Traditional Woodworking Techniques: Fundamentals of Furnituremaking

Learning to use hand tools is the foundation to understanding the craft of woodworking

The third volume in Graham Blackburn's Illustrated Workshop series, Traditional Woodworking Techniques is a clear and practical introduction into the art of hand tool woodworking and furnituremaking, as well as an invaluable reference to the fundamental aspects of the craft. Even if you have never made a single piece of furniture before, Traditional Woodworking Techniques will guide you through the selection of materials, the complexities of dimensions and wood movement, the choice of joinery, and the mysteries of pleasing design. Starting with just a few basic handtools, a beginner will progress from simple but useful projects, such as a bookcase, box, and chest, to more advanced items like tables and chairs--furniture to be rightly proud of. Whether you work your way through every project, or simply dip into a particular area, such as the detailed chapters on miters, dovetails, mortise-and-tenons, splayed joinery, or drawermaking, Traditional Woodworking Techniques will lay the foundation for a thorough understanding of the woodworking craft. Illustrated with over 400 of the author's iconic detailed line drawings, and complete with an annotated select bibliography, this fully indexed book is an essential part of any woodworker's toolkit.

Graham Blackburn was born and educated in London, England, then lived for several years in Cologne and Madrid before moving to New York to continue his studies at the Juilliard School. While pursuing a career as a professional musician that saw him play in numerous bands, including Van Morrison's, he built his own home--and several others--in Woodstock, NY. His first book, Illustrated Housebuilding, was published in 1974. Since then, in addition to operating a custom furnituremaking shop in California and New York, and lecturing/teaching at major craft and art schools and woodworking shows across the US, he has been a long-time columnist for Popular Woodworking and a contributing editor to Fine Woodworking. He has also served as editor-in-chief of Woodwork magazine.