A Woodworkers Guide to Yard Sculptures, Swings and Other Structures

By Nic Breedlove

Glossary of Woodworking

• Awl: A sharp tool used for piercing or marking small holes in materials
• Bevel: An angled or sloped edge cut on a surface, typically created to soften sharp edges or to allow two pieces to fit together at an angle
• Blade: The cutting part of a tool, such as the toothed section of a saw or the sharpened edge of a hand plane
• Chuck: A device on tools, like drills, that tightens around and holds the shank of an attachment, such as a drill bit
• Dust Mask: A protective mask that allows breathing while filtering out fine dust particles to protect the lungs
• Ear Defenders: Protective gear designed to reduce noise exposure, either in the form of over-ear muffs or in-ear plugs
• Flute: A groove or channel, often spiral-shaped, that helps clear debris when cutting or serves as decoration on round objects
• Grit: The measure of coarseness of abrasives, like sandpaper, with higher numbers indicating a finer texture
• Imperial: A measurement system based on feet and inches, primarily used in the U.S.
• Joint: A structural connection between two pieces of wood designed for strength and durability
• Kerf: The width of a cut made by a saw, determined by the spacing of its teeth
• Metric: A decimal-based measurement system used worldwide, with meters, centimeters, and millimeters as units
• Nail: A small metal fastener with a head and a point, driven into wood to hold pieces together
• Peen: The rear side of a hammer, which comes in various shapes
• Square: A tool for marking and measuring right angles, also used to check if edges meet at 90 degrees
• TPI: The teeth on a saw are measured in teeth per inch (TPI), where a higher TPI provides a finer cut.
• Vice: A clamping tool mounted on a workbench to hold objects securely in place during work
• Wood Filler: A paste used to repair holes or cracks in wood, available in a variety of colors and stainable options, which can be sanded smooth after application

Woodworking Projects

• DIY Wooden Crate Toy Box: Build a simple wooden crate to store all of your child's toys in one convenient spot.
• Wooden Walkway: Transform your backyard by constructing an easy-to-build wooden pathway.
• Planter Box Greenhouse: For garden-lovers, you cann create a mini greenhouse with a planter box using basic woodworking skills.
• 2x4 Outdoor Sofa: Follow these step-by-step instructions to craft a durable outdoor sofa for your patio or garden.
• Bluebird House Plans: Learn how to make a birdhouse with detailed instructions and a clear guide.
• Comprehensive Birdhouse Building Guide: A backyard bird enthusiast shares a thorough guide to constructing birdhouses that attract birds.
• DIY Tree Swing: Craft a wooden swing for your family to enjoy with this simple, family-friendly project.
• Pinewood Derby Car: Learn how to make your own Pinewood Derby car using just a few basic tools and supplies.
• DIY Starter Raised Bed: Try this simple way to create a raised bed to grow your favorite plants.
• DIY Backyard Playhouse: Build a cozy playhouse for your kids using these simple, detailed instructions.
• How to Build a Treehouse: It's possible to create the perfect outdoor hideaway without harming the tree.
• DIY Wooden Swing Set: Use this guide to build a fun and sturdy wooden swing set that the whole family can enjoy.
• Sandbox With Cover: Keep your children entertained and the sand clean with this easy-to-build sandbox.
• How to Build a Wooden Pergola: Elevate your outdoor space with this guide to building a decorative pergola in your yard.
• DIY Outdoor Playset Plans: Follow these instructions to create a complete outdoor playset, including swings, slides, and climbing features.
• Custom Raised Garden Bed: Make your own raised garden bed to grow vegetables or flowers for just $100.
• DIY Wooden Bird Feeder: To attract birds to your backyard, try making a handcrafted feeder.
• Build a Picnic Table for Your Backyard: This project is perfect for anyone looking to construct a modern and unique picnic table.
• Pallet Wood Coffee Table: Transform recycled pallets into a rustic and stylish coffee table for your home.
• Wooden Adirondack Chair: The Adirondack chair is a timeless design for the perfect backyard relaxation chair.
• Backyard Zip Line: Create your own thrilling zip line for backyard excitement even without trees.
• DIY Climbing Wall for Kids: Build a backyard climbing wall with a power drill, hammer, and Allen wrench as your only tools.
• Garden Shed Building Guide: A detailed step-by-step guide can help you create a functional and attractive storage shed.
• DIY Wooden Pergola: Add shade and style to your yard with this beautiful wooden pergola project.
• DIY Balance Beam: Construct a simple, sturdy balance beam for outdoor physical activity and fun.
• Outdoor Wooden Seesaw: Find step-by-step instructions for building a classic backyard seesaw.

The Science of Wood

• Wood Identification Guide
• Understanding Wood Surface Chemistry
• The Science of Wood: Why Grain Matters
• Anatomy of Wood
• What Is Wood?