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Issue 273 – Feb/Mar 2018

On the Cover

Digital Exclusives for Issue 273

Videos, a slide show, articles, and more goodies to supplement your magazine experience.

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The Magazine

Easy, Elegant Mantel

Build a fireplace surround from one sheet of MDF and some stock moldings.
Scribing Made Simple

Learn and practice the basic techniques, then move up to the more difficult versions.
Master Class in Moldings

An illustrated guide to the profiles and proper proportions of baseboard, crown, and casing.
Make the Most of Moldings

A look at the role of baseboard, casing, crown, and other moldings in today’s homes
Restore a Wood Window Sash

When repairs are in order, a steam box, an easel, and two-part epoxy are your best friends.
How to Protect a Window Opening During Sash Restoration

If you don't have storms, you'll need to close off the windows while repairing the sash. Here's an easy and secure system.

Article

Commentary

In Praise of Carpenters

At a time when fewer and fewer humans make anything of physical value, carpenters engage in a profoundly creative process.

Tools & Materials

Cordless Saw Fit For a Framer

Tool Review: Makita's XSR01 cordless, rear-handle, blade-left circular saw is an excellent full-time framing saw.
Perfect Pencil Sharpener

Tool Review: Kum Long Point Pencil Sharpener is a definite step up from a standard sharpener.
Soffit-Vent Solution

This polypropylene vent has a smooth shape for maximum airflow, and it is installed at the same time as the fan.

Project Gallery

Project Gallery: Walk-Ins That Wow

These inspirational examples of well-designed closets offer remarkable features for every need.

Musings of an Energy Nerd

10 Common Mistakes Made by New Home Builders

Energy Nerd: Asking questions after construction has started? OOPS!

Design/Build

Fireplace Surrounds

Design/Build: These mantels illustrate not only the range of independent design options, but also the plug-and-play aspect of fireplace-surround composition.

Building Skills

Cutting and Joining Plastic Pipe

9 steps to install quiet, well-connected ABS and PVC piping.
The Right Way to Join Plastic Pipe

Both PVC and ABS plastic pipe are so easy to work with that they're often slapped together without much thought. Are you sure you're joining them correctly?

Keep Craft Alive

Keep Craft Alive: Ben Brunick, Woodworker

“If you can make a board flat, straight, and square, you can do just about anything.”

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