Tried clear alder for a project last weekend... Very nice! Cuts clean, sands smooth, and has a really nice, consistent grain. Way less sap than pine, and the finished look is a step up without costing more!

Pine is everywhere… Big-box stores make it the default, but it’s not always the best choice. This week’s Fabricator’s Field Guide Newsletter dives into three inexpensive woods that cut cleaner, finish nicer, and look way better than pine… all perfect for a small shop! Want to see what they are and how to use them? Sign up here:

Fabricator's Field Guide | Jeremiah Baker | Substack

Fabricator's Field Guide offers invaluable tips and techniques for fabricators and makers, helping you navigate the workshop jungle. Click to read ...

Here’s the truth about shop accidents: They don’t usually happen when you’re focused and careful. They show up when you’re relaxed, when the work feels “easy,” when you think you’ve got it all figured out. That’s when the soldering iron sneaks a burn. The table saw takes a bite. Stay intentional. Stay aware. Even on the routine stuff. ~Cheers! #FabricatorsFieldGuide #tools #grownostr

Can you spot the bitcoin ‘Easter egg’ in the video? View quoted note →

You don’t need a CNC to cut complex shapes… Just a few simple tools and an old-school trick… #grownostr #woodworking #tools

I’ve been working behind the scenes on how to make these hands-on classes actually work… Not just as another online course, but something people really learn from. Still early days, and I’m balancing it with my regular videos, but it’s starting to take shape. I’m still collecting feedback, so if you haven’t yet, check out the original post and drop your vote (A, B, or C) or your thoughts in the replies. It really helps me shape where this goes next. No big announcements yet… just steady progress! Cheers! #grownostr #asknostr #woodworking #tools #diy View quoted note →

“A good shop isn’t built—it evolves.” — Unknown

Ahhh… the chip brush… A disposable brush for all your minor painting and finish work. Just use it and throw it away… But, forget this rule and you will possibly ruin your finish! #woodworking #grownostr #diy

This was one of the most entertaining… and surprisingly insightful replies. “Pre-trade school” really stuck with me. Learning about tools, materials, and how things fit together early on just makes sense. It got me thinking… what if we actually built something like that? A way for both kids and adults to learn real, hands-on skills again. It’s never too late to get comfortable with tools, materials, and fixing things yourself. If there were a modern “pre-trade school,” what would you want to learn first? Drop a comment below 👇 #grownostr #asknostr View quoted note →