Q&A
Tool reviews, building tips, and thoughts from a carpenter who’s been doing this a long time.
A Solid White Oak Entry Door Part 2: Built, Installed, Done
This is part two of my white oak entry door series — the build, the install, and the finished door. I'm answering questions about the process rather than walking through it step by step. Board selection, glue up, hanging a 130 lb door, what I'd do differently, and what it feels like to leave it behind when you sell the house.
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.
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.