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Korn does a superb job of providing step-by-step instruction using hand tools or power tools. Again, all steps are well documented with plenty of photographs. The milled boards are long enough that the reader can practice the joints several times. These projects are big enough to introduce several more fundamentals without being too complex that the reader will never finish.
I also like Korn's lack of pretense when presenting tools or techniques. Korn's book is almost identical to the structure and pacing of instruction from my course. The reader learns a great deal without being intimidated by too much detail. For me, Sharpening was the first "project" in the WW class I took since it is also a fundamental.The second and third project is to take the boards you dimensioned and do some basic joinery (before working on any furniture). Korn's book has just enough to get you going without making you feel it is too complicated to proceed.The first project, milling a board four square, is a fundamental task of woodworking that deserves the attention it gets in this book. Each time your joints will get better, and you will gain valuable experience and confidence.The last 80 pages include two small projects, a handsome stool and a side table. First, the basic mortise and tenon and then the through-dovetail joint.
Korn appears to take a more modest (and affordable) approach with essential hand tools. The stool introduces half-blind dovetails, pinned tenons, glue-up procedure, and basic finishing. The sections are a bit terse (particularly sharpening), but the simpler introductions are appropriate to the scope of the book. His project based instruction and step by step approach is exactly what newcomer's need.
Many books these days wax the "poetic" of woodworking with seductive images and effusive text, being little more than a showcase of very expensive premium hand tools. There are other books that specialize in the topics of advanced machine use, hand planes and sharpening. Joinery is also a fundamental, and these particular joints are the most widely used. The side table introduces basic carcase and drawer/panel door construction.
I took a beginning woodworking course a long time ago, but have decided to refresh my interest. Although much of the machinery shown in the book may be beyond a beginner's pocket book, the alternative hand tool approach is well within reach and will drive home the fundamentals of woodworking more than machine milling will.The first 70 pages introduce the reader to wood, joinery and (power and hand) tools. Korn takes us step-by-step through the process with plenty of clear photographs showing the technique.
Sure I knew in principle how to make a tenon and mortise joint- but this book give lots of helpful hints and practical guides/examples. If you only buy one woodworking book- this should be it. I bought this book as a supplement when I enrolled in an introductory woodworking course (at the recommendation of the tutor), I have since completed an intermediate woodworking course and this book has been an invaluable reference. It is very clearly written and easy to follow, with wonderful pictorial guides.
Recently got back into woodworking after almost 25 years away from it and this was a good book to review the basics.
This book has all the information you need to get started. There are lots of pictures. I made the bench using the book. This book has been an invaluable tool. I would highly recommend the book. I learn more visually than reading.
Turned out great.This book is a must have for any novice or even experienced woodworker. I have done small woodworking projects such as shelves but wanted to learn more so I could possibly complete larger projects. Gives you information on different types of wood and their qualities, gives good information on tools, how to use them, which ones to buy, etc. It even has a small bench project to complete.
I need this book for a woodworking course that I am currently taking.This book arrived in good condition.and before it was available in the college bookstore.
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