The Complete Idiot's Guide to Woodworking

by Reed Karen and Alpha Group

This introduction to woodworking is aimed at the complete beginner and explains what tools are required, how to read plans and where to find out more about this hobby.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0028632370
• ISBN13: 9780028632377
• Release Date: April 2000
• Publisher: Alpha Books
• Length: 364 Pages
• Weight: 1.48 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.9" x 7.3" x 9.1"

Customer Reviews

interesting

Lacked the one piece of info I was seeking. How to measure and cut mitre corners. Actually geared more to "idiot " with quite a bit of knowledge. Not a whole lot of " How to " info.

Excellent Overview

No, if you're looking for a book to "teach you how to build stuff" or give you step-by-step instructions for cutting a beveled half-blind dovetail joint, this one ain't for you. But if you're a beginning woodworker--or thinking about becoming a woodworker--this book will give you a thorough and detailed overview of all aspects of the craft. Karen explores topics ranging from setting up your shop, types and uses of tools (both hand and power), properties of wood, wood selection and storage, types and applications of different joints, adhesives, mechanical fasteners, basic door and carcass construction, milling, building procedure--drafting, cut lists, assembly sequence, finishing, etc. A very good list of resources is included as an appendix. The book is well-written and entertaining, and packed with information--much of which would probably be useful for more seasoned hobbyists as well as the beginners for whom it is intended.

good for beginners but hands on is still needed

this is a good book if you want to see if woodworking is for you...but if you want to start, this will introduce it to you, but not well enough for you to start out successfully. or well at all for that matter... but it will introduce you, but, unless you know how to use the tools and machines, you might as well take a class.