Frequently Asked Questions
Wood Questions
What kind of wood should I use?
Most of our plans use standard construction lumber like pine or fir. It's affordable, easy to work with, and easy to find. It's also rapidly renewing and biodegradable, so a great eco friendly choice!
Can I use hardwoods instead?
Yes—just keep in mind they're heavier, cost more, and can be tougher on tools and harder to join together and finish. I recommend not tackling a hardwood project until after you have built several softwood projects.
What if my boards are warped?
Choose the straightest boards at the store. You can often work around slight warps by cutting them into shorter pieces.
What wood should I use for outdoor furniture?
Use red-toned or pressure-treated 2x lumber for framing, and cedar or cedar fence pickets for the decking. Outdoor furniture should be built like a deck—your local home center can help recommend the right wood for your climate.
Will my wood move or warp after I build?
Potentially, especially in humid climates. Let your wood acclimate indoors before building. Once acclimated and kept in a stable environment, movement should be minimal. Remember, most houses are built using framing lumber - it's all about keeping moisture down indoors.
Cutting Questions
Do I need a miter saw?
A miter saw is great, creating fast, safe, and precise cuts, even for beginners. But most plans can be built with a circular saw and a straight edge. If using a circular saw to cut, take time to practice, and get good at making cuts, before cutting your project boards.
How do I get clean cuts with a circular saw?
Clamp your board, measure twice, cut slow, and use a sharp blade. This takes practice, so spend some time making cuts. I go through becoming proficient at freehand cutting in my course, it is worth taking if you want to master this skill.
Will the store cut my wood?
Yes—most stores will do rough cuts to help you transport your materials home. But from store to store, the quality of cuts could greatly vary.
Joinery Questions
What screws should I use?
We recommend star-head self tapping screws for framing, most common sizes are 2-1/2", 1-3/4". Pre-drill if close to the edge or you find your wood is splitting.
Do I have to use pocket holes?
Pocket holes are the cheapest, easiest and fastest way to do some joints - like edge to edge or a hidden fastener joint. There are other methods, but these can be time consuming and expensive. We recommend using pocket holes as indicated in plans for best results.
How do I keep things square?
Use a speed square and measure diagonals after each step. Always clamp joints before screwing to keep them tight and flush.
Finishing Questions
Stain or paint before or after building?
A quick sand before and a full finish after gives the best results. Pre-finish if you're doing two-tone or detailed finishes.
What type of finish?
Use oil-based or water-based stain. For paint, cabinet-grade latex or enamel works great. High use surfaces on indoor projects should get a coat of polyurethane, I recommend a Helsman or Spar or other flexible poly that won't crack or peel with wood movement. For exterior projects, use a finish suitable for exterior fences.
How to get a smooth finish?
Start with a well sanded project. Sand between coats (220 grit), wipe clean, and apply light coats with a foam brush or roller.
Plan Questions
Can I change the size?
Many people do, and that's the great thing about building your own furniture! But do keep in mind going bigger might mean more supports are required, and often plans are optimized for minimal material waste.
Are these beginner-friendly?
Yes—plans are written with simple tools and clear steps in mind, with every effort to make plans as simple as possible.
Can I sell what I build?
Absolutely! Just don’t resell or repost the plans themselves.
General Questions
What tools do I really need?
A drill, circular saw, tape measure, square, and a few clamps will get you through most projects.
Do I need a workshop?
Nope! A driveway or small patio is plenty to get started, just make sure you have a level place to work. If you find you are building several projects a year, creating a small workbench is a great way to store tools and have a dedicated workspace.
What if I mess up?
Wood filler, sanding, or flipping boards goes a long way. Mistakes are part of the process!
What can I do to make my projects look more professional?
Start with straight boards, make accurate cuts, clamp all joints, and line up everything neatly. Sand thoroughly, use a neutral finish, and apply it in light coats for a clean look.
I've never built anything before. Where should I start?
Start with a few smaller softwood projects to get hands-on experience. Or if you're tackling a big project, buy a little extra lumber and practice your cuts and joints first. If possible, work with someone who has a bit of experience.
Care & Maintenance
How long will my furniture last?
With good joinery and regular care, your DIY furniture can last for decades. I have pieces in my own home that are over 20 years old and still going strong! One of the best parts about DIY furniture is that it’s easy to repaint, refinish, or repair—so your projects can grow and adapt with you.
How should I care for outdoor furniture?
Lightly pressure wash or hose it down once or twice a year. Tighten screws and reapply finish as needed to protect it—just like a deck or fence. A little upkeep goes a long way in extending the life of your furniture.
How about indoor furniture?
Regularly dust or wipe with a damp cloth. If it starts to look worn, a light sanding and touch-up paint or stain can refresh it in no time. DIY pieces are meant to be durable and fixable—so don’t be afraid to give them some love now and then.
Want to Build with Confidence?
Check out my ebook: 12 Skills to Build Your Own Furniture
It walks you through the core skills every builder needs—measuring, cutting, joinery, and finishing—so you can build beautiful furniture that lasts.
Still Have Questions?
Email us anytime at [email protected] and we’ll be happy to help!
Comments
Jami H
Thu, 08/18/2011 - 11:38
Yes, heartwrenching...
I didn't quite expect this post today. We're taking our eldest to college next week, out of the state of Alaska. I thought I was OK and keeping it together until I read the third paragraph of this post. I started sobbing. Dropping the other kids at school this week was no biggie. No big milestones there,(FTR I love having my kids around and frankly, resent that they choose to go to public school instead of letting me homeschool them), but moving my firstborn out of my house this week is KILLING me!
I have to be a big girl, though, and remember that I am the one who taught this bird to fly away. I just hope he answers his phone occasionally and still feels like moving lumber around for me when he comes home to 'visit'.
Thank you for thinking of us, poor ($) parents of *gulp* college students, Ana, you're the best.
Ana White
Thu, 08/18/2011 - 11:46
Wish I could give you a hug
Wish I could give you a hug right now! If she's anything like me, will be scurrying back to Mom and Alaska before you know it! You must be so proud too!
TonyaLynn (not verified)
Thu, 08/18/2011 - 13:35
I have one starting high
I have one starting high school and one starting kindergarten..and on top of that my stepson goes back to college-he's a junior. It's the first time that my kindergartener has been away from me in any real capacity so I am not looking forward to it, but forunately I have about two weeks left to enjoy. But the house is going to be so quiet all day with the exception of my 9 month old. It will be a whole new world for me. )-:
n8ur9irl
Fri, 08/19/2011 - 05:23
Sending them off to College
I too was in your shoes. We took our first born to college and I felt like our family was being torn apart. I cried for two weeks! But I have such good news. They come back. I don't mean for the occasional laundry drop off but in later years with gifts so wonderful you can't imagine. Besides growing into the wonderful adults you always wondered if they would achieve they bring Grand kids! There are so many good times ahead even if it doesn't seem like it right now. I hope this helps because I too was in your shoes.
dananryan
Sat, 10/01/2011 - 12:14
More please.
Thank you Ana for another great plan!
This one actually got my son (15) interested in building but he would like to make the desk with the smaller file cabinet. Are you planning to post plans for any more pieces from this collection by any chance? Pretty please! This would make a great mother-son project that he can take with him when he goes off to college in 3 (hopefully very, very long) years.
Guest (not verified)
Fri, 12/16/2011 - 13:05
tanks
tanks