Barn board
There are few things in the woodworking and DIY world better than the charm and warmth of a refinished barn board project.
James Jackson
James is a woodworker, a freelance writer, a former newspaper reporter and father to two amazing girls.
Articles by James Jackson
Tri-ing out a new idea
When I saw an old wooden surveyor stand for sale online, I knew I had to have it. I had the perfect project in mind.
Delaying the inevitable
Sometimes I’ll do anything to avoid cleaning and organizing my woodshop.
Building the dream playhouse
For some, a project like this can be completed in a few days. It took me a bit longer.
Chasing perfection
“Perfect” might be what many people aim for when completing a woodworking project, but it’s not what I’m after.
Vandalism fells centuries-old tree in U.K.
The untimely demise of the historic and beautiful Sycamore Gap tree.
Market mayhem
The highs and lows of trying to sell my woodworking at local craft shows and festivals.
Mystery cookie makes an ideal table
This project turned out so well I decided to sell it.
The dirty truth about dust control
It’s way more important than a lot of newcomers expect.
Tale of a tricky trivet
I learned more than my fair share of lessons trying to build a magnetic trivet.
Giving new life to an old table
After watching countless restoration videos online I decided to try fixing up an old vintage table myself.
Giving permission to let go
We all love our well-equipped workshops, but that may pose challenges to our loved ones in the future.
What’s old will soon be new again
The demolition of an old farm granary will help preserve and reuse century-old boards and beams.
Build it or buy it?
When it comes to constructing a home playground, the easier option isn’t always the best.
On the auction block
I went to a farm sale looking for a riding mower. I bought a beat-up old table instead.
A new office for an old desk
Making the move to a bigger house means I can finally use my grandmother’s antique desk.
A Few loose screws
My decision to enter the computer era of woodworking wasn’t as easy as I envisioned.
Climbing the ladder
I tried making a blanket ladder. See if you can tell where I went wrong.
