Foundations of woodworking is a highly welcome follow-up (and perfect companion) to Michael’s first book, The why and how of woodworking, in which he writes about both the nature of the craft and the techniques that are fundamental to it. In this second book he weighs in on some of the fundamental joinery techniques that every woodworker should aspire to acquire.

At just under 300 pages it’s not a plogging catalogue of woodworking techniques, but rather an affable and practical conversation on five indispensable joinery techniques – rabbets, dadoes and groves; mortises and tenons; dovetails; miters; and shaping. There are plenty of excellent photos that amplify the text.

The first chapter sets the tone with advice about what you might want to do before beginning your build – everything from selecting lumber, the importance of a well thought out milling strategy and considering where to lay our your joinery.

After you’ve read through the chapters on joinery techniques you may, like me, be itching to do some shop work. Michael has included five projects that employ these techniques – a bookshelf, cupboard, entry table, and two chairs.

About the price of a couple of large pizzas,  Foundations of Woodworking is just as tasty and a treat you’ll enjoy time and time again