Rough Cut Woodworking with Tommy Mac: 12 Step-by-step Projects

In this easy-to-use, straightforward guidebook, master carpenter MacDonald energetically builds on the success of his popular PBS television show by passionately sharing the techniques required to build twelve projects. Rather than urging people to make the perfect bookcase or footstool or breadbox, he counsels that it's okay to make mistakes and that woodworkers, whether accomplished or aspiring, don't need to feel the burden of getting it "just right" on any single project. Each chapter is chock full of illustrations and detailed diagrams of the individual pieces that compose the project; a thorough materials list and list of power and hand tools required for the project; detailed and numbered step-by-step instructions for the project; sidebars on safety and T-Mac tips on technique; and a sidebar on a road trip on which MacDonald finds the inspiration for the project. Each chapter focuses on a particular technique that can be mastered for other projects. When you make a keepsake box, for example, you're also learning how to reinforce miter joints with splines. MacDonald's a loving evangelist for his craft, and both his television show and this book are likely to win many converts. (Nov.) --Publishers Weekly