If you’re interested in woodworking, you may have come across the name Woodworking with Wes. So, who is Wes? Wes is an experienced woodworker who has been working with wood for over 45 years. He has a loyal following of clients who appreciate his expertise and craftsmanship.
Woodworking with Wes is more than just a blog or a YouTube channel. It’s a community of woodworkers who share their love for the craft. Wes shares his knowledge and experience with his followers, providing guidance and advice on everything from understanding wood to woodworking safety. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned woodworker, you can learn something new from Wes.
Key Takeaways
- Woodworking with Wes is a community of woodworkers who share their love for the craft.
- Wes is an experienced woodworker with over 45 years of experience.
- Woodworking with Wes provides guidance and advice on everything from understanding wood to woodworking safety.
Getting to Know Wes
If you’re interested in woodworking, you may have heard of Wes. He’s an experienced guide to woodworking with a loyal clientele who keep coming back again and again. In this section, you’ll get to know Wes a little better, including his journey to woodworking and his philosophy on the craft.
The Journey to Woodworking
Wes has been working with wood every day, six days a week, for the last 45 years. For him, it’s a way of life. He started woodworking as a teenager, and it quickly became his passion. After high school, he went to college to study woodworking and furniture design. He then worked for several furniture companies before starting his own business.
Wes’s Woodworking Philosophy
Wes’s woodworking philosophy is simple: “it’s just to help people with their love of woodworking“. He believes that woodworking is a craft that can be enjoyed by anyone, regardless of skill level. He encourages people to start small and work their way up to more complex projects. He also believes in using quality materials and tools to create pieces that will last a lifetime.
Wes is also a YouTube woodworker, and he shares his knowledge and expertise with his audience. His videos are informative and easy to follow, and he often includes tips and tricks that he’s learned over the years. He believes that YouTube is a great platform for sharing knowledge and connecting with other woodworkers.
In conclusion, Wes is an experienced guide to woodworking with a passion for sharing his knowledge with others. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced woodworker, you’ll find something to learn from Wes.
Understanding Wood
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=47OSZ5lgPBM&embed=true
Woodworking with Wes is all about creating beautiful objects out of wood. To do that, you need to understand the properties of the wood you are working with. In this section, we’ll go over the basics of wood and its characteristics.
Types of Wood
There are two main types of wood: softwood and hardwood. Softwood comes from coniferous trees, such as pine, cedar, and spruce. Hardwood comes from deciduous trees, such as oak, walnut, and cherry.
Softwood is generally less expensive than hardwood and is easier to work with. It’s also lighter and less dense, which makes it ideal for projects that require a lightweight material. Softwood is often used for construction, such as framing and decking.
Hardwood, on the other hand, is denser and heavier than softwood. It’s more expensive and harder to work with, but it’s also more durable and has a beautiful grain pattern. Hardwood is often used for furniture, flooring, and decorative objects.
Characteristics of Different Woods
Each type of wood has its own unique characteristics. For example, walnut is a hardwood that is known for its rich, dark color and beautiful grain pattern. It’s also a very strong wood that is resistant to warping and shrinking.
Cherry, another hardwood, has a warm, reddish-brown color and a smooth, even grain. It’s a popular choice for furniture and decorative objects because of its beauty and durability.
When working with wood, it’s important to understand its characteristics so you can choose the right type of wood for your project. You should also consider the wood’s hardness, density, and moisture content, as these factors can affect how the wood behaves when you cut and shape it.
In conclusion, understanding wood is an essential part of woodworking. By knowing the properties of different types of wood, you can create beautiful objects that will last for years to come.
Wood Preparation
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=grldJGPTexI&embed=true
Woodworking with Wes emphasizes the importance of wood preparation before finishing. Proper wood preparation ensures that your project has a nice finished product. Here are some tips to help you prepare your wood for your project.
Selecting the Right Lumber
When selecting lumber for your project, always start with good kiln-dried wood. Never use green lumber. Green lumber is not dry enough and will result in warping, twisting, and splitting. You can find kiln-dried wood at your local lumber yard.
From Rough to Ready
Once you have selected your lumber, it’s time to get it down to the size that you need for your project. The lumber is never the right size, so you will need to rough cut it to length. When you buy your wood at the lumber yard, it will be 8′, 10′, 12′, and 14′ lengths.
The Drying Process
After you have rough cut your lumber, it’s time to let it dry. The drying process is essential because it helps prevent warping and twisting. Woodworking with Wes recommends that you let your lumber dry for at least 24 hours before using it in your project.
In conclusion, proper wood preparation is crucial to ensure that your project has a nice finished product. Start by selecting the right lumber, rough cut it to length, and let it dry for at least 24 hours. By following these steps, you’ll be on your way to creating beautiful woodworking projects.
Tools of the Trade
Woodworking with Wes is all about using the right tools for the job. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced woodworker, having the right tools is essential. In this section, we’ll explore some of the essential woodworking tools and how to maintain them.
Essential Woodworking Tools
When it comes to woodworking, there are a few essential tools that you’ll need to get started. These include:
- Saw: A saw is an essential tool for any woodworker. It’s used to cut wood into different shapes and sizes. There are different types of saws available, including hand saws and power saws.
- Blades: Blades are used with saws to cut through wood. There are different types of blades available, including rip blades and crosscut blades.
- Table Saw: A table saw is a powerful tool that’s used to cut wood into different shapes and sizes. It’s an essential tool for any serious woodworker.
- Planer: A planer is used to smooth rough surfaces and reduce the thickness of wood. It’s an essential tool for finishing projects.
- Jointer: A jointer is used to create flat surfaces on wood. It’s an essential tool for creating precise cuts and joints.
Maintaining Your Tools
Proper maintenance is essential for keeping your woodworking tools in good condition. Here are a few tips for maintaining your tools:
- Keep your tools clean: After using your tools, make sure to clean them thoroughly. This will help prevent rust and other damage.
- Sharpen your blades: Sharp blades are essential for making precise cuts. Make sure to sharpen your blades regularly.
- Check your tools for damage: Before using your tools, make sure to check them for any damage. This will help prevent accidents and ensure that your tools are working properly.
- Store your tools properly: Proper storage is essential for keeping your tools in good condition. Make sure to store your tools in a dry, cool place.
By following these tips, you can keep your woodworking tools in good condition and ensure that they last for years to come.
Woodworking Techniques
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MpWKPMMDDYo&embed=true
Woodworking with Wes is an experienced guide to woodworking. Wes is passionate about woodworking and shares his knowledge with others. In this section, we will cover some basic woodworking techniques that will help you get started on your woodworking journey.
Cutting and Shaping
Cutting and shaping wood is an essential part of woodworking. To get started, you will need a saw. There are many different types of saws available, including hand saws and power saws. Hand saws are great for small projects, while power saws are better for larger projects.
When cutting wood, it is important to use the right technique to get a clean cut. You should also use a sharp saw blade to make the job easier. Once you have cut the wood, you can then start shaping it using a variety of tools, such as chisels and sandpaper.
Joinery Basics
Joinery is the process of joining two pieces of wood together. There are many different types of joints, including butt joints, lap joints, and mortise and tenon joints. Each type of joint has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it is important to choose the right joint for your project.
To create a joint, you will need to use a variety of tools, such as a saw, chisel, and drill. You will also need to use the right technique to ensure that the joint is strong and secure.
Finishing Touches
Finishing is the final step in the woodworking process. It involves sanding, staining, and sealing the wood to give it a smooth and polished look. There are many different types of finishes available, including oil-based finishes and water-based finishes.
When applying a finish, it is important to follow the instructions carefully to ensure that you get the best results. You should also use the right tools, such as a brush or roller, to apply the finish evenly.
Woodworking with Wes offers a wealth of knowledge and experience when it comes to woodworking techniques. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced woodworker, Wes can help you improve your skills and create beautiful pieces of furniture and other items.
Woodworking Safety
When it comes to woodworking, safety should always be your top priority. In this section, we’ll cover some of the most important safety practices to keep in mind while working on your projects.
Personal Protective Equipment
Wearing the right personal protective equipment (PPE) can go a long way in keeping you safe while woodworking. Here are some essential pieces of PPE to wear:
- Safety glasses or goggles: These will protect your eyes from flying debris and sawdust.
- Hearing protection: Constant exposure to loud noises from power tools can damage your hearing over time.
- Dust mask or respirator: Breathing in sawdust and other airborne particles can be harmful to your lungs.
- Gloves: These can protect your hands from splinters and other hazards.
Safe Tool Operation
In addition to wearing the right PPE, it’s also important to operate your tools safely. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Read the manual: Before using a new tool, make sure you read the manual thoroughly to understand how to use it safely.
- Keep your workspace clean: A cluttered workspace can increase the risk of tripping or having small pieces of wood go flying.
- Use push sticks and featherboards: These tools can help you keep your hands a safe distance from the cutting blade while still allowing you to guide the wood through the saw.
- Avoid distractions: When working with power tools, it’s important to stay focused on the task at hand. Avoid distractions like phone calls or loud music that can take your attention away from the tool.
By following these safety practices, you can ensure that your woodworking projects are not only beautiful but also safe for you to work on. Remember to always be mindful of safety when working with small pieces, boards, and other materials to avoid accidents.
Projects and Design
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x2BhbI_wbmU&embed=true
Woodworking with Wes is an experienced guide to woodworking, and he has plenty of ideas for future videos and projects that you can enjoy building. Whether you are a seasoned woodworker or just starting, Wes has something for everyone.
Starting Your First Project
If you are new to woodworking, Wes recommends starting with a simple project. This could be a birdhouse, a cutting board, or a picture frame. He suggests starting with a project that doesn’t require a lot of tools or materials so that you can get a feel for the process without breaking the bank.
Once you have completed your first project, Wes encourages you to keep going. He says that the more you practice, the better you will become, and the more complex projects you can tackle. He also suggests that you take your time and enjoy the process. Woodworking can be a relaxing and rewarding hobby, and you should savor every moment.
Design Principles
When it comes to design, Wes believes that simplicity is key. He says that you should focus on creating clean lines and using quality materials. He also suggests that you pay attention to the details, such as the finish and the hardware.
If you are working with scrap wood, Wes says that you should embrace the imperfections. He believes that the character of the wood can add to the charm of the finished product. However, he also suggests that you be mindful of the wood’s structural integrity. You don’t want to use a piece of wood that is too weak or brittle for your project.
Overall, Wes is a friendly and knowledgeable guide to woodworking. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced woodworker, he has something to offer. So, grab your tools and get started on your next project!
The Business of Woodworking
If you are passionate about woodworking, you can turn your hobby into a profitable business. Woodworking with Wes is a great example of someone who has done just that. Wes has been working with wood for over 45 years, and he has turned his love of woodworking into a successful business.
Turning Passion into Profit
The first step to turning your woodworking hobby into a business is to determine what type of products you want to create. You can create anything from furniture to small wooden crafts. Once you have determined what you want to make, you need to figure out how to sell your products. You can sell your products at craft fairs, online, or in local stores.
One way to make your woodworking business profitable is to buy your materials in bulk. This will allow you to get a discount on your materials, which will increase your profit margin. You can also consider using mill end materials, which are often sold at a discount.
Marketing Your Craft
Marketing is an important part of any business, and woodworking is no exception. You need to get your products in front of potential customers. One way to do this is to create a website or social media page. You can showcase your products and provide information about your business.
Woodworking with Wes has a YouTube channel where he showcases his products and provides woodworking tips. YouTube is a great way to reach a large audience, and it can help you establish yourself as an expert in your field.
In conclusion, woodworking can be a profitable business if you are passionate about it and are willing to put in the time and effort. By buying materials in bulk, using mill end materials, and marketing your products effectively, you can turn your woodworking hobby into a successful business like Woodworking with Wes.
