Topic

Techniques & Joinery

Cutting, joinery, gluing and sanding — the core skills that make woodworking finally click.

Techniques 8 min read

Smooth finishes are built between coats, not just in them. Learn grit progression, when to scuff-sand, and how to avoid burning through edges.

Gordon Hale

Techniques 8 min read

Not every glue-up is a flat panel. Learn cauls, angled blocks, and band clamps for mitered frames, curves, and awkward assemblies that fight you.

Gordon Hale

Techniques 7 min read

Compare pocket-hole screws and dowel joints for strength, speed, and looks. A practical breakdown to help you pick the right method per project.

Gordon Hale

Techniques 8 min read

Flat, seamless panel glue-ups come down to prep and clamp pressure. Learn jointing edges, arranging boards, and controlling squeeze-out cleanly.

Gordon Hale

Techniques 8 min read

Accurate work starts with precise layout. Learn to use marking gauges, knives, and squares for repeatable lines that survive to the final cut.

Gordon Hale

Techniques 8 min read

Hand-cut dovetails are within reach with the right sawing technique. Learn marking, sawing to the line, and paring for tight, gap-free corners.

Gordon Hale

Techniques 8 min read

Learn to cut strong mortise-and-tenon joints by hand and machine. Covers layout, chopping, tenon sawing, and fitting for gap-free, lasting joints.

Gordon Hale

The Cut List