The old-school benches in this book are simpler than modern benches, easier to build and perfect for both power and hand tools.Beginning woodworkers can build any of these benches. The technical drawings are clear and show every detail. Using the step-by-step instructions, you will be amazed at how easily these workbenches can be constructed.

    Hiller’s might just be the funniest – and the most sincere.Standing in contrast to James Krenov’s “The Impractical Cabinetmaker” from 1979, Hiller’s book, “Making Things Work: Tales from a Cabinetmaker’s Life,” is not about waiting for a particular plank of wood to tell you its true purpose. It is not an exhortation to fuss over each detail, no matter the personal cost.Instead, Hiller’s funny and occasionally ribald story is about a cabinetmaker who was trained to work at the highest level possible and how she has dealt with the personal anxiety that occurs when the desire and drive for excellence collides with paying the monthly bills.The backdrop for “Making Things Work” is a cast of characters who could populate a Cohen brothers film – a Missouri furniture maker who masquerades as a Brit to impress his customers. A 30-something client and her older husband who seem hell-bent on cheating every trades worker in the Midwest. And Hiller’s British trainers, who through teasing, criticism and mockery finally let her know what “navy cake” really is.At the center of it all is Hiller. She seeks to run an honest business, make beautiful things and be fairly paid. Doing all three things at once is an immense challenge, and she tells her odyssey in a series of vignettes that read like a modern-day Aesop’s fable. There is a lesson in each chapter about the craft, business or personal relationships. But it’s up to you to decode them. Her indirect approach is one of the great charms of the book.If you are considering abandoning your cozy corporate job to make furniture, “Making Things Work” is required reading. It will illuminate you as to how difficult the profession can be. If you are undaunted after seeing the quality of Hiller’s furniture and reading about her struggle to make a living, perhaps you have a shot.For amateur woodworkers, the book is a great read. Hiller is a fine and precise writer who knows exactly when to land a punch line (sometimes with a sledgehammer).For those of you who appreciate the manufacturing quality of Lost Art Press books, “Making Things Work” will please you. Hiller used one of our printing vendors here in the United States. This is a book designed to last. Hardbound with a sewn binding, the books boards are covered in a sturdy dust jacket.[Synopsis copied from Lost Art Press website]

    Whether woodworking is your hobby or your profession, you'll get more enjoyment and satisfaction from the craft when you have a practical and functional workspace.The Practical Workshop is your guide to setting up a sensible shop with an efficient workflow and everything you need to make the best use of your time. From workbenches to shop furniture to storage solutions, this book covers the essentials. You'll learn strategies for machine and fixture placement. You'll discover ways to streamline your operations and get plans for all the shop furniture you need to outfit your space. Get started with guidelines for putting together a basic toolkit and some quick sawhorses. Focus your shop around a central workbench--you'll find complete plans for two benches, a gallery of bench designs and ideas for personalizing your workbench for your specific needs. Get helpful advice for placing machinery and instructions for building shop furniture and fixtures. Woodworking can be a respite from the bustle of daily life, especially if your shop is well-organized and your tools are where they're supposed to be. This book can help you set up a great workspace, avoid clutter and get the most out of your woodworking.

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