5 comments about Build Your Own Kitchen Cabinets (Popular Woodworking).

1. Overall, this book is of good quality and point you in the right direction to build your own kitchen cabinets.
   
   The title of the book is misleading in the sence that this book only tackle the europen frameless type cabinet build with MPB.
   
   One thing that I didn't like in this book is the fact that I had the feeling to read the same thing over and over and over again for each piece (base, top, corner, etc).



2. I think this is a very good book for a first time cabinet builder. After reading several times I have begun to build our kitchen cabinets using most of the methods in the book. So far everything has turned out great and I expect that to continue. The book is straight forward, gives plenty of good examples with pictures. I especially like the standard cabinet cut lists which takes the guesswork out of the dimensions for most common cabinets. While Mr. Proulx uses particle board to build cabinets I have had many people tell me it is not a good material. After building 6 cabinet cases from 5/8" industrial particle board I feel it is a very acceptable material and I am confindent it will hold up in the long term using this method of construction. I added biscuits to all the cases to help alignment and strength. I recommend this book to all the newbies who want to venture off into cabinet making.



3. If you feel as I do that MDF and such make excellent cabinets, then this book is for you. In my opinion, particle board and MDF will outlast most people, or at least outlast their ability to live with a given style. For those wanting to build their own kitchen cabinets, this is an excellent book. I am more interested in built ins, but this is the book for me. Proulx has a system that works, and he includes cut sheets, cutting lists, and all kinds of stuff to make this an easy process for his readers. It should be pointed out that this book tells you what you need to know and no more, so it is not the first or the last word on the subject, but it may be the only book you will need.



4. Written more as this-is-how-I-do-it book but the ideas definitely make it worth the price of the book and the time to read it.



5. My husband and I are remodeling our dining room and kitchen This book is great for anyone who has not done a lot of wood working.

5 comments about Upholstery Basics (Singer Sewing Reference Library) (Singer).

1. This book is very helpful. The pictures are large enough to see essential details and the instructions are clear and allow a complete beginner to obtain professional results.



2. This book has great pictures and illustrations and the instructions are easy to follow. I checked it out at the library and loved it so much, I added a copy to my own personal library. It is a great reference book and well written.



3. I bought this book because I couldn't afford to buy new living room furniture and wanted to at least recover the cushions. However, the instructions and illustrations were clear enough that I was able to reupholster both the couch and chair. And they look amazingly good--which, I confess, amazes me!



4. I have taken an upholstery class before, but have never tried to do a large sofa. I found this book gave me just enough information following the directions for an overstuffed chair to tackle the project. If I were a beginner, I don't think I would have been as confident using this book, but would have wanted something a bit more detailed.



5. This book was very helpful, I have done a lot of sewing, but no upholstering, so I made a sample boxed, zippered, cushion with welting, and learned from my (minor) mistakes before using expensive special order fabrics.

5 comments about Danny Proulxs Cabinet Doors and Drawers (Popular Woodworking).

1. This is an excellent resource for coming to understand how to create different types of doors and drawers. Easy to understand and excellent pictures make it easy to use.



2. The book should just be titled Cabinet Doors. It's very incomplete on the drawer section. Also you'll need another book to fill in the gaps. I was disappointed because it should have covered more information.



3. The other reviewers covered the book well enough. I'm adding my 5 stars. Well written and a good reference.
   
   I coupled it with 2 books from Jim Tolpin: " Building Traditional Kitchen Cabinets " and " Jim Tolpin's guide to becoming an pro cabinet maker ". Amazon has them, check them out.
   
   They all fit well together. Enjoy.



4. This book provides simple descriptions about how to make doors and drawers. Although I have made a few in the past this book gave me some new ideas.



5. This book was great, gave me lots of ideas and helped me build a nice cabinet for my wife. Now she wants me to build the kitchen cabinets. very detailed book with lots of advice for keeping safe, what to look for and pretty much how to do everythng but the staining (I figured that I would look for another book for this).

5 comments about The Complete Japanese Joinery.

1. When i bought it, i was looking for a manual to learn some basic about making japanese joinery in small amatorial woodworking projects. I'm not a carpenter, i'm just an hobbist.
   
   Every page of this book is a precious pearl of a deep knowledge, surrounded by Japanese philosophy as well.
   
   If you are patient to read very carefully and then practise, you'll find a pleasant surprise: a good job made with less tiredness and an happy mind.



2. This book is really neat--definitely worth $16. There are dozens and dozens of joints detailed but almost all of them are for framing buildings. Even so, these multitude of ideas presented can really start the creative process for furniture makers, like myself. In fact, this book provided a joint that solved a problem that I had dwelled on for months. Without this book, I never would have thought of this joint.
   
   Most of the joints described are described well. But you will need to read the material carefully because some of the joints are quite complex. A lot of the joints are described with "drafting style" drawings--a front view, side view and top view. The book could benefit from more drawings that are in perspective.
   
   The description of the use of Japanese tools is brief. In fact, if I were the publisher I'd delete "Japanese Tool Use" from the title because this book really doesn't focus much on tool use. Yeah, it's covered but there are other, more detailed texts n the topic.
   
   At times, the text is awkward. If I recall correctly, this book was translated from Japanese, which likely accounts for the awkward phrases.



3. I'm fascinated by art and lifestyle in Japan. I bought this one in the hope of getting good information about "how to"s in joining wood in a woodword project without using any metal parts (nails etc). For starters, all drawings are black and white so this may dissapoint some of you. But are very well done and the book has a very interesting introductory section about japanese woodworking tools that provide a lot of information and some less expected aspects of japanese woodworking like, for example, tradition (I expected that) and an entire philosophical system (I didn't expected that). Very interesting, a lot. However, it is quite complicated to follow drawings and I sometimes felt that a better 3D rendering of the cuts should be done in order to better understand japanese joinery techniques (which ARE very complicated). I would recommend the book in the first place as a very instructive reading (which it is) and less for actually doing something being guided by its instructional content. Anyway I'm glad I bought it because it gave me more insight into japanese traditional woodworking.



4. I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The pics are black and white, but good. I've spent hours reading, and re-reading it. Good resource for carpenters who want to add something to their work or understanding. Also could be great for imaginitive furniture building.



5. This is a late review for me as I purchased this book in 2006. I have lived in Japan for about two years. prior to that I did some work in remodeling and small buildings. I had training in the technology. So when I watched Japanese woodworkers building in a new suburb in southern japan, I was suprised to see more of a timber frame construction process using round timbers. The masters of joinery at work. I thought to myself how strange?
   
   As I said two years ago I purchased this book on my quest to understand beauty and craftsmanship. I still use the phrase of the carpenters training manual to bring me to "reality" when I am involved in "More Power!", "More power tools!" It says find a place under a tree and set up your tools. When I read this I laughed heartily at myself. I had been a tool envious "Norm" follower for many years. He always has bigger and better, even when I was catching up!
   
   This is about wood. Hand tools! Craftsmanship! And the heart of the samauri wood worker. These joints have evolved and at one time were secrets of the particular trade guild, only taught to people after long apprenticeships. Look at the joints! Get the spirit of working with the wood. Learn secrets of joining.
   
   I liked this book so much that when it got lost in my piles, I bought another.
   
   Marc Adams of the Marc Adams school uses a phrase he stole from someone. "See one, do one." It's the way of wood!

5 comments about The Big Book of Weekend Woodworking: 150 Easy Projects (Big Book of ... Series).

1. I just got started in serious woodworking, and was looking for a good book to get me started with small projects to cut my teeth on. This was it. I've already completed a couple of the items and have more on my to-do list. The drawings are excellent, the instructions are, for the most part, helpful and accurate, and the materials lists are simple and low cost. The bulk of my Christmas gifts this year are going to come from making projects found in this book.
   
   If you or someone you know is just getting started, this is the book to give them for a bunch of great project ideas that will build skills without incurring a bunch of costs.



2. This book has so many projects in it that some are bound to interest you. The problem with books that feature, say 25 projects, is that if you find 10% of them interesting you get 2-3 projects out of the book. This has 150 projects. If you find 10% of them interesting then you walk away with clear instructions and pretty detailed plans for 15 projects. This book is well written and includes sections on finishing and material selection. I own many "project" books. This book outshines them all by a wide margin. Joinery is pretty basic and the projects run from beginner to intermediate, with most of them being the former. One point that I feel compelled to mention, however, is that most projects in this book require a machine (or hand tool) that will cut curves. Just buy it!



3. With 150 projects in the book, you are bound to find at least a couple that you find interesting enough to build. Such is the case with this book. Most of the projects are so-so and are worth a glance or two. I have a list of about 5 projects that I will actually try.
   The designs are clear and the instructions mostly thorough. The one error I did find was easily recovered from (a flip-flop in order of steps in the fanning candleholder).
   I was hoping for about 20-30 projects that would actually be attempted so for that reason I drop the rating to 4 stars. Overall this is a good book that should give the weekend handyman several ideas.



4. i have yet to receive 2 products that i ordered over 2 months ago. i will NEVER use amazon again!!! it deserves 0 stars.



5. I have leafed through a number of project books only to be disappointed with the types of projects that would be offered. Many would be cheesey and not anything you really would find useful or feel comfortable making for another. This book is quite different.
   
   If you have friends and family members that enjoy items of a "Michaels" craft variety, you will definitely find something worth making and giving to them for holidays and other special occasions. If you are a father/grandfather/mother/grandmother who would like to see a young child experience a toy or piece of furniture that is not molded in an asian factory, this book would also be for you.
   
   Joinery for the projects is somewhat varied. Unlike other project books I have looked through, these are not all butt-joints and overly simple (though there are some projects that are very simple for those getting started). The book will not teach you how to paint, cut, or join. It is what it says it is, a book of projects that has ideas, plans, and diagrams. If you are very new to woodworking, I would suggest buying this with another book that teaches the basic woodworking skills necessary to build the projects listed safely.

5 comments about Pyrography Workbook: A Complete Guide to the Art of Woodburning.

1. A wonderful book that teaches a beginner so many things! I cannot wait to start working with it!!!



2. I only did some pyrography when I was very young, and the patterns were already on the boards.
   
   I found the beginner patterns to be more advanced, in my opinion. (However, I haven't burned the copied one on my board, as yet. If I find time, it's ready to go!)
   
   I think I need something even more beginner oriented, as far as patterns go.
   
   Overall, there is a LOT of GREAT information in this book that's helped me decide on a burner, wood types to use, etc.
   
   I'm happy with the book.



3. Great book for beginners and experts with many ideas and tips Highly recommend it to others



4. A complete and detailed book, with a lot of necessary technical info and tutoring for beginners and advanced. Nice touch are the beautifull step by step examples you can make at the end of the book. If you plan to buy only one book on pyrography, this is it!



5. This book is excellent for someone starting in the art of pyrography. It covers all you need to know about techniques and the art and gives great examples of each . Deloy Robert Moore Artist

4 comments about Trim Complete (Taunton's Complete).

1. I have several books on Trim and this one seems to be the most updated and exhaustive on the subject. I really enjoy the layout and the way the information is presented.



2. Excellent book. Lots of photos and step by step instructions. Highly recommended for weekend carpenter like me.



3. Previous reviewers are correct in describing this book as the best on the subject of trim work. I have many Taunton publishing books and as usual the photography is excellent! I have looked at other trim books and usually they are full of 'line' drawings. There is nothing like a great pic to illustrate how a project is being done.



4. This is by far one of the best trim carpentry books that I have read. Very well written, with detailed pictures taking you step by step through various projects. I would recommend this book to anyone.

2 comments about Jean-Michel Frank: The Strange and Subtle Luxury of the Parisian Haute-Monde in the Art Deco Period.

1. Wonderful detailed photos and knowledgable time line for the great designers work and designs. Many photos of the shop in paris and how the rooms are put together.
   Great resource book.



2. The contributions of Jean-Michel Frank to modern interiors are timeless and compelling. He created a sense of spaciousness and luxury in Paris apartments that was pure genius. Not much was known about this designer and his too-brief career; this book is a wonderful exploration of the man and his creation of interiors and furnishings. Great photos too.

5 comments about Taunton's Complete Illustrated Guide to Box Making (Complete Illustrated Guide).

1. This book provides great information for box making whether you are a veteran woodworker or a novice. Illustrations and pictures are very useful for conveying information described in written format. Highly recommended!



2. This book is very informative , easy to read & understand.If you know nothing about turning, it might be a little much. I've played with my lathe about 3 months now & wanted to get serious about the hobby.This book hit the nail on the head!



3. Like all the Taunton's Guides, this one is well written with lots of color illustrations. It has sections on all the phases of box making (wood preparation, joinery, finishing, lids, joinery, linings, etc., and it covers multiple ways to accomplish each of these steps. More comprehensive discussion of joinery and finishing, if you want it, can be found in other books from Taunton's dedicated to those topics. This book does not have plans for specific projects, but rather explains the concepts so that you can invent your own box designs. Some of the methods are quite complex and can't be fully understood with a single reading, but the information is all there and if this kind of work appeals to you, this book can teach you to make nice boxes, simple or elaborate.



4. The book gave me several new ideas for design as well as new techniques for creating beautiful boxes. It was well illustrated but could have included some specific plans.



5. I have to agree with some of the other reviewers here. This is a nicely organized book covering a multitude of relevant subjects, but there's very little useful detail in here. I think Taunton made a mistake by trying to stuff too much into too little space. I'm a decent intermediate woodworker and thought this book would help me with some of the things I struggle with in making decorative boxes. But I already knew about 75% of what's in this book. Besides too little detail, the photos, although plentiful, are too small to be of value. Sorry Taunton, a nice effort, but this one misses the mark for me.

5 comments about The Bandsaw Book.

1. I bought the bandsaw and figured I better have a book to help me along. I bought this book with the hopes it would help. It has and will some more in the future.
   
   I did find some of the information redundant as to what was written in the owners manual. But, there are great sections on how to tune up your saw, jigs, projects and a whole lot more. This book is in my shop with me and I find myself referring to it.
   
   I would recommend for both novice and seasoned woodworkers. There is just a lot of good useful information.



2. I bought this book because I've been in the market for my first bandsaw for a few months. I've been researching the topic a lot and came across a recommendation for this book in a forum somewhere. Given Amazon's great price I thought what they heck. I found this book to be very informative and pointed out a lot of things I should be looking at when determining which saw to buy that I had not though of. It did this without knocking any brands or given slanted praise to any brand either which I really liked. I don't really like taking a recommendation from an author who recommends a brands that sponsors him. Definitely worth the money and the time.



3. If you are thinking about buying a bandsaw or are new to them, get this book! This book is packed with information that is helpful for buying new or used saws. It explains the differences in blades and what you need for different uses.
   
   This book will save you money and guide you to the right saw for your needs. Well worth the price!



4. I knew I wanted to buy a 14" bandsaw, but knew nothing about bandsaws and wanted a good overview. It accomplished that.
   
   I get the impression that the author expected the reader to select the topics of interest and just read those. As a novice, I read the entire book straight through and as a result, got a bit tired of the repetition I went through.
   
   It is an easy read and I learned effectively. I still have a couple questions, but was able to narrow my saw selection to two.



5. In my humble opinion,,The Bandsaw Book is a great book for woodworkers at all stages of woodworking. It had what I knew and what I had forgotten PLUS!
   If you have a problem getting that woodworker a gift,The Bandsaw Book would be a great idea for a gift. I'm glad I thought well enough of myself to give me one!