I Can Do That
In every issue of Popular Woodworking Magazine, the “I Can Do That” column features projects that can be completed by any woodworker with a modest (but decent) kit of tools in less than two days of shop time, and using raw materials that are available at any home center.
Our free online manual (in PDF format, please note this file is over 9mb) explains all the tools and shows you how to perform the basic operations in a step-by-step format. You’ll learn to rip with a jigsaw, crosscut with a miter saw and drill straight with the help of our manual. Whenever we introduce a new tool or technique to the column, we’ll update the manual, too. (You might want to bookmark this page so you can easily find it when we update the manual.)
To download the free manual, click here.
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I Can Do That: Hanging Shelves
Get a period look with big box materials.
by Megan Fitzpatrick
pages 23-23
From the April 2012 issue, #196
The inspiration for this small hanging set of shelves is a late 18th- to early 19th-century (circa 1775-1825) English dovetailed version in oak with a dark finish. I wanted to replicate the look as much as possible using the I Can Do That tool set and big-box stock, so I adjusted the dimensions to fit dimensional lumber, and, after the construction was done, sanded the edges heavily to impart a well-worn look. I then applied a somewhat distressed finish (more on that later).
Download the PDF of this article for the drawing and cutlist:
HangingShelves
Plan: Download the free SketchUp model for the Hanging Shelves.
Articles: All the I Can Do That articles are free online.
I Can Do That: Message Center
A low-tech solution for a family on the go.
By Steve Shanesy
Pages: 26-27
The kitchen is the crossroads for today’s busy family. And while we have high-tech gadgets to text messages, take notes and keep a calendar, I’ve found a kitchen message board has helped to keep my family organized for 30 years. Three decades ago, I made several message centers as gifts and can report that some are still in use – a testament to their utility.
I Can Do That “Message Center” PDF
BLOG: Coming soon: more step photos of the “Message Center.”
MODEL: Click here for the SketchUp model of the Message Center.
ARTICLES: All the I Can Do That articles are free online.
I Can Do That: Gent’s Chest
A simple box for basic household tools.
By Megan Fitzpatrick
Pages: 58-59
From the December 2011 issue #194
Buy this issue now
Common in the 19th-century, a “Gentleman’s Tool Chest” typically contained a set of fancy household tools including the first “multi-tools” – a handsome handle into which a variety of tools including gimlets, drivers, chisels and the like could be fitted. The chest might also include a small brass-backed saw, a filigreed square, dividers, a brass hammer and more – “showcase tools” for the squire who simply liked to putter around the house.
BLOG: Discover more about period Gentleman’s Chests.
PLAN: Download the free SketchUp plan.
ARTICLES: All the “I Can Do That” articles are free online.
I Can Do That: Spastic Susan – SketchUp Model
View the Google SketchUp Model. View all of the Woodworking SketchUp Models. Purchase the October 2011 issue of Popular Woodworking. Purchase Sketchup products from Shop Woodworking.
I Can Do That: Small Bench
This simple seat is ideal for a hallway or porch.
By Megan Fitzpatrick
Pages: 26-27
From The October 2011 issue #192
Buy the issue now
This project is inspired by a period choir bench in my mom’s dining room – but I modernized the Gothic revival design of the original with sweeping curves on the arms (instead of shelter arms), and left out the moulding and cutouts.
From the October 2011 issue #192
Buy this issue now
ARTICLE: HallBenchICDT
BONUS ARTICLE: “I Can Do That” article from Mag Ruffman on our web site.
PLAN: Download the free SketchUp plan for the Small Bench.
ARTICLE: All the “I Can Do That” articles are free online.
I Can Do That: Limbert Outdoor Cafe Chair
A great chair to make in pairs (or more), this outdoor version of a classic Charles Limbert Arts & Crafts cafe chair is simple to make using basic home center lumber and only a few common tools. Very little woodworking experience required. Download the Limbert Chair Plans Here
I Can Do That: Outdoor Garden Bench Project
Built from pine boards available from you local home store, this outdoor bench can be built with only a jigsaw and screw gun. A simply coat of paint to match your decor and you’ll be sitting pretty! This project is one of many from ‘Backyard Projects for Today’s Homestead‘. Click here to download your free Continue reading»
