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Table of Contents

Tips & Techniques5

Glues That Brave the Elements10

Hold-Downs for Accuracy14

The JessEm Stock Guides for the table saw and router table are available directly from JessEm Tool Company, or from several online retailers, including Infinity Cutting Tools and Amazon.

Glue Blocks for Stronger Joints16

Scalloped-Lid Box18

Boxes are great projects, but it’s the decorative, scalloped lid that sets this one apart. Hidden hardware allows it to open quickly and easily.

To finish the box, I sprayed it with two coats of clear lacquer before applying the adhesivebacked felt sheets purchased from a local craft store.

Shop-Made Brass Hammers24

Brass stock is used to form the heads of these hammers. After a little custom detailing on the brass, add a shaped, solid-wood handle to perfectly fit your hand.

Before applying the darkening solution to the brass hammer head, be sure to sand the surface with 400-grit sandpaper. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on the label when applying the darkening solution. When it was dry, I scuffed up the corners with a Scotch-Brite pad to add to the “aged” look.

Garden Tower28

This impressive garden piece is sure to capture attention no matter where it’s displayed. Your attention will be drawn toward the angles and tapers that create its unique look.

The garden tower was stained with two coats of Penofin Ultra Premium Penetrating Oil Finish in “Transparent Cedar.”

Shop Storage Boxes36

Common parts and construction are the key to creating any number of these shop storage boxes. They’re handy for keeping a wide range of tools and supplies organized.

The storage boxes and cases were finished with a couple coats of clear flat-sheen lacquer.

Tall Display Cabinet44

The traditional design of this tall cabinet features beveled glass in the front and sides. Along with glass shelves, it ensures that what’s stored inside will take center stage.

When purchasing the ribbon stripe mahogany veneer, select the 10-mil paper backing without adhesive. The cabinet was sprayed with two coats of satin sheen lacquer and one coat of flat-sheen lacquer.

Circular Saws in the Shop56

Using Pre-Made Moldings58

Pre-made moldings are available at many home centers. You can also buy Ferche moldings online at U.S. Building Products.

10 Tools Every Shop Needs60

Most of the tools shown in the article are available at your local home center or through woodworking retailers such as Lee Valley, Woodcraft, and Rockler.

Small Saws, Top-Notch Results62

Shop Notes64

  • Page 65: Detail 'a'
    In the detail drawing for the Angled Wide Dado Jig, the fence should be set at 9°, not 8°.