How to Build Furniture

The key part of learning how to successfully build furniture is to start on a small project--working your way up to a masterpiece that can become the family heirloom.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Furniture-building plans
• Measuring tape
• Hammer
• Drill
• Saw
• Nails and screws
• Select lumber

1. Use free furniture-building plans. They will instruct you throughout your project. Two links to free plans are provided in Resources below.

2. Purchase or rent tools that are required to build furniture. Some tools that are essential are a measuring tape, saw, drill, hammer, nails and screws. Any additional tools that are required will be found in your furniture-building plans. Tools will vary according to each project.

3. Purchase select lumber, rather than common lumber, since select lumber is an excellent-quality wood grade. This is essential when appearance and finishing are an important aspect of a project.

4. Determine whether you will use hardwood or softwood select lumber. Purchase quantities indicated on the furniture-building plans.

Tips & Warnings

• Hardwood species include mahogany, walnut, oak, maple, cherry, rosewood and teak. Softwood species include pine, hemlock, fir, redwood, spruce and cedar.
• While you may want to customize your furniture, always follow the furniture-building plans. Add your personal touches once the project has been completed.

Resources

• Free woodworking plans
• Free plans from Woodworker's Workshop