Regardless of skill level, beginners and professionals sometimes find it challenging to develop new project ideas. There are many great resources to fuel your creativity, but without the right one, you could end up with flimsy projects and ones that don’t give the best advice.
Don’t worry—I’ve personally curated a list of the best woodworking magazines out there. They’re packed with inspiring projects and top-notch tips that have always helped me stay on track. I’m sure they’ll do the same for you!
Reviews of the Top Woodworking Magazines
1. WoodWorkers Guild of America (WWGOA)
Suppose you find instructional printed materials a bit overwhelming to read and follow. In that case, a digital membership subscription with advanced videos, project plans, and instructions like WWGOA is the best option I highly recommend for you.
With their affordable membership rate, woodworkers get exclusive access to all premium videos involving tool reviews, tips, and techniques from experts. You can also challenge your skills through WWGOA library of woodworking plans and projects that range from simple to complicated.
Their membership packages also include special woodworking classes in WWGOA Academy. And if you’re stuck amid a project, you can ask experts for any woodworking shop notes.
What I Like
- I love the 24/7 access to tool reviews, tips, and technique videos.
- Has a premium library for woodworking plans and projects.
- The woodworking classes in their gold membership have been quite beneficial.
- The 'cancel anytime' policy offers flexibility.
- Being able to directly email experts for advice is invaluable.
- The steep discounts on video downloads are a nice touch.
- They've been crafting quality tutorials for a good while now.
- Practical subscription for woodworkers not fond of printed materials.
What I Don't Like
- Their shipping capabilities are a bit limited.
- Access varies depending on the membership level, which can be a bummer for some.
2. Woodcraft Magazine
Inclusive of handy tool reviews and step by step instructions, Woodcraft became popularly known as the best woodworking magazine for beginners. All its issues showcased different tips and tricks to achieve a fine woodworking masterpiece.
With over ninety-nine magazine issues released, Woodcraft has introduced various woodworking projects that gave its readers a list of detailed information about every good material and tool available in the market.
In every issue, I’ve come across articles brimming with insights from seasoned woodworkers. Their expert advice, rooted in years of hands-on experience, has always been a source of inspiration for me.
What I Like
- It's a go-to woodworking magazine, especially for newcomers.
- They've consistently delivered, with over 99 issues since 2007.
- I can always look forward to at least six issues every year.
- Their woodworking projects are detailed and approachable for beginners.
- Articles penned by seasoned woodworkers provide invaluable insights.
- The reviews on tools and materials are thorough and helpful.
What I Don't Like
- A downside for international enthusiasts: they don't offer international shipping.
- They also don't dispatch on weekends, which can be a bit inconvenient.
3. WOOD Magazine
For a woodworker who’s been honing his/her skills for years, going for magazine subscriptions with basic features is never a practical choice. So if unique and refreshing projects are what you seek, WOOD is one of the most informative magazines you can consider buying.
Aside from wood plans and templates, they offer detailed articles about joinery [1], cutting, carving, scrolling, and cabinetry.
One can also find well-written product reviews about the latest tools and materials that can make any woodwork activities easier and produce high-quality outputs in every issue of WOOD magazine.
What I Like
- Every issue surprises me with unique and outstanding wood projects.
- The tips and techniques resonate well with my level of woodworking experience.
- It's a reliable source for info on the must-have tools and materials in the trade.
- Their deep dives into various woodworking processes are detailed and superbly articulated.
- I can count on them to deliver six solid issues every year.
What I Don't Like
- The frequency of their magazine releases can be unpredictable at times.
- For my fellow US readers, remember there's a sales tax on orders.
4. Woodworker’s Journal
Woodworker’s Journal is one of the top woodworking magazines you can buy in the market, with a full-size pattern included in each issue.
New woodworkers and professionals alike will surely be delighted with its unique projects presented in a detailed step-by-step format. It is an ideal gift for woodworkers who wanted to hone their skills more. Woodworker’s Journal magazine also features information about popular and recommended tools to create a fine woodworking masterpiece.
Besides that, I’m genuinely impressed as this magazine is the only one on this list that has instructions and techniques about choosing the right lumber based on its price and quality.
What I Like
- Includes unique and new ideas for woodworking projects
- It's my go-to when I need specific recommendations tailored to a project.
- The full-size patterns they include in every issue are immensely helpful.
- Their instructions are clear and well-penned—makes the whole process smoother.
- I appreciate their recommendations on the latest and trending tools.
- They showcase various woodcarving techniques which I've found enlightening.
- The auto-renewal and 'cancel anytime' subscription options add flexibility.
What I Don't Like
- Unfortunately, they only ship within the US.
- For those eager to start, keep in mind that the first print issues can take 12-16 weeks to arrive.
Woodworking Magazines Buyer’s Guide
Skill Level
More than anything else, the first thing one should consider when buying a woodworking magazine is their skill level.
As a seasoned woodworker, I tend to bypass magazines that rehash the basics. Likewise, newcomers to the craft might find certain magazines a bit too advanced, setting them up for projects that could be a tad challenging.
What’s Covered
These magazines cover various topics related to wood, tools, and the construction process. If you have specific information or features in mind, reviewing the contents before subscribing is advisable. This way, you can ensure that the magazine aligns with your interests and provides the information you seek.
Projects and Plans
One of the most crucial pieces of content you should look out for is the projects and plans included in the magazine. Even if you’re enticed with projects included in the magazine, always consider the available tools and materials in your woodworking shop before deciding to work on it.
Pictures and Illustrations
Even if a magazine has a long list of fresh ideas, none of this matters if the instructions are not correctly laid out. This dilemma is especially true for beginners. If you’re new to woodworking, getting a magazine with clear pictures and illustrations will significantly help your construction process.
Price
These magazine subscriptions often come in an annual membership plan. Based on the given price, woodworkers can access specific premium offerings like video tutorials, email queries from professionals, and product discounts.
My Top Pick For a Woodworking Magazine: WoodWorkers Guild of America (WWGOA)
Backed up with long industry experience since 2008 and unique content curated by professionals, I decided to hail WoodWorkers Guild of America (WWGOA) as the best woodworking magazine subscription out of the four viable contenders on this evaluation.
It’s not just their video contents that have impressed me. From my experience, their woodworking classes are invaluable. They’ve certainly helped me enhance my skills and gain fresh insights, and I’m confident they’ll benefit many other woodworkers too.
Robert Johnson is a passionate furniture maker & carpenter, sought after for his knowledge on the craft.
You’ve probably seen his down-to-earth wisdom in USA Today, Bobvila, Family Handyman, and The Spruce, where he has shared commentary and guidance on various woodworking topics.
Robert is the brain behind Sawinery, where he aims to share tips, tricks, and a passion for all things carpentry.
