Woodworker's Central Woodworker's Gazette Gazette Archive 4/28/02

A Book Review by David Goodman Title: The Complete Illustrated Guide to Furniture & Cabinet Construction Author: Andy Rae Published by: Taunton Press P.O. Box 5506 Newtown, CT 06470-5506 ISBN 1561584029 Price Hardcover: $39.95 307 color pages When I was given the chance to review 'The Complete Illustrated Guide to Furniture & Cabinet Construction', I was very delighted. The 307 page, hard-back, book is packed with all the information one would need to construct cabinets, built-ins, tables, chairs, drawers and much more. It was easy enough to get through the book because not only is it very well written but also actual color photos accompany the text. The hardest part of the review was trying to figure out how to evaluate it because it contains so much information. The book is divided into six parts: Tools and Materials Box and Case Construction Doors Bases, Feet, and Stands Frame Construction Tabletops and Work Surfaces. Each of these parts is subdivided into sections making it easy to follow. The sections cover everything from shop space and fixtures to sharpening to shelf options, molding, case assembly, drawer hardware, building doors. Mixed in with the wonderful color photos are helpful hints, useful jigs, and various charts. It is by far the most professionally done book I've come across in my two years of woodworking. For a beginner, this book will get you started in the right direction. For the advanced woodworker, this book will test your knowledge. The price may seem to some a little high. But, I truly believe one could spend twice that much on equivalent books to get the same information. If you haven't figured it out yet, I highly recommend 'The Complete Illustrated Guide to Furniture & Cabinet Construction' to any woodworker interested in furniture and cabinets. David Goodman Editor's Note: The Taunton Press has graciously donated several books for review which are passed on to our members free of charge in exchange for thoughtful, honest reviews. Here is the link to their page on this book. And you can usually find their titles at a discount from Barnes And Noble