50 DIY Woodworking Projects for Every Skill Level

Woodworking is a rewarding hobby with endless possibilities suited for every skill level. If you’re a newbie, don’t be intimidated. There are many super-simple projects you can try that will help you learn and get your feet wet. And contrary to want you may think, you don’t need a lot of expensive tools. With just a few basic tools — yes, even hand tools — you can learn the art of woodworking. (Hint: Try estate sales and auctions to find secondhand power tools and hand tools. Older hand tools were often better made than their new counterparts, and brands like Craftsman come with a lifetime warranty even if you buy it secondhand.)

We've compiled our best projects and plans for you. Many of our easy projects can be built with scrap wood like fence panels and old pallets and require no special cuts or joinery. Our more complicated projects will have you sharpening your talents in such skills as mitered corners, routing grooves, and pocket-hole joinery.

Skill Level: Easy

These birdhouses were made from cedar fence panels, the same sized fence panels on which the houses hang. This is a great way to upcycle an old fence if the wood is in good shape. We suggest using cedar because it is exterior-grade and wildlife-friendly. The cost of building the birdhouses was minimal and we did it in one afternoon. Use a handsaw and a miter box if you don’t have a power miter saw. If you don’t have an orbital sander, a sanding block will do just fine. But you will need a drill to cut out the holes so the birds can get in their houses.

Skill Level: Easy

We all love live-edge wood and blue resin tables — also known as river tables — but building them takes some skill, money and time. Instead, start small with this wood slice and resin tray with leather handles. Once you get the hang of it, you can move up to a table or bench. If you’re looking for holiday gift ideas, these trays are perfect.

Skill Level: Easy to Intermediate

We built our cornhole boards according to the requirements of the American Cornhole Association. The materials aren’t complicated — it’s made from 1/2” plywood, 2x4s, deck screws and a couple of carriage bolts. A circular saw, a jigsaw and a sander are the only power tools you’ll need. If you don’t have a circular saw, have the plywood cut to size where you buy it.