Making the world's handiest step stool (No fasteners)

I made a couple simple prototypes of this step stool a year ago with handheld power tools. This time I used those ideas to design this more sophisticated version. If you'd like to make one, here are the plans: shopwwmm.com/products/the-wor...
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[@SteveRamsey]

You can purchase plans for this project here: shopwwmm.com/products/the-worlds-handiest-step-stool Thanks for your support!

[@brettfaris9883]

I think it’s amazing you have almost 2 million subscribers and still use the same table saw and basic tools that most of us have or can afford. Unlike so many others on YT that have all the fanciest latest and greatest tools. I just appreciate that Steve. Thanks.

[@BriManeely]

Man. Agreed. It reminds me of a term in the photography community "GAS" (gear acquisition syndrome), which is all about buying the newest, shiniest things. But rarely is it the tool alone that makes the project a success.

[@aaronfremuth2538]

Totally agree. Seems like every woodworking channel begins cutting down sheets with a Festool track saw, moving onto their SawStop, running a few passes on a 15" planer, then finishing on the drum sander...for a "simple $100" project.

[@EarlyBirdCraft]

That’s called “Manbabies Tool Porn”

[@gumbyspook]

​@@aaronfremuth2538absolutely. I find that it comes across incredibly tone deaf.

[@SteveP79]

I wish more creators would show their mistakes and errors. I'm a believer that we learn more from mistakes than successes and what we learn from them is a more lasting lesson. Thank you.

[@jakefromstatefarm9721]

He made the mistake intentionally so he could plug his plans. This gets traction to his site and guilts you into donating “whatever you feel” and also browse his paid plans. Trying to be slick that’s all.

[@pledgegamer]

Theres no such a thing as flaws in a handmade woodworking… they’re “features”

[@woodismusa]

Facts!

[@MrVodKanocker]

ahahha thats why i like him. one of the best woodwork professors on YT, always inspiring his kids to make something even if its not top notch first class product. great guy

[@Sidious6460]

Steve you are by far the best youtuber for making woodworking accessible. The way you'll still explain the tools and safety while working on projects. Every project no matter how simple is so educational. Keeping the mistakes in is huge too. You never know which videos beginners will come to first, so making seemingly all of your content so accessible and educational really helps a newcomer like me. I just want to thank you sir.

[@libertarian1637]

Been doing carpentry professionally since the 90s. I’ve changed blades 100s if not 1,000s of time over the years; not sure if I’m just getting old, forgetful, or just had too many other things on my mind but I put a blade in my worm drive backwards over the summer and it took me too long to realize it was backwards. I ended up cutting an entire stair stringer and got into the second before I realized what I had done. Even professionals can make mistakes every now and then, especially when you aren’t paying full attention to what your doing. I like the honesty of showing your mistake(s) as so many KZbinrs just cut things out but to me the mistakes and the misses can be the most memorable things, especially on personal projects.

[@munkytaint666]

hahaha i LOVE when you show your mistakes. it's not only funny, but it also makes me feel better about the mistakes i invariably make. thanks steve

[@BriManeely]

After all these years, you still have a way of making things approachable. I have always struggled with trying to make things "perfect", but always came up short. As I've been easing into accepting the imperfections, the great irony has been that my projects have been coming out better. Thanks as always, Steve.

[@David.M.]

Thanks Steve, I like these long videos. Reminds me of your course videos.

[@SteveRamsey]

Thanks David...I like this detailed approach.

[@chrisbrown456]

@@SteveRamsey Steve,I have an idea with regards to next month's newsletter, what would you say to discussing the pros and cons of adding a finish to a project versus just leaving it in its natural state?this particular project is what led to the suggestion, just in case you were curious

[@bowersj]

The part I love about watching Steve is he doesn't edit out his errors (screw-ups : ) ). He actually emphasizes them. "Well, I have to go to the box store tomorrow to buy another board to finish this up tomorrow," or, "I have to take this apart to get this right," etc., etc., etc., etc. It's almost like we're actually watching a "Mere Mortal" do woodworking. So, so, refreshing : ) Please, sir, keep up the incredible work. -jb

[@chase9172]

I really appreciate you keeping the "mistakes" in these videos. If I've learned anything from you over the years enjoying this hobby is you can always pivot and make your project work, even after making incorrect cuts. That and "you can always put the ugly side against the wall" ;). Thanks Steve

[@yooperpete]

I made this for Wifey for Christmas. The top is oak and the rest is pine, which I painted red. Can't wait for her to open it on Christmas.

[@khallo151]

Yay! I’m on day 49 of the lockdown series and am enjoying going through it while I tinker in my shop. Thanks for all you do

[@jon1913]

Man, I miss the lockdown series. I'm sure it was rough on Steve but it was really enjoyable seeing something new every day.

[@chriswindberg5010]

Steve, I cant tell you how much I appreciate the honest, "let's be honest, you're not going to do that, I know I'm not." Have loved your content for years and years now. Keep doing what you do.

[@MRrwmac]

Steve, Old MeMo Mac from NC here. Sooo very glad to see (and hear) another of your project videos! As always, Thanks for keeping the mistakes in. We ALL make them. I miss the old truck and the tail gate sawhorse..haha! That tablesaw seems to still be doing a good job. My old craftsman still cuts away just fine. Hope to see you again soon.

[@jsmxwll]

"I've committed myself to using this dado stack..." man I know that feeling. I've stopped and looked at a better tool for the job and went, "but I'm already using this tool already." and just kept going. Sometimes it works fine, sometimes I swear I'll never do that again. I always do it again though.

[@patrickdunn8918]

😃

[@Dunc2222]

Truly appreciate that you're willing to share your mistakes. It's not only realistically educational, but it also inspires and gives confidence to your viewers.

[@longdriver2]

I made one for my wife. She loves it! Thanks!

[@Anonymous-rh9hk]

Excellent video! The Wood Whisperer recently did a video about applying oil finishes and why flooding is probably not the best way to apply it, it's worth watching.

[@mikewelch3903]

Steve!!!!!! Always remember what we were taught in college! Successful craftsmen NEVER make mistakes, only prototypes (for future improvements).

[@retiredtom1654]

It's good to know others (professionals like you) make mistakes. When I make one, I feel so stupid, but I also know it will happen again someday.

[@daveweigle1623]

I love the humble approach you take to your videos. Most "influencers" would never reveal any mistakes. You are the real deal. And this stool will make a great project for our children's summer camp. Of course, the kids won't be using the table saw but they will have a great time. Thanks.

[@baconsporks]

Even if project videos die, I am a beginner who needs to finish more projects in a safe and healthy mindset. Thank you for sharing.

[@jimhatch5873]

I'll be making some of these for my wife. Our new house has higher ceilings & thus taller cabinets than our current house and she's only 5'2" so she wants something that she can stand on but can be kept in the kitchen or laundry without looking like a shrunken ladder that belongs in the garage. I'll be making them out of walnut to match the breakfast bar and am also modifying it to be 2 steps up with the lower step hinged to the top step so she can get extra height that a 6 or 8" step height won't provide. Thanks for the video - it's given me just what I need to take on the project for her.

[@timlist4173]

I made this in one day with many interruptions, and forgot to rabate the top. So i got a lil bit of extra height. So much for following directions. The halflaps came out good. Very nice method. Thanks Steve.

[@robwiencek9608]

I have to tell you, my mother in law mentioned in conversation recently that she needed a step stool. Her folding step stool is getting too heavy and awkward to use. I made her this stool and she was so happy!! This was my first time making half laps and “happy little accidents” happened but it’s light sturdy and she loves it!!!

[@RandolOlah]

So good to see, I'm not the only one making those mistakes.

[@danielwoodbeck779]

Steve! I have dabbled in wood working pretty much all of my adult life without really realizing it!! I am turning 57 this year and developed a more serious love for woodworking since just before Covid. The good thing that came out of COVID is the opportunity to do more woodworking! So I like most of America turned to KZbin! I will say I followed a lot of woodworking DIY “Influencers” but only have kept a few. You are on top of the list with Stumpy nubs and Jen and Davis. I thank you all!! (Probably should have sent a DM instead of a comment) anyway. I love this step stool! I plan to make one for my mother-in-law who has terrible arthritis and asked for a step stool. (A couple years ago) I have been very hesitant but this is PERFECT!!! Thank you!!!

[@ericklassen742]

Nice touch... real wood, real glue, real machines, real mistakes. Thanks for making me feel like I'm in good company when I think back of my OOPs. Eric

[@DonDayR]

This has been the most honest and reaffirming vid that I have watched today. I live your experiences every time I work in the shop, so I'm glad to know it's not just me. We just have to learn progressively not to redo those things that are harmful, right? Thanks, Steve. Three steps forward, two steps back we go.

[@MCsCreations]

Steve, I think you should make a tenoning jig. With one you could've cut everything down with 2 cuts and without changing the blade. 😬 Either way, please don't stop posting project videos!!! Stay safe there with your family! 🖖😊

[@cbalan777]

4:14 There's that wedge. Great project. Now you've got a trio of step stools. The oil finish on this one really looks nice.

[@rsmith.182]

I have been a subscriber to your channel for quite some time. I think your videos are very well made. I like that you are not afraid to show mistakes which we all make at some time. I also like that you have good tools and a well organized garage shop but do not have all the high end tools that many other woodworker channels use. You have what I feel is very down to earth approach to wood working. Thank you and keep up the good work.

[@mattpinto2351]

The underappreciated MVP in his shop is the table saw leg wedge. It's been the same for years.

[@hydrochloridrix]

This was just wonderful. You and James Wright are all about the joy of woodworking and that's why I enjoy the videos of the both of you the most, hands down. Thank you!

[@JohnS-jj9by]

Always enjoy and appreciate your humor. I certainly embrace all my "unique" projects!

[@jeffjablonsky2371]

Nice job Steve. Always good to see when errors are made and show how to fix them. I really enjoy your style and emphasis that work working is not exact. Even if your cuts are exact, because it's wood it will move over time. Always great to see a quick build video from you.

[@GIKAO77]

Love this relaxed way you are in the videos! "haha just dropped the spacer" Is good to see that theres no perefection! IMHO, keep it up, its human!

[@bobjones8864]

Thanks Steve, another worthwhile project.

[@Philhoppermiller]

I changed computers and lost your channel. But I found you again. I have always liked your projects. I am quite a bit older now, 85.and do not get out into the woodshop, but I need the stool to help me get on and off my Zero Turn mower. So, I plan to build me one. Thanks for years of projects.

[@c.a.g.1977]

Nice project Steve! I really enjoy these type of videos, and seeing and hearing how relaxed you are I think you enjoy making them too!

[@TroyDake]

I absolutely love your channel and have been a viewer for 10 years! Thanks once again for the backwards blade story, I’m glad I’m not alone in having done that (mine was on my 10” bandsaw which I also let my neighbor borrow and he said it cut horrible and he’s never asked to borrow a tool since) 😂. THANK YOU STEVE!

[@kf4ung]

Steve seeing you do another of these projects I am reminded of how much I have learned from you. I am also greatly appreciative of the face you show your errors and flaws. After over a decade i still am thrilled with each episode. I hope you are here giving us great advice and projects for another decade or two. God Bless

[@RedOakVideo122]

I built one of these years ago. My inspiration was a Shaker Pouting Chair. Still have the chair and recently used it for a medical problem.

[@billdelaney3664]

Hey Steve, I rarely comment on your stuff but I just have to commend you for including the mistake and pointing it out. That is a humbling experience, and it makes all of us feel better to know that anyone can do it.

[@TheCharles303]

I watched your prototype short and was inspired to make a step stool for my wife for Christmas. I made it overly fancy but that is woodworkers privilege. I agree it is so useful and handy especially with the handle.

[@mrleverage2006]

Steve, it's great that you show us the good, the bad and the ugly!!!

[@TheLovelyMissBeans]

A couple of years ago, I had a shed in my yard that had been constructed in a bad spot and was slowly trying to slide down the hill. So, I hired a gentleman that builds sheds to come out and relocate it onto a new pad. Because I couldn't get 4x4 timbers at the time long enough for the long sides of the building, I used half lap joints and big giant deck screws to secure them. The shed builder, a genuine Mennonite carpenter, said he was very impressed with my work. Thanks Steve!

[@sapelesteve]

Well done Steve & that's a terrific step stool! 👍👍

[@johnryan1211]

I always appreciate it when you post a new video. Thank You, Steve!!

[@emanonevahisey5841]

Experience is something you don't get until just after you need it.

[@rickculpepper709]

Love your honesty and the work you do

[@busomite]

Love the project videos, thanks for sharing!😊

[@Brad_R_LiveFit]

I love your build videos. I appreciate that you keep it real and honest, that you show your mistakes AND explain how you're going to correct them. I also liked your ending comment regarding reapplying the tung oil finish in a year or so, rather that just like us, you probably won't. After all, it's essentially a piece of shop furniture, and doesn't have to be ornate, just functional. Great video, Steve. Thank you for sharing it with us. 👍👍😁😁😁

[@lespickett8380]

I think this is a very useful item that will assist a large number of people to achieve a step with no bending. Great video. Easy to follow. Thanks

[@bruce-le-smith]

great video as always, thanks for leaving the oopsies in, it always makes me feel better about my learning process to see other people making mistakes and then finding fixes for them (or just trying again if needed)

[@mikemorgan5015]

Nice work, Steve. This is one of those simple projects that will remain useful to your family for generations. We still use the footstool I made in my wood shop class in 1981 for our second hand too project. The first was a sanding block. Haha! Gotta start somewhere. I sort of remember a quote about getting the best oil finish. Once a day for a week. Once a week for a month, Once a month for a year. And once a year for a lifetime. It may vary but that's how I remember it.

[@ItachiUchiha-ff5yb]

I have been looking at your videos for over 2 years man and you are the chillest guy I have seen on here. I learned a lot from you and a lot of the techniques I incorporate are ones I learned from you. :D Sending love and appreciation for all you do from Guyana, South America.

[@pteddie6965]

Thanks for this stool upgrade. I built the first one for my granddaughter and she has been using it and is satisfied with it, but I will have to build this 'Stool 2.0' version for her. This new one is sleek and cool (like you and I are). Thanks again. I love WWMM project videos!!

[@rush85297]

Watching your channel has inspired me to try woodworking and I am truly enjoying your class. Thank you for the explanations and showing how even you make mistakes

[@daviddura1172]

outstanding!!!!!! no mistakes, just lessons, small learning experiences....

[@tubescream]

Absolutely love this one, Steve! We all have “brain shutdown” moments, and working around them without just creating heaps of scrap wood is an integral part of woodworking!

[@lindaburt6518]

Thank you sooooo much for including your mistakes. It helps me feel a bit better about the mistakes I make in my attempts at woodworking.

[@adrianlouviere7650]

thanks for your kindness.

[@H.P.]

Yeah! A project video! Thank you Steve.

[@tree_carcass_mangler]

Thanks for the long form project vid. Thumbs up!

[@CarbonHill]

Thanks for another great approachable and useful project!

[@baconsledge]

I do stuff like that all the time! Time for mindfulness meditation!

[@jgranahan]

Thank you, sir! I needed this! Might get me back in the shed.

[@axion8788]

As always Steve, very useful and your candor makes the video strangely relaxing.

[@stvhinton]

Great video I have taken 2 of your courses heck my shop looks like yours you have made me a woodworker thanks Steve

[@worstuserever]

Nice simple project, even I can manage this one! I think my mother would find one of these useful. Thank you for the plans, Steve. Also love the longer videos, and the combination of to-camera and voicover seems to work well. I hope it suits you to make more like this.

[@hassanal-mosawi4235]

Thanks for sharing those tips and the make!

[@pmdinaz]

My grandaughter loves it! She can reach the sink to wash her paws now. I made mine completely out of fence pickets, pallet slabs and whatever else I could find. I'm going to make a really nice one (better wood of the same variety), some day.

[@NJEsperantist]

There's nothing better than a newsletter that's packed with jam!

[@hectordozal2071]

Mr Steve .. I am always impressed by your simplicity., you're simply THE BEST.👊

[@johnniewalker39]

Man... this videos are so relaxing to watch!

[@soupysoup931]

Steve is back with another heartwarming, relaxing video

[@kennethnielsen3864]

Nice project. Thanks for sharing.

[@dosadoodle]

Thank you for keeping things real here and showing "mistakes" (aka unintended plan adjustments). I can also imagine that trying to manage video recording while creating a project might be some not-small distraction that contributes to mistakes -- you've got a better excuse than any of us for the mistakes we make along the way. :)

[@user-qg6fy4yp8t]

Love the build and the design!!! But what makes it one of your best videos its the oopos and all the insights that you had a long the process.. it's a real life project!!!

[@glencrandall7051]

Well designed. I may give it a try. Thank you for sharing. Have a great day and stay safe.🙂🙂

[@williambuckley1185]

Good vid, thanks Steve

[@vernsteinbrecker3759]

Very nice, that would come in really handy

[@glg3945]

Very nice video. Thanks for showing all the processes and pitfalls and how to remedy them. I know I have made hairbrained mistakes in my woodworking endeavors, I think a lot of times I just get ahead of myself in the process. Yours always turn out so awesome 👌. All the best to you. I enjoy your newsletter very much. Thanks for all you do. Peace and good fortune and good health to you and your family. How are your cats doing these days. Do they still like the shelves to climb on and look out the window! 😁😺😸

[@jeffforbes3772]

Pretty dang nice Mr. Steve. Looks like something I could use.

[@lenalbanese5231]

Good to see another project video, Steve. And thanks for including the mistakes, because the rest of us don't feel so bad when we make them. I'm sure many of us have made that cut on the "wrong side" of the workpiece. But some mistakes are a wake up call and you reminded us of one in your video. So this last holiday period, guess who did not have their mind on the task and used both a miter gauge and fence for a quick cross cut? It was only a short piece, but went it flying backwards at a rate of knots and smacked the wall about 20 feet behind me with a thud. Fortunately I was off to one side and out of the line of fire. But it did knock my fence slightly out of alignment and I spent the next few hours carefully inspecting the whole table saw, checking for out of square and damage and realigning the fence. I was really annoyed with myself because I have made a hundred cross cuts before, always either using the stop block on the fence method or using a table saw sled. A momentary lapse is all it takes, especially if you rush. Always look forward to your videos.

[@holymackenaw]

I love the honesty. I am not reoiling my projects either.

[@adasar81]

Love it! Thank you!

[@szorl]

Love, love your video's and courses that I need to get back to 🤪 I agree with many of the other comments in that we all make mistakes. Part of life 😊 When i grow up I wanna be you 🎉

[@epeiusgarage]

I always enjoy your longer videos.

[@andyc972]

Nice one Steve !

[@timd5343]

looks simple thnx

[@jameshopkins1919]

I kinda miss these old Skool WWMM vids. Thanks Steve. I have a LOT of woodworking projects about to kick off - a list of things I want to get done between jobs a starting with your sketchup tutorial so I can make accurate plans to follow so I don’t duff up… oops too soon?

[@cindyharrison4191]

Your the best 👌 love that you show the things that we all do. XOXO

[@graydonhenry9960]

Thanks for a great build video. Been waiting for a while. Appreciate it

[@timothysprinkle3052]

Thanks for showing those mistakes! I really appreciate the honesty. Trying to use available lumber so I had to deviate from the original design. So much more complicated to assemble. Just so frustrating. Maybe there is hope for me too!

[@JonnyDIY]

🤣 U should see the MISTAKES I make!!! 😆🤦‍♂️ Nice job Steve. Great vid, but I think the thumbnail could be better 😉😜

[@jasonholt7173]

My projects are also full of why the heck did I do that moments, you have the right idea for dealing with it. The fit of that stool top was a chefs kiss though. That fit is what I’m always chasing.

[@hansangb]

@11:45. LOLOLOL. I feel your pain. I do that all the time .Create a detailed plans, write down all the places where I could go wrong, then completely ignore the plan and have to correct/start over!!!