Create an original project plan or purchase a project plan. Consider the purpose of the project, the style of the project, the materials you want to use and the techniques you can execute based on your woodworking skill level.

Select lumber that you can process (either roughsawn or pre-surfaced) with the tools you have in your shop. Select hardware that will meet the functional needs of your project and the style you are targeting for your project design.

Mill your lumber and cut the project parts based on the project plan. Cut all parts with the same lengths or widths at the same time to ensure consistency.

Use jigs and tools to form the joinery for your project. Make test joints using scrap wood to refine the fit of the joinery before cutting the final project parts.

Before applying glue, test the assembly process to make sure the parts fit properly. After the “dry run,” use glue and/or fasteners to assemble the project parts.

Sand the part surfaces smooth to prepare for finish. Apply the stain or top coat finish you have selected for your project.