Carpentry

The road to becoming a master carpenter starts with learning these expert skills and techniques.

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    How to Install Craftsman Window Trim and Craftsman Door Casing

    Stylish Arts-and-Crafts woodwork built up from simple oak boards


    How to Straighten Bowed Stud Walls

    Minor tweaks make a major difference in the finished wall


    Fool-Proof Wall Framing Tips for New Construction

    Learn how to frame a wall and avoid common framing errors with these pro tips on framing a wall.


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    20 Marking Hacks Every DIYer Should Know

    See 20 astounding hacks that'll help make your marking more accurate and your days more productive.


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    Trim Repair: How to Fix and Revive Trim

    Renew dull trim in one weekend.


    Must Know Shortcuts for Trim Carpenters

    Install trim faster, with better results


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    Simple Window Trim and Door Trim Guide

    Window trim and door trim with old world elegance—it’s actually easier than standard trim.


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    Metal Studs: How to Use and Frame With Metal Studs

    Tools and techniques for building basement and partition walls with steel studs.

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    Perfect Trim on Doors, Windows and Base Moldings

    Tricks for getting tight-fitting joints on door and window casings and on base moldings.


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    7 Deck Building Tips from the Pros

    Techniques for deck building, framing a deck, building stairs and railings and adding deck trim.


    How to Remove Wood Trim

    The best way to remove trim without damaging the wall


    How to Install Tongue and Groove Wainscoting

    Step-by-step instructions for installing this beautiful tongue and groove wainscoting right over your existing drywall or plaster.


    How To Replace Stair Spindles in 3 Easy Steps

    It looks complicated to replace banister spindles...it's not.


    How to Fill Holes in Woodwork Around Your Home

    Colored putty and marking pens hide woodwork flaws quickly and easily. Here we'll show you how to fill nail holes...


    How to Build DIY Window Cornices

    Custom-build DIY window cornices for one-fourth the price of store-bought with this step-by-step guide.


    Safety First: Install an Outdoor Stair Railing

    Add safety and style with a custom outdoor stair railing


    Plumb Bobs and Levels: An Essential Guide

    Build straight and true with less effort

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    How to Repair a Load-Bearing Post

    Floor sagging? Here's the solid cure for rotting posts and sinking footings.


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    How to Prepare Wood Trim for a Smooth Paint Job

    Here's how to wash, sand, scrap and fill woodwork for a smooth finish.


    How to Use a Level Over Long Distances

    Trusty old 2-ft. level too short? Use these tools and techniques for leveling from 4 to 100 ft.


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    Making Sense of Lumber Dimensions

    The difference between “nominal” and “actual” dimensions for items like 2x4 dimensions


    How to Use Epoxy Resin Like a Pro on Any Surface

    Epoxy has several advantages over other adhesives and fillers. It can fill gaps and still retain strength, it's waterproof, and...


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    This Nail Hack Will Prevent Wood From Splitting

    This simple nail hack will help to prevent wood from splitting.

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    How to Remove Spray Foam from Surfaces and Skin

    Get rid of spray foam overspray with this cheap and simple trick.


    Fantastic Framing Tips the Pros Use

    Here are some great framing tips that will help you build your walls straight, strong and fast.


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    Ceiling Panels: How to Install a Beam and Panel Ceiling

    A quick, inexpensive way to transform a room—and a beautiful cover-up for damaged ceilings


    Reader Project: DIY Custom Playset

    The Family Handyman reader, Nick was looking for a playset for his son. but he was not impressed with the...


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    No Cutting Corners: Tips for Tight Miters and Coped Joints

    Tips for tight miters and coped joints.


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    What Does a Planer Do?

    Smooth rough lumber, clean up sawn edges and reclaim salvaged boards with a wood planer