A reading list for the novice woodworker
While the phrase “learning something from a book” might be used to indicate a skill not learned as officiously or properly as one learned in person, we love books as a way to build skills, knowledge, and to connect us with makers and artisans of the past.
Below we’ve collected a list of several texts that we’ve come to love over the years, and that are perfect for those just getting started in woodwork.
The Essential Woodworker
Robert Wearing
If you’re looking for a hand tool bible, you could do a lot worse than picking up Robert Wearing’s The Essential Woodworker. Published by the fantastic Lost Art Press, this book slowly builds a picture of tools and their use so you end up with not just a set of skills, but a clear understanding of how to add them all together and create finished furniture, crafts, and more.
Like their other books, The Essential Woodworker is also beautifully produced and bound, and full of stunning hand drawn illustrations (which we always love)!
The Complete Manual of Woodworking
Albert Jackson
Next up is a book that doesn’t mess around – when Jackson says that he has compiled a complete woodworking text. Ranging from the main timbers found in the U.S. (many of which are similar to what we find in Australia), to the use of both hand tools and power tools, and an introduction to joinery and other fine woodworking skills of all kinds. This is an excellent starting point for the novice, or as a regular reference manual for those more established in woodwork.
Woodworking Basics - Mastering the Essentials of Craftsmanship
Peter Korn
A classic and thorough manual of woodworking, covering tools and tool use, good tips and habits for shop work, and step-by-step instructions for a range of courses. While less comprehensive than the above manuals, this book is a fantastic starting point for those wanting to try their hand with the world of wood.
Tree Craft
Chris Lubkemann
While a bit different to other books on this list, this book fits right in with a practice of sustainable, simple and accessible woodwork practice. Across the 35 projects in this book, learn to make pieces that are functional or beautiful using basic techniques and skills, and timber that you can find locally or on the side of the road. If you’re more interested in woodworking projects that are more reminiscent of the trees they hail from, this is the book for you.
The Anarchist’s Tool Chest
Christopher Schwarz
We couldn’t finish this list without another entry from Lost Art Press, and this tome from Christopher Schwarz will set you up for many years. Part of his series of Anarchist woodworking, including the Anarchist’s Design Book and Workbench, this book focuses on the use and maintenance of a small number of high quality tools, and building the perfect home from them.
Working Wood 1 & 2: the Artisan Course
Paul Sellers
The name Paul Sellers is one that comes up all the time in our shop, with his exhaustive series of instructional videos and blogs. This two-part book takes that wisdom and experience and places it between a set of covers, constituting a comprehensive guide to not only the craft of woodworking but loving timber and its use.
Sellers has taught for many years, and his passion for educating comes through beautifully for people of all ages and skill levels, including joints, projects, and an insightful guide to keeping your tools sharp and well cared for.
If you’re interested in reading more about woodwork, the Graham Tilly Woodworking Library is open to the public during our opening hours, and has a seat where you can rest and read at your leisure. Good woodworking books, including the above texts, can often be found in second hand stores or op shops too. If you’re unable to find these books second hand anywhere, we recommend asking your local independent bookseller to stock them for you.
Got any books not listed that you recommend? Get in touch and let us know!
