Photos by Carl Duguay, Paul Hillacre; Illustration by Mike Del Rizzo

1. Build a Moxon Vise

Learn how you can build this versatile and extremely useful shop assistant. It’s really easy to build, and is always ready to lend a hand. Our web editor, Carl Duguay, hit it out of the park when he wrote this article in 2013. It holds the record for most views of a project on our website.

2. Build an Electric Guitar

With a simple, planned approach, building a guitar is fairly straightforward. This is the first of a two-part article on how you can build one without specialized luthier tools.

3. Streamlined Workbench

A good workbench is one of the most important tools in a workshop. In addition to being a solid workhorse, this bench is also small enough that it doesn’t take up a lot of space, and is easy to build.

4. Hidden Compartment Bookshelf

This fun and functional project will also be the life of the party when everyone realizes there are three hidden compartments. Don’t tell anyone where the compartments are, as it’s a lot of fun for people to try and figure it out for themselves.

5. Shaker Workbench

A classic design, this fundamental bench has a tail and leg vise, lots of storage underneath, and is bombproof. Once you finish this gorgeous bench you will have a real hard time with that first scratch. But remember, this bench was made for your shop, not your dining room.

6. Adjustable Cross-Cut Sled

Used for so many tasks around the table saw, this accurate sled will improve your joinery and make working in the shop more precise, smoother, and safer.

7. Deacon’s Bench

Style, comfort and storage, all right at your front door. It’s no wonder this project is on our Top 10 list. With only a few curved pieces, the level of difficulty on this project isn’t too high. Just don’t tell your guests, as the finished bench looks like an advanced-level project.

8. Pint-Sized Workbench

This is the third workbench on this list, proving how crucial they are to working in a shop. This small bench is made to fit into a small space, yet be large on functionality. It has two vises, a tool tote, loads of storage underneath, and is rock solid, all on a small footprint.

9. Lumber Rack

This simple way to store rough lumber and miscellaneous strips of wood is a great addition to any shop and can be adjusted to any size. The required materials are not expensive and the techniques to build the rack are quite simple.

10. Craft a Timeless Rocking Chair

With smooth, subtle curves, this rocker is not only gorgeous, but super comfortable. Build one this year and you can enjoy it for many years to come.