In 2020 I started building a fence in our backyard, a project that I thought would be a one-off and something I'd complete with minimum investment. Three years later, woodworking videos make up the majority of my watch history on Youtube, and I continue to add to my modest arsenal of power tools. Here is some of my work.
(I know most of these pictures are terrible. A project for another day.)
Hillside sun deck
We had been talking about this project for a long time, and a very-over-the-top Halloween party ended up providing the impetus and deadline that I needed to finally get it done.
In the winter, our position down in a canyon and the orientation of our house combine to leave our back patio shaded for most of the day. Our lot gains about 100 feet in elevation from front to back, and we've often looked longingly at the hillside, the only reliably sunny spot this time of year. The sun deck is our attempt to better use this space.
The platform is 10' x 14' and cantilevers about three feet out over the hillside, which slopes down sharply. Redwood joists and decking sit on 4x8 pressure-treated beams, which are bolted to four concrete footings. The steps are custom, with treads mortised into the stringers with a router.
Redwood, pressure-treated lumber, concrete, rebar, Simpson Strong Ties
October 2023
Firewood storage box
First attempt at making panels (sans jointer or planer), using splines to reinforce mitered corners, and using double bridle joints
Leftover redwood, salvaged cedar fence posts
August 2022
Tabletop for fire pit
It took ruining my first attempt with some mediocre leftover redwood before being able to successfully cut a perfect circle with the router. The base nests into the fire pit.
Salvaged cedar fence posts
May 2022
Mobile work cart
Grain-matched drawer fronts with soft-close slides, pegboard and power strip on the back.
Baltic Birch plywood, MDF, hardboard
June 2022
A collection of plant stands
I intend this to be the first in a series, as these are a good way to play around with joinery methods.
Salvaged cedar fence posts
September 2022
A picnic table, but for squirrels
We saw one of these online.
Leftover redwood lath, squirrel
June 2022