The Shaker Stepladder

This functional form is an ideal intro to the Shaker Style. Learn how to make this useful project, all while sharpening your hand tool skills.

Connecticut Lowboy

While simple to build, the details present a worthy challenge. While teaching a class at the Connecticut Valley School of Woodworking, I was asked to sneak down to the Connecticut Historical [...]

A Simple Mitered Credenza

This simple credenza is perfect for storing your extra dishes and linens. The seamless case features routed joints reinforced with floating tenons as well as easy lock miter drawers.

Cedar Plant Stand

An Asian-inspired display stand for deck, patio or porch. This stand was originally designed for bonsai plants—dwarf trees or shrubs—but it can be used to display any kind of potted plant. As a [...]

Outdoor Kitchen

This outdoor kitchen keeps everything needed for an outdoor gathering close at hand.  Project #2210 • Skill Level: Intermediate • Time: 5 Days • Cost: $800 If you live in the Midwest, you’ll know [...]

Yard Games: Kubb

I’m sure you’re thinking, what’s Kubb? The original name, “Kubbspel,” translates (roughly) into  “throwing block game.” The goal is simple: knock over wooden “Kubbs” or soldiers by throwing [...]

Crisscross Picnic Table

It seats up to 8, but no one has to straddle a leg. Editor’s note: this article originally appeared in American Woodworker #154. Every summer, my uncle Bob tends the grill at our family [...]

Japanese Garden Bench

Combine five 2x4s, a handful of screws and a long afternoon to build a handsome and sturdy sitting spot for your deck or garden. My father always has had a knack for doing more with less. He [...]

Build A Patio Planter

Strong, simple joinery provides lasting beauty. If you’ve been thinking about beautifying your patio, and you want to do it in a weekend, I’ve got just the thing. This sturdy planter is made from [...]

Barrister Bookcase

We redesigned this classic with techniques so simple even a novice can build it! Project #1918 • Skill Level: Beginner • Time: 3 days Almost everyone likes the look of barrister bookcases. But [...]