Get Better Woodworking-- DIY Projects to Become a Better Woodworker

If you are reading this, you probably have some interest in woodworking. Unfortunately, that is likely where the universal similarities end with my readers. Some readers are just starting out, some may have skills far beyond my own, and most fall somewhere in between. I wanted to come up with a series of individual projects that we can all use to not only hone our skill, but also center us. I know when I am months into making table after table for clients and nothing else. I love to reset my woodworking motor with a smaller project. Something just for me. Even if it means giving it away when i’m done with it. I generally don’t want to spend a lot of money on these projects. Usually I don’t want to spend any money at all.

The “get better woodworking” projects will try and be an answer to this universal woodworking problem. Projects that don’t cost much, are useful when completed, and not only help hone our skills, but re-center those of us who can get a little burned out with work and life. A project to remind us woodworking is first and foremost, FUN.

These projects will hopefully cost nothing, to maybe a few dollars. And they should take anywhere from an hour, to a couple afternoons to complete. I will try and make a variety of projects that cater to all skill levels. I won’t promise every project will be easy or able to be done in every shop though. I will however challenge you to find alternative ways to complete a project with the tools you do have available.

Be sure to tag me in your Instagram posts with your own versions of these projects so I can share them with others for inspiration. I’d also love your ideas on future Get Better Woodworking projects. So don’t be shy about reaching out on social media with suggestions!

Some past Get Better Woodworking projects:

Some may call it Thor's kitchen hammer, some may call it a mjolnir (most can't pronounce though), I just call it a meat mallet and one of my favorite DIY projects. In a couple hours you can make this fun and functional kitchen mallet after watching this tutorial.

This DIY project is a great opportunity to make something you'll use, and maybe even learn some new skills. I made two different table saw fence handles out of curly maple. One I power carved to fit the contour of my hand and finished naturally with a hardwax oil.

I made two very different handles for my Sawstop table saw fence. One is sculpted with power carving burrs and hand files and rasps. The other made with powertools and dyed black and finished in a high gloss black, similar to a PRS guitar. Lots of learning packed into one small project.

Step by step process on how I make my thumb-slot woodworking mallet for fine detail work. This how to video shows how to make a basic woodworking mallet, and then turn it into a comfortable detail mallet for intricate work.

Mallets are maybe my favorite side project. You learn joiner, glue-ups, shaping, and finishing. AND get an awesome mallet that should last you a lifetime when done.

This DIY project is on how to make thin wood coasters from your scrap wood. Comprehensive video showing every step to make unique wood coasters from your offcuts. Even when to sell them, and how much to charge!

Coasters aren’t my favorite project. But they are a quick way to use some scrap wood, and even make a little money from it.

Follow the build of this black walnut waterfall end table. How to video explaining how you can build the same table your garage or shop. I'll explain gluing the joint, leg styles, even a detailed look at how to get a professional finish in a dusty garage.

Everyone wants to start with a dining table or big desk. Do yourself a favor and start on a end table first. This one was made from left over wood, so it didn’t cost me anything. And it gets used in my house every day.

How to Build a live edge mirror. DIY steps to build your own rustic natural edge mirror using inexpensive materials in your garage.

I haven’t met a wife yet that doesn’t love mirrors. So take some of those off-cuts, a $15 Ikea mirror, and make a statement piece for your house.