20 best books on woodworking – 2023 reading list & recommendations

If you’re a woodworking enthusiast looking to expand your knowledge and skills, you’re in luck. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, there’s always something new to learn in the world of woodworking. And what better way to do that than by diving into a good book on woodworking? We’ve compiled a list of the 20 best woodworking books that will inspire and educate you, covering everything from basic techniques to advanced projects. So grab your tools and get ready to embark on a woodworking journey like no other!


The Complete Book of Woodworking

by Tom Carpenter

The Complete Book of Woodworking is a masterpiece for all those passionate about the art of crafting with wood. This remarkable tome, penned by the skilled craftsman Tom Carpenter, serves as a comprehensive guide for both beginners and experienced woodworkers alike. Whether you are a carpentry enthusiast, a furniture maker, or simply someone intrigued by the beauty of woodworking, this book is an absolute treasure trove of knowledge and inspiration.

Delving into the realms of this woodworking compendium, you will discover a plethora of invaluable tips, techniques, and step-by-step instructions that will help you master the art of working with wood. From understanding the different types of wood and their characteristics to learning the essential tools and equipment needed for every project, Carpenter leaves no stone unturned in this magnificent ode to the world of woodworking.

With its richly illustrated pages, this book truly brings the world of woodworking to life. Detailed diagrams and photographs accompany each tutorial, allowing you to visualize the process and gain a deeper understanding of the intricate techniques involved. Whether you dream of creating elegant furniture pieces, intricate wooden sculptures, or even crafting your very own bespoke cabinetry, this woodworking compendium will become your trusted companion on your creative journey.

So, whether you are seeking to hone your existing woodworking skills or embarking on a new and exciting endeavor, this book is an absolute must-have. Prepare to be immersed in a world of sawdust, chisels, and creativity as you explore the pages of this magnificent woodworking bible. Get ready to unleash your inner craftsman and create timeless pieces that will be cherished for generations to come.

The Essential Woodworker

by Robert Wearing

The Essential Woodworker by Robert Wearing is a captivating book on the art of working with wood. This masterpiece is a must-read for anyone who has a passion for woodworking, as it provides a comprehensive guide to the craft. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced woodworker, this book about woodworking will surely ignite your creativity and enhance your skills. With detailed instructions and illustrations, Wearing takes you on a journey through the world of woodworking, exploring various techniques and tools. This woodworking book is a treasure trove of knowledge, offering invaluable tips and tricks that will help you master the art of shaping and creating beautiful pieces from wood. So, if you are looking to delve into the world of woodworking, this book is your ultimate companion.

The Joint Book: The Complete Guide to Wood Joinery

by Terrie Noll

The Joint Book: The Complete Guide to Wood Joinery by Terrie Noll is the ultimate bible for anyone passionate about the art of woodworking. This comprehensive and visually stunning book is a must-have for both experienced craftsmen and beginners alike.

With its in-depth explanations and detailed illustrations, this book on woodworking provides a comprehensive guide to various techniques and methods of joining wood. From basic joints such as butt joints and dado joints to more intricate ones like dovetail joints and mortise and tenon joints, the author covers it all.

What sets this woodworking book apart is its easy-to-follow instructions and the emphasis on proper technique. The author’s passion for woodworking shines through as she shares her expertise and provides invaluable tips and tricks to help readers achieve flawless results.

Whether you’re looking to improve your woodworking skills or are just starting out, this book about woodworking will be your trusted companion on your journey. It covers a wide range of joints, allowing you to broaden your repertoire and tackle any project with confidence.

The Joint Book is not only a practical guide but also a source of inspiration. The stunning visuals and detailed diagrams will ignite your creativity and encourage you to explore new possibilities in your woodworking projects.

So, if you’re looking for a woodworking book that will take your skills to the next level, look no further. The Joint Book: The Complete Guide to Wood Joinery is the ultimate resource that will empower you to create beautiful and sturdy pieces of craftsmanship.

The Anarchist’s Tool Chest

by Christopher Schwarz

The Anarchist’s Tool Chest by Christopher Schwarz is not your ordinary woodworking book. It is a captivating journey into the world of craftsmanship and self-reliance. This masterfully written book about woodworking is more than just a guide; it is a manifesto for those who want to break free from the confines of mass production and embrace the timeless art of woodworking.

With a touch of rebelliousness and a deep respect for tradition, Schwarz takes readers on a quest to rediscover the joy and satisfaction that comes from working with one’s hands. He argues that the key to becoming a proficient woodworker lies not in owning the latest gadgets or following strict rules, but in cultivating a deep understanding of the tools and materials at hand.

Throughout the book, Schwarz shares his wealth of knowledge and experience, providing practical advice on everything from sharpening chisels to building a sturdy workbench. He demystifies the complexities of woodworking, breaking them down into simple, approachable steps that even beginners can follow.

But The Anarchist’s Tool Chest is more than just a how-to manual. It is a celebration of craftsmanship, a call to embrace the beauty of imperfection, and a reminder of the value of creating something with your own two hands. It is a woodworking book like no other, as it not only equips readers with the skills they need to create beautiful pieces of furniture, but also inspires them to embark on a journey of self-discovery and creative expression.

If you have ever felt the urge to escape the monotony of modern life and reconnect with the simplicity of woodworking, then this book is a must-read. Whether you are a seasoned woodworker or just starting out, The Anarchist’s Tool Chest will ignite your passion for craftsmanship and empower you to create something truly meaningful with your own two hands.

The Complete Manual of Woodworking

by Albert Jackson and David Day

The Complete Manual of Woodworking, written by Albert Jackson and David Day, is a masterpiece for anyone interested in the art of carpentry and woodworking. This comprehensive guide is like having a personal mentor right at your fingertips, providing invaluable knowledge and expert advice on every aspect of the craft.

Whether you’re a seasoned woodworker or just starting out, this book is an indispensable resource. It covers everything from the basics of woodworking to advanced techniques, ensuring that readers of all skill levels can find something valuable within its pages.

With clear and concise instructions, accompanied by detailed illustrations and photographs, the authors break down complex concepts and make them accessible to even the most novice woodworker. From selecting the right tools and materials to mastering essential woodworking techniques, this book has it all.

But what sets this book apart from others is its passion for the craft. The authors’ love for woodworking shines through in every chapter, inspiring readers to not just learn the technical skills, but to also embrace the artistry and creativity that woodworking offers.

So whether you’re looking to build a simple shelf or embark on a more ambitious project, this book is the ultimate guide that will equip you with the knowledge and confidence to turn your ideas into stunning pieces of craftsmanship. Get ready to unleash your creativity and embark on a woodworking journey like no other with The Complete Manual of Woodworking.

The Woodworker’s Guide to Hand Tools

by Peter Korn

The Woodworker’s Guide to Hand Tools by Peter Korn is a remarkable book on the art of crafting with wood. If you’re a passionate woodworker or someone who simply appreciates the beauty of handcrafted furniture, this book is a must-have. It is a treasure trove of knowledge and techniques for anyone looking to delve into the world of woodworking.

Written with a masterful blend of expertise and passion, Korn’s book about woodworking takes you on a journey through the history, craftsmanship, and practicality of using hand tools. With each page turned, you’ll discover the secrets behind selecting, maintaining, and using these timeless tools that have been passed down through generations of woodworkers.

From the humble chisel to the versatile hand plane, this woodworking book covers it all. Korn’s meticulous attention to detail shines through as he provides invaluable insights into the proper use of each tool. He effortlessly weaves in anecdotes and personal experiences, giving you a sense of the rich tradition and artistry that goes into woodworking.

Whether you’re a seasoned woodworker looking to refine your skills or a novice eager to embark on your first woodworking project, The Woodworker’s Guide to Hand Tools has something for everyone. The book is a testament to the beauty and satisfaction of working with one’s hands, capturing the essence of craftsmanship in every chapter.

So, if you’re ready to dive into the enchanting world of woodworking, grab a copy of this woodworking book and let Peter Korn be your guide. You’ll soon find yourself immersed in a world of creativity, precision, and the timeless beauty of working with wood.

The Unplugged Woodshop: Hand-Crafted Projects for the Home and Workshop

by Tom Fidgen

The Unplugged Woodshop: Hand-Crafted Projects for the Home and Workshop by Tom Fidgen is not your average woodworking book. It is a captivating journey into the world of handcrafted creations, celebrating the art of woodworking in its purest form. Fidgen takes readers on an immersive experience, teaching them the timeless techniques and principles of this ancient craft.

With a focus on hand tools and traditional methods, this book is a treasure trove of knowledge for both beginners and experienced woodworkers. Fidgen’s passion for woodworking shines through as he shares his expertise and encourages readers to embrace the meditative and gratifying process of working with wood.

Whether you’re looking to create beautiful furniture pieces for your home or simply want to hone your woodworking skills, this book is a must-have. Fidgen provides detailed instructions and step-by-step photographs for a range of projects, from simple cutting boards to intricate cabinets.

But The Unplugged Woodshop is more than just a guide to building furniture. It is a celebration of craftsmanship, reminding us of the joy and satisfaction that comes from creating something with our own hands. Fidgen’s profound respect for wood and his dedication to preserving traditional woodworking techniques make this book a true gem in the world of woodworking literature.

So, whether you’re a seasoned woodworker or a novice looking to embark on a new hobby, dive into The Unplugged Woodshop and let the world of handcrafted woodworking captivate you.

The Fine Art of Cabinetmaking

by James Krenov

The Fine Art of Cabinetmaking by James Krenov is a true masterpiece for any woodworking enthusiast. This remarkable book on woodworking is a treasure trove of knowledge and inspiration, written by an esteemed craftsman who truly understands the art and soul of working with wood.

Step into the world of fine craftsmanship with this exceptional book about woodworking. James Krenov, a master cabinetmaker, takes you on a journey where every page is filled with passion and expertise. Whether you are a seasoned woodworker or just starting out, this woodworking book is sure to captivate your imagination and ignite your creativity.

With eloquent prose and stunning photography, Krenov invites you to delve into the intricate details of cabinetmaking. From selecting the perfect piece of wood to mastering the art of joinery, this woodworking book covers it all. Krenov’s deep understanding of his craft shines through every chapter, making it a true gem for anyone who appreciates the beauty and precision of woodworking.

Immerse yourself in the world of woodworking, where every stroke of the chisel and every cut of the saw is a work of art. Krenov’s passion for his craft is infectious, and you can’t help but feel inspired to create something beautiful with your own hands. Whether you are a hobbyist or a professional, this woodworking book will undoubtedly become a cherished companion on your journey of craftsmanship.

So, grab your tools and get ready to embark on a woodworking adventure like no other. The Fine Art of Cabinetmaking by James Krenov is an indispensable guide that will not only teach you the technical aspects of woodworking but also ignite a deep appreciation for the artistry and beauty of this timeless craft. Let the sawdust fly and let your creativity soar as you dive into this exceptional woodworking book.

The Essential Woodworker: Skills, Tools and Methods

by Robert Wearing

The Essential Woodworker: Skills, Tools and Methods by Robert Wearing is a captivating book on the art of working with wood. Whether you are a seasoned woodworker or someone who has just discovered the joys of this craft, this woodworking book offers a wealth of knowledge and practical advice to enhance your skills.

In this comprehensive guide, Wearing covers a wide range of topics related to woodworking, including tool selection and maintenance, sharpening techniques, joinery methods, and the construction of various projects. With his expertise and clear instructions, he demystifies the complexities of woodworking and empowers readers to embark on their own woodworking journeys with confidence.

What sets this book about woodworking apart is Wearing’s emphasis on traditional methods and hand tools. While power tools have their place in modern woodworking, Wearing champions the timeless beauty and satisfaction that can be achieved through the use of traditional hand tools. His passion for the craft shines through as he explains the intricacies of using chisels, planes, saws, and other hand tools effectively.

Wearing’s writing style is engaging and easy to follow, making this woodworking book accessible to beginners while still offering valuable insights for experienced woodworkers. The step-by-step instructions, accompanied by detailed illustrations, ensure that readers can apply what they learn and see tangible results in their own woodworking projects.

Whether you aspire to create intricate furniture pieces or simply want to hone your woodworking skills as a hobby, The Essential Woodworker is a must-read. It serves as a reliable companion, providing guidance and inspiration for anyone seeking to delve deeper into the world of woodworking. So grab your tools, dust off your workbench, and embark on a woodworking adventure with this exceptional book on woodworking!

The Complete Illustrated Guide to Joinery

by Gary Rogowski

The Complete Illustrated Guide to Joinery by Gary Rogowski is a must-have for any aspiring carpenter or woodworking enthusiast. This comprehensive book on woodworking is a treasure trove of knowledge, filled with expert tips and techniques to help you master the art of joinery.

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned woodworker, this book about woodworking is sure to take your skills to the next level. Rogowski’s clear and concise explanations, paired with detailed illustrations, make complex joinery concepts easily understandable.

Woodworking is an ancient craft that requires precision and skill, and this woodworking book is the perfect companion for anyone looking to hone their craft. From basic joints like butt joints and lap joints to more advanced techniques like dovetailing and mortise and tenon joints, Rogowski covers it all.

With this woodworking book in your hands, you’ll learn how to create strong and visually appealing joints that will stand the test of time. Whether you’re building furniture, cabinets, or even a wooden boat, mastering joinery is essential for creating sturdy and beautiful pieces.

So, if you’re passionate about woodworking and want to take your skills to new heights, don’t miss out on The Complete Illustrated Guide to Joinery. It’s the ultimate resource for anyone looking to become a true master of the craft.

The Complete Manual of Woodworking and Carpentry

by Jackson and Day

The Complete Manual of Woodworking and Carpentry is a captivating book on the art of crafting with wood. Whether you’re a seasoned woodworker or a beginner eager to learn the ropes, this comprehensive guide is your ultimate companion. Packed with invaluable information and practical advice, this book about woodworking is a treasure trove of knowledge for anyone with a passion for creating beautiful and functional pieces from wood.

The Woodworker’s Handbook

by Roger Holmes

The Woodworker’s Handbook by Roger Holmes is the ultimate guide for any woodworking enthusiast. This book on woodworking is a treasure trove of knowledge, packed with tips, tricks, and techniques to help you master the art of working with wood. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, this book about woodworking is sure to become your go-to resource for all things woodworking. From selecting the right tools and materials to mastering essential woodworking skills, this woodworking book covers it all. Get ready to unleash your creativity and bring your woodworking projects to life with the help of The Woodworker’s Handbook. So grab your chisels, saws, and planes, and let’s get started on this exciting journey into the world of woodworking!

The Minimalist Woodworker: Essential Tools and Smart Shop Ideas for Building with Less

by Vic Tesolin

The Minimalist Woodworker is a captivating book on woodworking that delves into the world of creating beautiful pieces using essential tools and smart shop ideas. With its focus on simplicity and efficiency, this book about woodworking offers invaluable insights for both beginners and seasoned craftsmen.

The Complete Guide to Woodworking: Basic Skills and Advanced Techniques on Furniture Making

by Chris Tribe

The Complete Guide to Woodworking: Basic Skills and Advanced Techniques on Furniture Making by Chris Tribe is a comprehensive and invaluable resource for anyone looking to embark on a journey into the world of woodworking. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced woodworker, this book is a must-have in your collection.

From the moment you open this beautifully illustrated woodworking book, you’ll be captivated by the wealth of knowledge and expertise it offers. Tribe’s passion for woodworking shines through his detailed explanations and step-by-step instructions, making it accessible for beginners while still providing plenty of advanced techniques for seasoned craftsmen.

With a wide range of topics covered, including tool selection, wood types, joinery techniques, and finishing methods, this book covers everything you need to know to create stunning furniture pieces. Tribe’s clear and concise writing style ensures that even complex concepts are easy to understand, making it a joy to read from cover to cover.

What sets this book apart from others in the genre is its emphasis on both traditional and modern woodworking techniques. Tribe seamlessly blends the tried-and-true methods of the past with the latest innovations in woodworking, giving readers a well-rounded education in the art of crafting with wood.

Whether you dream of building a simple shelf or a complex piece of furniture, The Complete Guide to Woodworking: Basic Skills and Advanced Techniques on Furniture Making has you covered. This woodworking book is a treasure trove of inspiration, guidance, and practical tips that will empower you to bring your woodworking projects to life.

So, if you’re looking for a book about woodworking that will fuel your creativity, expand your knowledge, and provide you with the skills to create beautiful pieces, look no further. The Complete Guide to Woodworking by Chris Tribe is the ultimate companion for any woodworking enthusiast.

The Essential Woodworker: A Comprehensive Guide to Using Hand Tools and Techniques

by Robert Wearing

The Essential Woodworker: A Comprehensive Guide to Using Hand Tools and Techniques by Robert Wearing is the ultimate treasure trove for anyone passionate about the art of woodworking. This book on woodworking is a true masterpiece that delves deep into the intricate world of crafting with wood, providing readers with a wealth of knowledge and practical guidance.

Within the pages of this woodworking book, Wearing takes readers on a captivating journey, exploring a wide range of essential techniques and hand tool skills. From the basics of sharpening tools to advanced joinery techniques, Wearing leaves no stone unturned in his quest to empower readers with the skills necessary to create beautiful and functional pieces of art with their hands.

What sets this woodworking book apart is Wearing’s ability to explain complex concepts in a clear and concise manner. His writing style is engaging and approachable, making it easy for beginners to grasp the fundamentals while also offering valuable insights for more experienced woodworkers.

Whether you are a seasoned craftsman or just starting out on your woodworking journey, this book about woodworking is an invaluable resource that will inspire and educate. The Essential Woodworker is a must-have for anyone looking to hone their skills and unleash their creative potential in the world of woodworking.

The Complete Illustrated Guide to Furniture and Cabinet Construction

by Andy Rae

The Complete Illustrated Guide to Furniture and Cabinet Construction by Andy Rae is the ultimate woodworking companion for both beginners and seasoned craftsmen. This comprehensive book on woodworking covers everything you need to know to create beautiful furniture and cabinets with precision and skill.

With over 800 full-color illustrations and detailed step-by-step instructions, this book is a treasure trove of knowledge for anyone passionate about woodworking. Whether you’re a hobbyist looking to improve your skills or a professional woodworker seeking inspiration, Andy Rae’s expertise and guidance will surely elevate your craftsmanship to new heights.

This woodworking bible covers a wide range of topics, including the fundamentals of woodworking, essential tools and equipment, joinery techniques, and finishing methods. From designing and planning your project to executing complex joinery and applying flawless finishes, this book leaves no stone unturned.

What sets this book apart from others in its genre is the stunning visual representation. Every technique, tool, and project is beautifully illustrated with detailed diagrams and photographs, making it easy to follow along and replicate the steps. Whether you prefer a traditional woodworking approach or embrace modern techniques, this book accommodates all styles.

Andy Rae’s writing style is engaging and accessible, making complex concepts understandable for woodworkers of all skill levels. His passion for the craft shines through in every page, inspiring readers to push their boundaries and strive for excellence.

Whether you’re a seasoned woodworker or just starting out, The Complete Illustrated Guide to Furniture and Cabinet Construction is a must-have resource for anyone looking to enhance their woodworking skills. So grab your tools, dive into the world of woodworking, and let this book be your trusted companion on your creative journey.

The Woodworker’s Kitchen: 24 Projects You Can Make

by A.J. Hamler

The Woodworker’s Kitchen: 24 Projects You Can Make by A.J. Hamler is a captivating and hands-on book about the art of woodworking. If you’ve ever dreamt of transforming a simple piece of wood into a beautiful and functional kitchen item, then this woodworking book is perfect for you. With its step-by-step instructions and stunning visuals, it will guide you through a variety of projects that will enhance both your woodworking skills and your culinary experience.

The Essential Woodworker: A Complete Guide to the Art and Practice of Woodworking

by Robert Wearing

The Essential Woodworker: A Complete Guide to the Art and Practice of Woodworking by Robert Wearing is a masterpiece in the realm of craftsmanship. If you are a passionate woodworker, this book is an absolute gem, a treasure trove of knowledge and guidance. It is the quintessential guide for anyone seeking to delve into the enchanting world of woodworking.

This book on woodworking is a comprehensive and authoritative resource that covers everything you need to know about this age-old craft. It is a true homage to the artistry and skill involved in working with wood, providing detailed instructions, step-by-step techniques, and invaluable insights.

Wearing’s expertise shines through every page, as he guides readers through the essential tools, materials, and techniques used in woodworking. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned woodworker, this book about woodworking has something for everyone. It is a perfect blend of theory and practice, ensuring you not only understand the principles but also gain hands-on experience.

Woodworking is a symphony of precision, creativity, and patience. This woodworking book understands that, and it beautifully captures the essence of this art form. Wearing’s writing style is engaging and approachable, making it easy for readers to grasp complex concepts. With vivid illustrations and detailed diagrams, the book brings each technique to life, making it a joy to read and learn from.

So, whether you are looking to refine your skills, expand your knowledge, or embark on a new woodworking adventure, The Essential Woodworker is the perfect companion along your journey. It is a testament to the timeless beauty and craftsmanship of woodworking, and it will undoubtedly inspire and empower you to create your own masterpieces. Get ready to unleash your inner artisan!

The Complete Manual of Woodworking and Carpentry: A Comprehensive Guide to Shaping, Working, and Finishing Wood

by Jackson and Day

The Complete Manual of Woodworking and Carpentry is the ultimate guide for anyone who wants to embark on the captivating journey of crafting and shaping wood. This comprehensive book is a treasure trove of knowledge, providing both beginners and seasoned woodworkers with a wealth of information on every aspect of the craft.

Whether you’re a novice looking to learn the ropes or a skilled artisan seeking to refine your skills, this book about woodworking is an invaluable resource. It covers everything from the basics of woodworking to the intricacies of advanced techniques, making it suitable for woodworkers of all levels.

Written by renowned authors Jackson and Day, this woodworking book is meticulously crafted to ensure that every reader can easily follow along. The authors’ passion for the subject shines through in their detailed instructions and insightful tips, making it feel as though they are right there beside you, guiding you through each step of the process.

From selecting the perfect wood for your project to mastering essential woodworking tools, this book on woodworking leaves no stone unturned. It delves into various woodworking methods, such as joinery, shaping, and finishing, empowering you to create stunning pieces that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

The Complete Manual of Woodworking and Carpentry is not just a book; it’s a gateway to a world of endless possibilities. With its comprehensive coverage and expert guidance, this woodworking bible is sure to inspire and ignite your passion for the craft. So grab your tools, roll up your sleeves, and dive into the wonderful world of woodworking with this captivating book.

The Woodworker’s Pocket Book

by Charles H. Hayward

The Woodworker’s Pocket Book by Charles H. Hayward is a must-have companion for any woodworking enthusiast. This compact and comprehensive book on woodworking is like having a master craftsman in your pocket. Whether you are a beginner just starting out or a seasoned pro, this book about woodworking is filled with invaluable tips, techniques, and knowledge that will take your woodworking skills to the next level.

Within the pages of this woodworking book, you will find step-by-step instructions for a wide range of woodworking projects, from simple household items to intricate furniture pieces. Hayward’s expertise shines through as he shares his wealth of experience in a concise and accessible manner. With its handy size, you can easily carry this woodworking book with you to the workshop, ensuring that you always have expert guidance at your fingertips.

Woodworking is an art that requires skill, precision, and creativity. This woodworking book covers all the essential aspects of the craft, including selecting and preparing wood, using hand tools and power tools, joinery techniques, and finishes. Hayward’s clear explanations and detailed illustrations make even the most complex woodworking concepts easy to understand.

Whether you are looking to improve your woodworking skills or seeking inspiration for your next project, The Woodworker’s Pocket Book is an indispensable resource. It is a woodworking book that will serve as your trusted companion, guiding you through every step of the woodworking process. So grab your tools, open this woodworking book, and let your creativity and craftsmanship soar!

Conclusion

In conclusion, if you’re passionate about woodworking and looking to expand your knowledge and skills, these 20 best books about woodworking are a must-have for your collection. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced woodworker, these books offer a wealth of information, inspiration, and practical tips to help you take your craft to the next level. From detailed step-by-step guides to beautiful photo galleries showcasing exquisite woodworking projects, these books are a treasure trove of wisdom from renowned experts in the field. So, grab a copy of these books, dive into the world of woodworking, and let your creativity soar!