The Makers Guide

Stacked wooden boards drying on shelves in a woodworking shop with tools and wood shavings around
Luca Dal Molin | November 28, 2025
Mastering the Movement: Wood Acclimation and Storage for Fine Woodworking

Wood's natural movement is the biggest threat to the longevity of your woodworking projects. Failing to manage how lumber expands and shrinks with moisture leads to ruined joinery and warped pieces. This guide details the essential practices of acclimation—letting wood adjust to your workshop environment using stickers for airflow—and proper...

Hand using a woodworking hand plane tool to create thin wood shavings on an oak board in a workshop
Luca Dal Molin | November 25, 2025
Reading the Grain: More Than Just Direction

Wood grain isn't just a pattern; it's an instruction manual. For the serious maker, understanding it dictates how wood moves, how to cut, and how a piece endures. It's about respecting the tree's history.The core concept: Always work downhill. Imagine grain fibers like animal hair. Plane or sand in their...