Woodsmith Shop Season 15, Episode 2: Build a Better Bookcase

Compact Home Office

On this episode of the Woodsmith Shop, the cast builds a pair of work-from-home essentials: a desk and wall shelf combo. They’re designed to fit just about anywhere. Simple, robust joinery means you can build them in a short time and they’ll last for years.

Top-Notch Table Saw Jigs

Rip and crosscut — that’s what most people use the table saw for. However, with these two add-ons, you can also make sturdy drawers and cut amazing dovetails. Learn the essentials to build each jig, then find out how to make them work their best.

Quick & Easy Band Sawn Boxes

Take your band saw skills to the next level with these fun and quick box projects. Chris starts with a leaf-inspired box. Phil adds another skill in making a hinged lid. And, Logan steps it up with a box that includes a pair of drawers — all without leaving the band saw.

Patio Planter

Let’s take it outside. The crew makes an eye-catching cedar planter that’s sure to become a focal point in your yard. It features a built-in trellis with a custom copper insert. Learn what it takes to build long-lasting outdoor projects with basic tools.

Easy-to-Build Workshop Organizers

Join Phil, Chris and Logan as they make a couple of upgrades for the workshop. Up first is a cleanup center that corrals the supplies that keep your shop tidy. Then, they build a go-anywhere clamp cart. Clever holders let you customize the cart to the clamps you own.

Clever Craft Center

This vintage-inspired box offers a lot of storage features to keep your craft tools and supplies within easy reach. You’ll learn how to make durable finger joints. Then, find out how to make the tackle-box style trays. You may just end up making more than one!

Entryway Essentials

Join the team to build a pair of projects to upgrade your entry: a coat rack and a bench. These solid wood projects can be built in a weekend and enjoyed for a lifetime. The coat rack has Arts and Crafts appeal, and the bench features a woven seat.

Best Ever Tool Cart

Skip the sheet metal tool carts you find in the store and make a better one yourself. This design allows you to customize the drawers and trays inside to suit your needs. Building this cart introduces you to woodworking skills you’ll use time after time.

Outdoor Dining Table

Fire up the grill and enjoy a meal outdoors with this strong and sturdy picnic table. This design combines the looks of a country-style dining table with the rugged construction you need outdoors. Learn about the materials and finish to keep the table looking its best.

Jimmy Clewes Turns

The cast of the Woodsmith Shop is joined by turner Jimmy Clewes. He’ll demonstrate his technique for creating his signature platters. He also dives into the tools and essential techniques that can help you get started on your bowl and platter turning adventures.

26 min

Logs to Lumber

For Logan Wittmer, woodworking starts right at the tree. On this episode, he shares about his portable sawmill, cutting trees into boards and getting them ready for a project. Along the way, you’ll discover how to work with a sawyer and save money while finding wood you can’t buy anywhere else.

High-Tech Woodworking

A CNC router in your shop opens up a lot of woodworking possibilities. You can build one yourself or buy one. Chris Fitch, our resident CNC expert, explores what you need to get started. Then, learn about a project or two that you can make right away.