Q&A
Tool reviews, building tips, and thoughts from a carpenter who’s been doing this a long time.
Lie-Nielsen Bronze No. 4 Smoothing Plane : Finally Got One
A close look at the Lie-Nielsen Bronze No. 4 smoothing plane. Photos, specs, and the story behind finally getting one after years of waiting.
Building a Solid White Oak Entry Door (Craftsman Style, Mortise & Tenon Construction)
When we built our house, I installed the cheapest entry door that met code, knowing one day I’d replace it with something better. This post walks through the design, material selection, and construction plan for a solid white oak craftsman-style entry door built with traditional mortise and tenon joinery.
Manage the Customer (Before They Manage You)
"The customer is essentially your employee and your boss at the same time. They pay the bills, but you set the rules. If you let the customer manage your schedule and your process, you’ve already lost. Here is why you must set expectations before the first hammer swings."
Which Carpenter Path Fits You Best? Remodel, Custom, or Handyman
Not sure what kind of carpenter to be? I break down residential remodel, custom new construction, and handyman work—pros, cons, and who each path fits best.
Floating Shelves Done Right: Design, Proportions, and the Details That Matter
Floating shelves look simple, but the details matter more than most people realize. This post isn’t a step-by-step tutorial it’s a practical look at floating shelf design, proportions, wood choice, hidden hardware, and finishing, based on how they’re actually built to look clean and intentional on the wall.
How to Know If Carpentry Is a Good Career Fit for Your Personality
Carpentry is not just a job. It is a lifestyle that shapes your body, your mindset, and your future. Before you commit, here is what you need to be honest with yourself about.
The Best Finish for DIYers Without a Shop
If you don’t have a shop, a garage, or a dedicated finishing space, this is the finish I recommend. Minwax Polycrylic Clear Ultra Flat is forgiving, low-VOC, and ideal for DIY projects in real homes. Here’s exactly how I use it, why it works, and how to get professional results without professional conditions.
How to Evaluate Land for Building a Home (Water, Power, Septic & Access)
Thinking about buying land to build a home? This practical guide walks through how to evaluate land for water, power, septic, access, zoning, and neighbors—before you make an expensive mistake.
Should You Buy Land or Design a House First?
If you’re planning to build a house, one of the first decisions you need to make is whether to buy land first or design the house first. Based on real-world experience, this article explains why understanding the land should come before finalizing your home’s design—and how overlooking soil, terrain, and regulations can lead to costly mistakes.
Mahogany Wall Cabinet for My Daughter (Part 2): Design Changes, Finish, and Takeaways
Part 2 of Fiona’s mahogany wall cabinet build—what changed from part 1, joinery and construction highlights, finish mistakes, and the final satin poly fix.
Building a Wall Cabinet for My Daughter’s Room
I’m building my daughter a small wall cabinet as a birthday gift, something that’ll last longer than the usual toys. Here’s the plan, the materials, and why I’m doing it..
The Last Carpenter Christmas Gift Guide 2025
If you’re trying to buy a gift for a man this year whether it’s your brother, your dad, or a guy who already has everything this guide keeps it simple. No gimmicks, no junk. Just practical tools, gear, and everyday items men actually use. I even split it into morning shower guys and evening shower guys… because yes, it matters.
Is MDF Really That Bad? A Carpenter’s Honest Answer
MDF gets a bad reputation, but used the right way, it’s one of the most predictable and stable sheet goods you can buy. It machines clean, paints beautifully, and solves problems solid wood can’t. This post covers when to use it, when not to use it, and why a lot of builders keep a stack of it in the shop.
Should I Buy a Track Saw? My Long-Term Review of Owning and Using the Mafell MT 55 cc
A track saw isn’t just a luxury tool it’s a precision upgrade. Whether you’re breaking down sheet goods or chasing dead-straight lines without dragging a full table saw outside, a good track saw can change the way you work. Here’s a clear, honest look at what matters, what doesn’t, and why this tool earns its place in any shop.
Is LVP Any Good? Here’s the Truth From a Carpenter
I’ve installed LVP in rentals, custom homes, and everywhere in between, and here’s the truth: some brands last, and some fall apart fast. This post breaks down what to look for; thickness, wear layer, locking systems, subfloor prep and the mistakes people make when they think LVP is “easy.”