Book Review- PlyDesign

PlyDesign: 73 Distinctive DIY Projects in Plywood (and Other Sheet Goods) is a collection of projects by different designers the use plywood sheets and other sheet goods for construction. For the DIY enthusiast who enjoys wood working, there are a lot of good reasons to get this book. The projects are good mix of perfect beginner's projects and more advanced projects. For the woodworker who is comfortable and experienced, there are a lot of projects that can be put together reasonably quickly.

If you're considering getting into woodworking and have access to power tools and someone who is willing to show you how to use them, this book has wonderful, contemporary designs for very functional furniture items made out of very affordable plywood. A lot of the designs only take one sheet of plywood. The instructions are clearly written with easy to understand plans for cutting.

It starts with an introduction to plywood, the different types, and where the best places to buy it are. It also includes tips on hauling and storing the sheets which are generally 4x8 feet and tips for making clean cuts.

Then you get into the projects.  My favorite kinds of projects are good knock down items. Things that can be dissembled easily and reassembled. There is a set of slot and tab end tables that use careful, clever cutting to make 2 out of one sheet of plywood to make a table that's over 3 feet across and stands about 30 inches high. The size, cost and ease of knockdown and putting them up make them perfect tables for all sorts of things.

Stacked candleholders are an example of a project that can be made using hand tools. They are attractive and can be made in different sizes using scraps of plywood. It's a great project for children who are just learning to saw and use a brace.

For a bigger challenge, the Bamboo Ply Wall Unit uses the most sheets and pricier bamboo plywood, but the end result is a gorgeous item of furniture that's very functional.

This collection of projects has a lot of very handy designs, especially for parents who prefer the look of wood to the plastic that so much children's furniture is made in. There are tables, chairs, shelves and a very stylish lamp for more adult decorating projects.

Published by Storey Publishing.

I received a complimentary copy of this book to review, my reviews are always my personal and honest opinion. You can read more about my review policy here.