Have you ever wondered what separates a good woodworker from a true master? It is not just the tools, the wood, or even years of practice. It is the understanding of how everything fits together, from the first cut to the final polish, and from the quiet of the workshop to the energy of a thriving business.
Discover the timeless art of woodworking and unlock the secrets to mastering both craft and career.
Whether you are a weekend hobbyist, a passionate builder, or a professional maker ready to turn your skill into a thriving business, The Complete Woodworking Guide is your ultimate workshop companion. Written by master craftsman Ron Simon, this book brings together generations of woodworking knowledge in one accessible, inspiring, and deeply practical volume.
Inside, you'll find step-by-step guidance on everything from tool selection, joinery mastery, and advanced techniques to workshop setup, finishing, and professional craftsmanship. Each chapter builds naturally, helping you grow from confident beginner to capable artisan. You'll also discover how to bridge the gap between art and entrepreneurship, transforming your passion for wood into a sustainable source of income.
Inside you will learn:
- How to choose and use essential hand and power tools with precision and confidence
- The secrets of joinery, from dovetails and mortise-and-tenon to modern hardware systems
- Techniques for carving, shaping, inlay, and decorative work that elevate every project
- How to plan, design, and execute projects like a professional craftsman
- Workshop organization, tool maintenance, and finishing methods for flawless results
- Step-by-step strategies to price, market, and grow your woodworking business
With its balance of timeless craftsmanship and modern practicality, this guide is more than a woodworking manual. It is a roadmap to mastery, creativity, and purpose.
Whether you dream of building heirloom furniture, launching your own woodcraft brand, or simply finding joy in the rhythm of the tools, The Complete Woodworking Guide will teach you how to build more than projects, but will help you build a legacy business.
Backwood, Ron: - Ron Backwood is a master carpenter and woodworking educator from Portland, Oregon, with over 19 years of hands-on experience shaping wood into functional art. Known for his blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern technique, Ron has dedicated his life to teaching others the beauty, patience, and precision of woodworking.At 44 years old, he continues to run his own custom furniture studio, where each project reflects his philosophy that great craftsmanship begins not with machines, but with mindset and mastery of the fundamentals.When he's not in the workshop, Ron shares his knowledge through classes, community projects, and writing aimed at helping both beginners and seasoned makers discover the joy of building something lasting with their own hands.The Complete Woodworking Guide is his definitive handbook, distilling nearly two decades of real-world experience into clear, practical guidance for anyone ready to craft, create, and thrive in the world of woodwork.
