10 Best Woodworking Blogs UK

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There’s a unique magic to woodworking. It’s in the sharp, sweet scent of freshly cut pine, the quiet scratch of a hand plane shaving a ribbon of oak, and the deep satisfaction of creating something solid and beautiful with your own two hands. For centuries, this craft has been passed down from master to apprentice. But what if your workshop is a small shed at the bottom of the garden, and the only master around is the cat sleeping on a pile of sawdust?

In today’s world, you don’t need a formal apprenticeship to learn the craft. The internet has thrown open the workshop doors, and a new generation of mentors is ready to guide you. They’re called bloggers, YouTubers, and digital creators, and they share their passion, projects, and hard-won wisdom for free. They can teach you how to sharpen a chisel until it can shave the hairs on your arm, build a bookshelf that doesn’t wobble, or even craft a family heirloom.

But with so much noise online, where do you start? How do you find the genuine experts among the endless stream of content? That’s where we come in. We’ve scoured the web to find the most inspiring, educational, and downright brilliant woodworking blogs out there. This isn’t just a list; it’s a curated collection of digital mentors who can help turn your woodworking dreams into reality. We’ve chosen a mix of British talent and international stars who offer something for everyone, whether you’re a complete beginner with a hand-me-down saw or an experienced maker looking for your next challenge.

So, grab a brew, pull up a chair (even if it’s one you hope to replace soon), and let’s explore the 10 best woodworking blogs to spark your creativity.

What Makes a Woodworking Blog Truly Great?

Before we dive into the list, it’s worth thinking about what separates a good blog from a great one. It’s not just about flashy projects or expensive tools. The best blogs have a certain soul to them, a combination of factors that make you want to come back again and again.

Crystal-Clear Instructions: The Blueprint for Success

A beautiful chest of drawers is one thing, but if the blogger can’t explain how they made it in a way that makes sense, it’s just eye candy. The best bloggers are teachers at heart. They break down complicated processes into simple, manageable steps. They explain the ‘why’ behind the ‘how’, so you’re not just copying them—you’re actually learning the craft.

A Spark of Personality: The Maker Behind the Wood

Woodworking is a human craft, and the best blogs reflect that. We want to get to know the person behind the plane. Their stories, their mistakes, their passion—it’s what makes the content relatable and engaging. A blog with personality feels less like a textbook and more like a chat with a knowledgeable mate in their workshop.

High-Quality Photos and Videos: Seeing is Believing

Woodworking is a visual art. Clear, well-lit photos and detailed videos are essential. They help us understand tricky techniques, see how a joint should fit, and appreciate the finished piece’s fine details. You can’t learn how to cut a dovetail from a blurry photo.

A Sense of Community: More Than Just a Website

The very best blogs build a community around them. The comments section is a lively hub of questions and encouragement, shared successes and friendly advice. It’s a place where fellow woodworkers can connect, learn from each other, and feel like they’re part of something bigger than their own shed.

The Main Event: 10 Woodworking Blogs to Get You Inspired

Right, let’s get to it. Here are ten of the best blogs out there, each with its own unique flavour. We’ve included a mix of styles, from traditional hand-tool purists to inventive makers who push the boundaries of the craft.

1. Paul Sellers’ Blog: The Grandmaster of Hand Tools

Who’s it for? Everyone. Seriously. From absolute beginners to seasoned professionals who want to reconnect with traditional methods.
What makes it special? Paul Sellers is a legend in the woodworking world, and for good reason. A traditionally trained woodworker from Stockport, he has a simple, powerful message: you don’t need a workshop full of expensive, noisy machines to create beautiful furniture. His focus is almost entirely on hand tools, and his blog is a masterclass in making them sing. He demystifies skills that can seem intimidating, like cutting dovetails or sharpening saws, with a calm, grandfatherly wisdom that is incredibly reassuring.
A project to try: His ‘Workbench’ build. It’s a rite of passage for many woodworkers. Using just a few basic hand tools, he guides you through building a rock-solid workbench that will become the heart of your workshop for decades. It’s a challenging project, but his clear instructions make it achievable.
Why we love it: Paul’s blog is an antidote to the consumerism that can creep into hobbies. He champions skill over expensive gear. His posts are not just tutorials; they’re lessons in a philosophy of craft, patience, and self-reliance. For anyone in Britain feeling like they lack the space or budget for woodworking, Paul Sellers shows you the way.

2. The English Woodworker (Richard Maguire): The Hand-Tool Philosopher

Who’s it for? Those who enjoy the quiet, meditative side of woodworking and want to perfect their hand-tool skills.
What makes it special? Like Paul Sellers, Richard Maguire is a passionate advocate for hand-tool woodworking. His blog, ‘The English Woodworker’, is filled with beautiful projects and thoughtful reflections on the craft. His writing is clean and his teaching style is methodical. He has a particular knack for explaining body mechanics—how to stand and move to make your planing more efficient and your sawing more accurate.
A project to try: Have a look at his ‘Dovetail Ripping Stool’. It’s a lovely little project that teaches fundamental skills like marking out, sawing straight, and chopping to a line, all while creating a simple, elegant, and useful piece of furniture.
Why we love it: Richard’s blog has a wonderful, calm atmosphere. It feels less like a noisy workshop and more like a peaceful retreat. He combines practical advice with a deeper appreciation for the connection between the maker, the tools, and the wood. It’s inspiring stuff.

3. Matt Estlea: The Energetic Educator

Who’s it for? Learners who want structured, in-depth lessons. Perfect for apprentices or serious hobbyists who want to understand the theory behind the practice.
What makes it special? Matt Estlea is a British woodworker who represents the new generation of online craft teachers. He’s a graduate of the renowned Rycotewood Furniture Centre, and his training shines through in everything he does. His blog and YouTube channel are packed with incredibly detailed tutorials that blend hand and power tools. He’s brilliant at explaining complex topics like wood science and tool technology in an accessible way.
A project to try: His ‘Dovetail Box’ series is a fantastic introduction to fine woodworking. He breaks down every single step with precision, leaving no stone unturned. You’ll learn more than just how to cut a joint; you’ll learn how to think like a furniture maker.
Why we love it: Matt’s enthusiasm is infectious. He has the energy of a young maker combined with the knowledge of an old pro. His content is exceptionally well-produced and perfect for anyone who wants to go beyond just following steps and truly understand the art of woodworking.

4. The Wood Whisperer (Marc Spagnuolo): The High-End Craftsman

Who’s it for? Intermediate to advanced woodworkers who want to tackle ambitious, fine-furniture projects.
What makes it special? Marc Spagnuolo, ‘The Wood Whisperer’, is one of the original godfathers of online woodworking content. Based in the US, his blog and videos have been setting the standard for quality for over a decade. His projects are often complex and beautifully designed, utilising a mix of power tools and hand-tool finesse. He excels at explaining advanced techniques with clarity and professionalism.
A project to try: If you’re feeling ambitious, his ‘Morris Chair’ is an iconic project. It’s a deep dive into mortise and tenon joinery, upholstery, and finishing. It’s a serious undertaking, but the result is a stunning heirloom piece.
Why we love it: The Wood Whisperer is aspirational. It shows you what’s possible when you combine skill, good design, and attention to detail. While many of his projects require a well-equipped workshop, the principles and techniques he teaches can be applied to any project, big or small.

5. Stumpy Nubs Woodworking Journal: The Workshop Scientist

Who’s it for? The tinkerer, the engineer, and anyone who asks “why?”. Especially good for power-tool users who want to get the absolute best performance from their machines.
What makes it special? Stumpy Nubs, hosted by James Hamilton, isn’t your typical project blog. It’s more like a scientific journal for woodworkers. He conducts rigorous tests on tools, debunks common woodworking myths, and delves deep into the physics of how cutting tools work. If you want to know the optimal blade height for your table saw or the real difference between blade geometries, this is your place.
A project to try: Rather than a specific furniture project, try building one of his brilliant workshop jigs. His cross-cut sled or his router table plans are legendary for their accuracy and usefulness. They’re projects that help you make other projects better.
Why we love it: Stumpy Nubs respects the intelligence of its audience. It provides evidence-based advice that helps you become a smarter, more efficient woodworker. It’s the perfect blog for anyone who loves to get nerdy about the details.

6. Izzy Swan: The Eccentric Inventor

Who’s it for? Anyone who loves clever problem-solving, mind-bending jigs, and out-of-the-box thinking.
What makes it special? Izzy Swan’s mind works differently. Where most people see a piece of wood, Izzy sees a folding chair that fits in a pocket or a table that expands to three times its size. His blog is a playground of mechanical marvels and woodworking ingenuity. He’s the undisputed king of jigs and contraptions that allow you to do amazing things with basic tools.
A project to try: Search his site for his ‘Folding Chair’ designs. They are incredible feats of engineering that are as much a puzzle as they are a woodworking project. They will challenge your skills and make you rethink what’s possible with wood.
Why we love it: Izzy’s work is pure, unadulterated fun. It reminds us that woodworking doesn’t always have to be about serious, straight-laced furniture. It can be playful, inventive, and wonderfully weird. His creativity is a powerful antidote to any creative block.

7. Peter Follansbee (Joiner’s Notes): The Woodworking Historian

Who’s it for? History buffs, carving enthusiasts, and anyone curious about how furniture was made before the age of machines.
What makes it special? For twenty years, Peter Follansbee was the joiner at Plimoth Plantation, a living history museum in the US that recreates the world of the 17th century. His blog is a deep dive into the techniques, tools, and designs of that era. He works exclusively with green oak, splitting it from the log and shaping it with axes, planes, and chisels. His focus on period-accurate carving is particularly mesmerising.
A project to try: You might not build a full 17th-century chest on your first go, but try one of his carving tutorials. Learning to carve a simple S-scroll or a floral motif with his guidance feels like connecting to a deep and ancient tradition.
Why we love it: Peter’s blog is a window into another time. It’s a quiet, scholarly, and deeply authentic resource that preserves and celebrates historical craftsmanship. It teaches you to appreciate the texture, warmth, and character of hand-worked wood.

8. Third Coast Craftsman (Scott): The Cinematic Maker

Who’s it for? Makers who appreciate aesthetics and a modern design sensibility.
What makes it special? Third Coast Craftsman is as much a filmmaking blog as it is a woodworking blog. Scott’s videos are beautifully shot, with a cinematic quality that elevates the craft. His projects often feature clean lines, mixed materials (like wood and metal), and a distinctly modern American style. He doesn’t talk much in his videos, letting the sounds of the workshop and the visuals tell the story.
A project to try: Look for his ‘Plywood Lounge Chair’. It’s a masterclass in working with sheet goods to create something sculptural and elegant. It shows that even humble materials can be turned into a statement piece.
Why we love it: It’s pure inspiration. Watching his videos is a calming and motivating experience. He makes you want to tidy your workshop, sharpen your tools, and create something beautiful. It’s a great example of how to present the craft in a fresh, contemporary way.

9. Women’s Woodshop (Jess): The Inclusive Innovator

Who’s it for? Beginners, and particularly women who might feel intimidated by a traditionally male-dominated hobby.
What makes it special? Created by Jess, Women’s Woodshop is on a mission to make woodworking accessible and welcoming to all. Her blog and tutorials are bright, friendly, and completely unpretentious. She tackles common beginner questions and fears head-on, creating a safe and encouraging space to learn. Her projects are practical, stylish, and designed to build confidence.
A project to try: Her ‘Floating Shelves’ or ‘Laptop Stand’ projects are perfect for a first-timer. They require only a few basic tools, teach fundamental skills, and give you a quick, satisfying win that will make you eager to build more.
Why we love it: This blog is breaking down barriers. It’s a powerful reminder that the workshop is for everyone. Jess’s approachable style and empowering message are a huge asset to the woodworking community, encouraging a new, more diverse generation of makers.

10. Ishitani Furniture (Jin Ishitani): The Minimalist Master

Who’s it for? Anyone who loves minimalist design and appreciates flawless craftsmanship. This is less of a tutorial blog and more of a pure design inspiration resource.
What makes it special? Based in Japan, Jin Ishitani creates furniture that is breathtaking in its simplicity and elegance. His blog and YouTube channel are almost silent, focusing purely on the visual poetry of his process. He works with incredible precision, and every movement is deliberate and graceful. Watching him work is a form of meditation. His designs blend traditional Japanese aesthetics with a modern sensibility.
A project to try: You don’t follow an Ishitani project; you study it. Watch his video on making a simple stool. Pay attention to how he marks his lines, the way he uses his chisels, and the care he takes with every single detail. Then, try to bring a fraction of that mindfulness to your own work.
Why we love it: Ishitani’s work is a masterclass in the art of ‘less is more’. It’s a reminder that good design isn’t about adding more decoration, but about refining a piece to its essential, beautiful form. It provides a quiet space for reflection and is a source of endless visual inspiration.

Getting the Most from Your Digital Workshop Buddy

So you’ve bookmarked a few blogs. Now what? To really benefit from these amazing resources, you need to engage with them actively.

Don’t Just Scroll, Study

Treat these blog posts like lessons. Take notes. Watch the videos multiple times. Pause and rewind to understand a tricky step. Pay attention to the details—how is the blogger holding the chisel? Why did they choose that specific joint?

Start Small, Win Big

It’s tempting to want to build a giant dining table straight away, but it’s a recipe for frustration. Pick a small, manageable project from one of the beginner-friendly blogs. A simple box, a small stool, a cutting board. A successful small project will give you a huge confidence boost.

Join the Conversation

If you have a question, ask it in the comments! The blogger and the community are usually more than happy to help. Share your own projects, too. Post a picture on social media and tag the blogger who inspired you. Engaging with the community is one of the most rewarding parts of the journey.

Adapt, Don’t Just Copy

Once you have a few projects under your belt, start making them your own. Use a different wood. Change the dimensions. Add a small decorative detail. The goal is not to become a perfect copy of your favourite blogger, but to develop your own unique style.

Beyond the Blog: Where Else to Find Woodworking Wisdom

Blogs are fantastic, but they’re just one piece of the puzzle. To round out your woodworking education, check out these other resources:

YouTube: Many of these bloggers have YouTube channels that are even more detailed than their blogs. It’s the best place for visual learners.
Instagram: Great for a quick dose of daily inspiration. Follow hashtags like #woodworkinguk and #furnituredesign to discover new makers.
Forums: Websites like UKworkshop.co.uk are bustling communities where you can ask specific questions and get answers from experienced hobbyists and professionals.
Magazines and Books: Don’t forget about print! Magazines like Furniture & Cabinetmaking and books from publishers like Lost Art Press offer incredible depth and quality.

Conclusion: Your Workshop Awaits

The path to becoming a skilled woodworker is a long and rewarding one. There will be mistakes—mis-cut boards, wobbly joints, and finishes that don’t quite turn out right. Every woodworker, including the ten on this list, has a pile of firewood that started as a project.

But you are not alone on this journey. Thanks to these generous and talented creators, you have access to a world of knowledge that was once locked away in professional workshops. You have a digital mentor ready to guide you, a community ready to support you, and a universe of inspiration just a click away.

So pick a blog that speaks to you. Find a project that excites you. Go to your workshop, shed, or corner of the garage, pick up your tools, and make a start. The magic is waiting.

From Shed to Statement Piece: 10 Woodworking Blogs to Inspire British Makers