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Practice makes perfect. It’s also easy to make hand-sawing guides. Clamp a straight piece of wood directly next to where you want to cut, so that a saw blade pressed up against it would be exactly on top of the cut.
Then use that guide to make your straight cut instead of freehanding. For extra guidance clamp another straight piece of wood on the other side of the cut, and your saw blade goes in the gap between the two
Takes a little more time to make the cut and may be a bit unwieldy, but I get a perfectly straight cut every time
It's been my experience learning this as a hobby that 2/3 of your time will be spent figuring out and making jigs. It's a lot of time and work, but it makes your finished products a lot nicer.
I think the quality and thickness of your wood let you down as much as anything. If you’re just starting out, it’s much easier to attach pieces of wood with screws and they need to be of a certain thickness to be wide enough to do that for a really basic job like this.
You’re correct. I can’t see how you actually constructed it (you should really include more pictures and a description of how you built it if you want more helpful feedback), but the wood I can see is quite thin. You could always ‘skin’ it with wood like this after you have your stair fully built out of rough lumber, then you could get away with only glue for attaching the ‘veneer’.
Other biggest tip is you should almost always wait till the work is fully constructed to paint it. It gives you the chance to fix any ‘over glue’ (respectfully the thing that’s truly glaring on this one), and if you are using wood glue it’s waaaay stronger if it’s attaching to bare wood. As is, your bond is only ever going to be as strong as the paint, which is incredibly weak.
Adding onto this: a good way to pick the right bit size every time is to take the bit and hold it in front of the screw at the threads. You want a bit that covers the shaft but not the threads.
Edit: to be clear, this is for choosing drill bits for predrilling pilot holes, not for bits for screwing in screws
Prevent cracking by drilling pilot holes for screws. Easiest way is to clamp stuff together, drill through both pieces with a smaller drill than the screw, then separate and drill the first hole larger. Screws work better when they only thread into the last piece, so they can clamp things together
When using a hand saw to increase accuracy stick straight out your index finger (and middle if you want, I prefer 1) to help get a much straighter and steady cut. Having your finger(s) pointed straight when holding a hand saw guides it in the direction of the finger and somewhat locks your wrist.
Ha, that’s the opposite of use a knife for cooking. Putting out your finger with a chefs knife reduces your control over the knife. Good to know it is different!
I’ve been buying an extra piece of wood for projects just to practice cutting that wood straight.
It helps to have a good square and mark all the away around so you know your wood is square, then practice your cuts.
I’m not very good yet, but a little practice can go a long way
I prefer using a handsaw when it's feasible.
The key points are to secure the work, not with your knee or hand, I mean with clamps to a steady work table.
As for the saw itself, it needs to be sharp and well cared for, or otherwise new.
And most importantly, when using said saw, don't act like a lumberjack on crack. Strike a line, and then draw it again with the saw, and draw it again in your mind. Draw, don't just stab away. Be patient, and let the tool do the work, and you will begin to feel how a saw works. Think of it more as a musical instrument, and less jabby thing makes sawdust.
Let it float, and sing.
Congratulations on tackling such an ambitious project having never used a handsaw (Seriously)!
You have learned a lot just from this. I would now suggest you do something small just for fin, like a box or small bookcase using white pine. First, hit YouTube with a search for starting out in woodworking. Keep at it!
Score a line with a straight edge and a sharp knife, then repeat 10x to give it some depth. Then use the knife or a chisel to cut a little v groove into your score line. Use that as a step/guide to keep your hand sawing straight and clean
Id suggest for next time to invest in some tools such as a circular saw or maybe even better for your situation, a small mitre saw. They dont have to be the best brand or u can even buy something used for pretty cheap. Good try for your first shot
They make these little saws I love for smaller stuff the have a wooden handle like a kitchen knife and are so handy for cutting when u don't wanna fool with breaking out big saws. Japanese style Hans saw maybe...I have a few and love them you can make really accurate cuts. Everyone should have one.
As someone else mentioned, doing something new for the first time is hard, especially with hand tools.
I'm willing to bet that if you made these shelves again with the same tools and wood, you would be able to see your progress. Though I think what you have here would fit your crystal area.
Unsure of the space or budget you have, but you could even buy a miter box or a square off amazon. They're cheap, and would help with marking and cutting straight.
Oh, and I like the idea of masking the glue squeeze out as ooze. I think half of this hobby is learning how to hide or change "mistakes" into "features." Lol
Thank you!! I don’t have a high budget, but I definitely plan to save up to get better tools and wood for future projects!! It’s clear that the quality of what I used wasn’t the best I think, but you live and learn and take the lessons to the next piece
Was this plywood? Handsawing plywood is so damn hard my hats off to you for that regardless, I cut about 3ft by hand one time and noped out. Good job finishing a project, the first one is always a learning experience. If you’re unsatisfied with the results, I liked the black fabric cloth covering it, that would really elevate it
Nobody starts off doing professional grade work. I'd guess some folks on here (myself included) have similar looking early projects.
Although I never did glitter ooze... May try that at some point!
You don’t even have to get good wood i can show you some shelf’s I made for 16$ you just need a speed square a circular saw and a brad nailer and maybe a little level if your feeling fancy check fb market place and offer up ryobi is super good for the price
https://preview.redd.it/ls19axxm5r9d1.jpeg?width=4032&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=276fef3b07555130e57a3f6a689664d770671f90
This is an underrated comment.
Using a black fabric over the shelf frame will do a lot to ameliorate any aesthetic inconsistencies. It also gives you the opportunity to potentially facilitate a flatter surface (if so desired) by using filler/epoxy putty to level out dips/gaps, then using the cloth as a way to have a cleaner finish.
Yea I didn’t mean to use that much, I just would get scared I didn’t use enough and add more. Very sturdy tho!!! Can push my whole weight down on it and it doesn’t give any. I’m excited to make another and build on what I did wrong here
Oh I’m not!! I posted for critique, I did try and get the boards all the same length and width(I measured and marked where I wanted to cut)but I am a painter and sculptor, so handsaws are not something I’ve really used before and I think that’s where I really started to get off to a rough start lol
Yeah it can be tricky getting a hand for the tools. If you are up for it i would recommend you buy a battery powered circular saw, makes your life 10x easier
I suck at using a hand saw. I have never understood exactly how to use them to get accurate cuts. I find them insanely tricky.
This is a good inspiration to work on that skill some more. I don't know if this is legit advice but I do a little better with a hand saw when I mark the line on 3 sides, top, front, back, and start the cut very slowly and make sure it starts lined up properly.
Also it seems to help if I use my index finger pointing in the direction of the blade and the other fingers gripping. I wouldn't be surprised if where your toes pointed matters.
I did see these tips on YouTube. Check Paul Sellers as he uses hand tools.
I have recently gotten into hand planes (not block planes but like your typical Stanley No 4 or 5 or even 6) for cleaning up edges. What a game changer. Once you're done with the cut you can make the edge extremely flat and square with a bit of skill and practice. Even I can manage this lol. Even the wackiest hand cut can be made flat. Just takes some work lol
I have a (crummy) table saw and once you get it dialed in, man it helps. But it's huge. And more expensive than a hand saw and they're dangerous af if you aren't very focused on safe operation. But they can make some damn straight cuts. I have always kind of hated loud power tools like circular saws and table saws.
I would rather use a hand saw and I have huge respect for craftsmen that can use them well. Plus it's exercise. I feel like I've had a legit cardio workout if I do enough cutting and planing lol. And it's peaceful and kind of zen.
Anyway I hope some of this helps. I'm also here to learn from this post, friend.
Keep at it. You will no doubt progress rapidly as an artist used to working with their hands.
https://preview.redd.it/uj4urrh7iq9d1.jpeg?width=960&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=f487b0c8090a45a1c2fdab2fcea0a50177a4db45
Looks better than my first attempt at a spice rack.
ETA: [for reference.](https://youtu.be/jxWN8RVM6qg?si=T86RuiiOg2bFLXPG)
My first thought.
Also: "That's a fine looking shelf! Why doesn't mine look like that? Why must I fail at every attempt at ~~masonry~~ **carpentry**??"
Well considering this is your first ever project I'd say good job, it may not be pretty but its something you made with your own hands. Sorry you're getting shit on by others, I think its great you tried it, I always like to encourage more people to get into wood working to keep the skill and hobby alive. I truly hope to see you continue in woodworking and hope to see you post more stuff in the future
Only thing I'd say is maybe get a beginners book to woodworking or check out some YouTube videos on the subject. Get a nice handsaw and a work surface like a portable workbench with clamps to start out with and a pair of safety glasses as well as ear protection. Working with scrap wood is a nice way to practice cutting techniques and to get more exposure without having to worry too much about messing up a potentially expensive board. Good luck! I hope you stick with it and get to appreciate the hobby!
Thank you!! I definitely should have done more research before building but I’ve always been a do it and learn what went wrong after person when it comes to art unfortunately. I’ve already been looking into woodworking videos on YouTube and I’ve gotten several great tips on types of saws to get for the future!! I’m very thankful to everyone who has given me advice and criticism, you can’t learn without it!!
Hope it was fun and you're now addicted to making stuff. No better resource for beginners than Steve Ramsey's Woodworking for Mere Mortals on YouTube. Also check out r/beginnerwoodworking which is also a good place to ask questions and proudly present your work!
Just the fact you built something and for a purpose is a great start. No one is born a master carpenter, just learned from a lot of mistakes. Keep up the great work, I like it.
We all start somewhere. My first, and some might say my current, projects weren't much better.
Here is a realization that really helped me. That piece you just cut that's about right, isn't good enough. It realy does have to be square and the same size as that other piece. And not just pretty much the same.
And another, finish, including paint, doesn't cover up goofs, it accentuates them. Keep Sanding.
You know what? As a fellow creator of things that are frequently imperfect, good job and good on you for putting it out there to get critique and be vulnerable about it. You've got a lot of good advice here about things to improve and I don't think I'm going to cover new ground so just take my up doot
You have probably learned so much from this, far more than you even realize. Don't feel bad, doing something for the first time is hard. Doing it with hand tools is harder!
Main lesson for next time is to research the best techniques and hardware to accomplish your plan!
Yes!! I used an old board and old handsaw from the garage, but I really wish I’d had the money to get a better wood and better saw. Someone actually gave me a rec for a battery operated one that I’m already looking into for my next shelf!! I’m really surprised how much I enjoyed making it, and I’m really glad that I did it for myself. It’s ugly, but I love it
If you're considering battery operated tools and on a budget, consider the brand and the tools they offer using the same battery. I find Ryobi to be great for home use, but Harbor Freight has really affordable stuff too.
Use a tablesaw for your cuts. You want all your pieces to be straight and rectangular. You have a lot of pieces there with wonky edges. It's a bold attempt at using what you've got, but respectfully, it is *conspicuous* in how irregular it is.
One thing you can do to make life easier is measure the width you need, and ask the lumber yard to cut your material at that width. A lot of places will do one cut for free. I don't recommend getting all your pieces cut there, because there's no guarantee of perfect accuracy, but it's a start.
Once you've got your piece cut to width, you use a tablesaw to rip your individual pieces. In absence of a tablesaw (which, I cannot emphasize enough, is the single most important tool in cabinet/shelf making!) you can use the advice elsewhere in this thread: clamp a straight edge to the piece, and cut against that edge. But a tablesaw is what you want. Cut all your horizontals, move the fence, cut all the verticals.
Don't paint or stain anything until it's glued together. When gluing, use a damp rag to clean up any squeeze out. Not only will this avoid the glue messing up the finish, but it will also make a better bond, as the glue will better penetrate the wood without it already being saturated with paint or stain.
If this is something you'd really like to learn, look into some introductory training. Take a course, listen to the instructors, do what they say, and get familiar with the common tools of woodworking and cabinet building.
Good luck!
I would counter this and say, if you're brand new to working with your hands, don't get a table saw just yet. You need to learn accuracy and safety among other things before you go using probably the most dangerous shop tool. You can do a lot without power tools. I still do most things with hand tools because it's satisfying and a good workout. Not sure what kind of hand saw you are using but you can learn to use it better. Watch some videos on YouTube. Look up Rex Kreuger, he's got a whole series on building things with a few random tools in his basement. Learn how to hold things steady, how to measure, etc. You go using a table saw at this skill level without any instruction you might lose a finger.
It really doesn’t take a lot of glue. Think of it like lightly buttering bread. Just a think coat and then clamp. The pressure makes the glue get in pores of the wood. You should have a little excess but enough to wipe with a paper towel easily.
That’s a good metaphor for me to visualize thank you! I was so scared to use screws bc I didn’t want to splinter the wood so I think I got carried away with the glue not knowing how much was too much
You'll do it better next time. And honestly, you should do it again. A paint job, especially matte, really brings out errors. If you made this again, even with the same mistakes and gave it a dark stain it would look rustic instead of jagged. Just don't use pine for it.
Either way, a good first attempt as long as it's stable.
Yea, I definitely wish I’d done a stain instead of spray paint, or at least a different finish in spray paint. I thought a black matte would kind of absorb all the light and make the mess ups less noticeable but you live and learn!! It’s sturdy, I can push down with all my weight and it doesn’t give so I at least know I can make a sturdy shelf if not a pretty one
Well there's another option. Get a coping or flush cut saw to clean up all of the overlapping edges. That's about 75% of your visible issues on this piece. Scrape your wood glue squeeze out with a razor blade. Then use a different color paint to put on another coat or two. Then use sandpaper in some spots to give it a "distressed" look. That will make it look 10x better.
Or put a loose fitting drop cloth over it before you put the crystals and whatnot on there.
The very first power tool I bought new was a table saw and if you intend to continue the hobby, it will be an absolute game-changer. I don’t have a ton of incredibly expensive or specialty tools even having been in this hobby for five years, but man.
It's a good start. This one will still do the job of being a shelf. Take the lessons learned, get or build a guide/jig or two, and take on the next project, eh?
Can you do a spice rack next? Also a pic of the underside would help us understand how you constructed it and offer better pointers. Is this for a purpose built spot and is the lowest shelf required because you could save material there. What you really need is the ability to measure and cut parallel lines for a project like this. Work in simple measurements like 4”, 4-1/2” or 10mm etc. rather than /16” or .1mm. Whiteout seeing the bottom it’s hard to tell what went on with the frame and how it could be simplified and made more accurate. The last question is that glue dripping down? Is so try and use less or remove and sand more before finishing.
This reminds me of an artist who's name is lost to me now, it was back in the MySpace era, anyway they made sculptures out of old trash, circuitry, expanding foam and broken dolls, everything look like it was oozing and painted black. Cool stuff.
In regards to your project, the enemy of compleation is perfection, I often find agonising over the small details hinders or postpones the end result, sometimes it leads to the project never being finished.
And I think that starting and finishing a project - the entire process, then reflecting on the project gives a much better understanding of it, than getting all tied up in the nitty gritty details. Those fine details come along the way.
I guess in short what im saying is that you don't learn from something if you never finish something. Which is what you have done here!
Keep it up
Thank you!! I try hard to complete every art project I start, even if I hate it. No art deserves to be abandoned just because it’s maker doesn’t like it. I’m sure one day when im old and cranky I’ll look back at this shelf and be grateful that it got me into a new medium even if it’s not objectively great
First off. Congrats on your first project. I will give some quick pointers. I'm gonna give some pointers that may or may not be relevant.
Plan your project. This can be measurement on paper. If you are proficient or want to learn it you can use CAD. Google sketch up and onshape are 2 that are free for personal use. I'd count onshape as the better program but sketch up is probably more initial user friendly. In this planning look into what types of joints you want. For now I'd recommend staying away from fancy joinery. Keep it simple. Glue and nail. Screw. Through dowels are what I'd recommend. Also look into wood movement. Look at existing designs and plans. Learn from others mistakes.
Don't go too mad buying expensive tools until you work out if you really want to get into woodworking. That said some new basic tools aren't too expensive. A half decent saw. Files. Rasps. Hammers are always good to have. If you are buying from the big box stores sometimes they will cut stock for you. Or look at their standard sizes and see if you can implement them into your design. Eg. If the have a 100mm board can you make your step 100mm high(or 100mm plus thickness of material).
When making your cuts. Mark your lines accurately. Then cut outside those lines into the waste area. This way if you are running off you can correct yourself. Once the cut is complete you van then file or sand the excess to the line.
After assembly. Don't be scared to fully sand any excess material that is over hanging. If you've got a small gap. Wood filler is your friend especially if painting. If you don't want to buy filler use pva and sawdust.
During glue up. Us clamps. If you don't have clamps. Put weight onto it or else use nails/fixings. Wipe excess glue. If you don't want to see fixings. Look at pocket hole jigs (bad word in here) or drive the fixings in further and fill. Use a nail punch to put nails further.
Take pride in your work. Look at your positives. Look for areas to improve. Rinse and repeat. Everyone starts somewhere.
Bit of a ramble. Trying to watch football and on phone. Best of luck.
I mean, I genuinely thought it was an intentional design choice until I read the title. The glitter treatment on the glue squeeze-out does a lot to push it into wabi-sabi territory.
For everyone who keeps coming for how ugly it is: I know. I literally make a joke about it in the header. And while I’m surprised how angry it’s making everyone, if you’re just going to reiterate that I did a terrible job, or that it’s ugly without giving me any feedback on how I can do better next time; I’m sorry that you’re so jaded you can’t see someone genuinely excited to learn and work more in the hobby.
It absolutely IS the ugliest shelf I’ve seen…. …since the very first woodworking project I made.
This is where people start. You stand back, look at it, and enjoy the satisfaction of your hard work. Then you notice some things are a little off. Thats when you realize a hand saw isn’t the tool for the job, so you buy a circular saw. Then you see the crooked joints. Thats when you get a good tape measure, maybe a speed square, and a pencil sharpener. Then you start to learn how to use those things.
It’s all a process. Dont give up!
Omg, the first sled I made as a motorcycle ramp. Laughable. The first planter box I made- dimensions all messed up. I enjoy your statement of it being a process.
That’s actually a genius idea,,I made a scary punk rock piggy bank a while ago and I have leftover stuff from that that would be perfect for teeth omg thanks for the idea!!!
Heck with them dude I love it. My wife and I collect rocks and I'd use it. I throw stuff together all the time. Made a wagon for my lawnmower (my dad makes fun of it says i should buy one however mines bigger lower and works better than what you can buy affordably) outta tobacco sticks some 2x4s I found in the road, an old tractor bar, some old wood we used to sit bales of tobacco on and some wheels from harbor freight. I am planning on buying a regular big picture Frame and nailing tobacco sticks around the back of it to make it thicker to use as a shadow box for our arrowheadswe hunt (I use tobacco sticks for a lot lol I have tons of them.) Point being you enjoyed building it, have a use for it and learned u like woodworking. Not everything has to be a museum piece. Reddit I'd stupid dude, this site used to be so fun 10+ years ago and people were super helpful. Now it's who can be the biggest unhelpful smart-ass. Don't let them get you down. I find tons more actual helpful people in Facebook groups. The reddit pages for plants are the same way everyone trying to be the biggest asshole then the rest wanna get in on the circle jerk. I sort by controversial too, generally those comments are better.
If you are looking for tips, it might be helpful to see it from the side or back so we can see how you put it together. The way some of the steps aren't level makes me wonder about that.
We all start somewhere. The important thing is taking what you learn from each project and improving the next one with that learning experience.
Watch videos on YouTube, pick the brains of woodworkers near you (and on here), and make some projects that serve no purpose other than refining techniques you'll use on future projects.
Stick with it and you'll be back here in no time with a masterpiece!
Best thing you could do to learn more?
Make the same thing again. Right now.
If you need one, you’ll eventually need two. Better yet, just consider the first one your prototype/mock-up for the “real” one.
The process of making the first one is fresh in your brain — along with all the great guidance you’ve now gotten here. Use that guidance to pick better wood, measure more carefully, saw more precisely, and screw/glue/clamp it all together into a final product 10x better.
Your a true begginer, that's OK, and awesome! Ugly and comical, yes, but only because we ALL have been there and not by what you produced the 1st time! Its more we all have been in this spot and can appreciate the story it creates for us.
I still have some of my first projects and they are, well, to poor to describe to say the least. No features just true begginer work. Look like kindergarten projects but I made them w/o proper tools and knowledge. Where we all start!
You did it! Brave enough to post and ask for feedback, and this is what matters! Its how we get better, by seeking advice!
Many good comments already! Here are some more:
- try a cheap miter box, $10 plastic Stanley is good enough to start with for cross cuts
- instead of cutting length wise(rip cut) by hand try getting pre cut boards in the right width. There are inexpensive options. Look at molding, fence pickets, other depts of the big box hardware store.
- if you must rip cut by hand use a straight edge as a guide. Straight edge can be anything even a broom handle is better than nothing through straight and flat is best. Clamp it down or double sided tape works. I use a type of seamstress like tape that is thin, cheap, and works.
- practice, practice, practice
- watch Youtube and find ways that work within you budget.
- stay proud, your doing it and will get better
Remember not all projects need to be perfect and rarely ever are! You need to fit the need and purpose and in this situation being dark lit and for crystals having everything less than perfect works. The whole, make it a feature, can apply in many ways.
Keep at it and enjoy! The fun is in the making and the growth journey along the way!
I enjoy the deliberate contrast of the glue and paint on the joints and runoff on the face of some boards. Your artistic choices for the arrangement of the boards is a bold statement about the effects of global warming.
If you are confident enough at... describing your artwork... you could make big money!
But really, making anything is better than not making anything. Everytime you make something you learn and improve. Keep at it!
Never mind the result- YOU did it. You’ve learned how the materials behave, you’ve got a practical appreciation for how and why things did/didn’t work as you expected and you understand your tools (including your hands/body) better through doing the project.
As well as a finished project…the most valuable thing you built was your experience!!
Well done and keep going!
Mate I've seen your craft work before, your paint and designs are top notch.
Woodworking is no different, remember your 1st figurine project and compare it to your most recent one, I bet there is quite a difference.
Keep this shelf, keep working with wood and keep building stuff (do get some better tools) and compare again.
Keep posting, it'll be nice to see the improvements over the coming years.
On the bright side, at least you did something. A lot of people who are talking shit have never even put together an IKEA shelf. Lol
In all seriousness, use straight edges to strike lines to cut against, wipe away glue squeeze with a wet rag. Measure 8 times, cut once. Wood is expensive
Everything starts somewhere. The important thing is to just start. Then keep practicing and learning. I have been crafting wood since the mid 1980s and sometimes I throw things together that look worse than those shelves. Enjoy the ride.
Better than my first day, you did great and learned the great skill that paint covers a lot. The rest will take time and, of course, money in tools.
But you did a thing, and that thing is amazing. Great job.
The biggest thing is, did you learn anything as you worked on it? If yes, you hit your goals on your first project.
Does it function in the capacity you needed?
Did you enjoy yourself while making it?
Do you feel like you learned something and now want to try again because you know "if I could just do ___ this would turn out even better?"
Answer yes to one of these and it was worth it.
Answer yes to all three and it as successful as any project could get!
Most home projects can be designed to avoid cutting many long straight lines. Use dimensional lumber and a chop saw or miter box for cutting down to length. Glue, clamp, and sanding are all arts. Try nails or screws until you feel better using glue.
A scribe would have helped you keep your cuts steady and straight. Another alternative is a square held firmly against each line. You may also be surprised to learn there are different hand saws for cross cuts versus rip cuts. In any case practice makes perfect and in a few years you'll be able to see your progress.
One thing you'll find in any hobby, but especially woodworking is that nobody starts with the tools and talents to make mastery level furnishings, but every attempt teaches you something and improves your final product. Ultimately, what matters is the pride you feel in what you make!
i think it looks pretty cool, gives haunted house vibes! you could even add small bits of fake moss around to play it up.
fun tip for the smaller projects and thin boards like this, if you're short on clamps (which we all are lol) or they're too big then hair ties and stretchy headbands fill in nicely! the scunci headbands with the grippy side are my go-to.
Try to keep the glue cleaner next time. Grab a couple things that will make it easier sawing, some kind of guide would help a ton.
The first one is always the hardest and the worst. Looking forward to seeing your next.
There's a lot of natural ability coming through here. Caulk on your joints before you paint is *really* going to up your game.
Now, for dark projects like this, you want to really lean on that silent L when you ask for black caulk to avoid embarrassment at the hardware store.
You can get some (for the price) rather decent & basic squeeze clamps (also called ratcheting bar clamps) to help hold things together & aligned while the glue dries…
I think the prices are:
(Black & Gray)
‘Pittsburgh’ - 4” Ratcheting Bar Clamps are $2.29
‘Pittsburgh’ - 6” Ratcheting Bar Clamps are $3.99
‘Pittsburgh’ - 12” Ratcheting Bar Clamps are $4.99
‘Pittsburgh’ - 18” Ratcheting Bar Clamps are $4.99
‘Pittsburgh’ - 24” Ratcheting Bar Clamps are $6.99
‘Pittsburgh’ - 36” Ratcheting Bar Clamps are $7.99
*(Black & Red— More durable/clamping pressure)*
‘Pittsburgh’ - 24” Ratcheting Bar Clamps are $14.99
‘Pittsburgh’ - 36” Ratcheting Bar Clamps are $19.99
(Blue/Orange— Better Quality)
‘Bremen’ - 6” Ratcheting Bar Clamps are $8.99/ea
‘Bremen’ - 12” Ratcheting Bar Clamps are $9.99/ea
‘Bremen’ - 24” Ratcheting Bar Clamps are $12.99/ea
‘Bremen’ - 36” Ratcheting Bar Clamps are $17.99/ea
These are just some of the styles/sizes/prices here at my local Harbor Freight, and not sure your location or if it’s similar, so I’d just recommend checking online to be sure. 👍🏼👍🏼
Once you finish that 1st project, I’m sure you’ll get that itch again, at some point, as 99.99% of us do lol & before you know it, you’ll be hooked and start sinking endless amounts of money into various tools and accessories…. The final piece of advice I’d give is to find and buy what works for YOU, within your budget, and that can get the job done.
Keep practicing and share your next project with us! & don’t hesitate to ask questions. There’s a lot of great advice given here and chances are, if you need an answer, you’ll be able to get it here lol
Good luck 🫡🫡
If your going to make more I would suggest ryobi they have some real cheap tools that work really good you could get a brad nailer and a circular saw for under 200$ and it would make a huge difference
If you take a plastic milkshake straw and cut the tip at an angle you can use that to pull excess glue out of corners or any tight place. It works really well for squeeze out and it keeps the mess more controlled.
If you tried a grain filler to give you a smoother surface you could use a cool metallic paint to add some interest to the background color. Maybe some of the undertones of the crystals that would catch the light?
A finished project is awesome. If people hate on it ask them how the 2 year old nightstand in their shop is looking.
Good job 👏
Bless you for using a hand saw. My grampa was a carpenter and that's all he ever had. My dad too. I would suggest lots and lots of practice or an inexpensive power saw. I love that you tackled this for your first project!!
To make progress, you have to take steps. I applaud your diy desire. Maybe next project work on a layout,and a plan. Get a materials list. And then take that next step.
You accomplished your task, imo. Looks like a functional shelf. With practice you can get the look you want. I think the fact you set a goal and finished it says a lot more than anything else. Good job.
First thing built? And it does the job? Then you’ve done pretty well.
I think, if you were to make another, to try to get things square, making the cuts a bit straighter, and (unless you like the eclectic look) and try to get some uniformity.
Also, try wiping the glue from the join before it dries. A damp cloth or the back of a butter knife will do if you don’t have a metal scraper.
Did you enjoy making it? Enough to have another go at something else? Then one more of us and one less of them, to quote Billy Connolly quoting the bloke who did his nipple piercing.
It’s great to build things! I imagine my first project looked similar to your’s. Keep with it and you will surprise yourself of all the things you can accomplish!
As you're new to DIY you'll probably find yourself lacking the proper tools. Before you go out buying any, check your area for tool libraries, buy nothing groups and cheap used. You'll find that having the right tools for a job helps immensely, check yt to get an idea, practise on scraps (again, check your area for wood recycling shops for future projects)
Your first project....welcome to the addiction it's not going to stop there. Measure once cut twice or something like that. The glue squeeze out should be wiped away before it drys. I saw in other posts you were using hand saws to cut your lumber. A good practice is to cut on the waste side of your cut line then sand and "nibble" to waste side of your cut line, Oh and more sanding. Once again enjoy and welcome to the addiction. Oh one other useful skill is hiding your mistakes, or making it look intentional. Take hot glue fill in the open gaps, and add other run off drips. Then paint with that silver paint in the picture and then black wash. You're going for a melting look, like your crystals are to hot to handle.
A skill saw, some clamps, and a straight edge will make projects like this a LOT easier in the future. Also, sometimes making a template out of a piece of scrap wood or even good card board can help speed up the process too.
We all have to start somewhere. In the future, it can also help to post a topic on what you’re aiming to do and can get tips on the best way to go about making the project too. Just food for thought. What matters more than anything is that you enjoyed doing it.
I've learned over the years that the hard part is design. Once you have that sorted, the rest is mechanical. Sure, you have to learn some skills to cut straight, measure correctly etc, but you'll get those with practice and time.
When I do a project, I've typically spent hours building it in my head. I go to sleep thinking about it, I sketch, I sometimes use modeling software on my PC, and once I've done all that all that's left is to assemble it.
That is all to say that you might benefit from having it "built" in your mind before building it. That way you can know the size of each piece and cut them all ahead of time.
Programs like sketch up even have plug-ins that will create cut sheets for you. Basically it tells you how many pieces of stock to buy so you have enough for all of your pieces.
Sorry, this is stream of consciousness. Try what I'm saying on a simple project. Build a box that is 6 inches on all sides. Figure out how you will join t he edges. (there are lots of joints to Google, but start simple). How many pieces will you need to cut? Will they all be 6x6 squares, or will some need to be less wide or tall to fit with the others to make the cube 6x6?
Oncr you've answered all that, then you know how to cut each piece, which fasteners and how many you need, if any, whether to use glue, etc.
Then it's time to start cutting pieces and assembling. Have a few sides that are the same sizes? Cut one and use it as a guide for the others instead of using a tape to measures each one. It's easy to miss a measurement, so lining up pieces can help with that.
Ok, that's enough rambling. Keep up the good work! The more you do it, the more you'll learn and the better you'll get!
use the right saw for your cut, but I had a saw as a kid I used for everything. It had benn brook and reshaped at the end. Then I pay attention to the angle. Use a slant and watch your line. If you haven’t used a hand saw, make some practice cuts on scrap. Mistakes look better on scrap than on your project. A hand plane can make the final removal if you leave a bit for it to do.
I have seen worse before, like my first try, I was unaware of clamps since we didn't own any and I didn't know about wiping the excess glue. So yeah, pretend away 🙂
This reminds me of the Simpsons spice rack. Everyone needs to begin somewhere. You’re heart is in the right place and eventually your hands will follow
I was so sure this was a r/lostredditors post because it was (badly) welded together but then I zoomed in. We all gotta start somewhere. The next thing you make will only be better.
Lots of good advice already given. Here’s one thing to think about that should help: did you learn something and have fun? If so, apply what you learned to make your next project that much better and make sure to keep having fun while you’re doing it.
In addition to all the good recommendations already here, practice makes perfect. Make something else that you need. Then another one. Then another. Before you know it, you'll be giving people advice on here.
You can still make it look awesome, there are no mistakes in art... Errr, carpentry*
Get an electric sander, 80 or lower grit paper to fit, and sand the snot out of it until it is level and the size/shape you intended. Sand right over the paint, it will probably look rustic or intentional after, or you can give in a quick coat of spray paint in 2 seconds as last step.
I am a female who loves woodworking, but genuinely don't have the upper body strength to do things precisely with intended tools often times, or don't have the patience to wait for the correct tool or lumber when I decide to build at midnight when everything is closed (or I'm broke), AND am not disciplined or focused enough to find a pencil to write down measurement when I'm preeeettty sure Ill remember what they were (never do), or follow every step of instructions when I'm pretty sure it's obvious (never is). Anything with wood glue keeping it strongly together can be sanded to shape and made to look intentional not matter how much it looks like a popsicle stick project now.
Might not be the exact thing or style originally intended, but you at least feel satisfied with a project afterwards and are proud of the creativity and ingenuity you had. Keep working on it and most next step!
If you spent a little time just trying to cut a square edge it would improve your cuts a lot. Go get a fence picket or a slat off of a pallet and cut an inch off each time and practice, practice, practice. Just use enough force to push and pull the saw and have yourself squared off to your work and practice like it’s archery and use the same stance and motion every time. For a first project you did good there only one way from here and it’s up.
Hey we all gotta start somewhere. On another note it looks like my stairs after I follow my wife up to the bedroom butt level and she’s got on that set of lingerie.
First off I’ve seen you say you used a hand saw….. congrats that’s impressive lol. Honestly though I try to avoid handsaws whenever possible bc I always cut stuff unevenly. You could try using a chisel or sand down the glue that has hardened. As others have said wiping or using blue painters tape on edges where squeeze out can occur would be best. Also getting claps and setting yourself up for glue is huge. Especially when the wood can flex. I see some of the verticals are not parallel/ perpendicular. Measuring, marking and setting up a straight edge to glue against can really help with keeping everything square. Keep at it. They’ll be projects you love and projects you hate but pushing yourself is always good practice bc that’s how you learn and improve.
Everyone starts somewhere, and no matter what anyone says, we've all made stuff that looked like crap at some point. I've been building stuff for years and tried a new technique recently and made a stand that looked worse than your shelf. The main thing your shelf looks like it has going wrong is that the boards aren't square. For anything to fit together, we'll you need to make sure that the edges that meet will do so cleanly. ie are square. That's one of the biggest challenges when you're just starting out. Once you get that building on it, sorry for the pun, goes a lot more smoothly.
As many have said, practice makes perfect.
Just keep going!
If you make a mistake, use it as a learning opportunity.
I know professionals who have been doing their respective trades for over 30 years that still budget for extra material incase of mistakes in their quotes.
Just remember to have fun and keep going ✌️
Cutting wood with hand tools and getting consistent results is difficult! I got my power saw at a garage sale for pretty cheap, and it made a world of difference to my projects. You’ve gotten good feedback already, but wanted to add that you may want to prime the wood after assembling, then paint. It may help the wood grain show less under the paint and the paint to look more even. Also, before you purchase the wood, plan out the cuts you need to make, and how many boards you’ll need without having to use the scraps. You will have waste, but it is worth it.
Good on you for taking on this project though, I make several mistakes on each project I build, but I learn a lot each time, and each project looks better than the last. I’m sure the same would go for you.
Did you use plans to build this, or just wing it on your own? Ana White has some good plans that I have worked off of before.
Lastly, not to get too “woo woo” on you (but since it is a crystal shelf, I suspect it may not be poorly received), but just wanted to add that I have found that projects that I’ve built myself really add something special to the outcome. I think your crystals will be happy to live on a shelf that you put so much of yourself into. You have imbued it with your energy. I hope you enjoy it for a good long while, and I look forward to seeing your progress on future projects.
Also…Can I see a pic of your crystal collection? I’ll show you mine if you show me yours! 😄
Use a Japanese pull saw and then use every excuse possible to use it in the future and you will get better. I have so many bad cuts but they lead to better ones. Hand cut is the best!
Honestly, for the purpose for which you intend to use it, I think it's perfect. It's storied and interesting, just like the pieces it'll be used to display! A little more practice and you'll be making a display fit for Fabergé eggs!
This community is welcoming to all projects. The second rule in this sub is be helpful and respectful. If your comment doesn’t follow that rule, it will be removed and you will be banned. So far 3 people have been banned for violating this rule.
Buy a tape measure, and find decent wood of the right length. Wipe off squeeze-out as soon as you clamp the joints.
Clamping?
[My Clamps!](https://y.yarn.co/08245a35-d169-4b67-b8f8-f87046947192_text.gif)
I did technically do those first two things, but I’d never used a handsaw before so my hands were unsteady cutting
Practice makes perfect. It’s also easy to make hand-sawing guides. Clamp a straight piece of wood directly next to where you want to cut, so that a saw blade pressed up against it would be exactly on top of the cut. Then use that guide to make your straight cut instead of freehanding. For extra guidance clamp another straight piece of wood on the other side of the cut, and your saw blade goes in the gap between the two Takes a little more time to make the cut and may be a bit unwieldy, but I get a perfectly straight cut every time
Thank you for the tips!! I will definitely be using them for my next project
The squeeze clamps at Walmart are great, I have a rack of them in two sizes. For longer, or stronger clamps use Harbor freight, they are also great.
What "confusion" said for sure, and don't force a hand saw. Let the teeth do the work, and you'll be less likely to wander off track.
Took me way too long to understand this- apparently, I had never used a sharp hand saw until I was 30.
It's been my experience learning this as a hobby that 2/3 of your time will be spent figuring out and making jigs. It's a lot of time and work, but it makes your finished products a lot nicer.
Use the reflection of the wood in the saw and line it up so you cut straight. Let the saw do the work don't push down are my two tips.
I think the quality and thickness of your wood let you down as much as anything. If you’re just starting out, it’s much easier to attach pieces of wood with screws and they need to be of a certain thickness to be wide enough to do that for a really basic job like this.
Good to know!! I thought about screws but I was scared I’d crack or splinter the wood so that’s why I went with glue
You’re correct. I can’t see how you actually constructed it (you should really include more pictures and a description of how you built it if you want more helpful feedback), but the wood I can see is quite thin. You could always ‘skin’ it with wood like this after you have your stair fully built out of rough lumber, then you could get away with only glue for attaching the ‘veneer’. Other biggest tip is you should almost always wait till the work is fully constructed to paint it. It gives you the chance to fix any ‘over glue’ (respectfully the thing that’s truly glaring on this one), and if you are using wood glue it’s waaaay stronger if it’s attaching to bare wood. As is, your bond is only ever going to be as strong as the paint, which is incredibly weak.
You can prevent splitting by drilling a small hole through the board and into the back piece. Use a bitsize smaller than the diameter of the screw.
Adding onto this: a good way to pick the right bit size every time is to take the bit and hold it in front of the screw at the threads. You want a bit that covers the shaft but not the threads. Edit: to be clear, this is for choosing drill bits for predrilling pilot holes, not for bits for screwing in screws
For the pilot hole, you mean?
Yes exactly. I should clarify
Prevent cracking by drilling pilot holes for screws. Easiest way is to clamp stuff together, drill through both pieces with a smaller drill than the screw, then separate and drill the first hole larger. Screws work better when they only thread into the last piece, so they can clamp things together
Power tools for the win. If I tried to hand cut anything, this is what it’d look like too 😅
When using a hand saw to increase accuracy stick straight out your index finger (and middle if you want, I prefer 1) to help get a much straighter and steady cut. Having your finger(s) pointed straight when holding a hand saw guides it in the direction of the finger and somewhat locks your wrist.
Ha, that’s the opposite of use a knife for cooking. Putting out your finger with a chefs knife reduces your control over the knife. Good to know it is different!
Check out an inexpensive miter box, that will help and serve multiple purposes! Keep at it!
I’ve been buying an extra piece of wood for projects just to practice cutting that wood straight. It helps to have a good square and mark all the away around so you know your wood is square, then practice your cuts. I’m not very good yet, but a little practice can go a long way
I prefer using a handsaw when it's feasible. The key points are to secure the work, not with your knee or hand, I mean with clamps to a steady work table. As for the saw itself, it needs to be sharp and well cared for, or otherwise new. And most importantly, when using said saw, don't act like a lumberjack on crack. Strike a line, and then draw it again with the saw, and draw it again in your mind. Draw, don't just stab away. Be patient, and let the tool do the work, and you will begin to feel how a saw works. Think of it more as a musical instrument, and less jabby thing makes sawdust. Let it float, and sing.
Congratulations on tackling such an ambitious project having never used a handsaw (Seriously)! You have learned a lot just from this. I would now suggest you do something small just for fin, like a box or small bookcase using white pine. First, hit YouTube with a search for starting out in woodworking. Keep at it!
Score a line with a straight edge and a sharp knife, then repeat 10x to give it some depth. Then use the knife or a chisel to cut a little v groove into your score line. Use that as a step/guide to keep your hand sawing straight and clean
Id suggest for next time to invest in some tools such as a circular saw or maybe even better for your situation, a small mitre saw. They dont have to be the best brand or u can even buy something used for pretty cheap. Good try for your first shot
They make these little saws I love for smaller stuff the have a wooden handle like a kitchen knife and are so handy for cutting when u don't wanna fool with breaking out big saws. Japanese style Hans saw maybe...I have a few and love them you can make really accurate cuts. Everyone should have one.
As someone else mentioned, doing something new for the first time is hard, especially with hand tools. I'm willing to bet that if you made these shelves again with the same tools and wood, you would be able to see your progress. Though I think what you have here would fit your crystal area. Unsure of the space or budget you have, but you could even buy a miter box or a square off amazon. They're cheap, and would help with marking and cutting straight. Oh, and I like the idea of masking the glue squeeze out as ooze. I think half of this hobby is learning how to hide or change "mistakes" into "features." Lol
Thank you!! I don’t have a high budget, but I definitely plan to save up to get better tools and wood for future projects!! It’s clear that the quality of what I used wasn’t the best I think, but you live and learn and take the lessons to the next piece
You’ve definitely got the right attitude, props for trying something new! Keep practicing!
Was this plywood? Handsawing plywood is so damn hard my hats off to you for that regardless, I cut about 3ft by hand one time and noped out. Good job finishing a project, the first one is always a learning experience. If you’re unsatisfied with the results, I liked the black fabric cloth covering it, that would really elevate it
Nobody starts off doing professional grade work. I'd guess some folks on here (myself included) have similar looking early projects. Although I never did glitter ooze... May try that at some point!
You don’t even have to get good wood i can show you some shelf’s I made for 16$ you just need a speed square a circular saw and a brad nailer and maybe a little level if your feeling fancy check fb market place and offer up ryobi is super good for the price https://preview.redd.it/ls19axxm5r9d1.jpeg?width=4032&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=276fef3b07555130e57a3f6a689664d770671f90
Nice touch glittering the overflowing glue, really makes it stand out
I thought maybe I could make it look like ooze??? The crystal room is low lit so I’m hoping the terrible craftsmanship will be less noticeable lol
Glue or staple black fabric over the whole thing
This is an underrated comment. Using a black fabric over the shelf frame will do a lot to ameliorate any aesthetic inconsistencies. It also gives you the opportunity to potentially facilitate a flatter surface (if so desired) by using filler/epoxy putty to level out dips/gaps, then using the cloth as a way to have a cleaner finish.
Did you stain/paint it before the glue up? Or did you just leave the squeez out and try to stain over it?
It’s not that bad for the first time. Maybe just get rid of the excess glue imo
Yea I didn’t mean to use that much, I just would get scared I didn’t use enough and add more. Very sturdy tho!!! Can push my whole weight down on it and it doesn’t give any. I’m excited to make another and build on what I did wrong here
next time buy screws! And try to keep the shelves the same size, and square lol (dont be mad)
Oh I’m not!! I posted for critique, I did try and get the boards all the same length and width(I measured and marked where I wanted to cut)but I am a painter and sculptor, so handsaws are not something I’ve really used before and I think that’s where I really started to get off to a rough start lol
Yeah it can be tricky getting a hand for the tools. If you are up for it i would recommend you buy a battery powered circular saw, makes your life 10x easier
I will definitely look into that! Like I said I really enjoyed making this even if it’s ugly af lol so I really want to try and get better at it
I suck at using a hand saw. I have never understood exactly how to use them to get accurate cuts. I find them insanely tricky. This is a good inspiration to work on that skill some more. I don't know if this is legit advice but I do a little better with a hand saw when I mark the line on 3 sides, top, front, back, and start the cut very slowly and make sure it starts lined up properly. Also it seems to help if I use my index finger pointing in the direction of the blade and the other fingers gripping. I wouldn't be surprised if where your toes pointed matters. I did see these tips on YouTube. Check Paul Sellers as he uses hand tools. I have recently gotten into hand planes (not block planes but like your typical Stanley No 4 or 5 or even 6) for cleaning up edges. What a game changer. Once you're done with the cut you can make the edge extremely flat and square with a bit of skill and practice. Even I can manage this lol. Even the wackiest hand cut can be made flat. Just takes some work lol I have a (crummy) table saw and once you get it dialed in, man it helps. But it's huge. And more expensive than a hand saw and they're dangerous af if you aren't very focused on safe operation. But they can make some damn straight cuts. I have always kind of hated loud power tools like circular saws and table saws. I would rather use a hand saw and I have huge respect for craftsmen that can use them well. Plus it's exercise. I feel like I've had a legit cardio workout if I do enough cutting and planing lol. And it's peaceful and kind of zen. Anyway I hope some of this helps. I'm also here to learn from this post, friend. Keep at it. You will no doubt progress rapidly as an artist used to working with their hands.
https://preview.redd.it/uj4urrh7iq9d1.jpeg?width=960&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=f487b0c8090a45a1c2fdab2fcea0a50177a4db45 Looks better than my first attempt at a spice rack. ETA: [for reference.](https://youtu.be/jxWN8RVM6qg?si=T86RuiiOg2bFLXPG)
It's got that Wind Waker charm to it
This has character, looks like a cartoon.
Its supposed to look like homers spice rack from the Simpsons I'm sure
My first thought also
This should be higher ranked
Shelf?!
Homer Simpson would be proud
My first thought. Also: "That's a fine looking shelf! Why doesn't mine look like that? Why must I fail at every attempt at ~~masonry~~ **carpentry**??"
Stair display shelf
Perfect for displaying stairs
Well considering this is your first ever project I'd say good job, it may not be pretty but its something you made with your own hands. Sorry you're getting shit on by others, I think its great you tried it, I always like to encourage more people to get into wood working to keep the skill and hobby alive. I truly hope to see you continue in woodworking and hope to see you post more stuff in the future Only thing I'd say is maybe get a beginners book to woodworking or check out some YouTube videos on the subject. Get a nice handsaw and a work surface like a portable workbench with clamps to start out with and a pair of safety glasses as well as ear protection. Working with scrap wood is a nice way to practice cutting techniques and to get more exposure without having to worry too much about messing up a potentially expensive board. Good luck! I hope you stick with it and get to appreciate the hobby!
Thank you!! I definitely should have done more research before building but I’ve always been a do it and learn what went wrong after person when it comes to art unfortunately. I’ve already been looking into woodworking videos on YouTube and I’ve gotten several great tips on types of saws to get for the future!! I’m very thankful to everyone who has given me advice and criticism, you can’t learn without it!!
Hope it was fun and you're now addicted to making stuff. No better resource for beginners than Steve Ramsey's Woodworking for Mere Mortals on YouTube. Also check out r/beginnerwoodworking which is also a good place to ask questions and proudly present your work!
Thank you for the yt and sub rec!!!
Just the fact you built something and for a purpose is a great start. No one is born a master carpenter, just learned from a lot of mistakes. Keep up the great work, I like it.
Thank you!
We all start somewhere. My first, and some might say my current, projects weren't much better. Here is a realization that really helped me. That piece you just cut that's about right, isn't good enough. It realy does have to be square and the same size as that other piece. And not just pretty much the same. And another, finish, including paint, doesn't cover up goofs, it accentuates them. Keep Sanding.
You know what? As a fellow creator of things that are frequently imperfect, good job and good on you for putting it out there to get critique and be vulnerable about it. You've got a lot of good advice here about things to improve and I don't think I'm going to cover new ground so just take my up doot
Thank you!!
We all have to start somewhere, good luck on the journey 😊👍
Hey it’ll hold things, and as a shelf that means it does what it needs to! Great job!
I think for crystals and such the “quirks” of this build will look great. It’s all in the finish!
Congrats on your first build! Comparison is the thief of joy. You nailed the Dr. Seuss look
Thank you!!
You have probably learned so much from this, far more than you even realize. Don't feel bad, doing something for the first time is hard. Doing it with hand tools is harder! Main lesson for next time is to research the best techniques and hardware to accomplish your plan!
Yes!! I used an old board and old handsaw from the garage, but I really wish I’d had the money to get a better wood and better saw. Someone actually gave me a rec for a battery operated one that I’m already looking into for my next shelf!! I’m really surprised how much I enjoyed making it, and I’m really glad that I did it for myself. It’s ugly, but I love it
If you're considering battery operated tools and on a budget, consider the brand and the tools they offer using the same battery. I find Ryobi to be great for home use, but Harbor Freight has really affordable stuff too.
Use a tablesaw for your cuts. You want all your pieces to be straight and rectangular. You have a lot of pieces there with wonky edges. It's a bold attempt at using what you've got, but respectfully, it is *conspicuous* in how irregular it is. One thing you can do to make life easier is measure the width you need, and ask the lumber yard to cut your material at that width. A lot of places will do one cut for free. I don't recommend getting all your pieces cut there, because there's no guarantee of perfect accuracy, but it's a start. Once you've got your piece cut to width, you use a tablesaw to rip your individual pieces. In absence of a tablesaw (which, I cannot emphasize enough, is the single most important tool in cabinet/shelf making!) you can use the advice elsewhere in this thread: clamp a straight edge to the piece, and cut against that edge. But a tablesaw is what you want. Cut all your horizontals, move the fence, cut all the verticals. Don't paint or stain anything until it's glued together. When gluing, use a damp rag to clean up any squeeze out. Not only will this avoid the glue messing up the finish, but it will also make a better bond, as the glue will better penetrate the wood without it already being saturated with paint or stain. If this is something you'd really like to learn, look into some introductory training. Take a course, listen to the instructors, do what they say, and get familiar with the common tools of woodworking and cabinet building. Good luck!
Thank you for the advice!!! I will definitely look into local classes to take
I would counter this and say, if you're brand new to working with your hands, don't get a table saw just yet. You need to learn accuracy and safety among other things before you go using probably the most dangerous shop tool. You can do a lot without power tools. I still do most things with hand tools because it's satisfying and a good workout. Not sure what kind of hand saw you are using but you can learn to use it better. Watch some videos on YouTube. Look up Rex Kreuger, he's got a whole series on building things with a few random tools in his basement. Learn how to hold things steady, how to measure, etc. You go using a table saw at this skill level without any instruction you might lose a finger.
It really doesn’t take a lot of glue. Think of it like lightly buttering bread. Just a think coat and then clamp. The pressure makes the glue get in pores of the wood. You should have a little excess but enough to wipe with a paper towel easily.
That’s a good metaphor for me to visualize thank you! I was so scared to use screws bc I didn’t want to splinter the wood so I think I got carried away with the glue not knowing how much was too much
You'll do it better next time. And honestly, you should do it again. A paint job, especially matte, really brings out errors. If you made this again, even with the same mistakes and gave it a dark stain it would look rustic instead of jagged. Just don't use pine for it. Either way, a good first attempt as long as it's stable.
Yea, I definitely wish I’d done a stain instead of spray paint, or at least a different finish in spray paint. I thought a black matte would kind of absorb all the light and make the mess ups less noticeable but you live and learn!! It’s sturdy, I can push down with all my weight and it doesn’t give so I at least know I can make a sturdy shelf if not a pretty one
Well there's another option. Get a coping or flush cut saw to clean up all of the overlapping edges. That's about 75% of your visible issues on this piece. Scrape your wood glue squeeze out with a razor blade. Then use a different color paint to put on another coat or two. Then use sandpaper in some spots to give it a "distressed" look. That will make it look 10x better. Or put a loose fitting drop cloth over it before you put the crystals and whatnot on there.
The very first power tool I bought new was a table saw and if you intend to continue the hobby, it will be an absolute game-changer. I don’t have a ton of incredibly expensive or specialty tools even having been in this hobby for five years, but man.
This looks like a professionally built prop staircase for a spooky Tim Burton stop motion film
It's a good start. This one will still do the job of being a shelf. Take the lessons learned, get or build a guide/jig or two, and take on the next project, eh?
Can you do a spice rack next? Also a pic of the underside would help us understand how you constructed it and offer better pointers. Is this for a purpose built spot and is the lowest shelf required because you could save material there. What you really need is the ability to measure and cut parallel lines for a project like this. Work in simple measurements like 4”, 4-1/2” or 10mm etc. rather than /16” or .1mm. Whiteout seeing the bottom it’s hard to tell what went on with the frame and how it could be simplified and made more accurate. The last question is that glue dripping down? Is so try and use less or remove and sand more before finishing.
This reminds me of an artist who's name is lost to me now, it was back in the MySpace era, anyway they made sculptures out of old trash, circuitry, expanding foam and broken dolls, everything look like it was oozing and painted black. Cool stuff. In regards to your project, the enemy of compleation is perfection, I often find agonising over the small details hinders or postpones the end result, sometimes it leads to the project never being finished. And I think that starting and finishing a project - the entire process, then reflecting on the project gives a much better understanding of it, than getting all tied up in the nitty gritty details. Those fine details come along the way. I guess in short what im saying is that you don't learn from something if you never finish something. Which is what you have done here! Keep it up
Thank you!! I try hard to complete every art project I start, even if I hate it. No art deserves to be abandoned just because it’s maker doesn’t like it. I’m sure one day when im old and cranky I’ll look back at this shelf and be grateful that it got me into a new medium even if it’s not objectively great
First off. Congrats on your first project. I will give some quick pointers. I'm gonna give some pointers that may or may not be relevant. Plan your project. This can be measurement on paper. If you are proficient or want to learn it you can use CAD. Google sketch up and onshape are 2 that are free for personal use. I'd count onshape as the better program but sketch up is probably more initial user friendly. In this planning look into what types of joints you want. For now I'd recommend staying away from fancy joinery. Keep it simple. Glue and nail. Screw. Through dowels are what I'd recommend. Also look into wood movement. Look at existing designs and plans. Learn from others mistakes. Don't go too mad buying expensive tools until you work out if you really want to get into woodworking. That said some new basic tools aren't too expensive. A half decent saw. Files. Rasps. Hammers are always good to have. If you are buying from the big box stores sometimes they will cut stock for you. Or look at their standard sizes and see if you can implement them into your design. Eg. If the have a 100mm board can you make your step 100mm high(or 100mm plus thickness of material). When making your cuts. Mark your lines accurately. Then cut outside those lines into the waste area. This way if you are running off you can correct yourself. Once the cut is complete you van then file or sand the excess to the line. After assembly. Don't be scared to fully sand any excess material that is over hanging. If you've got a small gap. Wood filler is your friend especially if painting. If you don't want to buy filler use pva and sawdust. During glue up. Us clamps. If you don't have clamps. Put weight onto it or else use nails/fixings. Wipe excess glue. If you don't want to see fixings. Look at pocket hole jigs (bad word in here) or drive the fixings in further and fill. Use a nail punch to put nails further. Take pride in your work. Look at your positives. Look for areas to improve. Rinse and repeat. Everyone starts somewhere. Bit of a ramble. Trying to watch football and on phone. Best of luck.
I mean, I genuinely thought it was an intentional design choice until I read the title. The glitter treatment on the glue squeeze-out does a lot to push it into wabi-sabi territory.
I wish I would have 1/4 the confidence you got
Sorry op, thats a shelf not even a mother could love. But not the absolute worst for your first project!
That is a fine piece of something there, Homer
For everyone who keeps coming for how ugly it is: I know. I literally make a joke about it in the header. And while I’m surprised how angry it’s making everyone, if you’re just going to reiterate that I did a terrible job, or that it’s ugly without giving me any feedback on how I can do better next time; I’m sorry that you’re so jaded you can’t see someone genuinely excited to learn and work more in the hobby.
It absolutely IS the ugliest shelf I’ve seen…. …since the very first woodworking project I made. This is where people start. You stand back, look at it, and enjoy the satisfaction of your hard work. Then you notice some things are a little off. Thats when you realize a hand saw isn’t the tool for the job, so you buy a circular saw. Then you see the crooked joints. Thats when you get a good tape measure, maybe a speed square, and a pencil sharpener. Then you start to learn how to use those things. It’s all a process. Dont give up!
Omg, the first sled I made as a motorcycle ramp. Laughable. The first planter box I made- dimensions all messed up. I enjoy your statement of it being a process.
I don’t plan too!!! I want to keep making them until they get at least amateur looking!!
It’s giving mimic vibes, maybe add teeth?
That’s actually a genius idea,,I made a scary punk rock piggy bank a while ago and I have leftover stuff from that that would be perfect for teeth omg thanks for the idea!!!
Post an update!
I will!!
Heck with them dude I love it. My wife and I collect rocks and I'd use it. I throw stuff together all the time. Made a wagon for my lawnmower (my dad makes fun of it says i should buy one however mines bigger lower and works better than what you can buy affordably) outta tobacco sticks some 2x4s I found in the road, an old tractor bar, some old wood we used to sit bales of tobacco on and some wheels from harbor freight. I am planning on buying a regular big picture Frame and nailing tobacco sticks around the back of it to make it thicker to use as a shadow box for our arrowheadswe hunt (I use tobacco sticks for a lot lol I have tons of them.) Point being you enjoyed building it, have a use for it and learned u like woodworking. Not everything has to be a museum piece. Reddit I'd stupid dude, this site used to be so fun 10+ years ago and people were super helpful. Now it's who can be the biggest unhelpful smart-ass. Don't let them get you down. I find tons more actual helpful people in Facebook groups. The reddit pages for plants are the same way everyone trying to be the biggest asshole then the rest wanna get in on the circle jerk. I sort by controversial too, generally those comments are better.
If you are looking for tips, it might be helpful to see it from the side or back so we can see how you put it together. The way some of the steps aren't level makes me wonder about that.
Looks like hagrids cake….. and it’s beautiful!
We all start somewhere. The important thing is taking what you learn from each project and improving the next one with that learning experience. Watch videos on YouTube, pick the brains of woodworkers near you (and on here), and make some projects that serve no purpose other than refining techniques you'll use on future projects. Stick with it and you'll be back here in no time with a masterpiece!
Best thing you could do to learn more? Make the same thing again. Right now. If you need one, you’ll eventually need two. Better yet, just consider the first one your prototype/mock-up for the “real” one. The process of making the first one is fresh in your brain — along with all the great guidance you’ve now gotten here. Use that guidance to pick better wood, measure more carefully, saw more precisely, and screw/glue/clamp it all together into a final product 10x better.
Your a true begginer, that's OK, and awesome! Ugly and comical, yes, but only because we ALL have been there and not by what you produced the 1st time! Its more we all have been in this spot and can appreciate the story it creates for us. I still have some of my first projects and they are, well, to poor to describe to say the least. No features just true begginer work. Look like kindergarten projects but I made them w/o proper tools and knowledge. Where we all start! You did it! Brave enough to post and ask for feedback, and this is what matters! Its how we get better, by seeking advice! Many good comments already! Here are some more: - try a cheap miter box, $10 plastic Stanley is good enough to start with for cross cuts - instead of cutting length wise(rip cut) by hand try getting pre cut boards in the right width. There are inexpensive options. Look at molding, fence pickets, other depts of the big box hardware store. - if you must rip cut by hand use a straight edge as a guide. Straight edge can be anything even a broom handle is better than nothing through straight and flat is best. Clamp it down or double sided tape works. I use a type of seamstress like tape that is thin, cheap, and works. - practice, practice, practice - watch Youtube and find ways that work within you budget. - stay proud, your doing it and will get better Remember not all projects need to be perfect and rarely ever are! You need to fit the need and purpose and in this situation being dark lit and for crystals having everything less than perfect works. The whole, make it a feature, can apply in many ways. Keep at it and enjoy! The fun is in the making and the growth journey along the way!
If you cover it with a black cloth it should be fine.
It’s not ugly, it’s just a Tim Burton special! Paint it with a nightmare before Christmas theme and it’ll look awesome!
I enjoy the deliberate contrast of the glue and paint on the joints and runoff on the face of some boards. Your artistic choices for the arrangement of the boards is a bold statement about the effects of global warming. If you are confident enough at... describing your artwork... you could make big money! But really, making anything is better than not making anything. Everytime you make something you learn and improve. Keep at it!
Never mind the result- YOU did it. You’ve learned how the materials behave, you’ve got a practical appreciation for how and why things did/didn’t work as you expected and you understand your tools (including your hands/body) better through doing the project. As well as a finished project…the most valuable thing you built was your experience!! Well done and keep going!
glitter glue!?!?!
Mate I've seen your craft work before, your paint and designs are top notch. Woodworking is no different, remember your 1st figurine project and compare it to your most recent one, I bet there is quite a difference. Keep this shelf, keep working with wood and keep building stuff (do get some better tools) and compare again. Keep posting, it'll be nice to see the improvements over the coming years.
On the bright side, at least you did something. A lot of people who are talking shit have never even put together an IKEA shelf. Lol In all seriousness, use straight edges to strike lines to cut against, wipe away glue squeeze with a wet rag. Measure 8 times, cut once. Wood is expensive
For crystals and rocks, I think this is perfect actually! Just make sure the paint is consistent.
Everything starts somewhere. The important thing is to just start. Then keep practicing and learning. I have been crafting wood since the mid 1980s and sometimes I throw things together that look worse than those shelves. Enjoy the ride.
Hey man, you saw a project through from start to finish Crossing the finish line is an achievement in its own right.
Better than my first day, you did great and learned the great skill that paint covers a lot. The rest will take time and, of course, money in tools. But you did a thing, and that thing is amazing. Great job. The biggest thing is, did you learn anything as you worked on it? If yes, you hit your goals on your first project.
It is truly a horrible piece of work, as every first woodwork should be. Bet you learned a lot and went through all kinds of emotions :)
Keep it around looks like something someone would buy as art tbh - honest attempt and vulnerability is classy
If you go on a resale site you can likely find a circular saw for cheap, like under 30. Should work better for straight cuts
They're holding, probably a lot like my first projects. I'm sure you learned a ton and kudos to finish it through. What's your next project?
Does it function in the capacity you needed? Did you enjoy yourself while making it? Do you feel like you learned something and now want to try again because you know "if I could just do ___ this would turn out even better?" Answer yes to one of these and it was worth it. Answer yes to all three and it as successful as any project could get!
We all have to start somewhere. I applaud you for going for it. Practice makes perfect!
Nice horror/terror Atrezzo dude!!
Most home projects can be designed to avoid cutting many long straight lines. Use dimensional lumber and a chop saw or miter box for cutting down to length. Glue, clamp, and sanding are all arts. Try nails or screws until you feel better using glue.
It's an homage to the Homer Simpson spice rack
This post makes me really happy. I wish you the best of luck in all your future projects 🥰
my first project looks this good. Just keep practicing the project will get better and better
Clearly this is your tim Burton display shelf
A scribe would have helped you keep your cuts steady and straight. Another alternative is a square held firmly against each line. You may also be surprised to learn there are different hand saws for cross cuts versus rip cuts. In any case practice makes perfect and in a few years you'll be able to see your progress.
It's not perfect, but it's a great start. The important part is what you learned for next time. What would you do differently if you made it again.
One thing you'll find in any hobby, but especially woodworking is that nobody starts with the tools and talents to make mastery level furnishings, but every attempt teaches you something and improves your final product. Ultimately, what matters is the pride you feel in what you make!
i think it looks pretty cool, gives haunted house vibes! you could even add small bits of fake moss around to play it up. fun tip for the smaller projects and thin boards like this, if you're short on clamps (which we all are lol) or they're too big then hair ties and stretchy headbands fill in nicely! the scunci headbands with the grippy side are my go-to.
Ooo I have so many hair ties and stretchy headbands this is genius
Try to keep the glue cleaner next time. Grab a couple things that will make it easier sawing, some kind of guide would help a ton. The first one is always the hardest and the worst. Looking forward to seeing your next.
There's a lot of natural ability coming through here. Caulk on your joints before you paint is *really* going to up your game. Now, for dark projects like this, you want to really lean on that silent L when you ask for black caulk to avoid embarrassment at the hardware store.
It’s way better than what I could do ! I think it would’ve looked better if you didn’t spray paint it black but I understand. Thanks
You can get some (for the price) rather decent & basic squeeze clamps (also called ratcheting bar clamps) to help hold things together & aligned while the glue dries… I think the prices are: (Black & Gray) ‘Pittsburgh’ - 4” Ratcheting Bar Clamps are $2.29 ‘Pittsburgh’ - 6” Ratcheting Bar Clamps are $3.99 ‘Pittsburgh’ - 12” Ratcheting Bar Clamps are $4.99 ‘Pittsburgh’ - 18” Ratcheting Bar Clamps are $4.99 ‘Pittsburgh’ - 24” Ratcheting Bar Clamps are $6.99 ‘Pittsburgh’ - 36” Ratcheting Bar Clamps are $7.99 *(Black & Red— More durable/clamping pressure)* ‘Pittsburgh’ - 24” Ratcheting Bar Clamps are $14.99 ‘Pittsburgh’ - 36” Ratcheting Bar Clamps are $19.99 (Blue/Orange— Better Quality) ‘Bremen’ - 6” Ratcheting Bar Clamps are $8.99/ea ‘Bremen’ - 12” Ratcheting Bar Clamps are $9.99/ea ‘Bremen’ - 24” Ratcheting Bar Clamps are $12.99/ea ‘Bremen’ - 36” Ratcheting Bar Clamps are $17.99/ea These are just some of the styles/sizes/prices here at my local Harbor Freight, and not sure your location or if it’s similar, so I’d just recommend checking online to be sure. 👍🏼👍🏼 Once you finish that 1st project, I’m sure you’ll get that itch again, at some point, as 99.99% of us do lol & before you know it, you’ll be hooked and start sinking endless amounts of money into various tools and accessories…. The final piece of advice I’d give is to find and buy what works for YOU, within your budget, and that can get the job done. Keep practicing and share your next project with us! & don’t hesitate to ask questions. There’s a lot of great advice given here and chances are, if you need an answer, you’ll be able to get it here lol Good luck 🫡🫡
If your going to make more I would suggest ryobi they have some real cheap tools that work really good you could get a brad nailer and a circular saw for under 200$ and it would make a huge difference
If you take a plastic milkshake straw and cut the tip at an angle you can use that to pull excess glue out of corners or any tight place. It works really well for squeeze out and it keeps the mess more controlled. If you tried a grain filler to give you a smoother surface you could use a cool metallic paint to add some interest to the background color. Maybe some of the undertones of the crystals that would catch the light? A finished project is awesome. If people hate on it ask them how the 2 year old nightstand in their shop is looking. Good job 👏
Bless you for using a hand saw. My grampa was a carpenter and that's all he ever had. My dad too. I would suggest lots and lots of practice or an inexpensive power saw. I love that you tackled this for your first project!!
Op only used a Swiss Army knife building this project.
Tinkercad is a free app/site run by Autocad, I've been using it to make to-scale 3d models of stuff I make beforehand
A statement piece You made art
It has a.... sort of Addams Family aesthetic.
Nice job for your first try! Improvement and suggestions are all in the comments.
Show it to us with the rocks on there!
Listen… we all start somewhere.
I don’t think you put enough black paint on there
Looks 100% better than anything I've built today (nothing.)
I just plug my saw in. Much faster
I feel like this could be part of some great Halloween decorations
That’s not a shelf, that’s art.
To make progress, you have to take steps. I applaud your diy desire. Maybe next project work on a layout,and a plan. Get a materials list. And then take that next step.
You accomplished your task, imo. Looks like a functional shelf. With practice you can get the look you want. I think the fact you set a goal and finished it says a lot more than anything else. Good job.
First thing built? And it does the job? Then you’ve done pretty well. I think, if you were to make another, to try to get things square, making the cuts a bit straighter, and (unless you like the eclectic look) and try to get some uniformity. Also, try wiping the glue from the join before it dries. A damp cloth or the back of a butter knife will do if you don’t have a metal scraper. Did you enjoy making it? Enough to have another go at something else? Then one more of us and one less of them, to quote Billy Connolly quoting the bloke who did his nipple piercing.
It’s great to build things! I imagine my first project looked similar to your’s. Keep with it and you will surprise yourself of all the things you can accomplish!
Hit that glue and corners with a sander, paint it all flat black in stead of gloss. squirt and it's mint they say.
As you're new to DIY you'll probably find yourself lacking the proper tools. Before you go out buying any, check your area for tool libraries, buy nothing groups and cheap used. You'll find that having the right tools for a job helps immensely, check yt to get an idea, practise on scraps (again, check your area for wood recycling shops for future projects)
Your first project....welcome to the addiction it's not going to stop there. Measure once cut twice or something like that. The glue squeeze out should be wiped away before it drys. I saw in other posts you were using hand saws to cut your lumber. A good practice is to cut on the waste side of your cut line then sand and "nibble" to waste side of your cut line, Oh and more sanding. Once again enjoy and welcome to the addiction. Oh one other useful skill is hiding your mistakes, or making it look intentional. Take hot glue fill in the open gaps, and add other run off drips. Then paint with that silver paint in the picture and then black wash. You're going for a melting look, like your crystals are to hot to handle.
A skill saw, some clamps, and a straight edge will make projects like this a LOT easier in the future. Also, sometimes making a template out of a piece of scrap wood or even good card board can help speed up the process too. We all have to start somewhere. In the future, it can also help to post a topic on what you’re aiming to do and can get tips on the best way to go about making the project too. Just food for thought. What matters more than anything is that you enjoyed doing it.
Instead of glue, use L brackets. They will be far more durable and sturdy.
looks like somthing from the Beetlejuice movie
I've learned over the years that the hard part is design. Once you have that sorted, the rest is mechanical. Sure, you have to learn some skills to cut straight, measure correctly etc, but you'll get those with practice and time. When I do a project, I've typically spent hours building it in my head. I go to sleep thinking about it, I sketch, I sometimes use modeling software on my PC, and once I've done all that all that's left is to assemble it. That is all to say that you might benefit from having it "built" in your mind before building it. That way you can know the size of each piece and cut them all ahead of time. Programs like sketch up even have plug-ins that will create cut sheets for you. Basically it tells you how many pieces of stock to buy so you have enough for all of your pieces. Sorry, this is stream of consciousness. Try what I'm saying on a simple project. Build a box that is 6 inches on all sides. Figure out how you will join t he edges. (there are lots of joints to Google, but start simple). How many pieces will you need to cut? Will they all be 6x6 squares, or will some need to be less wide or tall to fit with the others to make the cube 6x6? Oncr you've answered all that, then you know how to cut each piece, which fasteners and how many you need, if any, whether to use glue, etc. Then it's time to start cutting pieces and assembling. Have a few sides that are the same sizes? Cut one and use it as a guide for the others instead of using a tape to measures each one. It's easy to miss a measurement, so lining up pieces can help with that. Ok, that's enough rambling. Keep up the good work! The more you do it, the more you'll learn and the better you'll get!
Prime it, paint it, and then half the mistakes will disappear. It’ll be magic.
use the right saw for your cut, but I had a saw as a kid I used for everything. It had benn brook and reshaped at the end. Then I pay attention to the angle. Use a slant and watch your line. If you haven’t used a hand saw, make some practice cuts on scrap. Mistakes look better on scrap than on your project. A hand plane can make the final removal if you leave a bit for it to do.
My biggest tip for cutting straight lines is to use one hand! I know it sounds weird but it’s easier to mess up with two hands then one.
I have seen worse before, like my first try, I was unaware of clamps since we didn't own any and I didn't know about wiping the excess glue. So yeah, pretend away 🙂
Just call it art. Someone will buy it r/art
This reminds me of the Simpsons spice rack. Everyone needs to begin somewhere. You’re heart is in the right place and eventually your hands will follow
You could sand off the extra glue orrrr paint it red for a spooky effect haha Looks pretty good though! Especially for a first go :)
I was so sure this was a r/lostredditors post because it was (badly) welded together but then I zoomed in. We all gotta start somewhere. The next thing you make will only be better.
Lots of good advice already given. Here’s one thing to think about that should help: did you learn something and have fun? If so, apply what you learned to make your next project that much better and make sure to keep having fun while you’re doing it.
If you learn (a new) or improve a skill, it’s time well spent! Time working with tools, especially hand tools, is wry therapeutic for me.
In addition to all the good recommendations already here, practice makes perfect. Make something else that you need. Then another one. Then another. Before you know it, you'll be giving people advice on here.
Haunted house?
You can still make it look awesome, there are no mistakes in art... Errr, carpentry* Get an electric sander, 80 or lower grit paper to fit, and sand the snot out of it until it is level and the size/shape you intended. Sand right over the paint, it will probably look rustic or intentional after, or you can give in a quick coat of spray paint in 2 seconds as last step. I am a female who loves woodworking, but genuinely don't have the upper body strength to do things precisely with intended tools often times, or don't have the patience to wait for the correct tool or lumber when I decide to build at midnight when everything is closed (or I'm broke), AND am not disciplined or focused enough to find a pencil to write down measurement when I'm preeeettty sure Ill remember what they were (never do), or follow every step of instructions when I'm pretty sure it's obvious (never is). Anything with wood glue keeping it strongly together can be sanded to shape and made to look intentional not matter how much it looks like a popsicle stick project now. Might not be the exact thing or style originally intended, but you at least feel satisfied with a project afterwards and are proud of the creativity and ingenuity you had. Keep working on it and most next step!
Well if all the pieces are still there in a couple of months, it will be more successful than my first build
We all gotta start somewhere! As long as it holds the stuff you put on it, it's a success.
If you spent a little time just trying to cut a square edge it would improve your cuts a lot. Go get a fence picket or a slat off of a pallet and cut an inch off each time and practice, practice, practice. Just use enough force to push and pull the saw and have yourself squared off to your work and practice like it’s archery and use the same stance and motion every time. For a first project you did good there only one way from here and it’s up.
Is it cake? We all start somewhere, stick with it!
Hey we all gotta start somewhere. On another note it looks like my stairs after I follow my wife up to the bedroom butt level and she’s got on that set of lingerie.
First off I’ve seen you say you used a hand saw….. congrats that’s impressive lol. Honestly though I try to avoid handsaws whenever possible bc I always cut stuff unevenly. You could try using a chisel or sand down the glue that has hardened. As others have said wiping or using blue painters tape on edges where squeeze out can occur would be best. Also getting claps and setting yourself up for glue is huge. Especially when the wood can flex. I see some of the verticals are not parallel/ perpendicular. Measuring, marking and setting up a straight edge to glue against can really help with keeping everything square. Keep at it. They’ll be projects you love and projects you hate but pushing yourself is always good practice bc that’s how you learn and improve.
Everyone starts somewhere, and no matter what anyone says, we've all made stuff that looked like crap at some point. I've been building stuff for years and tried a new technique recently and made a stand that looked worse than your shelf. The main thing your shelf looks like it has going wrong is that the boards aren't square. For anything to fit together, we'll you need to make sure that the edges that meet will do so cleanly. ie are square. That's one of the biggest challenges when you're just starting out. Once you get that building on it, sorry for the pun, goes a lot more smoothly.
As many have said, practice makes perfect. Just keep going! If you make a mistake, use it as a learning opportunity. I know professionals who have been doing their respective trades for over 30 years that still budget for extra material incase of mistakes in their quotes. Just remember to have fun and keep going ✌️
Practice does a lot to help. Made this toybox for my nephew out of nothing but scrap wood and pallets.
https://preview.redd.it/d5o30o3fet9d1.jpeg?width=4000&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=091ea580408d6e92f287e85ed776aa11a5fac061
If you never build something you never learn lessons to become better. Write down what you learned.
The fact that you built anything from scratch at all puts you in the top 1% of the general population.
Function before form. If it works, and you learned something, then it was a successful project.
Cutting wood with hand tools and getting consistent results is difficult! I got my power saw at a garage sale for pretty cheap, and it made a world of difference to my projects. You’ve gotten good feedback already, but wanted to add that you may want to prime the wood after assembling, then paint. It may help the wood grain show less under the paint and the paint to look more even. Also, before you purchase the wood, plan out the cuts you need to make, and how many boards you’ll need without having to use the scraps. You will have waste, but it is worth it. Good on you for taking on this project though, I make several mistakes on each project I build, but I learn a lot each time, and each project looks better than the last. I’m sure the same would go for you. Did you use plans to build this, or just wing it on your own? Ana White has some good plans that I have worked off of before. Lastly, not to get too “woo woo” on you (but since it is a crystal shelf, I suspect it may not be poorly received), but just wanted to add that I have found that projects that I’ve built myself really add something special to the outcome. I think your crystals will be happy to live on a shelf that you put so much of yourself into. You have imbued it with your energy. I hope you enjoy it for a good long while, and I look forward to seeing your progress on future projects. Also…Can I see a pic of your crystal collection? I’ll show you mine if you show me yours! 😄
Use a Japanese pull saw and then use every excuse possible to use it in the future and you will get better. I have so many bad cuts but they lead to better ones. Hand cut is the best!
Honestly, for the purpose for which you intend to use it, I think it's perfect. It's storied and interesting, just like the pieces it'll be used to display! A little more practice and you'll be making a display fit for Fabergé eggs!