15 woodworking basics you should know

There are basic concepts in woodworking that you just sort of pick up along your journey as a woodworker. Fundamentals that no one really talks about because they’re just so ingrained that they’ve become second nature. Well, today I’m sharing 15 woodworking basics that I think every woodworker should know.
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[@urieaaron]

Being a bit dyslexic, I measure thrice, cut twice and discard because I built the whole thing backwards.

[@lacaval]

I thought i am the only one doing this 😂

[@SeaFanStudio]

And if I measured right in one of the 3 measures, I'm having a good day!

[@JamesCornwell-jp2ij]

....and the blind carpenter picked up his hammer ... and saw ,!

[@carrieanneatreides6240]

Hey! It’s me!!!❤😂😂😂

[@barryl8857]

I have brothers out there. There is only 1 thing I make in my workshop that I make perfect every single time........sawdust

[@anthonyhull1450]

I don’t call it making a mistake. I call it cutting the perfect sized board for a future project.

[@salottin]

THIS!

[@CalvinJ82]

This is the most concise, no nonsense, perfect tips for getting started woodworking. Been at it for 30 yrs and this breaks down all the basics that takes experience to learn. Love the breakdown, love your organized shop, and love the no BS presentation. Thank you for taking the time to share. That was one heck of a kickback, hope that one never actually happens!

[@sazennonumber]

The kickback was fantastic!! 😂

[@MonieLv]

😂😂😂​@@sazennonumber

[@QuantumGravy]

Came to say this - this was so concise and well worded. Super charismatic overall too, it was entertaining the whole time!

[@daveymcg53]

Rarely have I come across a video such as this. It is 13:19 long, not a second wasted, not a word too many. Wonderful!

[@elsteak]

Very realistic reenactment of a kickback in the face :)

[@TheRaven0811]

Maybe it's exactly like that... slow motion but you can't get out of the way.

[@DIYMontreal]

😁 Just glad it's never actually happened to me!

[@frederickmichaud6783]

Along with an internal, low tone “noooooooooo”

[@phildevan]

I doubt there’s enough time to react before getting impaled!😮 (I’m happy to add that I say that without any first-hand (or face) experience.)

[@jameslamm9315]

Thanks for sharing

[@alsclub]

I'm an experienced woodworker but I still loved this video. You are an amazing presenter. Keep up the great work.

[@cami-loo108]

Oh my god, the storage of your sandpaper and drills are so satisfying. As a new woodworker, I appreciate your knowledge

[@GroundedFlyboy737]

One of the best wood working videos I've ever seen, thank you.

[@keithmarlowe5569]

I know it's not the topic du jour, but I like the simplicity and functionality of your shop organization. A tidy shop is a safe and productive shop.

[@markbryan9989]

Good basic reminders even for those of us that have been doing it for awhile! Thanks Marie.

[@DIYMontreal]

You bet!

[@uwishpal]

This is the most realistic for beginners I’ve seen. I watch tips and tricks all the time, but I’m not a beginner by any means. Most videos like this I come across are too advanced and don’t explain the basics. There’s a couple tips in here that I haven’t seen in any video I’ve ever watched so great work.

[@stephenmoore2561]

This is a must see video for all beginner woodworkers!

[@neilpountney9414]

It never hurts to go over the basics no matter how long you have been woodworking. Nice Video Thank you Marie.

[@Uswesi1527]

You hit the nail right on the head. Very important & essential precautions , especially safety matters . Thanks

[@davidjennings2179]

Straightforward advice from someone you can tell knows what they're talking about. Perfect.

[@eaccents]

I've found this simple rule for router direction easy to remember: With your right hand, point your thumb at the edge, and your forefinger will point the way you should move the router Love your videos--thank you! You do a great job of balancing being succinct with providing us with just the right amount of information. Plus, you explain in a way that most everyone can understand. Lastly, you use tools that most of us can afford 👍

[@DIYMontreal]

Great router tip! And appreciate the feedback :)

[@cferrara1125]

The thumb forefinger is the bomb. Thanks

[@Bishop5ly]

Very informative! I don’t think I’ve ever seen anyone breakdown softwood and hardwood, as well as, sanding. Like you just did. Good job 👍

[@SawdustmakerLori]

This would be so helpful for beginners and a good refresher for more experienced woodworkers! Thanks for sharing. I always enjoy your video's!!!

[@danielcotnoir3363]

The dramatic reenactment of the kickback effect was the most compelling argument for both the need for safety in the workshop and for the support of the arts! Bravo! ❤

[@HawkFest]

Concise, clear, straight to the point, without narcissistic and unrelated story telling bla bla... As a beginner (and for my own taste+needs), I highly value such tutorials. Thank you very much, subscribed.

[@Bobbyg2018]

I have watched hundreds of woodworking videos and this is the first I've seen that explains about calculating the board feet so easily. Also haven't heard about the closed grain and open grain before. Thanks much. Subscribed!

[@DIYMontreal]

Awesome! Glad you liked it

[@PikkaBird]

There are a few videos showing how open grained oak is, especially red oak. I was personally quite amazed by this one: watch?v=L6t2AZubF8U

[@brucewilliamsstudio4932]

I didn't learn anything new, but I must say I'm very impressed by your common sense tips. Keep up the great work.

[@scopace314]

A well presented quick list of all the mistakes and misconceptions a newbie will encounter. Save yourself 1-2 years of headaches and take notes people, this is gold!

[@marcdebroin6700]

Fantastic video. It brought me back when I worked in a woodshop in the 1980’s. I particularly enjoyed the security part. Keep up the good work.

[@marksteppan.bazinga]

This is awesome for beginners, thank you! I'm sure this would make a great serie if you ever had more basic tips like these :)

[@DIYMontreal]

Thanks! will try to keep a list going for a future video.

[@ZER0MPH]

I agree with this. 😊

[@shaynesabala]

Those were really good tips for beginners. I remember building some drawer fronts for the first time and didn’t consider the blade kerf and had some measurements I couldn’t figure out lol. It all worked out but it’s something new wood workers would never think of, I know I didn’t at the time. Thanks for the video.

[@SYBEX21]

LOL 2x4's Lowes got sued over that. We had to lable the actual dementions on the racks. Great video as always.

[@AI-oz6ju]

Excellent refresher on some of the items we take for granted. Thank you!

[@Rideathought]

I'm teaching my daughter and this is going to be very handy! TX!

[@AncoraImparoPiper]

All the basics I needed to know when I started woodworking in just 13 minutes. Plus, I've been struggling with cross cutting using mitre saw and circular saw due to not being sure where to place the blade. Now I know! How much frustration this will save me from now on.

[@timothycreasy2161]

Thanks for explaining the method to calculate board feet. Any other person who talked about that just glanced over it, or talked over my head. So thank you

[@israelbarron-xd3zg]

Your videos are always full of good information, I love the way you share the details

[@bobd5119]

Excellent tips and info. And thanks for the encouragement to get a respirator.

[@philosophusbellator]

One of the most useful videos I've run across in a long time. Especially calculating board feet and the 50% rule on sandpaper. Thank you!

[@mihail0011]

Thank you! Everything you said is very important for me and for every beginner carpenter. I really found a lot of information in this video, which I could not find elsewhere.

[@TorBoy9]

excellent tips for beginner woodworkers! thanks

[@ZER0MPH]

Thank you for this video. Your channel just became one of my favorites! ❤

[@kristyhopkins6152]

that's right, very concise and not alot of extra talk. Love it as i am new and trying to learn more about different woodworking. Thank you and keep it coming.

[@MCsCreations]

Thanks a bunch, Marie! Really valuable tips! 😃 Stay safe there with your family! 🖖😊

[@elainemiller2760]

Always love your videos! This one is info packed! Thanks!

[@vernsteinbrecker3759]

Great video, didn’t realize I take everything for granted, not realizing

[@katynewt]

Thank you for being straight to the point. The humour's always a welcomed touch. 👍

[@Sebastopolmark]

All good tips and "rules". Like your "dramatic effects". Keep'em coming! !! !!!

[@GD-os8mz]

Wow!!! I’m just starting with woodworking and have been watching tons of KZbin videos tiger started. Yours is the first one to explain any of these basics. Thank you so much!!!

[@thomasbrovarone7136]

Nice review. Goes on the " must watch list" for annual woodworker's training list

[@NPOAfterMidnight-ft9zj]

I am a complete noob to woodworking, and although I knew most of these, you caught me with a couple. Thanks!

[@TimothyJesser]

Really great work. You explain things so well. Thank you.

[@k1sfd1974]

Great guide for beginners! Only thing that I’d add is when you’re “Measuring twice”, try to always use the same measuring device. Especially if you are trying to work in tight tolerances. I’ve seen tape measures that are off by a mm up to even 1/16”. All it takes is a measurement being just a little off (add maybe marking it slightly shy as well) and it can be frustrating. When I get a new tape measure in my shop, I always check it against others. Keep up the great content! Edited for spelling & grammar

[@DIYMontreal]

Good tip!

[@H.G.Wells-ishWells-ish]

Absolutely! Or what I sometimes do Is start my measure at the 1" mark and add an inch to the desired measure length. Best used on short measurements.

[@kevinwillis6707]

Iwill add ....don't assume a square is square, lots of cheaper ones are anything but, causes no end of problems for beginners

[@paularthurs8122]

Excellent summary. Learned some good rules and had some other rules confirmed!

[@jefskott99]

Thank you for this video. Not only did I learn a few new things but I plan on sharing it with my son and daughters who will definitely benefit from your advice. Cheers!

[@markpapp8784]

Thanks for this. I think I knew your tips already, but I really loved your broom bristle analogy to demonstrate the rip v. cross cut grain. Also, there's never any harm in being reminded!

[@barryroberts6470]

Thanks Marie a very useful video to show. Take Care and Stay Safe, Barry (UK)

[@ree2305]

Thank you for the information. I’m new to woodworking so I found the info very helpful

[@landesnorm]

Along with everyone else I thank you for this video. For your next basic skills video, you might mention grain direction and planes. Thanks again for all your work.

[@chealey5673]

This is hands down the best guide I've ever seen thank you so much!

[@itawad]

Great video. I like the clear presentation with not too many over the top moves and edits. Thank you, very useful

[@johnfowler6085]

Loved this. Been woodworking for 40 years and still went "Oh sh!t, why don't I do that anymore?" Everyone should be made to watch this video at least once before ever picking up a saw.

[@xl000]

You don't learn from other people mistakes Also who is going to have you watch this ? OSHA ? Home Depot?

[@MBLStacks]

I just finished my first year cabinetmaker apprenticeship in Calgary and this video is amazing for beginners like myself. Awesome to see that you included board feet as well! Cheers.

[@steverugg8194]

Thanks for the refresher course, much of which I knew but it is never something to take for granted. Nice job.

[@chrismoore6359]

So incredibly helpful; thank you!

[@kathrynschenk1077]

Great video and well explained!

[@Maffy0Bear]

This is fantastic. You've got a very clear and concise presentatiion and you can see taht you have good skill and experience. I work in Metric, but every point you made here is still applicable. Great work.

[@martinbowers852]

been doin this for many years and is great to have a refresher, and you explain it so very well, also i am almost finished makin 2 of your cook book holders, they are goin to look great, thank you so much

[@nava1uni]

Good video, even though I have been woodworking for a long time the tips were a good reminder. Thanks once again.

[@rickbell3402]

Great tips! Very clearly presented! Well done!

[@geemail369]

Great summary of a _LOT_ of basics, saving a whole bunch of nerves ... and projects! 🏆🙏🏻

[@bbushman4fitness]

Great summary. Love your direct and clear presentation style.

[@user-mi4fj9rq7v]

"Ah Fa......" LOL Thank you for these great tips! I have saved this video to my 2023 wood working playlist!!

[@theonlywaytogta6665]

Great tips! Thank you, I find your channel to be full of really good and relevant info.

[@Partlycloudy70degrees]

This has been such a helpful video for someone who is brand new to woodworking, and I appreciate all the time and effort you took to make this really informative video.

[@miguelcondessa1]

Pretty nice video. It will help a lot of people who are just starting...

[@VietTran-xl2ms]

OK dokey....SUBSCRIBED. No nonsense and quality production. Bravo. I am about to begin my personal journey in to the art of woodmaking. Your information is gold. Need all the tips and guidance I can get.

[@MM-overtime]

Probably the most informative, best beginner video ive ever seen. You have a talent for these videos!

[@robdewhirst7525]

Excellent summary!

[@leesmit3604]

Thank you! Great info well presented - without too much talking! Should be required viewing for all beginners - and a lot of others too

[@DIYMontreal]

lol felt like all I did was talk! But did my best to keep it to the point ;)

[@leesmit3604]

@@DIYMontreal you did great! Further cementing you as one of my favorite woodworkers to learn from. Great content and style! I am still fairly new to this wonderful hobby… have to deal with some physical challenges. Your videos have helped me a lot - and inspired some projects! Thanks again!

[@n8simpson]

You're videos provide the most value in the least amount of time! I love it!

[@darodes]

I learned most of this the hard way over the last couple years… would have loved to have this video when I started. Keep it up 👍

[@mrtahoe]

I’m so glad I learned recently how to listen to women. This woman had tons of useful tips!

[@mmironworks80]

Great tips!! And great to listen to from a fellow Montréaler.

[@briantaylor9266]

Great video. I'm glad you put "Wood Moves" as #1. And I always appreciate your wise words on safety and PPE. Just as an interesting side note, larch (aka tamarack) is classified as a softwood but is used for end-grain cutting boards. But that's really getting into the weeds. Your point is 100% valid - don't use soft woods for cutting boards.

[@nutzer12121]

Another Side Note: Red Oak is one of the few Open grain Oak, Most Western Europe Oak got closed grain, wh, you could use them AS cutting Boards and for Barrels etc.

[@JohnHenrySheridan]

Very thorough and helpful tips! I've been amateur woodworking for several years and a lot of these tips were either new to me or clarified. Thanks!

[@user-pp8cz7qe5r]

Thank you for taking the time to produce this.

[@anthonynwalor5811]

As someone who is getting into woodworking I can relate to making some of the 'do not dos' you mentioned here. I learnt some good lessons from this video. Thanks.

[@chrisbarry4467]

Excellent job. It always helps to remind people of the right and wrong way of doing things

[@nflint93]

Great video, thank you for sharing! I had no idea about the board feet, it makes so much sense.

[@alexanderd.m.565]

Hi, I'm from Costa Rica. This type of tips teaches us really good. Thank you for those videos!

[@T_B]

That was well done, as always! But, next time, please make the reenactment not so believable. That was BRUTAL!!! I'm having nightmares tonight because of you.

[@elliejohnson2786]

As someone who has only taken woodworking in a highschool class, I'm really happy with how much of this I knew. I guess that class was informative after all

[@Declan4253]

The first video I saw of yours was the 'are more expensive drills worth it?' video. I had to upgrade to a 18v from my beloved 12v makita and that video helped me. I picked milwaukee electric and I see you kept those once you tried them. I don't blame you. They are next level. I love using them.

[@d-not_telling]

Yep. I’m a newbie to a lot of this. This is the kind of videos I have been looking for. Thanks

[@kevintennant4461]

Coming from uk, I always found wood swells when cold and wet and shrinks when hot and dry, example, exterior door in winter would swell and get stuck and hard to open in frame, in summer would shrink and have no problem opening.

[@svenoxtoby4756]

I gather the humidity of the season dominates over the temperature, for wood swelling. So the swelling will happen in the humid season, which certainly varies between different climates (tropical, temperate etc). This is often skipped over by writers and presenters who are thinking of the location they know, I suppose.

[@dennissmith5837]

GREAT video. When you talked you were clear and clear understandable. You shared great info and I’m going to look for more of your videos.

[@angeliseperaza1620]

Thanks you! I really needed this I’m starting to building a couple projects and have no idea what I’m doing. This really been helpful I’ll be building a small mud kitchen for my toddler and hopefully will be brave enough to build the chicken coop.

[@juniorgc8]

Thank you, I’m a beginner and I appreciate the depth and detail.

[@Jack-lg9bu]

Thank you. Very helpful!

[@waltjwinjo8689]

Excellent video, many good tips, Thanks.

[@61akra12]

This is absolutely brilliant. And I'm here watching it never having worked on any wood before

[@orangeduc3129]

Good job thanks please greetings from Ghana

[@kales.2715]

I’m a newbie to woodworking and your video has taught me a lot! 🔥🔥🔥🙌🏾💯

[@oldmanpottering]

Thank you for taking the time to share, I learnt some new tips and loved your sandpaper holder 👍, you got a new sub from Australia 🇦🇺