Made by Hand: Furniture Projects from the Unplugged Woodshop

While it could certainly be me, I've discovered after spending time with this book that it's a bit hard to grasp the concept of what the author is trying to portray.There is no doubt at all that the author is knowledeable and very talented, but I struggle somewhat to link his pictures to what he is trying to say. I do like the book and really enjoy the first part where he speaks of the handtools he finds most useful and shop aids that have helped him. (I love the "shop bents") It also contains great photos.I'm not sure how many of the projects I'll try and take on - as an example, I was thinking about the toolbox, but still cannot tell from the drawings how parts of it are supposed to work in conjuction with other parts. He does beatiful work, I just wish I could more clearly understand his method of operation. I'm sure I'll reference it quite a bit, but just think that a different approach as to explaination could be improved. If he ever writes a second book, I'd expect that improvements in this area would make it a great book.

I like the designs and I like the instruction. If you like furniture making by hand tools, you will enjoy this.

I purchased this book one month ago and I am quite satisfied for the original and brave way of thinking. Nevertheless, as a woodworker, I did not find any explanation about the preparation of wood.For example, the small cabinet project - which shows a curved door - lacks of a description about the shaping of such a door.The photos look good and explicative. The writing style is smooth and pleasent.A book for a complete home-library.giovanni

An excellent venture into home-workshop furniture production with little use of modern electric tools. The author presents a carefully explained and highly detailed description of the proper techniques involved in woodworking projects using the wonderful handtools of our forefathers. For anyone who loves the concept of truly handmade projects, this volume addresses the questions and illuminates the methods of hand-crafted furniture production. For the antique tool collector, this book is also a delightful showcase of how these wonderfully crafted tools can be made to sing again in this modern world. Terrifically written with bountiful illustrations.

I read this book from cover to cover in a few days and came away mightily impressed. This is something as rare as a pageturner on woodworking. It is well written, the techniques are described in great detail, the craftsmanship displayed within is nothing short of impressive and finally the pictures are as beautiful as they are enlightening. However, do not buy this book from Amazon! If the promised DVD is not included in your book you will waste countless hours trying to track down a copy.

much of the opening text was dedicated to philosophy of working wood by hand, with a basic review of tools and skills needed. The projects were illustrative but it lacked some of the details that I thought would be more handy. Overall good work, and I would recommend to someone interested in making furniture using an unplugged approach.

I love this book. If you are looking for a great project book to learn how to make furniture using only hand tools, this and Tom's other book are perfect for you. I've gone through this book so many times, I've worn out the pages. Check out his website: anunpluggedlife.com for details and videos that accompany the book.

I started with handtools many years ago when quality power tools were not affordable on my budget. Now I 'be returned to quality handtools and after years with high cost high maintenance power tools. Love antique and new quality handtools. This book is just what any handtool or beginning woodworker needs.

A nice change of pace from doing everything with machines that plug in. The same can be said for the "Unplugged Woodshop" also by Tom Fidgen

Tom is knowledgeable and inspiring about hand tool woodworking. The combination of physical skills, tool maintenance and design tips are very helpful. As a result of reading his books I am making arrangements to take some actual private lessons with him at his shop in Toronto.

superb book

perfect for having fun in the workshop. make sure you have hand tools!

very lovely book