Blog

Stories, comparisons and how-tos for weekend woodworkers.

Woodworking plans spread across a walnut workbench with hand tools
Comparison

Best Woodworking Plan Libraries in 2026: 5 Options Compared

Ted's Woodworking, My Shed Plans, Ana White, Woodsmith Plans and Kreg plans compared on price, format, refunds and beginner-friendliness (Oct 2026).

Woodworking plan with a parts table on a workbench next to pine boards, a tape measure, and a pencil
How-to

How to Read a Woodworking Cut List (and Catch Mistakes Before You Cut)

How to read a woodworking cut list: nominal vs actual sizes, T x W x L, grain direction, a worked step stool example, and a 7-point check before you buy.

Woodworking plans, pencil, and tape measure on a warm walnut workbench
Buyer's guide

Is Ted's Woodworking Worth It in 2026? An Honest Buyer's Guide

Is Ted's Woodworking worth it? The real $67 cost, every optional upsell, cost-per-plan math, 6 objections answered, and a 30-minute refund-window test.

Woodworking plans and a pencil on a honey-toned workbench with hand tools
Comparison

Ted's Woodworking vs Woodsmith Plans: Which Fits You?

Ted's Woodworking ($67 one-time bundle) vs Woodsmith Plans ($7.95+ per plan or $59.95/yr): price, plan depth, refunds, and beginner fit compared.

Half-assembled pine table with a visible gap at a corner joint in a home workshop
Story

Why your woodworking projects fall apart (and it's usually not you)

Wobbly tables, gaps, wasted lumber? The 6 real reasons woodworking projects fail, a checklist for a good plan, and where to find better plans.