The Minimalist Woodworker: Essential Tools and Smart Shop Ideas for Building with Less

To enjoy woodworking, all you need is a few essential tools, a little bit of space, and the desire to make something with your own two hands.

The Minimalist Woodworker is about making woodworking clean and simple--from the tools and the workspace to the easy-to-follow instructions. Woodworking is thriving in the hands-on, DIY, maker world we currently live in. Yet, for it's increasing popularity, there are many crafters who don't engage in woodworking because they falsely believe you need a large workshop and a full-blown collection of tools and equipment. The Minimalist Woodworker disproves this myth. It eliminates the fears and excuses as it demystifies the craft. Written by Vic Tesolin, aka the Minimalist Woodworker, a woodworker and woodworking instructor, The Minimalist Woodworker is a stress-free approach for the hobbyist that emphasizes the destination is actually the journey.

Beginning with an understanding of the minimalist mindset, The Minimalist Woodworker quickly details how to make a small space productive and outlines the most efficient tools for a woodworker. Each piece of equipment is explained and instructions on how to use are provided. Techniques for keeping them sharp and maintained are also explained. Once space and tools are covered, seven projects are presented: a saw bench and matching saw horse, a Nicholson-style workbench, a shooting board/bench hook, a shop mallet, and a small hanging cabinet. Each project not only develops woodworking skills, but also outfits the minimalist woodworker's small shop. With step-by-step instruction, photos and illustrations, and an easy-going voice, The Minimalist Woodworker offers a stress-free point of entry into the life-long craft of woodworking.

Before he jumped into the world of woodworking, Vic Tesolin served in the Royal Canadian Army for 14 years in the Royal Canadian Horse Artillery. After leaving the RCA on a honorable discharge, he studied furniture design/making at Rosewood Studio and learned from some of the best in the business, including Garrett Hack and Chris Schwarz. After finishing up his studies, Vic owned his own studio while working part-time at Rosewood as an instructor and craftsman in residence before eventually becoming an editor at Canadian Woodworking magazine. Vic now has what might be one of the coolest jobs in woodworking: he serves as Technical Advisor at Lee Valley Tools. He also builds what he wants, when he wants in his minimalist workshop. Learn more about Vic and check out his blog, latest projects, and other cool stuff at victesolin.com.