Woodworkers are well aware that bench skills and new workshop techniques are essential parts of becoming better woodworkers. However, it is just as important, but often overlooked, to improve your design skills. Im always eager to improve my knowledge of furniture design and further develop my eye. Whether your tastes lean toward ornate pieces from the 18th century or the clean lines of ultra-modern pieces, being able to make informed design decisions is key to improving your work. Better yet, you can hone your design skills in the hours that you arent able to spend in the shop.
The Fundamentals of Design Value Pack from shopwoodworking.com is worth a look, regardless of whether you are a huge fan of design books or just starting to learn how to design. The set includes over 10 books, DVDs, and articles at a discount of more than half off. It’s also a fantastic collection. From Robert W. Lang youll find Drafting and Design for Woodworkers, as well as three different titles on Googles free design software, SketchUp (all together, Bob covers everything from SketchUp 101 to advanced techniques). The Practical Design books and Illustrated Cabinmaking are also favorites. There are also two DVDs by George Walker, Magazines on traditional design. I would be sure to take advantage of the sale if I hadn’t already purchased all these books (almost all at full price). You can still get the entire collection for around €100. But hurry, only 100 kits will be available.
