Do it yourself woodworking projects are fun activities that you can do at home and a good alternative to buying brand new furniture. It is also a good way to restore old furniture or make something new out of your furniture that has been stuck in your garage for long. It just takes a little creativity and you can do many projects by yourself.
Even if it is just your first time to do it on your own, you can however find some great resources that you will find useful in making your do it yourself woodworking project successful. You may however start with some simple projects to make it easier to complete. However, here are some tips that you might also find useful in your woodworking project.
-Your choice of wood. One of the things that you may need to decide when starting on a woodworking project is the wood to use. You can choose either softwood or hardwood in your projects or any kind of species depending also of the project you are making. Most often, hardwoods are used for indoor projects like cabinets or furniture and softwood are often for outdoor projects. In fact, softwoods are even used as lumber in most construction projects as they are easy for construction especially when you are using woodworking tools. If you are just starting, it may be wise to start with softwoods to make your project a little easier for you.- Sanding your wood is also important as this creates a smooth finish to your woodworking project, makes your project durable from wear and tear, and of course allows your painted project to be long-lasting. One of the most important tips in sanding your wood is to go with the grain.  Going against it will create marks on your wood and may not look good with the finish or the paint. Also start with the coarse-grit sandpaper down to the finer ones.
- In choosing your woodworking finish, make sure you are using something that fits your do it yourself woodworking project. There are different choices of finish and each of them have distinct properties - oil, varnish, urethane, wax, shellac, lacquers, make sure you know what is best for your project. If you want a tint of orange to your finish product, shellac may be a good choice to enhance the appearance of dark-colored woods. If you are doing an outdoor project, varnish may be suitable for you as this finish is resistant to moisture and solvent and also protects the wood from scratches.
One great tip if you are just starting out with a do it yourself woodworking project is to start with something that you are comfortable working, and from there, you can learn more tips and techniques in your woodworking. It is also important to be extra careful in working with your tools especially in working with your lathes, and make sure you got good quality tools especially if you are looking forward to more woodworking projects in the future.

Read More..

An DIY Chicken Coop A Great Way To Start Your Chicken Keeping Hobby

If you have ever given any thought to keeping free range chickens then youve probably also been thinking about building your own chicken coop, but maybe you dont have the first clue where to even start. Well, read on!
The first thing you will need to do is decide on how many chickens you are going to keep. This of course will depend on your available space.
Based on this you can work out how big your chicken coop needs to be and how you would like the finished design to look.
Whether or not you have any experience in DIY you can easily build your own top quality chicken coop in a weekend and its a great project to get the rest of the family involved in too.
If you are uncomfortable working out your own design you can skip this step and start building straight away by simply downloading your chicken coop plans on-line. These downloadable plans are usually very low cost and they also allow you to shop around for the best price for your materials and often save at least the cost of the plans.
With all of this worked out for you in advance, you can be sure of a first rate and practical design. You wont even have to figure out your own measurements.
If you are feeling confident enough to figure out a chicken coop design for yourself, great! But keep a few practical design considerations in mind and you can be sure to build a quality chicken coop that will keep your chickens safe and comfortable for years to come.
Make sure to consider each of these points:Your climate: 

Think of using materials most suited to the prevailing weather conditions where you live.
Practicality: 

Design a chicken coop that allows easy access for cleaning and egg collection. Consider making an egg collection hatch in the roosting area.
Ventilation: 

You will need to allow for adequate ventilation to keep your chickens cool in summer
Lighting: 

You may need to provide additional lighting in the winter time to make sure your hens keep on laying!
Protection and security:

  Your chickens will easily fall prey to predators if you dont provide a coop that is strong and sturdy.
Roosting and brooding boxes:

  Your coop will need to be designed so as to provide comfortable roosting areas for your chickens and brooding boxes if you decide to allow your hens to hatch some eggs.
With a little practice it is easy to design and construct a chicken coop that covers all of these practical points and with a small amount of care and maintenance will last for years. These are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to keeping chickens and you can learn lots more about how to build a chicken coop, how to keep chickens and even how to hatch and raise your own chicks with a visit to my website.
Start keeping your own flock of free range hens today and discover not just how practical they are, but just how much more there is to these fascinating creatures!

Read More..

Why Wait Start Your Woodworking Projects Now!

Tired of the snow, ice, rain and the downright cold temperatures?  Dreaming of summer so you can get started on that To Do List? Well, who says you have to wait until summer to start your new Woodworking Projects?Its always hard waiting for the weather to get better so you can get back outdoors and get things done.  Especially when the snow is piling up and you and the kids are all suffering from cabin fever.  So why not get started on that summer project list a little early this year with your woodworking projects!
Now is the time to start dreaming up just what type of plans you are interested in.  Whether you are planning to teach your child or grandchild woodworking or wanting to finish that dream project of your own, every good woodworking project starts with a great plan.  I can almost guarantee that you will feel satisfied when youve finished one of these dream projects.  Woodworking is something you do for yourself, so enjoy it!
There are plenty of woodworking plans and projects online to help you get good ideas of what it is you really want to build.  Woodworking projects like building a cradle for your newborn child or grandchild, a nice rocking chair for Grandma or an armchair for your spouse, these plans can all be started in the garage.  Bigger woodworking projects like sheds, obviously, or arbors will have to wait for the snow to melt.
Now is the right time to start those woodworking projects if you ever want them to happen, and finding the right  plans may produce a piece that remains a lifelong memory for you as well as your family.  Make sure you spend as much time as needed on these projects and dont rush them.  If you want a great woodworking project, no matter what you decide to make, you must follow the directions and start with a plan that is easy to follow and easy to read.
Great woodworking plans will help give you that kitchen table project something your spouse will thank you for again and again, the smile on Grandmas face when she sits in her hand-crafted wooden chair for the first time, or the glow on your childs face when they complete their first woodworking project.  The right woodworking project plan can give you a woodworking piece that can be passed down for generations.
So, "Who says you have to wait until summer to start Woodworking Project Plans"?
Get started now in your search for your favorite or most inspired woodworking plans and projects.  There are some really great woodworking plan websites and forums on the internet for beginning and advanced woodworkers.  Just take your time to find the one that has all the information you need to make that dream woodworking project come to life!

Read More..

Woodworking Beginners Secret Tips To Start Right

Woodworking: Where To Start - Tips From Experienced WoodworkersWoodworking encompasses a broad area of skills, specialties, and applications.  Some beginners take on too much too soon or blow their savings on expensive woodworking tools and machines that they dont know how to use and might not ever need.  And even some basic techniques can be confusing or easy to do incorrectly.  Experienced woodworkers have some simple, but insightful tips to help you get off to a good start.

Do Your ResearchInitiative, courage, a sense of adventure, these are all good things, and many fine woodworkers learned their skills by just jumping in and trying to build something.  Chances are whatever they chose for their first project, it came out better than they thought, but not really nice enough to use or display.  Even those brave souls that start from scratch with no preparation often end up seeking out some books, magazines, or experienced woodworkers to figure out how to do it right.
The woodworkers we talked to stressed that a person can save themselves some time and frustration by learning about the different aspects of woodworking before starting a first project.  Many suggested finding some good books or magazines, either at the library for free or at the bookstore.  Start with the basics and learn about different forms of woodworking, types of trees and woods and how they are used, various tools, etc. - just the kind of information presented here in this article.
"I have an entire corner of my garage filled with books and magazines," shared Paul Johnson, who has been woodworking since he was a young boy.  "I subscribe to a couple and keep those that have projects or techniques that I would like to try.  I also buy a couple new books every year.  When I first started woodworking, I bought them left and right; whenever I came across one that was recommended or had information I wanted to learn.  They help give me ideas for projects," he added.  "I especially like those that come with patterns."
After learning about the basics, you should have an idea of what type of woodworking interests you, and you can move on to books or even classes that teach hands on skills in that particular area.
Take Some ClassesIn fact taking classes was recommended by several of our experts.  Whether its a beginning class through the local college or something taught by an experienced woodworker, it will typically give you a good overview of different tools and woodworking safety.  Some building centers and lumberyards also offer classes on basics or teach you how to make a specific project.
If you arent big on classes, but you know a person who is skilled in woodworking, ask if they would let you assist them with a project, or perhaps just sit and observe.  Most woodworkers are pleased to talk about their art and share it with others.  Chances are they will be happy to oblige.
Keep It SimpleThe answer, "Keep it simple," came up over and over, when asked for advice for new woodworkers.  Start with simple projects, preferably those that use only hand tools.  This way, you will learn how to do the important things like measure, cut, shape and join.  Getting good at those basic skills is extremely important.
If you are brand new to woodworking and havent used tools much before, you might want to consider starting with a precut kit.  Most kits consist of wood that is already cut in the appropriate shapes and sizes.  It is up to you to follow the directions and put the pieces together.  These kits typically require nailing, screwing, gluing, sanding, and finishing.  You can make birdhouses and feeders, benches, plant holders, and many other fun items to get you started.
Even as you advance to more complex projects, dont worry about planning and sizing your own lumber until you feel comfortable and confident.  You can buy lumber already prepped and cut in many different widths.  And table legs, chair spindles, and other turned pieces are also readily available pre-made.  Ease into some of those more difficult projects over time, adding greater levels of difficulty to each project.
Tool TipsThe suggestions to keep it simple applied to woodworking tools as well.  Most people interviewed recommended buying tools as you need them and adding to your selection as required for new projects.  If a project is purchased as a kit, or with printed instructions, the list of tools needed is included.  Depending on what type of projects you choose to start with, you will typically need hammers, tape measure, clamps, a square, saws, hand drills, and a set of chisels.  These will probably cost you around $200-$300 dollars.
Some woodworkers said that investing in a good table saw early on was important, but only if you will be doing projects with many cuts, especially those with different types of angles.  For most beginner projects, a handsaw, or perhaps a circular saw will suffice.
It is strongly suggested that you begin by buying good tools, but not top grade until you decide for certain that you want to stick with woodworking.  If it becomes clear that this will be an ongoing interest, then consider buying the best quality tools you can afford.  Best quality doesnt always mean the most expensive, and you will have to do your research.
Kevin Warner, who has been teaching high school shop for over twenty years, had this to say about woodworking tools.  "At school, I have a limited budget for tools, but I would rather buy a few high quality tools and have the kids share them than spend my money on cheap equipment.  Theres nothing that will turn a young beginner away from woodworking quicker than a crappy tool that doesnt do what it should."
The same is true for home woodworking.  Our experts recommended spending as much as you could afford on the basic tools like hammers, saws, screwdrivers, drills and bits.  "These are tools you will need around the house even if you dont pursue woodworking," Sarah Greeley pointed out.  "If you spend the money up front, and care for them correctly, these tools will last you a lifetime because you bought quality to begin with."
If you have a tight budget, consider purchasing tools at an estate sale, auction or garage sale.  Some may have worn handles or look like they are rusty or dirty, but if they are quality tools and generally sound, you can clean and repair them for less than it would cost to purchase new.
In general, you get what you pay for with woodworking tools, but sometimes you pay for the name, or for features that you may not use in your particular type of woodworking.  So again, you will need to refer to books, magazines, Web sites, and other woodworkers to learn more about different types and brands of tools.  And so you see, the tips have brought you full circle, back to the research and learning, which is what so many woodworkers stressed the most.
There is much to learn and, as has been said, it is an ongoing process.  But thanks to the wealth of information out there about different aspects of woodworking, and the many Web sites and Internet resources, it is easy to research your questions.  You just have to take the time.

Read More..

Loft Bed Plans What You Should Know Before You Start Building

If you want to maximize your bedroom space and are looking for woodworking plans, you might want to go with one of the many loft bed plans that are available. You can find plans that are ultra simplistic, all the way to extremely complex
When you go with loft bed plans, you can easily double or triple the amount of usable floor space in the bedroom because the bed from and mattress are raised off the floor, utilizing the space along the walls and near the ceiling.
When the bed is lifted off the floor, you will uncover a large amount of space thats typically unused. This space can be sued for storage space, desks, dressers, or play areas. Because you are creating a functional space right under the bed, you are increasing the amount of usable space.
In order to choose the best bed plans for your home, you should think about who will be occupying the room. If you are using the woodworking plans to build a bed for a small childs room, you may want to consider a design thats raised 3-4 feet from the floor. This will still provide plenty of room to create a study or play area under the bed.
Small children like the look of a raised bed, but they also need the comfort of a mattress thats a comfortable height from the floor. You might also want to consider loft bed plans that feature rails on the sides to prevent accident falls from the raised bed. You should also find plans that include a ladder in the design when you are building a loft bed for a smaller child.
On the other hand, you can choose woodworking plans that are little more daring when you are building a bed for a teenager or college student. Choosing bed plans that raise the bed 5-6 feet off the floor are suitable for older occupants. This increased height will provide enough room under the bed to create a study or storage area that is fully functional.
Some people might decide to buy a loft bed from a furniture store, but others might want to get more creative and build their own. Some of the simplest loft bed plans are designed so the frame of the bed rests on top of two dressers or a dresser and a desk.
There are some woodworking plans that are more complex. When you are choosing loft bed plans, make sure you select one that matches your skill level. You dont have to choose an elaborate plan. A basic frame is really all you need. Once youve got the frame built, you can buy the furniture pieces to go under the bed that will create a functional area.
There are plenty of woodworking plans that are easy to construct. Some of the loft bed plans can be built with ease in a single weekend. Because they are constructed from wood, you will need just some basic hand tools to complete the job. If you arent very skilled at woodworking, you can always purchase the loft bed plans and hire someone else to do the work. When you use woodworking plans, you will be sure your furnishings will meet your needs.

Read More..

How to Start a Home Wood Working Business

Starting a Home Wood Working Business is just the thing for those who love working with wood as a hobby. The quality and design of hand crafted wood is prized the world over. Furniture, toys, boxes and the like are used everyday. There is a definite market for Woodworking Business Opportunities.
Many products of woodworking are marketable today. Everything from shipping crates to armoires are made from wood products. There is also an emerging market for hand made wooden toys. If you posses skill and talent, you can make money in the wood working business opportunities field.
Things you will need to start a woodworking business are fairly simple. You will need to know your state and local requirements for opening a business in the woodworking business opportunities field. More importantly, you will need to know what types of items you want to produce. This will have a definitive bearing on the supplies and tools you will need to have on hand. Also think about joining a trade organization associated with woodworking. This can help guide you in advertising your work as well as shows and events to help showcase your finer pieces.
You will need a good supplier of various woods and wood handling tools. Though you should never use sub-standard materials, quality is especially imperative for toys, furniture, and other practical items that your clients will be using daily. A long lasting product will get you plenty of referrals.
Once you have established a relationship with a supplier for your Home Wood Working Business, you will need to consider your area and what your advertising should be. There are several ways in which you can market your products. Having a web site to direct clients to for a glimpse of your products is a fantastic way to get your name out there and to showcase your work. People who shop online will be quick to refer you if they have a pleasant experience and are happy with the outcome of the purchase.
There are also more traditional means of sales in the Home Wood Working Business Opportunities field. Trade shows, flea markets, arts and crafts fairs, malls and small outlet stores are all resources that need to be investigated. Marketing your custom designs to furniture stores and specialty stores is a great way to start your home wood working business rolling. Make sure you do not over-book your business, however. You will need to consistently maintain your level of quality throughout the sales process.
Advertising your home wood working business on the Internet, local bulletin boards, trade magazines and the like will help you establish a reputation and make your name known. Going to arts and crafts shows, trade shows and flea markets will aid in showcasing your work and increase your sales. All of these opportunities should be taken advantage of as often as possible in order to increase your profile and resume. Entering contests in the woodworking trade will also help with referrals and increasing sales.
Dont limit your imagination. Many clients may ask for custom work. Be sure when handling custom orders that the direction of the project is clear. There are design copyrights to be considered also. If a client has a copyrighted design that he would like for you to build, be mindful of that. However, you can also copyright your own designs. This could lead to increased revenues in your Home Wood Working Business.
Fashion and home decor trends are on your side in this industry too. Beautifully crafted wooden bowls and home accessories are always popular. If you are interested in doing these types of small jobs, keep in mind that they are relatively inexpensive to ship and make great online products.
There is also the artistic side of the woodworking business opportunities field. Sculptures, frames, and other art objects can be sold as well as furniture. Your only limit in woodworking is your imagination and your bravery to try new things.
Woodworking can be a fun and lucrative career. The woodworker has the ability to create as not only a practical tradesman, but as an artist as well. If you have dabbled in woodworking, think of it now as a career.
Woodworking can be a fulfilling and successful endeavor.

Read More..