Woodworking Plans - Do You Really Need Them?
At the start of any project we have all these things going on in our head, what timber, how big will the finished project be, what are the best joints for this application, what are the best methods of construction, what tools will I need, what machinery, the list is endless.
So yes, we do need to work to a plan.
If you have ever tried to build something without a plan.
Plans are essential, and not just any old plan.
Your plans should be clear and concise.
They should be easy to read and understand from start to finish.
They should be to scale and the instructions and measurements should be big enough to read, the height of the numericals should be 3/16" at least.
Does your plan include time saving tips and sound advice from an experienced woodworker.
Does your plan have a accurate parts list, giving you specific quantities, materials and sizes.
Is the company that you purchased the plans from a reputable company, does it offer a money back guarantee.
And, talking about money, beware of companies offering free plans.
These so called free plans might seem like a bargain but more often than not they leave a lot to be desired and only leave you frustrated and your project unfinished.
With cheap, or even free plans you will invariably find that the work takes twice as long, the parts list will be incomplete and you will not be happy with the finished project.
We all look for a bargain, but generally speaking you get what you pay for.
However, there is always a way around this, like buying in bulk for instance.
Instead of buying one plan at a time you should consider purchasing a comprehensive package which would include a wide variety of different plans and even videos.
Videos are fast becoming the foremost media in the information marketplace.
Many companies selling woodworking plans are now changing their format to videos.
Videos can be much more interesting and in many instances can show a particular "machine setting" or an "awkward cut" in such a way that you can see and understand what is happening straight away.
You can also put a video into your player and play it back several times to understand a certain point.
Also, you can sit back with a beer and enjoy.
Remember, if you fail to plan then you will plan to fail.
So don't cut corners, make a proper job and get quality plans.
At the end of the day you are looking to create a beautiful piece of furniture.
Something that will give you a sense of achievement and also something for your family to use and cherish for generations.
So yes, we do need to work to a plan.
If you have ever tried to build something without a plan.
Plans are essential, and not just any old plan.
Your plans should be clear and concise.
They should be easy to read and understand from start to finish.
They should be to scale and the instructions and measurements should be big enough to read, the height of the numericals should be 3/16" at least.
Does your plan include time saving tips and sound advice from an experienced woodworker.
Does your plan have a accurate parts list, giving you specific quantities, materials and sizes.
Is the company that you purchased the plans from a reputable company, does it offer a money back guarantee.
And, talking about money, beware of companies offering free plans.
These so called free plans might seem like a bargain but more often than not they leave a lot to be desired and only leave you frustrated and your project unfinished.
With cheap, or even free plans you will invariably find that the work takes twice as long, the parts list will be incomplete and you will not be happy with the finished project.
We all look for a bargain, but generally speaking you get what you pay for.
However, there is always a way around this, like buying in bulk for instance.
Instead of buying one plan at a time you should consider purchasing a comprehensive package which would include a wide variety of different plans and even videos.
Videos are fast becoming the foremost media in the information marketplace.
Many companies selling woodworking plans are now changing their format to videos.
Videos can be much more interesting and in many instances can show a particular "machine setting" or an "awkward cut" in such a way that you can see and understand what is happening straight away.
You can also put a video into your player and play it back several times to understand a certain point.
Also, you can sit back with a beer and enjoy.
Remember, if you fail to plan then you will plan to fail.
So don't cut corners, make a proper job and get quality plans.
At the end of the day you are looking to create a beautiful piece of furniture.
Something that will give you a sense of achievement and also something for your family to use and cherish for generations.
Source...