Obsessed Woodworking

Good morning. In today's newsletter, I'm including 10 woodworking projects, ranging from a giant French cleat wall to a DIY kids' school desk. Plus, you'll find expert guides on using wood filler for large gaps, finishing white oak for exterior use, and preventing painted cabinets from chipping.

As always, please respond with any feedback.

10 Woodworking Projects

Some are harder than others, but you can build all of them!

=> Giant French Cleat Wall for Tool Storage: Maximize your shop’s organization with a full-scale French cleat wall. This project walks you through cutting ¾-inch plywood cleats at a precise 45-degree angle, securely mounting them to a backer board, and creating interchangeable holders for tools and accessories. The modular design allows for endless customization, making it a must-have storage solution.

=> Cedar Planter Box with Hidden Storage: This build combines function and style by integrating a concealed storage compartment within a cedar planter box. The step-by-step guide covers constructing a solid frame, securing the slats for a modern aesthetic, and installing a magnetized front panel for discreet access. Perfect for keeping gardening tools close without cluttering your space.

=> Make Drawers Without Nails or Screws: Eliminate hardware while building strong, seamless drawers. This technique-focused project demonstrates how to cut dados and rabbets using a table saw, ensuring precise joinery that holds firm with glue alone. A great approach for achieving a clean, minimalist aesthetic in cabinetry and furniture builds.

=> DIY Plywood Door on a Budget: A simple, cost-effective method to build a custom door for a tiny house, shed, or cabin. Using ¾-inch plywood with a 1x4 trim frame, this guide covers panel assembly, adding tongue-and-groove pine for a classic look, and installing hinges and a deadbolt. A budget-friendly alternative to store-bought doors, with full customization options.

=> Build Your Own Outdoor Sofa: Construct a sturdy, weather-resistant outdoor sofa designed for both comfort and longevity. This project walks through assembling a frame with 4x4 legs and 2x4 stretchers, reinforcing joints with pocket hole screws, and applying a UV-protective finish. Designed to accommodate thick cushions for a polished patio setup.​

=> DIY Floating Bookshelves for a Custom Look: A modern, space-saving shelving solution that appears to hover on the wall. This build involves cutting and assembling ¾-inch plywood boxes, reinforcing them with dado and rabbet joinery, and mounting them with a concealed French cleat system. The result? A sleek, adjustable shelving unit that blends seamlessly into any room.

=> Four-Poster Canopy Bed Build: A bold woodworking project that transforms a bedroom with a handcrafted canopy bed. The process includes constructing sturdy posts from 1x4 boards, assembling a rock-solid frame with 2x4 supports, and tapering the legs for an elegant finish. Staining and sealing techniques ensure a high-end, long-lasting result.

=> X-Leg Coffee Table with Industrial Accents: This coffee table pairs wood with metal for a modern, industrial look. Featuring X-shaped legs made from solid lumber and black iron pipe details, the build includes cutting and joining the top, assembling the legs with precise angles, and finishing with a protective stain for a durable, stylish centerpiece.

=> Cherry Step Stool with Fold-Out Steps: A functional yet elegant step stool that doubles as a compact ladder. This guide covers selecting cherry hardwood for strength, precise joinery for smooth movement, and applying a Danish oil finish to highlight the grain. A great blend of utility and craftsmanship.

=> DIY Kids’ School Desk for a Home Learning Space: A sturdy, practical desk designed for kids. Built from plywood and 2x4s, this project covers cutting and assembling a strong frame, incorporating a smooth desktop surface, and finishing with a protective sealant. A simple yet effective workspace solution for homeschooling or homework time.

*If you are looking for a specific project, reply, and I will see what I can find.

Woodworking Tools, Tips & Tricks

=> Using Wood Filler for Large Gaps: Not all wood fillers are created equal. This guide explains the different types, from water-based to epoxy fillers, and walks you through applying them for seamless, durable repairs. Tips include custom mixing options for color matching and sanding techniques for a flawless finish.

=> Finishing White Oak for Outdoor Use: Proper finishing ensures white oak stands up to the elements. This guide covers surface preparation, choosing between oil-based and water-based finishes, and applying varnish for long-term UV and moisture protection. Maintenance tips help extend the lifespan of outdoor furniture.

=> Preventing Chipping on Painted Cabinets: A durable finish starts with proper prep. This guide details degreasing, sanding, and priming techniques that help paint adhere securely to cabinets. Learn how to select the best primers and topcoats to resist chipping, ensuring a smooth and lasting finish.