There are lots of resources for learning woodworking.
You don’t have to apprentice at a shop, you can do it as a hobby. The public libraries have books that you can read on the topic, and free access to computers (for YouTube videos).
You can get free wood from used pallets and boxes, many people are happy to give them away.
You can find inexpensive tools (and wood) at yard sales and on-line sites like The Freecycle Network or Craigslist; you can even put out a wanted ad for specific tools. eBay is a good source for tools as well.
Wooden chess table with inlaid blocks of walnut and Maple, custom made by Morton Chenkin.completed Chess table at the Chenkin Man cave
You just need to be creative, and find projects that are within the scope of your ability; Just google “how to make a (insert wood project here) from scrap wood”. This works whether you are planning a birdhouse or a coat-rack.
I hope this inspires you to make the journey into the craft! Please post your progress and (shameless self promotion) keep reading The Chenkin Workshop
Woodworking is a craft that is non-exclusive, and inclusive; almost everyone can do it!
My father was a woodworker, a mechanic, and a teacher.
I was blessed to have access to his creative side, and his ability to make all sorts of items, from tables and toys to additions on houses. He shared his advice and skills, and was always open to building something in our basement workshop at home, or at his “Industrial Arts” workshop at Thomas Edison High School, in Jamaica, Queens, New York City.
When I started a career in Woodworking and Cabinetry, and opened my first workshop, my Dad was there for me. Almost every Saturday he came by, with a project or two, and suggestions on how to improve the flow or make a better product.
I am carrying on in his tradition. My son, a career Firefighter and Paramedic, has a great set of tools and fearlessly will tackle projects – calling me for advice and suggestions on how to build a model, or showing off the latest work in his apartment. His son is now calling on Grandpa (Me!) to build his Desk, the hutch on top of it, and a footlocker for special GI Joe toy soldiers. This is an honor and a calling to carry on the tradition, and see how my children are capable to build, create, and feel proud that they have furniture that will outlast their use and hopefully be used by their children.
I am proud that my daughter calls on me whenever she has to do something – and knows that Dad “has her back”, whenever tools and fixing things are involved!
Oak and Pine desk built for my Grandson
This Blog is part of the story – you can see projects in work; answers to woodworking questions (from my family and friends, and from the Quora.com community). I am a most-viewed author on the Quora website, and freely share my knowledge and approach to woodworking.
Feel free to read on, both here and on The Chenkin Report (My original blog). I also appreciate any comments or questions, and will answer as my schedule allows.
Having a blog means I can publish more links to products and sources, so you can see products on Amazon and Ebay as well as my writing.
Thank you for reading, for learning a bit about woodworking, and joining me on the journey to understand, build, and create with wood.
With appreciation,
Alan
Founder of MPA Woodworking, Farmingdale, NY (1980-1999)
Elite Tasker on Taskrabbit.com
Member of the Leisure World Workshop
Over One Million Views on Quora.com
Free lance Carpenter for hire, Photographer, “Mr. Fixit”
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