoes, ear plugs and carpenter's gown. Wearing this personal safety gadgets is a must! You never know what will going to happen, and you don't want to lose an eye or a finger from the new found hobby!
Before starting any woodworking project, you should do some reading and research. There are so many free reading resources on the internet where you can find basic information about beginner woodworking project. These are HowTo, DIY Guides, and self-help guides. There are also good books to read about woodworking from your local library.
You should also inventory all the necessary materials and tools you will use. The most frustrating of all is when you already started your woodworking project only to find out that you don't have all the materials needed for your project.
Above, are some of the absolute things that must be done by beginner woodworker. Working on a piece of wood and turn it into a beautiful product is very satisfying.
You can get a beginner to advance woodworking plan at http://beginner-woodworking.info
Amante Gorospe
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Beginner-Woodworking---A-Simple-Guide&id=6692883] Beginner Woodworking - A Simple Guide
Beginning a woodworking project is very daunting, especially if you don't have a good plan to follow. A good woodworking plan is the best company for beginner woodworking projects. Finding the right woodworking plan that matches your level of expertise is very crucial. Back then, woodworking is more of a hobby to our grandparents, and plan is not necessary. They just build whatever comes in their mind. Fast forward to today's time, woodworking plan is a must.
Things to consider before starting out a woodworking project:
Idea - getting a woodworking idea is somewhat a problem for a beginner woodworker. A good idea on what to build is the key to everything. It is a must to have an idea on project to start with. Most of the time, the idea just sparks out of your mind due to necessity.
Plan - be ready to start your project with a good plan on how to finish it to save time and money. Expect to make a few mistakes and blunders on the way, but make this as a learning process mistakes.
Ask yourself these questions before starting a woodworking project:
What am I going to build? What would be my benefit in building it?
Does my skill match what I am going to build?
Is there a space where I can work on without being interrupted?
Will time be a problem when I start this project? How much time do I need?
Do I have the financial resources to buy the materials and tools needed for the project?
Answering these questions will equip you in starting your project, with a goal of finishing it.
Get a good woodworking plan - as soon as you decided on what to build according to the skills you have, a good woodworking plan is needed. This is the step-by-step instructions on how to build your project. A good woodworking plan also gives you all the list needed to finish your project, like tools you will need, the materials to use and where to buy it.
Lastly, be safety conscious - this is extremely important! It is a must! It is better to be safe than sorry. Using power tools, if you have to, must be used with caution. You should also use protective gears such as safety goggles, working gloves, safety shoes, ear plugs and carpenter's gown. Wearing this personal safety gadgets is a must! You never know what will going to happen, and you don't want to lose an eye or a finger from the new found hobby!
Before starting any woodworking project, you should do some reading and research. There are so many free reading resources on the internet where you can find basic information about beginner woodworking project. These are HowTo, DIY Guides, and self-help guides. There are also good books to read about woodworking from your local library.
You should also inventory all the necessary materials and tools you will use. The most frustrating of all is when you already started your woodworking project only to find out that you don't have all the materials needed for your project.
Above, are some of the absolute things that must be done by beginner woodworker. Working on a piece of wood and turn it into a beautiful product is very satisfying.
You can get a beginner to advance woodworking plan at http://beginner-woodworking.info
Amante Gorospe
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Beginner-Woodworking---A-Simple-Guide&id=6692883] Beginner Woodworking - A Simple Guide
Sunday, February 5, 2012
How To Build A Chicken Coop Easily In One Weekend
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Andrew_Alford]Andrew Alford
Building Your Own Chicken Coop Can Be a Very Smart Decision
If you've made the decision to build your own chicken coop you're a part of a growing group of Americans who are saying "No" to economic downturns, and doing something positive for themselves, their family and their own nutrition. Raising chickens and harvesting your own eggs dates back to earlier simpler times, but it's something that almost any do-it-yourselfer can do if they put their mind to it.
STEP ONE: The first step in building your own chicken coop is to study the procedures, which is what this article is about, and while it may not be comprehensive it should serve as a good starting point. By doing your homework, you'll understand more about the breed and number of chickens you'll need to satisfy your needs, as well as the chicken's tolerances to temperature and environment.
STEP TWO: Be certain to check the zoning laws in your community, this will tell you the number of chickens you can have, whether a rooster is permitted, and whether you'll need an inspector to sign off on your finished coop. Unless you're located far from any city and have ample acreage, zoning laws may be applicable, and it's best to find out before you are forced to dissemble your creation.
STEP THREE: Next comes the design, choose a design that is not only aesthetically pleasing for you (and possibly your wife or significant other) but also functional for your chickens. There are multiple designs online as well as detailed books about choosing and constructing your chicken coop. Basically, you'll want to design a chicken coop that is roofed, well ventilated and has ample space. Of course you'll need to have nesting boxes and roosts allowing your chickens to nest and sleep, exercise, and other assorted chicken like activities.
STEP FOUR: How much space do you estimate you'll need? Step four is very much part of the planning phase, and will depend on the breed and the number of hens you plan to house. Packing too many chickens into a small space is a recipe for disaster; they'll need space to move around, nest, peck the ground and of course lay their eggs, etc. While this recommended space will vary depending on the breed, approximately 4 sq. ft. per chicken has proved ample for my needs.
STEP FIVE: What is the climate in your area? While it's not necessary to have an air-conditioned chicken coop, there is an optimal climate for a particular breed, and this will need to be considered prior to building and purchasing your chickens. If you live in a cold climate, you'll need to ensure the inside not only has suitable ventilation, but also heating and insulation if required; this might include a heat lamp for young chickens, and/or a heating pad for your hens.
While chickens for the most part are easy to maintain, you'll need to keep a watchful eye, and potentially make changes to their environment as the seasons change. Plan on supplying electrical power to your chicken coop to run the necessary heating, cooling, or monitoring devices you may require.
Once you've given adequate thought and planning to your new chicken coop, it's time to set aside a weekend accomplish the task. Once your chicken coop is up and functional, and your hands used to their environment, you'll soon be enjoying fresh eggs for breakfast, and possibly answers to share with family and friends.
Did you know the average American spends over $400 trying to build their chicken coop. It can take may of them 2 months or more to come up with something that quite honestly can be less than adequate for raising healthy chickens.
You may also be surprised to know that most people who decide to [http://buildanewchickencoop.com]build a chicken coop rush in to it totally blind and without any prior planning.
Andrew Alford has been building chicken coops for many years and it you want to save time and more importantly MONEY then learn [http://buildanewchickencoop.com/how-to-build-a-chicken-coop/]How To build a chicken coop the right way first time.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?How-To-Build-A-Chicken-Coop-Easily-In-One-Weekend&id=6708266] How To Build A Chicken Coop Easily In One Weekend
Building Your Own Chicken Coop Can Be a Very Smart Decision
If you've made the decision to build your own chicken coop you're a part of a growing group of Americans who are saying "No" to economic downturns, and doing something positive for themselves, their family and their own nutrition. Raising chickens and harvesting your own eggs dates back to earlier simpler times, but it's something that almost any do-it-yourselfer can do if they put their mind to it.
STEP ONE: The first step in building your own chicken coop is to study the procedures, which is what this article is about, and while it may not be comprehensive it should serve as a good starting point. By doing your homework, you'll understand more about the breed and number of chickens you'll need to satisfy your needs, as well as the chicken's tolerances to temperature and environment.
STEP TWO: Be certain to check the zoning laws in your community, this will tell you the number of chickens you can have, whether a rooster is permitted, and whether you'll need an inspector to sign off on your finished coop. Unless you're located far from any city and have ample acreage, zoning laws may be applicable, and it's best to find out before you are forced to dissemble your creation.
STEP THREE: Next comes the design, choose a design that is not only aesthetically pleasing for you (and possibly your wife or significant other) but also functional for your chickens. There are multiple designs online as well as detailed books about choosing and constructing your chicken coop. Basically, you'll want to design a chicken coop that is roofed, well ventilated and has ample space. Of course you'll need to have nesting boxes and roosts allowing your chickens to nest and sleep, exercise, and other assorted chicken like activities.
STEP FOUR: How much space do you estimate you'll need? Step four is very much part of the planning phase, and will depend on the breed and the number of hens you plan to house. Packing too many chickens into a small space is a recipe for disaster; they'll need space to move around, nest, peck the ground and of course lay their eggs, etc. While this recommended space will vary depending on the breed, approximately 4 sq. ft. per chicken has proved ample for my needs.
STEP FIVE: What is the climate in your area? While it's not necessary to have an air-conditioned chicken coop, there is an optimal climate for a particular breed, and this will need to be considered prior to building and purchasing your chickens. If you live in a cold climate, you'll need to ensure the inside not only has suitable ventilation, but also heating and insulation if required; this might include a heat lamp for young chickens, and/or a heating pad for your hens.
While chickens for the most part are easy to maintain, you'll need to keep a watchful eye, and potentially make changes to their environment as the seasons change. Plan on supplying electrical power to your chicken coop to run the necessary heating, cooling, or monitoring devices you may require.
Once you've given adequate thought and planning to your new chicken coop, it's time to set aside a weekend accomplish the task. Once your chicken coop is up and functional, and your hands used to their environment, you'll soon be enjoying fresh eggs for breakfast, and possibly answers to share with family and friends.
Did you know the average American spends over $400 trying to build their chicken coop. It can take may of them 2 months or more to come up with something that quite honestly can be less than adequate for raising healthy chickens.
You may also be surprised to know that most people who decide to [http://buildanewchickencoop.com]build a chicken coop rush in to it totally blind and without any prior planning.
Andrew Alford has been building chicken coops for many years and it you want to save time and more importantly MONEY then learn [http://buildanewchickencoop.com/how-to-build-a-chicken-coop/]How To build a chicken coop the right way first time.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?How-To-Build-A-Chicken-Coop-Easily-In-One-Weekend&id=6708266] How To Build A Chicken Coop Easily In One Weekend
Friday, February 3, 2012
Affordable Materials for Bookcase Plans
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Lucas_K_Everett]Lucas K Everett
Bookcases are a great project especially if you're a beginner woodworker as they are very basic and practical piece of furniture for the house. When I say they are very basic I mean that the construction is not complicated as they are just 2 sides, a top, bottom, back and some shelves.
Of course bookcase plans can be as easy as that, or you can find bookcase plans with a lot more detail and a higher degree of difficulty, you can choose based on your own skill level.A good tip is to take any easy construction design and dress it up with some timber moulding, VJ grooves or cabriole legs to give it some elegant detail.
I was sitting around bored out of my brain on holidays the other day and my wife said 'Why don't you build a bookcase for the living room'. So I downloaded a plan that would suit the area and our tastes, my wife has a thing for modern white painted furniture at the moment.
MDF was my material of choice for this particular project so off to the hardware to get a couple of sheets of craftwood. I like to use MDF when making painted furniture because it is easy to machine and sand.
If you don't have machinery like sliding table saws and 3 phase routers you can still do a great job with standard electric woodworking tools like:
Circular saw
Electric planer
Router Jigsaw
Biscuit joiner
Drills
You can also use basic woodworking hand tools like:
Hand saw
Chisels
Hand plane
MDf comes in large range of thicknesses and sheet sizes:
4mm
6mm
9mm
12mm
16mm
18mm
25mm
32mm
The sheets are quite large:
2400x1200
3600x1200
Some hardware stores and suppliers break them down to more manageable sizes:
1800x1200
2400x600
1200x1200
My wife likes shopping so she usually lets me know what she would like, then I make the furniture item from her inspiration. If you have the inspiration to build a bookcase but don't have the hundreds or thousands of dollars to spend on new timber or maybe mdf is not available in your area there are other alternatives.
More material for your Bookcase Budget.:
Other manmade products
Pine Floor boards
You could try some demolition companies and check out their stock of recycled timbers from floorboards, floor joists, bearers, rafters to fence palings. Basically if its wood and gets used to build a house you will find it at the demo yard.
So where can you get some BOOKCASE plans?
The Internet is a very good source with websites that provide access to thousands of woodworking plans. You could try your favourite bookstore and purchase woodworking magazines or woodworking books. Get involved with a local woodworking club and share plans and knowledge face to face. Internet forum are another great way to get in touch with the woodwork community.
If you're interested in woodworking you should check out [http://timberfurnitureplans.com/]timberfurnitureplans.com and get some [http://timberfurnitureplans.com/]free plans.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Affordable-Materials-for-Bookcase-Plans&id=6703970] Affordable Materials for Bookcase Plans
Bookcases are a great project especially if you're a beginner woodworker as they are very basic and practical piece of furniture for the house. When I say they are very basic I mean that the construction is not complicated as they are just 2 sides, a top, bottom, back and some shelves.
Of course bookcase plans can be as easy as that, or you can find bookcase plans with a lot more detail and a higher degree of difficulty, you can choose based on your own skill level.A good tip is to take any easy construction design and dress it up with some timber moulding, VJ grooves or cabriole legs to give it some elegant detail.
I was sitting around bored out of my brain on holidays the other day and my wife said 'Why don't you build a bookcase for the living room'. So I downloaded a plan that would suit the area and our tastes, my wife has a thing for modern white painted furniture at the moment.
MDF was my material of choice for this particular project so off to the hardware to get a couple of sheets of craftwood. I like to use MDF when making painted furniture because it is easy to machine and sand.
If you don't have machinery like sliding table saws and 3 phase routers you can still do a great job with standard electric woodworking tools like:
Circular saw
Electric planer
Router Jigsaw
Biscuit joiner
Drills
You can also use basic woodworking hand tools like:
Hand saw
Chisels
Hand plane
MDf comes in large range of thicknesses and sheet sizes:
4mm
6mm
9mm
12mm
16mm
18mm
25mm
32mm
The sheets are quite large:
2400x1200
3600x1200
Some hardware stores and suppliers break them down to more manageable sizes:
1800x1200
2400x600
1200x1200
My wife likes shopping so she usually lets me know what she would like, then I make the furniture item from her inspiration. If you have the inspiration to build a bookcase but don't have the hundreds or thousands of dollars to spend on new timber or maybe mdf is not available in your area there are other alternatives.
More material for your Bookcase Budget.:
Other manmade products
Pine Floor boards
You could try some demolition companies and check out their stock of recycled timbers from floorboards, floor joists, bearers, rafters to fence palings. Basically if its wood and gets used to build a house you will find it at the demo yard.
So where can you get some BOOKCASE plans?
The Internet is a very good source with websites that provide access to thousands of woodworking plans. You could try your favourite bookstore and purchase woodworking magazines or woodworking books. Get involved with a local woodworking club and share plans and knowledge face to face. Internet forum are another great way to get in touch with the woodwork community.
If you're interested in woodworking you should check out [http://timberfurnitureplans.com/]timberfurnitureplans.com and get some [http://timberfurnitureplans.com/]free plans.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Affordable-Materials-for-Bookcase-Plans&id=6703970] Affordable Materials for Bookcase Plans
Wednesday, February 1, 2012
Top Woodworking Projects for You
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Lucas_K_Everett]Lucas K Everett
It's coming up to Christmas again, and that means holidays for many of us. If you are like me and love to get away for a vacation, it's probably your favourite time of the year. I also like to use the opportunity to finish the current projects I have under construction and/or start new ones. Maybe you can use some of your free time to get stuck into some woodworking. If you need some ideas or having trouble getting motivated I have put together a list of top woodworking projects for you.
Do you know someone expecting a new member of the family to come along soon? If you do, you should think about making them a cradle or cot. This is a great furniture plan and can be handed around the family as new babies come along through the years. It gives great satisfaction making furniture for the ones we love. I have just recently built a bed with drawers for our 17 month old so we could use the cot for the new baby.
You could also make a nice armchair or rocking chair for when mummy has to get up through the night to feed the new baby. A chair is a great idea and with the extra skill required for this woodworking project you better get started. With the comfort of a handmade piece of furniture you'll be sure to earn some serious brownie points with the new mother. There's nothing like a due date to get a project under way.
I bet you've always wanted to build a kitchen table, well now is your chance. Everybody needs somewhere to sit down and eat their dinner. The festive season is a great time to have friends and family over for a meal and your guests will be impressed by a piece of furniture that you built with your own two hands. A very practical woodwork design and your wife will be happy for you to spend some time in your work shed. An alternative to the kitchen table could be a coffee table or have a go at making dining chairs.
If you want to try your hand at some carpentry and the weather suits, you could build a shed for your garden tools and sporting equipment. You will get a real sense of achievement from building a shed, even if it is a small garden shed. I enjoy getting out in the sun and doing some 'hard' work. Once you have built this you will have the confidence to take on something bigger next time, maybe a great big woodwork shed for yourself.
Here are the Top Woodworking Projects for You with some alternatives:
Build a Cradle
Build a Cot
Build an Armchair
Build a Rocking Chair
Build a Deck Chair
Build a Kitchen Table
Build a Coffee Table
Build some Dining Chairs
Build a Hall stand
Build a Garden Shed
Build a Pergola
Build a Carport
That's just a few to help inspire you. So next time you're sitting on the couch thinking to yourself that you should be doing something, grab a plan for one of these top woodworking projects and get out and enjoy your woodworking.
For more articles and [http://timberfurnitureplans.com]great woodworking ideas go to [http://timberfurnitureplans.com]timberfurnitureplans.com and get access to much more.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Top-Woodworking-Projects-for-You&id=6640803] Top Woodworking Projects for You
It's coming up to Christmas again, and that means holidays for many of us. If you are like me and love to get away for a vacation, it's probably your favourite time of the year. I also like to use the opportunity to finish the current projects I have under construction and/or start new ones. Maybe you can use some of your free time to get stuck into some woodworking. If you need some ideas or having trouble getting motivated I have put together a list of top woodworking projects for you.
Do you know someone expecting a new member of the family to come along soon? If you do, you should think about making them a cradle or cot. This is a great furniture plan and can be handed around the family as new babies come along through the years. It gives great satisfaction making furniture for the ones we love. I have just recently built a bed with drawers for our 17 month old so we could use the cot for the new baby.
You could also make a nice armchair or rocking chair for when mummy has to get up through the night to feed the new baby. A chair is a great idea and with the extra skill required for this woodworking project you better get started. With the comfort of a handmade piece of furniture you'll be sure to earn some serious brownie points with the new mother. There's nothing like a due date to get a project under way.
I bet you've always wanted to build a kitchen table, well now is your chance. Everybody needs somewhere to sit down and eat their dinner. The festive season is a great time to have friends and family over for a meal and your guests will be impressed by a piece of furniture that you built with your own two hands. A very practical woodwork design and your wife will be happy for you to spend some time in your work shed. An alternative to the kitchen table could be a coffee table or have a go at making dining chairs.
If you want to try your hand at some carpentry and the weather suits, you could build a shed for your garden tools and sporting equipment. You will get a real sense of achievement from building a shed, even if it is a small garden shed. I enjoy getting out in the sun and doing some 'hard' work. Once you have built this you will have the confidence to take on something bigger next time, maybe a great big woodwork shed for yourself.
Here are the Top Woodworking Projects for You with some alternatives:
Build a Cradle
Build a Cot
Build an Armchair
Build a Rocking Chair
Build a Deck Chair
Build a Kitchen Table
Build a Coffee Table
Build some Dining Chairs
Build a Hall stand
Build a Garden Shed
Build a Pergola
Build a Carport
That's just a few to help inspire you. So next time you're sitting on the couch thinking to yourself that you should be doing something, grab a plan for one of these top woodworking projects and get out and enjoy your woodworking.
For more articles and [http://timberfurnitureplans.com]great woodworking ideas go to [http://timberfurnitureplans.com]timberfurnitureplans.com and get access to much more.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Top-Woodworking-Projects-for-You&id=6640803] Top Woodworking Projects for You
Monday, January 30, 2012
How To Prepare For A New Finish
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Kenneth_J_Ellis]Kenneth J Ellis
Before starting the work, make a thorough inspection of the piece after you have removed the old finish. You may find holes, dents, cracks and other damage that were not previously visible in the surface that will require repairs before preparing for the new finish.
Some of the procedures for preparing the surface are seldom used, but are included to give you full knowledge of them. They are bleaching, scraping, sanding, staining, and filling.The choice of those to be used for a single job are determined by the type and condition of the wood, after the old finish has been removed. Some are necessary according to conditions and some are a matter of choice.
BLEACHING
Bleaching is used today mostly to remove undesirable stains. After the old finish has been removed, any darkened or discolored spots that remain can be lightened or entirely removed by the proper use of bleach. When working with pine or maple, it is best to remove discoloration and freshen up the surface.
Types of Bleaches
There are four common bleaches used by home handymen to lighten wood or remove undesirable stains. They are: PREPARED BLEACH, The simplest method of getting a good bleach is to buy a prepared bleach, which usually comes in the form of two solutions that may be applied successively or mixed together, according to directions on the label.These bleaches are sold in some paint stores or through mail order outlets. HOUSEHOLD PRODUCTS, Sometimes a laundry bleach in which sodium hypo-chlorite is the bleaching agent is effective for such woods as walnut, maple, and gum. Household ammonia is a good bleaching for all but dark woods,however,it is best for spot work only. OXALIC ACID, This bleach works only when a mild bleach is needed. It can be used successfully for such open-grained woods as oak, chestnut, and ash.Some professional strippers use it routinely to remove slight discolorations during the stripping process. HYDROGEN PEROXIDE, Probably the most satisfactory but most expensive bleaches are these based on a strong solution of hydrogen peroxide 30 or 35 percent. This commercial-grade bleach should not be confused with the 3 percent solution used as an antiseptic.
Using Prepared Beach
This two-solution bleach must be intermixed or applied in successive steps. All contain strong chemicals so it's important that you wear rubber gloves to protect your hands. An apron or old clothing should also be worn since these bleaches will attack most fabrics and follow the label directions carefully. These are best for overall work. They are difficult to control when spot bleaching. The bleach can be applied with a brush or sponge and should be allowed to dry on the surface until the desired effect is reached. The instructions will tell you whether neutralization or rinsing is required. After bleaching and rinsing is completed, the piece should be allowed to stand until completely dry. Then sand lightly with a very fine sandpaper to remove raised grain. Be careful not to sand more deeply than the bleach has penetrated.
Using Household Products
Most household products are better for spot work. This is how to use laundry bleach and ammonia as bleaching agents. First,apply the product full strength over the spot or surface of the wood. Next, wash the product off with clear water after it has been on the surface about 15 minutes. Check to see if the desired color has been attained. If not, repeat the treatment. When the right color has been achieved, rinse the entire surface with water. Let the furniture stand to dry for at least 48 hours.
Using Oxalic Acid
Oxalic acid can be purchased at a drugstore or in some paint stores. It comes in powder or crystal form. Start by dissolving 1 ounce of powder or 2 ounces of crystals in a pint of very hot water. Using a large brush, apply the solution hot to the entire surface from which the finish has been removed. Let the solution remain for 10 to 20 minutes and then wipe it off with a damp cloth. Repeat if necessary to reach the color you are after. When the proper result is reached, wash off with 1 part ammonia in 10 parts of water. This will neutralize the bleach and stop it's further action.Then wash with clear water and let it dry for at least 24 hours.
SANDING AND SMOOTHING
The smoothing of a wood surface is done with sandpaper by first working with relatively coarse papers, followed by those of finer grit. Steel wool is often used for final smoothing.
Rules For Sanding
The sanding of a wood surface is the least difficult of all the procedures, yet it is one of the most important parts of refinishing and must always be done thoroughly and with great care. When sanding, remember these three rules. First always sand with the grain of the wood--never across the grain.Second, use straight strokes with an even pressure, avoiding a twisting or circular motion, and last, use a paper of as coarse a grit as the wood will stand without scratching, then finer ones until the surface is as smooth as the wood will become. After sanding with the finest grit paper, use a steel wool pad for the final smoothing. After using the steel wool, all dust must be removed by wiping with a tack rag. This is a cloth that is treated to attract and hold dust. It is usually available at pant dealers that handle wood finishes.
Many sources an be found at the public library for furniture refinishing.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?How-To-Prepare-For-A-New-Finish&id=6713102] How To Prepare For A New Finish
Before starting the work, make a thorough inspection of the piece after you have removed the old finish. You may find holes, dents, cracks and other damage that were not previously visible in the surface that will require repairs before preparing for the new finish.
Some of the procedures for preparing the surface are seldom used, but are included to give you full knowledge of them. They are bleaching, scraping, sanding, staining, and filling.The choice of those to be used for a single job are determined by the type and condition of the wood, after the old finish has been removed. Some are necessary according to conditions and some are a matter of choice.
BLEACHING
Bleaching is used today mostly to remove undesirable stains. After the old finish has been removed, any darkened or discolored spots that remain can be lightened or entirely removed by the proper use of bleach. When working with pine or maple, it is best to remove discoloration and freshen up the surface.
Types of Bleaches
There are four common bleaches used by home handymen to lighten wood or remove undesirable stains. They are: PREPARED BLEACH, The simplest method of getting a good bleach is to buy a prepared bleach, which usually comes in the form of two solutions that may be applied successively or mixed together, according to directions on the label.These bleaches are sold in some paint stores or through mail order outlets. HOUSEHOLD PRODUCTS, Sometimes a laundry bleach in which sodium hypo-chlorite is the bleaching agent is effective for such woods as walnut, maple, and gum. Household ammonia is a good bleaching for all but dark woods,however,it is best for spot work only. OXALIC ACID, This bleach works only when a mild bleach is needed. It can be used successfully for such open-grained woods as oak, chestnut, and ash.Some professional strippers use it routinely to remove slight discolorations during the stripping process. HYDROGEN PEROXIDE, Probably the most satisfactory but most expensive bleaches are these based on a strong solution of hydrogen peroxide 30 or 35 percent. This commercial-grade bleach should not be confused with the 3 percent solution used as an antiseptic.
Using Prepared Beach
This two-solution bleach must be intermixed or applied in successive steps. All contain strong chemicals so it's important that you wear rubber gloves to protect your hands. An apron or old clothing should also be worn since these bleaches will attack most fabrics and follow the label directions carefully. These are best for overall work. They are difficult to control when spot bleaching. The bleach can be applied with a brush or sponge and should be allowed to dry on the surface until the desired effect is reached. The instructions will tell you whether neutralization or rinsing is required. After bleaching and rinsing is completed, the piece should be allowed to stand until completely dry. Then sand lightly with a very fine sandpaper to remove raised grain. Be careful not to sand more deeply than the bleach has penetrated.
Using Household Products
Most household products are better for spot work. This is how to use laundry bleach and ammonia as bleaching agents. First,apply the product full strength over the spot or surface of the wood. Next, wash the product off with clear water after it has been on the surface about 15 minutes. Check to see if the desired color has been attained. If not, repeat the treatment. When the right color has been achieved, rinse the entire surface with water. Let the furniture stand to dry for at least 48 hours.
Using Oxalic Acid
Oxalic acid can be purchased at a drugstore or in some paint stores. It comes in powder or crystal form. Start by dissolving 1 ounce of powder or 2 ounces of crystals in a pint of very hot water. Using a large brush, apply the solution hot to the entire surface from which the finish has been removed. Let the solution remain for 10 to 20 minutes and then wipe it off with a damp cloth. Repeat if necessary to reach the color you are after. When the proper result is reached, wash off with 1 part ammonia in 10 parts of water. This will neutralize the bleach and stop it's further action.Then wash with clear water and let it dry for at least 24 hours.
SANDING AND SMOOTHING
The smoothing of a wood surface is done with sandpaper by first working with relatively coarse papers, followed by those of finer grit. Steel wool is often used for final smoothing.
Rules For Sanding
The sanding of a wood surface is the least difficult of all the procedures, yet it is one of the most important parts of refinishing and must always be done thoroughly and with great care. When sanding, remember these three rules. First always sand with the grain of the wood--never across the grain.Second, use straight strokes with an even pressure, avoiding a twisting or circular motion, and last, use a paper of as coarse a grit as the wood will stand without scratching, then finer ones until the surface is as smooth as the wood will become. After sanding with the finest grit paper, use a steel wool pad for the final smoothing. After using the steel wool, all dust must be removed by wiping with a tack rag. This is a cloth that is treated to attract and hold dust. It is usually available at pant dealers that handle wood finishes.
Many sources an be found at the public library for furniture refinishing.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?How-To-Prepare-For-A-New-Finish&id=6713102] How To Prepare For A New Finish
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