Frequently Asked Questions
1. Where are you located?
Seattle, Washington
2. Do you Sell your work?
Not currently. Once I’m finished with our house, I’m considering opening back up sales of pieces made on the YouTube channel.
3. Can I commission you to build ________?
Unfortunately, I’m not taking on new commissions at this time. That may change in the future, but for now I’m designing furniture for the channel exclusively.
4. What tools do you recommend for a new Woodworker?
The short list is a power drill, circular saw, chop saw, jigsaw, and 6-10 clamps. If you have the space and the budget, a contractor table saw is a good investment as well.
For quick reference I have put together a Tools List of my suggestions. You do not need all of the items on the list, and you don’t need to buy them new. I recommend buying your tools for specific projects, and slowly collecting over time. Also, I highly recommend searching for used tools on craigslist. I started my wood shop with used tools, and I still use a number of them in my shop today. Many cities have tool libraries and maker spaces, and this is a great way to dip a toe in without much investment.
Keep in mind that cordless tools are more expensive than corded ones.
Also remember that once you invest in a brand of cordless tool, you will want to stick with one or two brands. This way your batteries match. You may find yourself outgrowing a discount brand (Ryobi, Skil, Porter Cable, Craftsmen) and upgrade to a professional grade tool (Milwaukee, DeWalt, Makita.) I have Ryobi and Milwaukee in my shop. I’ve found that a two brand ecosystem works well for me because things like jigsaws and hot glue guns don’t need to be super robust, but drills, circular saws, and reciprocating saws do. Do your research when choosing your brand, and consider what needs you may have in the future. Ryobi and Milwaukee have served me very well, and the suite my needs. Your needs may differ.
5. What Table saw Blades do you use?
-Cutting melamine, plywood, plexiglas, and laminate https://amzn.to/380DeSt
-Crosscutting, cutting splines, MDF, and general use https://amzn.to/3r6Ja3W
-Ripping materials https://amzn.to/3qes2YV
6. Are you hiring/do you take interns?
I’m not hiring right now. As the channel grows I hope to bring on some video editing, admin, graphic design, and social media help. If you are skilled in those fields feel free to reach out via the contact page.
7. I ordered plans, but didn’t receive the download or the link doesn’t work.
Please send me an email at info@almfab.com and I will send you a new link.