Great for ideas

I looked over most of the wood working magazines and this one seemed to have the most hands on information. If you get just one wood working magazine this is the one to get.

There is usually one large project and several other smaller projects in each issue. The also do some of the best tool reviews of any magazine.

Not much for the money

The material in this magazine is very spread out with lots of white space. The projects are few, and the illustrations lack detail. The annual tool issue is a waste. Big pictures, little meat sums up this magazine.

Outstanding Resource for All Woodworkers!

I have subscribed to American Woodworker for many years, (I remember when it was only in black & white), and it has proven time and again to be full of useful tips, jigs and projects for home and shop. I have built a number of projects from its pages and corresponded with the editors and writers on occasion. They are a great bunch of woodworkers with a quality product.

The projects are mostly furniture and cabinetry, using a variety of styles and woodworking methods. They are clearly illustrated with explanations of techniques required to achieve superior results. The shop jigs include not only plans, but how to use the completed item to your best advantage.

They also test and evaluate tools on a regular basis and publish a "Tool Buyer's Guide" each year that is great. I find that complements the user reviews here at Amazon when I'm making my choices. There are also lots of ads for hard-to-find items each month.

Whether you are a professional or just a serious hobbyist, you will look forward to each issue and keep them archived for future reference, as I do.