Review by Booklist Review
The publisher of Fine Woodworking magazine fields three texts for raising skills. The Shaper Book is primarily aimed at professionals--understandably, since the shaper, really an overgrown router, is something most weekend-warrior woodworkers can't afford and haven't the space for, anyway. Those who have one, however, use it to create original, complex moldings, not to mention window and door sashes with mortise-and-tenon joinery for not only the framing but muntin detailing. Bird's basic instruction on using the machine is well worth the time of those who own one. Most woodworkers have created, one time or another, a wonderful piece of wood craft and then ruined it with a crummy finish. Jewitt covers the gamut of stains, varnishes, oils, shellacs, and paints. Even by casually flipping these pages, you can find ways to avoid some of the stupid mistakes all woodworkers seem to make, one time or another. Tolpin's advice should be put in the hands of anyone contemplating rehabbing a home, for adding built-in furniture is most often done during a rehab. The many ideas Tolpin affords go way beyond the usual kitchen cabinets, breakfast nooks, and storage spaces to such projects as computer desks, beds, and entertainment units. Though clearly not for the casual woodworker, this is a valuable resource. --Jon Kartman
From Booklist, Copyright (c) American Library Association. Used with permission.
