- Do draw out the dimensions of your box and draft a plan for construction. Don’t grab the first 10 x 10″ plank of wood you see and think you can improvise.
- Do use the tools at the OEDK to make accurate measurements for cutting. Don’t just use a pencil, a ruler, and extreme confidence.
- Do ask the lab assistants and technicians for help when using new machines. Don’t be afraid to use a more powerful tool simply because it’s foreign to you (see also: accuracy of table saw vs jigsaw).
- Do explore innovative ways to fasten pieces together, such as the Kreg jig. Don’t forget to read the instructions before using an unknown tool.
Kreg jig for fastening pieces perpendicularly
Kreg drills perpendicularly from the base into the face of a wall
- Do use right-angle clamps to ensure walls are completely flush. Don’t forget to use clamps the first time.
- Do collect necessary screws for fastening pieces based on material thickness. Don’t try to substitute screws when you can’t find the correct size (that 1/4″ really makes a difference).
- Do re-screw pieces if there are major errors in alignment. Don’t re-screw so many times that the material begins to weaken and crack.
Right angle clamp
Screws in all shapes and sizes (except the one size you need)
- Do sand down edges and surfaces until you achieve your desired look. Don’t spend so much time that you take off too much material.
- Do use the table router to create a more polished look. Don’t assume the bit in the router will work for your specific project (if the effects from a tool are barely noticeable, can you still say that you used said tool?).
- Do plan out exactly where screws will be located. Don’t be afraid to add more ~that were not in your original plan~ in order to make the box more secure.
Balancing professionalism with stability
- Do account for human error during assembly and make a back-up plan. Don’t be afraid to use wood filler.
- Do analyze your box at the end to fix loose screws, gaps, and uneven surfaces. Don’t over analyze.
Sawdust + wood glue = DIY filler for holes
- And last of all, do be proud of your finished work regardless of minor flaws. Don’t be afraid to own up to your mistakes and learn from them.
The finished product
Split happens 🙂
