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The milled boards are long enough that the reader can practice the joints several times. His project based instruction and step by step approach is exactly what newcomer's need. Korn's book is almost identical to the structure and pacing of instruction from my course. The side table introduces basic carcase and drawer/panel door construction. First, the basic mortise and tenon and then the through-dovetail joint. The stool introduces half-blind dovetails, pinned tenons, glue-up procedure, and basic finishing.
Korn appears to take a more modest (and affordable) approach with essential hand tools. 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. 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. The reader learns a great deal without being intimidated by too much detail. I took a beginning woodworking course a long time ago, but have decided to refresh my interest. Korn does a superb job of providing step-by-step instruction using hand tools or power tools. 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).
Joinery is also a fundamental, and these particular joints are the most widely used. Korn takes us step-by-step through the process with plenty of clear photographs showing the technique. There are other books that specialize in the topics of advanced machine use, hand planes and sharpening. I also like Korn's lack of pretense when presenting tools or techniques. 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.
The sections are a bit terse (particularly sharpening), but the simpler introductions are appropriate to the scope of the book. 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. These projects are big enough to introduce several more fundamentals without being too complex that the reader will never finish. Again, all steps are well documented with plenty of photographs.
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. 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. It is very clearly written and easy to follow, with wonderful pictorial guides. If you only buy one woodworking book- this should be it.
Recently got back into woodworking after almost 25 years away from it and this was a good book to review the basics.
Turned out great.This book is a must have for any novice or even experienced woodworker. It even has a small bench project to complete.
This book has been an invaluable tool. 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.
I have done small woodworking projects such as shelves but wanted to learn more so I could possibly complete larger projects. This book has all the information you need to get started.
There are lots of pictures. I learn more visually than reading.
I made the bench using the book. I would highly recommend the book.
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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