7 Ways to be a Better Woodworker

[@katzmosestools]

*Support What We Do at The Katz-Moses Store* lddy.no/stih *Table of Contents and Links to Tools/Videos/Classes Mentioned Below* 1:24 More than One Way to do Something/Fixing Mistakes 3:29 Taking Small Bites 6:08 Making a Plan 8:41 Practice and the Devil is in the Details 10:54 Measuring and Marking 14:33 Repeatability (Jigs, Jigs, Jigs) 16:14 Do What You Love *Videos/Tools/Classes Mentioned* Modern Glass Tables Video - kzbin.info/www/bejne/b2Gaq5qBq7t6fMk 7 Ways to Fix Common Woodworking Mistakes Video - kzbin.info/www/bejne/b4SkiYmKo7J4e68 The Katz-Moses Multi Sled Video (free plans) - kzbin.info/www/bejne/mZq8lYmdfL19e5o *Fusion 360 Class for Woodworkers:* bit.ly/Fusion360Class Joint of the Week Video Playlist - kzbin.info/aero/PLWpKyJXgeoFGIa10WFuigwV3EE57MvXDS Superior Accuracy in Woodworking Video - kzbin.info/www/bejne/naC4lGpqh7aFq9U Combo/T-Squares and Why they are the Most Important Tool in ANY Shop Video - kzbin.info/www/bejne/a3PZlWqAeZudj6M *Get Blem Combo/T Squares Here:* lddy.no/fdk9 *My Tool Apron and Katz-Moses Stop Block* lddy.no/stih Bridle Joint Jig Video - kzbin.info/www/bejne/mmakl5iNlJxpeqM

[@The_Conqueeftador]

I would say sanding is an underrated skill most people gloss over.

[@AssafOppenheimer]

after multiple emails to your store, facebook page, instagram and youtube asking a simple question about your Katz-Moses dovetail jig, and getting no reply whatsoever I bought one from a different brand. thanks for the great customer service (you keep saying you don't hide mistakes on your channel, I wonder if this post will stick around?)

[@PatJHeffernan]

“Be nice to people and build them up”!! Best line of a good video.

[@darylzorn7037]

Absolutely

[@marcslonik5096]

And Jonathan lives by that rule. One day I posted one of my little projects on Reddit and got a really nice comment from him. That was enough to make my day and was a huge boost to my confidence as beginner woodworker. The fact that he takes time to not just look at other people projects but also to give them a feedback - awesome.

[@katzmosestools]

That means a lot bud! Thank you

[@doubledarefan]

Remember what Bill & Ted said?

[@grbggaming6885]

Yeah too many woodworkers are busy tearing each other down. Great rule for life too!

[@jonmcdaniel3021]

You've taught me a lot in the last 2 years. You're inspirational and down to earth. You don't try to cover up your mistakes. Instead you allow others to learn from them. You are probably the easiest youtuber to follow along with, step by step. All the qualities that make a great teacher. So screw the haters, they're just jealous of your success. Keep on keepin on Mr. Moses!

[@chriswindberg5010]

Loved the gatekeeping and building people up part. You see constantly people ripping apart epoxy/river tables calling them "plastic furniture." Personally, I think they're really cool looking and far beyond my skill level. I don't think people put enough stock in simple compliments. One positive, simple sentiment can change a person's whole day/week/year. I always go back to the old adage, "if you can't say something nice, don't say anything at all." Great video Jonathan. Always love your content.

[@rw7532]

Great comment! I don’t get why people rip other people’s creations. Something made by one’s own hands tends be very personal. Affirmation is something all people need not just small children.

[@Aleph-Noll]

yeah those river tables look super awesome!

[@johanflodkvist80]

Theres lots of woodworkers on youtube with skill and passion but you also bring a level of warmth and compassion thats realy nice to see. Thanks.

[@bingobango8777]

People who think poorly of themselves try to knock others down to raise themselves up. Screw the haters. You do an awesome job.

[@sebastiendesormeaux1853]

French Canadian here ... kudoos for your accoutrement pronunciation, honestly was very good.

[@katzmosestools]

Thank you. I always get worried about my French pronunciations

[@kashel83]

"Do what you love" that's not only great woodworking advice, but life as well.

[@MrRackinroll]

A few things about this video. Great. The last comment was right on. I have been things about this skill that none ever talks about. That is understanding what sound will tell you. Drill, cutting all require understand what sound will tell you. I think you know what I am talking about so I need not expound on that subject. Your sense of touch is yet another skill that will tell you tons of stuff. Go for it. RC

[@SSBailey77845]

JKM; I’m old enough to be your father but, dang, I learn something every time else I check in. You’re a philosopher...who knew! Keep up the good work brother!

[@dbackhusker]

“Do what you love.” That’s key for me. My wife sells crafts and I often have to make ‘30 Christmas trees’ or something like that out of MDF and it’s awful! But if I change my perspective, I’m not cutting MDF like a robot, I’m helping my wife (and I love to do that). Good advice JKM.

[@johncware66]

You’re gonna have a long and happy marriage

[@dutchwalters4450]

started woodworking in 1955, no power tools but a great number of corrections. your video just reintroduced what uncle Carl beat into my head between 55 - 65. he was a great woodworker someday i might be as good as he was. great video hope folks take it to heart and the trolls aren't too mean to you on this one.

[@BeauChampion]

The balance of making folks feel good about where they are (in terms of tools and ability) and yet pushing them to get better is incredible. That combined with the persona of JKM makes this one of my very favorite KZbin channels. Keep up the fantastic work. You are making better woodworkers and just possibly better people!!

[@katzmosestools]

Thank you my friend!

[@tonybklyn5009]

Jonathan, let it be known that you have the BEST woodworking channel on KZbin. The videos are informative, instructive & entertaining; and it's primarily due to your enthusiastic and manly style of delivery.

[@ZackWilliamson1]

Few people on youtube are this wholesome, educational, and consistent in the content they produce. Thanks for all that you do, I love my apron!

[@joefaraone977]

JKM, yo left out the most important part of the philosophy.... "Do what you love, and you'll never work a day in your life." It's so true. One other bit of wisdom I shared with my son -- "Find what you're good at, and stick with it!" You sir, are an inspiration. Thank you! One of these days I'll stop working extra long hours, get back in the shop, and finish my moxon vice!

[@AndyBirdBuilds]

Thank you for your honesty about making mistakes and genuinely trying to build others up.

[@JamesWilliams-en3os]

“Do what you love doing.” Damn right. JKM, your love of what you do shows in all your videos, and I really appreciate that. To heck with the mean people, keep doing what you’re doing. Even the corny dad jokes.

[@treydrewett4123]

Dude, you're the Bob Ross of woodworking! I always feel better about myself after watching your videos. Also, I love my apron! Thanks man.

[@TheLastPharm]

I can't help but imagine my dad saying stuff like this to me, even though he wasn't much good at the inspirational pep talks, I knew deep down he hoped I'd do my best anyway. There must be a lot of guys around who need this kind of encouragement, so thank you for that, Mr. Katz-Moses.

[@JohnyW87]

You’re doing a great job.Let the haters jell...Morgan Freeman Said :“Don‘t take criticism from people,you wouldn’t ask for help“ Do your thing.You do it great.Best regards to you

[@jaimemanerodelpino634]

Ive been working on refurbishing a boat for 2 years so far, and now its my home. This adds a lot of pressure of getting things done , to the point I call it "work". Frustration and feeling unmotivated have been strong in the last few months. The last part of your video made my eyes watery, "do what you love", It reminded me why I started such project. Thank you for the giving my motivation back and congratulations for such great channel !

[@davecurda2350]

Jonathan for every asshole that tries to hurt you there are 100 people who think you are great just remember that. I have learned so much from you and I am truly great full just keep doing what your doing. Cheers from Canada 🇨🇦

[@mikecowley7515]

100% agree from another Canadian

[@robbie6625]

Based on the like/dislike ratio, it's closer to 100:1... He's pretty well liked it would seem

[@cardboardorigami]

That’s a pretty good ratio!

[@jimledbetter7152]

I absolutely love your videos. My number 8 for your list is “Take your time.” Why rush through something you enjoy. Besides rushing causes mistakes - a messed up project or a trip to the ER for stitches.

[@Normanktodd]

Jonathan thank you for your sincere vulnerability on this video. Lots of haters and internet trolls out there. So glad you are doing these videos. I am a newer woodworker and have a porch swing company. I never had anyone teach me woodworking and I’m not going to spend the 25k for a local woodworking class. Your videos help and I thank you!!

[@darodes]

I’m a year late but I wanted to share some more words of encouragement. Hearing that you weren’t good at woodworking gives me hope… as o sit here with several nicks and cuts on my hand, I’ve questioned if I’m kidding myself trying to start this new hobby at 30 years old with no previous diy experience. You’re videos are so helpful and inspirational. You make it look so easy and effortless and I hope to be there too one day

[@michealwynter7131]

Small bites. Measuring and Marking. Love what you do. Best advise ever. Haters gonna hate. They have nothing else better to do. Thank you

[@dalgguitars]

Your last point is the most important. thank you. I would also add that, "perfection is the enemy of accomplishment." Do your best, have fun, then move on to the next project.

[@pwgphoto]

Just wanted to say thanks and loved your last tip most of all. My go to saying is Be Kind. The world needs more kindness.

[@soofihasan]

This is one of the nicest, most encouraging and inspiring videos. I am a great admirer of your non preaching, non snobish style, yet i learn so much. Thank you sir, and God bless

[@bradmcnamar5679]

JKM - you hit this video out of the park!! I got a lot out of it and will, no doubt, get more from reviewing it. Thanks for the motivation

[@lauramarshall6376]

I love your attitude. I'm in a few beginner groups on FB and it's amazing how many people love to tear down others. I never do. I can either find something great to comment on or a kind criticism, if they ask, or I keep quiet. I find that when I ask questions, people are also kind to me. Anyone who doesn't like you can just not watch - I hear they took away the law that said you have to watch everything. :). Thanks for the great videos and products, too.

[@OzSawdustMakers]

Thanks for this JKM, this really spoke to me. I recently quit my job to do woodworking full time and you really reaffirmed many things for me. Here in Australia, our little community of KZbin woodworkers are really supportive of each other, we all do things differently but have the same passion. You've got the right vibe mate! Cheers!

[@toolchuck]

Thank you for setting a great tone for my day! I can't wait to watch your "Superior Accuracy in Woodworking Video". I did work in a cabinet shop few a year in 77' and I learned a few things, one of which was the importance of accurate measuring as you do too. Herman, my boss was a stickler for detail and made us compare and adjust our tapes every Monday morning. And if he ever heard you let your tape slam closed as you did in the video, he would warn you once, the next time he would take the tape and make you buy a new one. It was his way of making sure you protected and preserved the accuracy of your tape. It worked, to this day I still catch the hook of the tape with my index finger before it slams closed and then release it to let it gently close. That lesson alone is a great way to eliminate or reduce “error creep” in measuring. It’s kind of funny how we treat out Starrett’s with great care but toss our tape around like their indestructible, you know what else is funny, we do a ton more measuring with our tapes than we ever do with the Starrett’s.

[@axewerx]

POSITIVE COMMENT ALERT: Thanks for making this. Your channel is excellent. Keep posting and I'll keep watching!

[@anthonydtobias]

Great advice! One thing that helps me is actually just telling myself to slow down and enjoy it...I used to (and still do sometimes) get frustrated when seeing other woodworkers bang out projects and here I am taking a week to get only 1/2 way through a small project...I just do this for fun on my time off so I can't compare myself to full time woodworkers... Slowing down makes me appreciate and enjoy the process and avoid some mistakes while keeping the quality up 🙂.

[@dwightl5863]

I agree with you that it seems to take me so much longer to complete a build. And youtube is part of the problem. Most always the videos are either sped up or edited. And that is fine for the video because real time wouldn't be practical. But what would be eye opening and helpful is at the end of the video they would say how long it took to accomplish. Maybe sanding alone took two days! It took 2 weeks just to get the material. Case in point: KZbin poster Kennyerrings1 did a series on wooden models. At the end of each segment he'd say that took X number of hours to complete instead of the 20 minute long video. Helpful stuff to realize. Just my two cents worth.

[@theofarmmanager267]

Absolutely agree. (Self-imposed) pressure is the enemy of enjoyment. You might read the comment on here that I posted today and you might find something useful in that. After 47 years of doing this, I still make mistakes but I try never to make the same mistake twice (okay, four times). If you take your time and enjoy the experience then, yes, it might take you a month longer to build that box. But in 10 years time, everyone will look at the box and see how beautiful it is and not how quickly did you make it. People do admire the things I make for them but nobody has ever said “forget that mistake because you did it so quickly”

[@MrBrewzr]

I’m a beginner and your videos have really helped me. Especially the one “don’t point out your errors”, I made so many obvious errors on my first project, a coffee table, but she loved it! That little tip really helped my confidence. It also helped make me proud of my effort when my wife was showering me with compliments. So thanks, you’re awesome. I really hope this post is the one that sticks with you all day, and maybe brings a little joy.

[@katzmosestools]

That's a good one. Nobody will know except you unless you tell them!

[@darrylportelli]

I used to get really pissed off at making mistakes , now as I advance slowly, Im seeing it as a challenge to FIX my mistakes - and it is REALLY rewarding when you manage to fix a mistake rather than chuck that piece away and restart ..... and if you restart over, you'll always end up making some sort of small mistake here and there and would probably end up giving up on the project

[@twothreebravo]

It's all about learning. The first step is recognizing that you made a mistake, next comes learning from that mistake, then comes having learned enough to fix it and finally comes never making that mistake again and moving on to new and better mistakes :)

[@benbuckley2738]

One of the best tips I've learned from JKM is to use the front of the apron to wipe the sticky stuff off my fingers. FELLAS!!

[@scottroy6195]

Gentlemen

[@katzmosestools]

LADIES!

[@jamesalexander7540]

Thank you for the chuckle.

[@markturbitt8807]

Someone at your advanced level talking about mistakes as part of every build lifts my confidence. All of your videos are educational. Thankyou.

[@ernesthowe170]

Thank you Mr. Katz Moses. I am a very inexperienced novice wood working wannabe, working in a small shop. I learn much from listening to you. This is an excellent video for all. I make lots of small (and large) mistakes in my efforts to work wood but I learn many small lessons with each mistake. The best time of my day is in my small shop. Thanks for your inspiration, it keeps me coming back to try again to try to create something I am proud of making.

[@boyscout419]

As a 70-year old geezer who's been woodworking since 1964, I can only say that if I can suck in even 25% of your passion and enthusiasm, I will be miles ahead! I'm going to start by getting back to those marking knives. When I first tried one, I stabbed myself a couple times and promptly hid them away in a drawer. I'm gonna perservere and take your advice! Thanks so much for creating a great video!

[@Ham68229]

This is the thing I love about Japanese woodworking, it takes years before a student can become a "master". While they're learning, they're building and if they make a mistake, the "masters", make them leave those mistakes. It teaches the student to not make those mistakes. You're absolutely correct about making small bites. Yes, no 2 tape measure, measure the same. It's why whichever one you use, you use that one all the way through. Thank you for calling out the use of a marking knife, use a pencil to "highlight" the mark but, stick with the marking knife. It does make a huge difference. Also, make certain all your power tools are in alignment if you're going to use them. At least check them once a month or more often depending on usage. As for mistakes, I was taught, it's not how well you can hide it but, how well you can "incorporate" it into your project. I personally enjoy woodworking, consider myself a weekend woodworker. Many of my coworkers at work tell me I should get into full time. Now, as much as I do enjoy my "hobby", I refuse to turn it into a job. I don't want to ruin my hobby. Many fail to see that. Eventually, it will burn you out and make you hate it. Great video, cheers :)

[@anthonymangini7986]

Your stop block is superior. I love your apron. Your content is valuable. Your work is beautiful, and I enjoy your channel. If anyone ever nips at your insecurities with small minded, petty, mean comments in the future, feel free to re-read the genuine comments I just made about you above.

[@donaldkern2364]

Been a serious woodworker for 35 years and a lifelong learner as well. That's where Jonathan comes in. He's very easy to understand, a gentleman and someone who truly is trying to make us woodworkers at a little better which, of course, makes woodworking more enjoyable and rewarding. Sometimes I learn something new, sometimes Jonathan reinforces what I already knew from books and experience with his warmth and down-to-earth approach. Either way, it's all good!

[@strongjohn10956]

The point about there being multiple ways to do anything is so true - I'm finding that a lot of woodworking is problem solving in the sense of figuring out how to accomplish some task toward some goal within the confines of the resources available to me - tools, materials and supplies, and my skills. When I see something done in a video, I automatically think about how I would have gone about it on one of my projects. Thanks for the great videos I always learn a lot that I can actually use.

[@DavidMcCabe]

The way you ended the video really hit me. I needed this today. Thank you so much for what you do.

[@secretwoodproject]

Love the videos you do and I am learning a lot. I really appreciate all of the great advice and instruction.

[@MrSeminole77]

Pivotal statement: Don't talk about your mistakes- they are features of hand made goods. Not mistakes. LOVE the perspective!

[@lsjohnson20]

Always sound and positive advice. Now I don't know if I am saving up for a band saw or a Makita track saw. Beautiful comments at the end. You are a great teacher of woodworking and how to BE. I need my special rag in my Katz-Moses lefty apron to dab at my eyes. It suddenly got so dusty in here--or my allergies kicked in. Haters gonna hate J. Keep doing you and we will all keep watching. You know the haters have their notification bell set for your latest just like we do. Walter Payton said it best: "when you're good, you go around telling everyone. When you are great, everyone tells you." Take a look at all the comments and you know where you stand.

[@JeDxDeVu]

Last point is spot on

[@nateb9768]

Started my first project today. Finishing it up tomorrow with some staining and extra sanding. Learned so much!

[@BitsOfEternity]

I've watched countless youtube videos over the past number of years, and I've never bought anything to support a channel, but I bought your stop block. I also bought a few spiral bits because of your videos. I bought an upcut, and a compression bit, and a flush trim downcut, and I'm getting a downcut delivered tomorrow. I'm so glad I heard you! Also, I bought the HVLP spray system you reviewed in another video a while back, though I bought it, thinking I could stain my fence with it, but sadly, that's not an option - still, it is a great system. I downloaded the plans for your table slaw sled, and I ordered the hardware to add to it, so that's another beauty coming up... I love jigs, and I am building a very wide gate for my fence. I custom designed it using Sketchup, and I had to cut a 45degree block for use on my miter saw, with supports for the back of the piece to be cut, since it was hanging out in the air, and I had to figure out some pretty weird angles. I'm currently building a mortising jig using Morley's plans, but I'm customizing them, to use some toggle clamps for the front, instead of the micro jig clamps he uses in the dovetail runners. Part of the fun is figuring it all out, and seeing the plan come together in the end. There are plenty of good content makers who present useful information, but you, sir, are one of the best. I'm also part photographer and drone pilot, and also an editor/processor of said photos & video, and your video production is right up there. I would make videos, but I don't have the drive. I'd share photos, but I don't think anyone would care - mostly because I don't have the drive to put in the production work it takes to make videos the way you do. All of this being said, I've watched many of your videos, and I've learned a lot, and I've gotten better. Perfect practice truly does make you better (I also play guitar, and this is so very true, if you practice poorly, you can learn to play fast, very poorly!). I'm thankful you have a thick skin, because I know how some people can be. And who cares what they think? You're awesome, what you do is awesome, the way you do it is awesome, and I'm thankful to be able to learn from your mistakes. Especially with the price of lumber right now! ;-) Cheers m8!

[@katzmosestools]

That means a lot my friend. Thank you so much!

[@BitsOfEternity]

@@katzmosestools You've earned the high praise. I'd buy more stuff from you if I could afford it (but I just bought my router, and the router table, and those bits, and $4000 worth of lumber, and ...) I look forward to watching more vids!

[@arnoldc1724]

People like you are mavericks. Your ability to uplift beginners while still demonstrating mastery in your craft is why your fans love you. Your channel is a haven of knowledge and is responsible for inspiring the next generation of craftsmen.

[@keithbrock6410]

Thanks for taking us to woodworking church on this Sunday morning, great content and tips as always my friend! I have learned so much from you

[@ericsturgulewski2399]

Thanks for the positivity and encouragement!

[@theofarmmanager267]

Excellent, excellent video. I’m not a religious or spiritual person but I do understand that I need to be very calm, very peaceful, “in the zone” (we used to practice that when I was playing rugby and it’s almost meditation except that you were going out to impose yourself on your opponent). If I’m not all of those things (had a bad day; body complaining), then I don’t go into the workshop except to clean up the place. I have only one poster in my workshop - well, I have several copies of the same thing - and it’s a phrase that emirates from the arts and crafts movement over a century ago. There are only 3 words Patience Precision Perfection In other words, the first 2 lead to the 3rd. My biggest mistakes were made when I was tired, when I was rushing and, particularly, if I thought that I should just get this glue up down tonight or I’ll put the first coat of finish to let it cure overnight. After only 67 years and 47 years of woodworking. I finally worked out when to shut the door of the workshop and walk indoors. One of our sons has taken up carpentry/joinery/cabinet making as a job. He builds the cabinets for the insides of upmarket RV’s. It has been inspiring watching him grow his skill set from just watching me work through me watching him taking his first few steps into woodworking to now being very good. I’ve never said anything negative when a mistake has been made - the most critical thing I’ve said is along the lines of “you’ve made that mistake; now your genius is not to make the same mistake again” So, my contribution to this episode is to say that the right mental approach to a woodworking session is the most important thing. With that, you know that you will sharpen your tools to perfection; double and triple measure everything; think not only about the next step but all the steps and make sure you couldn’t do it better.

[@jamiemittermuller6470]

I definitely agree with build things you want to build. I have a few projects I’ve built and use all the time including a plinth for my hotbin, 3 garden planters and a small shed, I designed and built from a pencil drawing. I’ve learnt loads from doing them and enjoyed doing them.This year I want to build a cold frame and possibly a table and chair set. My favourite and used almost daily is a seed tray tamper.

[@doncripemc3certifiedsr.med326]

Thank you. Being mean to someone trying to help is unforgivable. I learn SO MUCH from you and your KZbin colleagues! We need to remember: different is not necessarily wrong, just different. Tool snobbery really frustrates me. But just like EVERY consumer good, people have preferences and budgets. We also need to learn: if we disagree, change the channel silently and move on. Thank you for your hard work.

[@jamesturcott7339]

Just love the honesty of your videos, and your right, when you give that piece to whoever, the wow factor is like a drug😊

[@glennmallette4260]

I think you are an excellent resource for improving anyone's woodworking skills , thank you, Glenn

[@profcah]

Thank you so much JKM. I learn so much but today the one thing you said, do what you love, really hit home. I’m a chem professor and I get hate and criticism every day. I developed a thick skin. But I do what I love. Now I am a newbie at woodworking and while my stuff looks like junk to the pros, it is still beautiful to me. Not that I’m satisfied and not trying to get better (I am) but it is what I love and it makes me happy. I hope to follow you for many more years. You are amazing.

[@sgsax]

Finally getting around to watching this one and I'm glad I did. I felt each and every one of these and the last one doubly so. The other one I might add is: Don't be in a hurry. Let the process take a long as it takes. When you rush, that's when you screw things up. That's been a hard one for me and I'm still working on it. It goes right along with "take small bites". Anyway, thanks for your continued inspiration!

[@RussWilsonII]

You are an inspiration, sir. Thank you for your positivity and honesty.

[@chm1701]

Brilliant tips. I’d also like to suggest that when things have become a little more normal, that perhaps joining a local college or a woodworking course too. I’ve learnt so much from that. And I’d also like to say that no matter what the trolls say, Jonathan, that you’ve inspired so many people with your great video content, enthusiasm and generosity. You’re a great guy, which is why I’ve bought some of your products (dovetail jig, alignment board and an apron, which are fantastic!).

[@tomalealso]

great tips, I learned a long time ago that if it is hard, you're doing it wrong, you're looking at the task wrong, your using the wrong too, may be your tools are not sharp enough. time to sit down and think about what your doing and why, make a new plan and try again.

[@JoeMakes]

I NEVER knew that I had a scribe on the end of the square! I just thought that was the design. What a great tip!

[@jamesrobinson3663]

Don Gato, I have watched a few of your videos from time to time, but today I subscribed to your channel. This video is one of the most inspirational pieces of creativity that I’ve viewed in a long time. I’m a relative newcomer to this hobby-and it took a pandemic to get me there. There’s a bazillion DIY and how to videos on the interweb, but it’s only creative vision and passion like yours that will truly inspire both newbies, and long time artist of the trade to look inside themselves and dig out their own creativity.

[@gnlman]

Thank you. This hits home for me. I make mistakes and get frustrated, but I actually enjoy working through things and in the end I am always happy with they way they turn out.

[@SandyMasquith]

Thank you, Jonathan, for the inspiration. You’re always so positive and uplifting. You can’t see how horrible my practice dovetails have been, you give me the confidence and drive to keep trying. Try a different way, try changing saw, clamping, marking technique. Eventually I’ll find the way that works for me. You give me the uplift I need to keep trying!

[@billbee235]

Your lessons on measuring and scribing with a marking knife was a game changer for me. My last project had a noticeable improvement in fit and finish just from being uniform and tightly fit. It’s a good feeling when you measure and it’s dead on

[@Mark_L]

Ive been woodworking for over 50 years and my motto was “It’s wood, not metal”. So don’t sweat the details. Well I now know better. The more accurate you can be the better the end result will be. Live and learn.

[@sseilheimer396]

Am I the only person who had no idea that scribe stick was in the bottom of my speed squares? Had to pause and go check, but sure enough they were there. So cool! Definitely learned something new today!

[@natepeterson7145]

@Jonathan Katz-Moses been watching quite a few of your videos lately and would like to add a really good point about not taking too much material off is that you'll save wear and tear on your bits versus trying to take out the maximum amount of material.

[@TheEveryMaker]

Love the tips. I haven't been in the shop in nearly 2 years, but especially that last point really makes me want to get back out there and shoot some new videos, make some new projects. Just got to get the space organized and get back out there! Until then, I'll live vicariously through you.

[@Sub_Dude]

Jonathan - you really knocked it out of the park on that last point. I think that is one of the best ways to encourage people to be the best version of themselves that they can. I hope you keep doing what you love for a long time, we all need to be reminded of this often!

[@alecweber8893]

FANTASTIC reminders and insight. Really appreciate the heart behind this video!

[@oliviebel4868]

I agree Fusion has a bit longer learning curve but it is well worth it. I also found it is easier to remember the way to work when you get back to it after some time. With sketchup at always feels like you have to start from the beginning again. Makes it a new learning curve each time.

[@krissk77]

Its very good to know how to use hand tools.. sometimes machinery fail when in a project and times are tight... we hv some workers who hv no ideas how to use manual tools.. with no power they can't do a thing. Especially the self taught artisan who only uses expensive tools and then thinks that's all in artisinal work. When the machinery fails , just continue with manual tools... like a planer.😊

[@crzxm]

Yes, my friends keep telling me how I should have made my projects, but they don't woodwork. I make what I need and so far I've loved most of what I have made with the exception of a small box I gave my mom. My mom loved the box I was going to toss out.

[@dwainlambrigger3769]

You know what, I'm proud of you for trying. I really appreciate this video. Thanks!

[@SpencleyDesignCo]

Killer job on this video man! Keep up the great work!

[@jdrichter4112]

Thank you so much for putting out these videos, I have only been workworking for a little over a year, and I love doing it.

[@homtherobot]

Great video. I think the last tip is the most important of all. One thing that's been really liberating for me is realizing that I can say no to custom requests from others if it's not a project that interests me. I've worked hard to acquire these skills and I shouldn't feel guilty about using them to build whatever I'd like. While a custom request could be a great way to get out of your comfort zone and learn a new skill, if a project doesn't interest you AT ALL, it's okay to just politely decline and get back to your own projects!

[@billymacmakes]

I can't believe people would be mean to you! Your videos are the best! Stay positive brother!

[@TomMiller-hp1ie]

The two best tips I ever got learning carpentry and woodworking are never hurry and accuracy is everything

[@oldschoolsmart]

All those bumps along the way, that's called experience... Great video!

[@leedobson30]

Your success is well earned - hard work - quality - honesty - great video - many thanks - keep it up.

[@nathanspicer517]

Dude, your videos have helped me advance so much. Screw the haters.

[@johnlabbe6433]

I would add an eighth rule: be open to learning from anyone knowledgeable who is willing to teach. The Internet gives us access to many knowledgeable woodworkers who take the time to teach. You’re an excellent example of this. Even in your build videos, you always include pertinent instruction with the usual step-by-step demonstrations. Even as a hobbyist, I would lose my enthusiasm for woodworking pretty quickly if I weren’t growing and learning to do new things in the craft. But I can’t learn much on my own - at least not very efficiently. Keep on keeping on, Jonathan. You’re a real inspiration.

[@ElizabethFranquiEsq]

You are an awesome human being. I have never cut a dove tail, but you've inspired me to try to make something hopefully close to as magical as what you've demonstrated week to week. Love you, dude!

[@marykayryan7891]

It makes me sad when people I love on KZbin mention the mean comments. I LOVE your channel and I don't even do the same kind of work you do. But I have learned so much from you. Accuracy. Measuring. Jigs. All great stuff. And I find the whole Katz-Moses logo so fun and funny. It always makes me laugh. I offer a suit of armor to you so that the mean comments just cannot get in at all. Some people just have way too much time and their hands and are frustrated in their own lives. Their problem. Not yours.

[@joeblow7489]

Thanks JKM! Both my boys studied music. With or without natural talent musician need to practice, practice practice. One if my son's complained one day saying, "this is hard!" To which I replied, "if it was easy everyone would be doing it."

[@mccarthydesign1429]

You forgot one really important one! Number 8: No Zero Days. There will be times when things don't go as planned or maybe the project doesn't turn out as well as you had hoped. Sometimes you may feel like you should just give up and find a new hobby. However, don't let that discourage you from getting back in the shop. Take what you've learned from your mistakes as ways to improve next time.

[@robertbamford8266]

Sounds like the successful experiment. “I’ll never do that again”. Find another way or do it the long, slow way or ... .

[@ChrystianGuy]

Your conclusion is so true. This is supposed to be fun. Thank you. I love what you do.

[@Joematthews666]

I always feel like there would be few people better to enjoy a beer with than JKM. Great video!

[@katzmosestools]

*several beers with 🤣

[@brocinco]

Dom lives 1/4 mile at a time. Jonathan lives 1/4 inch at a time. Both know it's all about family though! Great videos! Just found the channel and love it!

[@poncho6784]

JKM is such a taleted and fantastic Craftsman. Great advice that goes beyond just tips and tricks. I took on my biggest project to date with this channel by my side to help. We have a beautiful fireplace mantel with drawers and recessed lighting. Many thanks.

[@johncware66]

Very solid message especially at the end. It’s so sad that we have to constantly remind people about basic human decency on the Internet, but I appreciate that you did it.

[@notasheep199]

Thanks so much for the amazing videos, I look forward to all of them. I really Love the the part of "Have Fun with this hobby " I am constantly learning more and get excited for a trip to the Shop to have FUN!!