Paul Sellers | How to make a Shooting Board

In this video Paul Sellers shows how to make a simple shooting board from pine. This is an important piece of equipment for woodworking in the hand tool shop as it allows you to make sure the end of a board is either exactly square or exactly forty-five degrees. It also allows you to plane the end of a board straight across without 'break-out' on the far side.
At 1:47 the middle measurement should be 12 1/2" or 320mm. Sorry for the confusion.

[@Paul.Sellers]

Visit: woodworkingmasterclasses.com for more information and for more videos. To find out more about Paul Sellers and the projects he is involved with visit paulsellers.com

[@19Archivist49]

A refreshing antidote to watching people with immaculate workshops full of ruinously expensive Festool equipment.

[@1crazynordlander]

Alan Currans And you do not need a dust collection system either. Power tools are addictive though. I also appreciate the folks that get by and do a great job with cheap brand power tools also. I have them a lot of good power tools but I agree with you. "I don't have any festool stuff yet" And I don't have many hand tools...which is about to change. Flea markets and Antique shops here I come!

[@titanwr]

Ugh, those damn Festool items! Every video I watch is all Festool! I've gotten by for several years (10) with Bosch, Dewalt, Grizzly, Delta, Porter Cable and literally EVERY OTHER BRAND out there just fine, and then comes along Festool and unless I'm missing something, I don't see the purpose in paying $800 for a router.

[@ph4796]

1crazynordlander

[@stretch2187]

titanwr If you pay $800 for a router you have to brag it up because if it's not the most awesome tool ever then you're a fool for paying so much for it. The way I see it is you can spend a fortune on tools and brag about your tools, or you can get it done with cheap tools and brag about your skill. I choose the latter.

[@christschool]

***** Don't fool yourself. Good planes cost as much as Festool.

[@chucklesflame]

I made mine today and it's working perfectly. Paul your videos have had a tremendously positive impact on my life, thank you for all your efforts

[@steverochon1620]

I was an educator for 38 years in the public schools in America, so I appreciate your skill as a teacher, as well as a woodworker. I've learned much from you since discovering your videos and wanted to thank you.

[@cffellows]

There's something cathartic about your videos. No annoying music, just the sound of your tools precisely working the wood with the occasional, reassuring comment...

[@chrisalan8527]

Paul, your videos are a treasure trove of information, teaching me stuff A-level woodwork didn't teach in 1979! Thank you!

[@Paul.Sellers]

Hello Sammy and everyone else. We want to thank you all for your kind comments and encouraging words. We all appreciate your support on every front. Paul

[@TitusLivy777]

Absolutely the best woodworking tutorials on the internet...bar none! No one can teach the skills of a trade better than a master craftsman who made his living using them.

[@MrWoody135]

One of the aspects of Paul that I love is the fact that he genuinely loves working with wood, understands its strengths and limitations, even down to his comments re end grain and the beauty of it. Alway come away from Pauls videos feeling calmer and more enlightened.

[@thethirdman225]

ian Woodland I love the way he doesn’t over-complicate things and uses pretty basic tools to achieve fantastic results. There are others who only use the most expensive.

[@curtisjar]

I can't wait to make this. I just finished working night shift, but as soon as I wake up I'm making a shooting board. I see this is what I have been missing. Thanks for the videos!

[@sethwarner2540]

True greatness is the ability to lead others in the ability to be great in what their life stands for. And that is what you do, sir, quietly, and simply!!

[@kurtgoodwin9490]

One of the best tutorials on toolmaking I’ve ever seen!

[@Jan-S-Simonsen]

I finally made myself a basic shooting board 2 weeks ago. I never realised how useful they are. It gets used daily. Thank you again Paul.

[@ANTOAN691]

Paul makes this look so easy that even i think i can do this

[@jamesfetherston1190]

Thank you Paul. Gluing up my shooting board now. My first project was your workbench, a project I undertook during my Covid furlough, and it is still a source of pride. I am still admiring it every time I set to work on it. I am sure the shooting board will do the same.

[@SuperWayneyb]

There's no school like old school and this is a bit of good old British craftsmanship :)

[@gregclancey6972]

Yes. This is a pleasure to watch. My dad was an old school joiner. He had the same easy intimacy with his projects.

[@holeHeartless]

I just picked up woodworking and every time I search the net for an answer, there is Mr. Paul Sellers. Therefor I am now a subscriber and a fan. Thank you so much for these instructional videos, sir.

[@barrystraughan]

Don't know if you were a teacher or not but what an excellent job of teaching. No Questions remain and a very successful job. Thank you.

[@barcusful]

A true craftsman. Thank you for taking time to teach us all.

[@DaemonDriver]

Every project you show here, no matter how complex it is, is so inspiring that I want to go and do it immediately: -) No words to express my appreciation, Paul!

[@whitebuffallos7884]

Erik Dimitrov

[@gregclancey6972]

I can second that!

[@kevinweaver4265]

Brilliant Paul, as usual! Thank you from Kevin in the US

[@noahschmartz2354]

Just love listening to the sound of sharp hand-tools across fresh timber.

[@lloydwilliams7640]

Such a great repository of traditional skills! You are rewarding to watch

[@XXX-tw6zm]

How lucky we are to have people like this that put on these amazing demonstrations so simple yet sophisticated I think this man may have inspired me to get back into my woodworking that I've abandoned

[@bengee5996]

Sir, your arms, hands, and fingers (in that order) are the ultimate jig. Salute!

[@danielgrabske3545]

When I was being trained to be a carpenter , I had great teachers , such as Paul. I ve learned so much from people like him. It's a great thing to pass on experience to the ones just starting out and ones getting more knowledge on different aspects in wood working.

[@user-ud4gi7kf6n]

Хоть ни слова не понимаю, но ваши видео смотрю с большим удовольствием уж очень они позновательные и душевные.

[@paulorchard7960]

So refreshing watching someone who knows how to use hand tools! You finished that task in under 45 minutes, if you set up power tools to perform this task it would have been over an hour. When I did my apprenticeship it was a standing rule that first year apprentices worked only with hand tools, second year could use the bandsaw and thicknesser only and third year could use the full range of power tools! Certainly taught me how to use hand tools, lots of the older guys would lend you tools and teach how to use and sharpen so I got a complete education. Pity it’s not happening now!

[@algrundy]

I am new to woodworking and am glad to have found your channel. Time well spent watching and learning. A true craftsman.

[@rocks4ever1]

You are a amazing fellow Mr. Sellers, you should be on prime time TV, thank you for all you do.

[@markluke8447]

Great tutorial Paul, I’m new to woodworking and so glad I came across your channel. I’m looking forward to learning techniques from you and putting them to practice. Thank you for sharing your insights into such a beautiful craft.

[@andrew20d]

Thank you Paul for this project! Just finished my shooting board and am extremely happy with the finished project. Now a lot of other builds will be MUCH easier!

[@elund408]

I had forgotten how much echo these early videos had, always good to rewatch them.

[@henrywilson5204]

I never get tired of watching Paul, he's great...

[@dantco]

Mr Sellers, your videos are so good that I can't wait to get to the next one. I am even going to have to go back and rate the ones that in my haste, I forgot to rate. The thing I love about your style is that you emphasize the critical parts and offer the techniques to pull them off all while conveying a sense of mastery on the "simple" stuff.

[@el_wumberino]

There's nothing like precision. Thank you very much!

[@gregclancey6972]

I enjoy watching these videos just to see how Seller's years of experience has honed his skills to the point were everything looks like it comes out perfect. It's clear as I watch these that he enjoys doing this work. I get that. I get the same feeling at my bench.

[@aburleigh1]

It is so refreshing to see a master who likes to share the simple approach to Real Woodworking. Thanks for all the tips, you have given so many of us grounding by getting back to basics and enjoy what our hands can do with a little effort. Keep on sharing and we will help support your great teaching techniques.

[@robertlangley258]

Well said, we'll said.

[@henrysiegertsz8204]

The old ways are sometimes just better, not because they work beautifully, are inexpensive and very quick. But because the satisfaction of working with hand-tools is rewarding and inspiring. I've moved from almost exclusive use of power tools to at leas 70% hand-tools. The slower pace forces me to think more about what I'm doing and has improved my woodworking skills immensely. Thanks to people like Paul, and young Matt Estlea, I actually look forward to getting up each day and turning on the workshop lights.

[@phungphan2245]

Wow, mastery skill! Generally unedited so we can see the real time it takes minutes lunch break! This blows my mind!

[@mannihh5274]

Thank you so much Paul ! It's so much fun to watch an expert mastering hand tools with perfect results - like the sound of your blades. Stay safe and carry on.

[@rameshgknair8338]

Sir that 45 degree cut was fantastic.

[@StopGravity]

As always, very instructive. Thank you for sharing your skills with us.

[@stefanoricci1051]

The magic of the inner proficiency that makes all this looking so easy and simple!

[@SeiferTV]

This is just so damn relaxing to watch. A nice change from all the power tool centric things you usually see.

[@schizochronic8631]

Thank you very much for the video, it was a great help. I made one to cut a 90 and two 55's for a project I'm working on. Thanks again.

[@andrewtaylor7640]

Thank you, for being pragmatic, encouraging and for generously sharing the knowledge, skills and understanding you have acquired over the years.

[@jimholladay2383]

Thank you sir! Your amazing work and explanations have encouraged me to do more work "unplugged". Your calm layer back style makes the videos very pleasant to watch.

[@paulmouradian8968]

Always a pleasure to watch you Paul, meticulous, precise, relaxed and artistry presented so easily!!

[@frankCsenior]

Pleasure to see a craftsman at work. Reminded me of how good i used to be!!

[@stevewyatt4103]

Hi Paul... What a pleasure !!! .. To hear a workshop full of the sounds of hand tools...Such simple tools that most of the time are quicker .. and more effective..Seeing your video is like being back in college... Being a joiner for over thirty years ...i've see the transition from hand tools to power. Gone are the days of "Good Morning Gentlemen"...Hand made tools ...Wood burning stoves...and PRIDE!!! .. Trust me ...it's hard to find a joiner worth his weight in salt nowdays... GOOD ON YA PAUL !!!

[@srbinsrpski]

Perfect woodworking! Excellent work! Greeting from Serbia, Southe Europe!

[@ladygardener100]

Just found Paul Sellers, and he's a super tutor , ty

[@brianmiller9365]

Superstar

[@MtBArN]

So glad I found this channel, amazing!

[@SAM58SAM58]

Electric tools?! I'm shoking! Thank you for perfect video.

[@jeskasper]

Love the way you explain everything in a calm and clear manner. I will be trying to make one of these.

[@mauricepowers8079]

@Paul Sellers...watched a bunch of your videos and that is the first time I have seen you use a power tool...its all good...love your work. You have inspired me to go back to basics and be more of a craftsman. Thank you for being such a good teacher and an inspiration.

[@pablo24scotland]

simply wonderful... definitely will add one to my shop :) thank you Paul!:)

[@knightlylad]

Thank you for sharing Paul, a great lecture! great kindness.

[@johnvrabec9747]

I could watch you make things all day. What a great shooting board. And, it was relaxing watching you create. Thanks for this how to!

[@positivity5307]

"Cordless router". Lol. Ripped that pine on an angle like a boss.

[@PaquiCamus]

I have been looking and trying to learn about woodworking projects using tools and not too much emphasis in power tools. I was lucky to find you Paul. Great demonstration and thank you.

[@ronmiller7916]

I now start every day by watching one of Paul's videos.

[@danoi99]

Opposite to me mate. I watch them in bed at 1am. Often knackered at work as a result. At least my woodworking is coming along nicely though.

[@boblevey]

Master Craftsman. Such a pleasure to watch you work! Thank you !!!

[@TheBuccy]

Ah, the wonderful sound of sharp tools.

[@COEYRN]

Thank you so much!! I just had an AHA!!! moment. I have had a marking gauge in my collection of vintage tools for decades, and never knew how to use it. You have just opened my eyes and, now I'm using it. This is awesome.

[@lynnesteele9682]

Thank you Mr. Sellers for your fascinating videos and your long life of creativity.

[@outlaweric]

this is just absolutely amazing. as an adult i love it. if i was a kid id be loving this so much. wow! takes me back, thats for sure. thank you

[@NicoleBritnell]

just ordered my first plane, a 9 1/2 block plane. I have been using a surform to round and shape, even level out then sand for a smooth finish, hard work!! Yes, I am an amateur but enjoy making small wooden items. I have looked up how to tune and set up my plane when it arrives (can't wait) and after watching you, I'm going to have to make one of these. I have to thank people like you who are so generous in sharing your expertise, experience and knowledge for the likes of me, sincere thanks

[@hyotoko25]

Thank you Paul for the indepth video I recently started taking up hand tools and putting down the power tools. And while it takes much more skill it brings about pride and accomplishment. So thank you for the videos they keep me motivated when I get stuck.

[@larryclement2250]

An excellent presentation by a man that is ,without aq doupt, a master. Thank you very much for shareing your knowledge and demonstrating your wonderful skills.

[@Ideasite]

Paul's a magician! Quite the inspiration.

[@darrenhopkins6987]

I've been on the look out for a hand made shooting board for months. Yours was definitely the easiest to do. All the rest used bandsaw and table saws. Thank.you.for this I'll be out in the shed this weekend doing this one.

[@CurtisMassey]

I can't cut as straight on my table saw as this gentleman does with a hand saw. It's awesome watching someone who is so good at something. He really makes it look incredibly easy.

[@robertlangley258]

Excellent video and Instruction Sir. I wish when I was a young man I'd have keep your table tops and floors clean as a whistle just to watch and learn from you. You have my complete compliments and praise for whatever it's worth, but thank you for sharing. Young woodworkers today , due to internet, have absolutely no idea how much your channel is worth Sir. Well done. 👍👍👍

[@TomSmith-yv6gi]

“You can tell I’m against the grain here” - yet his shavings look better than mine going with the grain! Paul’s an unassuming master!

[@robertkennedy3817]

That was the most informative film I've ever seen. Thank you very much sir.

[@MHAUSMAN]

Paul, Well thought out and presented. You are a true master and teacher of the art.

[@lindsayferris1073]

Thanks Paul, I get an enormous amount of information and stimulus from your videos

[@laxm8162]

Thanks again Paul! I followed the steps to make this project and am super happy with it. I have seen numerous other fancy shooting board videos using power tools, which I feel defeats the whole purpose! This is very simple, does everything and is fancy too!

[@coldblu357]

Thanks. Made my first shooting board watching this, it works great.👍🏼

[@AESamuel]

This is fantastic! I'm still a beginner and I've tried a few different styles of shooting boards in the past but this has by far been the most effective and accurate! It's incredibly easy to make even for a beginner and you can customize the measurements to suit your needs. After my first use of the board my results were innacurate but I soon realised I had not moved the wedge far enough out and although I wasn't getting any breakout, the very last fibres of wood on the edge hadn't been trimmed, one quick swipe of the plane to remove the last fuzzy bits and the end was perfectly square! Make sure your plane is freshly sharpened before use! I've even been able to trim up 1/2" sapele end grain with ease, something I really struggled with before. Many thanks again, Paul!

[@TheJmh19]

thank you Mr. Sellers, that was a great video and very informative.

[@Shulli100]

I want to tell you that I incidentally came across your videos. The way of teaching with the passion for the craft made me decide to start woodworking with handtools myself as a hobby. Absolutely refreshing and inspiring! Thank you for sharing the skills and keeping this trade alive in these high-tech times! I sincerely hope to be able to pass this on to my kids one day.

[@mikejustice1196]

Paul, I’ve got to tell you, I have watched other videos until they make me vomit. You are a master unlike these 25 year old wannabe know it alls on utube. Very refreshing to sit back and learn something of great value. Thank you for sharing your vault of knowledge with the world.

[@skyhigh3341]

Im a novice and Im learning from the best! YOU! thanks for showing us awsome work!

[@saidchoucair9247]

Mr. Paul... A nice class... Thank you very much... big hug from Brasil. Said Choucair

[@alexandergriboedov4319]

Thank you and Merry Christmas!

[@jmber27]

It is a joy to watch and learn from a master wood worker like yourself. I Am using more hand tools all the time it's just more satisfying then using tower tools all the time, but they are a good backup. Thank you for sharing your skills with us.

[@omightyyoda]

5:20 "doesn't have to be identical" Paul still cuts them like 99.9% identical effortlessly. All the skill and years of experience behind each and every move of your hands. Thank you!

[@MatthewBrown-wq1nc]

Another great video Paul, I just made one following you and even made your 'poor man's router' even though I've got an noisy, dusty electric one. Yours is nuch more enjoyable to use! 👍

[@jlinkels]

The educational value of this video, like all others by Paul, can hardly be overrated. Granted, I did the project twice. Even if you attempt, it is not guaranteed that the result is as intended. But with Paul's excellent instructions and example I learned more woordworking in a few nights than the previous 60 years. And the second time already was (almost) perfect. Some mantras stick: "A very light first pass (of the knife), somewhat heavier the next pass, and the third time as deep as you can get it". And: "Your tools might not be as sharp as mine". Now don't the latter happen to you, make sure your tools are as sharp. You can do it. It is good to have watched other of Paul's videos, like sharpening and adjusting the plane, sharpening the chisel, planing a board flat and square. And for this project in particular: the poor man's router plane.

[@danielpulley8685]

Kudos to this video, I made one of these in my school years, I really enjoy your videos especially because you remind me of my old school teacher who later Introduced me to rycote Wood college now in Oxford, nice to see master craftsmen like you keeping it interesting and relivant for the modern day

[@davidfeiger1278]

Amazing videos, even after 9 years. Mesmerizing. And you should be a hand model

[@samboslc]

Just discovered you recently Paul. Amazing approach and expertise to hand tool woodworking. Blown away by eight minute dovetail box. Wonderful craftsmanship and will be on constant look-out for more from you. Many thanks!

[@jimostrander1120]

Great video, as usual. One thing I've noticed with expert craftsmen - everything looks so casual, so easy - but the cuts and angles are always perfect! I take forever getting a line established, cutting - and there is rarely perfection. Practice, I think.

[@benvolio1987]

Brilliant video, Paul. Thank you for sharing.

[@chuckblaine8113]

Started woodworking a couple months ago because of Paul

[@dieterkoch8414]

This is such a great channel.. love to watch you work so methodically and accurately! Got so many tips and tricks for my own woodsorking.

[@leluzz1]

THANK YOU FOR SHARING, IT IS VERY ACCURATE METHOD, YOU ARE A FANTASTIC TEACHER I LEARN A LOT FROM YOU

[@Paul.Sellers]

We've added English subtitles to this video. We work hard to reach as many people around the world and help them learn woodworking. We need your help to translate our videos subtitles to your language and progress our work. Please contribute translations here: kzbin.info_cs_panel?tab=2&c=UCc3EpWncNq5QL0QhwUNQb7w

[@emeryamiller]

Paul Sellers I