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Issue 277 – September 2018

On the Cover

Secrets to Smoother Drywall

Dead-flat walls aren’t just about taping; they start with careful planning, smart staging, and solid installation strategies.

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The Magazine

Video: Drywall Delivery Dos and Don'ts

Protect people and the structure when loading drywall into a new home.
Pre-Drywall Inspections Prevent Hiccups

Ask questions and double-check materials to identify issues before they become problems.
Elegant Eaves for a Truss Roof

Cedar rafter tails and trim add a handsome touch to this roofline.
Fine Homebuilding Issue #277 Online Highlights

Digital exclusives: video, modern design, podcasts, and the FHB HOUSES Awards.
Hybrid Timber Frame

Combine traditional joinery and modern tools to create an authentic outdoor space.
Video: Timber Frame With Basic Tools

See how craftsmen create this true timber-frame look without relying completely on timber-frame joinery.

Article

Updating Midcentury Modern

Three remodels evoke the spirit and staying power of modernist design.
Midcentury-Modern Minute

Additional photos of "Updating Midcentury Modern" houses.
5 Iconic Midcentury-Modern Homes

From architecture to furniture to appliances, midcentury modernism is having an extended “moment” in the spotlight.
Thin-Brick Chımney Chase

Give a metal chimney a historic look with brick veneer.
Two Ways to Cut Jack Miters

Part miter, part butt joint, this hybrid for beaded casing is elegant and stable.
Video: A Better Joint for Beaded Casings

Jack miters are part butt joint and part miter, and they can be cut by hand or production-style with a router and shop-made jig.
The Ultimate Modern Home

California 2018: High design and high performance in the Sierra foothills.
Efficient, Strong Framing

California 2018: A powerful emphasis on advanced framing techniques for a passive house.

Tools & Materials

Hitachi's NR83A5 Framing Nailer, Reviewed

This battle-tested nailer still nails it.
Leviton's First Load Center

A new take on the electrical panel.
39-in. TMP-1000 CMT Flexible Template, Reviewed

A router guide for serpentine shapes.
A Look at the XTR01T7 Cordless Makita Trim Router Kit

This cord-free router kit is well-balanced and well-made.
Beautiful Brad-Point Bits

I recently bought an 8-piece set of Fisch brad-point bits on a whim. I saw them at a local woodworking store, thought of my dull collection of twist bits back…
Pro-grade Tile Cutter

My work always presents a problem of finding a place to set up my tile saw. Usually, the saw is banished to a garage or back porch far from the…

HOUSES by Design

3 Architectural Challenges and Solutions

HOUSES by Design: A Craftsman home, a small home, and a bungalow upgrade.

Design/Build

Create Beautiful Window Seats

Design/Build: It’s not uncommon to mock up several options before getting the right proportions.

Building Skills

Sharpening Chisels

Building Skills: Stay sharp for under $200 with the right process and materials.
Video: Sharpening on the Go

Building Skills video: Watch this durable, portable, and affordable sharpening method that’s ideal for remodelers.

Keep Craft Alive

Keep Craft Alive: Anthony Vitale, Stairbuilder and Finish Carpenter

"I couldn’t care less about skill set. You hire good people. You hire for passion."

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