Do It Yourself books are often dry, factual,
and a little boring. They also assume that you know a lot more than you
actually do, and that you have a workshop filled with the most amazing tools,
and you are a master of them all.
Not so Peter Alkema’s Woodworking For Everyone. He has produced a book which is
practical, easy to follow and written with good-natured character. The projects
in the book are beautifully presented and would be do-able for anyone who is
interested in woodwork.
Each chapter is richly illustrated with
photographs, drawings and an exploded isometric view of the project which,
along with the step-by-step instructions, make the construction very easy to
follow. There are clear and concise cutting and material lists which will be
invaluable when purchasing supplies for the job. Alkema starts each chapter
describing the background of how the project is used in his home as well as the
design and construction principals involved. He also offers ideas on what he
would do differently if he were to tackle the project again.
Alkema is a family man who has five young
children, including two sets of twins. It is therefore understandable that most
of the 13 projects in the book are designed around the needs of a growing young
family. There are plans for a toy box, bookcases, nursery shelves, a school
desk, a toy shelf, a child’s bed, bunk beds, and a splendid and unique Wendy
house.
Other projects include a window seat, a gym
bench, a workbench and a very attractive garden bench.
There is
also a chapter on the tools and techniques required to tackle the projects in
this book. No specialised tools are required and all the projects can be built
using a basic selection of hand and power tools.
Woodwork For Everyone is an attractive hard cover,
glossy book, which could be displayed on a coffee table. However, it would be
much better employed getting dusty and grubby in the workshop.
Working
with wood can be therapeutic. It is relaxing and invigorating and the sense of
pleasure on completion of a project is very satisfying. Woodwork For Everyone would be a perfect starting point for anyone
wanting to get involved in this hobby. Experts may also be interested in the
basic and practical projects.
Now, if
you would excuse me – I have a very attractive garden bench to go and build!
Woodwork For Everyone is published by Struik Lifestyle.
The ISDN Number is 9781431700219 and the suggested retail price is R250. The book is also
available in Afrikaans. – Keith Millar
Posts
