The easiest way to quickly assess different cuts of wood is to look at the end grain.

MDF (medium-density fiberboard) is inexpensive, durable, and a good choice for many woodworking and carpentry projects. Learn how to use it correctly, and how to avoid common mistakes.

• Make Your Own Trim
• Combine MDF With Wood Moldings
• Prepare for a Dust Storm
• Avoid Full Sheets
  Try MDF shelving, usually in 1 x 8-ft. sections. I like to slice these long, easy-to-handle shelves into trim stock.
• Sand, Prime, Sand (Kilz, 100 grit)
• Don’t Let It Get Wet
• Reinforce MDF Shelves
• Don’t Use a Hammer (drill holes first or use a trim nailer)

Build a Push Sled

To make a push sled, rip your board as you normally would by sliding it against the fence extension. When you get within reach of your push sled, hook the sled behind the board you're ripping and push it through, just like you would if you were using a regular push stick.

The best deck stains can revive a weathered deck while adding protection. See which stains came out on top in our hand-on testing.

SaverSystems #1 Deck Premium Semi-Transparent Stain

The product is suitable for use on all softwoods, but the manufacturer suggests letting high-oil softwoods, such as redwood or cedar, age a minimum of 1 year before applying #1 Deck. This gives the natural oils a chance to dissipate, so they don’t interfere with stain absorption.

Defy Extreme Semi-Transparent Wood Stain

A pressure-treated wood deck can look worn or exhibit a slightly green tinge, but Defy Extreme Wood Stain can change that. This semi-transparent stain is available in a selection of realistic-looking wood tones that impart rich, uniform color while still allowing the wood’s natural grain to show. The new tone can counteract the greenish hue that often lingers on pressure-treated lumber.