“Any tips for a first-timer like me on woodworking projects for friends?”
Asked by Nina Radanović 
3 weeks ago
Last Updated: October 31, 2024
I do a bit of handyman and woodworking in my free time, usually on nights and weekends. A friend recently asked me to build something for them, which was a new experience for me. I’m pretty proud of how it turned out and wanted to share some pictures with you all for inspiration.
I love the beautiful craftsmanship of your work, but it’s driving me crazy that the shelf and mantle don’t line up! Haha
Are you referring to the depth? My wife had some concerns about the uneven shelves on one side and lack of symmetry with the other side. However, I followed the owner’s requirements precisely. This was truly a custom project.
I really liked how the mantle looked at the meeting point of all the corners. They specifically requested no end grain to be visible on the white oak, so I mitered everything at a 45 degree angle. Turned out great!
It’s absolutely stunning. Great job on this! The height of the shelf doesn’t match the mantle which is a bit off, but I’m loving the MCM vibes it gives off.
Thanks so much. Kind words mean a lot!
Cool
Thank you,
Wow, everything looks amazing! Did you also work on the stone? I’m curious about its origin
Oh yeah, I put in the stone. The owner got it, but I’m not exactly sure from where. I did notice some very similar ones at home depot though. They’re in sheets that are 6 inches tall and 24 inches wide, and they interlock to create the pattern. I’ve had experience with tile work in the past, but this was my first time working with stone.
Hey , that’s awesome, thank you! We’re currently looking for some stone sheets, so your recommendation is perfect.
Hey , good luck with everything. Those tiles look great for sure. Now I just have to figure out where to use them in my house 😆
You really nailed it!
Hey , thanks a bunch!
Louis Martinez
Awesome work! You outshine 90% of the so-called “Professionals” 👍😄
Thanks a bunch
Impressive
Thank you
Awesome job, man!
Thank you
The colored LED lights are not my favorite, but everything else is amazing! It looks stunning! Fantastic work!
Mentioned that the lights change according to the color of the TV screen to make it easier on the eyes and create a theater-like ambiance. You can adjust them to your preference.
Appreciate it. The lights can be adjusted with a remote control. They can switch between warm or white light, but I get that they may not be everyone’s cup of tea.
I’m a fan of everything, including the lights… but it feels unbalanced without the stop shelf. Maybe I’ll add some LEDs for that.
I understand what you’re saying.
Nicely executed, sir!
Hey , much appreciated for the thanks!
I’m in love with it ❤️
Is grateful
If I had to nitpick, it would be great to have a way to access the cavity for extra storage.
Hey , I get what you’re saying about the cavity only being 10 inches deep. We did route a lot of wires through there for the cable and extra plug-ins. It might not be the best use of space in a big house.
Definitely in a big house. I just can’t stand wasting usable space. I would have figured out a way to create some sort of faux bread oven door on the side so I could utilize that space. Once again, I just dislike wasted space. It would be great to have all the wires go to one spot.
That’s so true. I really like your perspective.
I’m pretty disorganized, but I do appreciate having more storage space. Haha. I’ve actually spent a lot of time creating unique storage solutions for my own home, so the time and cost didn’t bother me. However, if someone hired me to do the same for their home, it would end up being too expensive for them.
You know, , that’s probably accurate. But theories are still important.
Hey , good job!
Thank you,
Wow, your woodworking is truly stunning. You may want to consider hanging your tv higher if the fireplace is heating up, to protect it from the heat.
Hey , I really appreciate your help. I was a bit concerned about that, but after reading the fireplace installation instructions, I learned that it’s safe to place it near the TV. It doesn’t emit too much heat. It’s electric and mainly blows out air.
I absolutely adore it!
Appreciate you sharing some love inspiration!
I really need some new pals
Awesome job!
I made one for my bedroom that has drawers and storage. The TV is on a drawer too, so it’s easy to move if we need to switch things up
Did a great job!
Hey, where did you find the fireplace? I’ve been searching online
Seems unsure. The setup was already in place when he joined.