About EZwoodshop.com

My original idea for EZwoodshop was to provide a review of wood project plans that could be downloaded from the Web. After a careful look at what was available, I soon realized that most of the plans were designed for experienced woodworkers. No problem with that, really. However I couldn't help but wonder how many people out there are are just getting into the craft - people who don't have 10+ years woodworking experience - or the extensive set of tools someone might acquire over that much time.

There was also the question of how complex a project really needs to be to serve its purpose. Obviously some people are perfectly content to build a simple workbench with 2x4s and nails - while others want to use hardwoods with mortise & tenon joinery.

Complicating the matter was that most of the plans I found online were somewhat difficult to follow (even for experienced woodworkers). That's simply a matter of poorly-written instructions, which seem to be more commonplace than I would have expected. Woodworking plans, perhaps more than any other type of plan, really do need clear, concise, and easy-to-follow steps. Anything short of that opens the door for mistakes - which not only waste money and materials, but can cause accidents in the shop.

I've tried to make my woodworking plan reviews as objective as possible, keeping in mind that many of you are new to the craft, and should probably avoid the more complex projects - especially if the instructions are poorly written. I've also commented on whether I think the level of complexity is really needed - as in some plans where the design serves mostly to challenge your woodworking skills - and not to simply get the project built as easily and quickly as possible.

While I review woodworking plans, I often come up with my own methods and techniques (and even my own plans) for building projects the way I would like to build them. This is the direction my web site will ultimately go - with more how-to guides and plans that are clear, concise, and easy to follow.

Questions? Contact me here.