15 Easy Woodworking Projects for Beginners (Plus Simple DIY Furniture Ideas)

The best way to learn woodworking is to build things. Start with simple projects that teach core skills, like measuring, cutting square, drilling, gluing and finishing, and you'll be ready for furniture faster than you think. Need tools first? See our beginner woodworking tools guide.

Starter projects (a few hours each)

1. Cutting board: use a closed-grain hardwood like maple, and finish with food-safe mineral oil.
2. Birdhouse: a classic first project. Size the entrance hole for the bird you want to attract (for example, about 1½ inches for eastern bluebirds), add ventilation and drainage holes, and skip the perch.
3. Simple wall shelf with two brackets.
4. Picture frames to practice miter cuts.
5. Wooden crate or tote for storage, gardening or a gift basket.
6. Coasters from scrap hardwood.
7. Phone or tablet stand.

Weekend projects

8. Cedar planter box for the porch or patio.
9. Raised garden bed from cedar boards. See raised bed gardening.
10. Step stool for the kitchen or kids' bathroom.
11. Shoe rack or entryway bench.

DIY furniture ideas (once you're comfortable)

12. Farmhouse-style coffee table using pocket-hole joinery.
13. Bookshelf from plywood or pine boards.
14. Outdoor Adirondack chair, an American classic with many free plans available.
15. Nightstand with a drawer, which teaches drawer construction.

Tips for beginner woodworkers

• Follow a plan. Many free woodworking plans include cut lists and step-by-step photos.
• Choose forgiving wood. Pine is inexpensive and easy to work, though it dents easily. Poplar is a good step up for painted projects.
• Check boards for straightness before you buy.
• Sand progressively, for example from 80 to 120 to 180 grit, and wipe off dust before finishing.
• Test your finish on scrap wood first.
• Always wear eye and ear protection, and keep hands away from blades.

Looking for outdoor projects? See DIY backyard and garden projects.