Like many hobbies, getting started in woodworking can seem
like a daunting task. There are all kinds of terms that are thrown around, that
the whole topic can seem overwhelming. While you may have a basic understanding
of some tools and know some projects you might like to try to build, here are
some topics that beginning woodworkers often ask about.
All jokes aside, beginning woodworkers sometimes snicker
when they first hear of a butt joint. However, once they understand the
principle, they understand the name. A butt joint is simply where one board is
butted against another one, and then connected with some form of mechanical
fastener. In this article on how to make a butt joint like a master woodworker,
learn the proper technique to make this most basic of wood joints as strong as
possible.
A combination square looks like some 21st century revision
of a slide rule, complete with a locking mechanism and a bubble level for good
measure. How on Earth does one use this gizmo? Well, it's actually much simpler
than you might think at first blush, and it is quite a useful tool for certain
tasks. Here are some tips on how to use a combination square.