Over the years, many great woodworking TV shows have aired and gained positive reception from their respective audiences. These programs showcase the talents of some of the most skilled woodworkers in the world and offer viewers a chance to see how these experts create amazing pieces of furniture, art, and more. If you’re a woodworking enthusiast, you might want to check out the shows we’ve listed below.
9 Woodworking TV Shows You Need to know
1. The Woodwright’s Shop – This program, which aired on PBS from 1979 to 2017, was hosted by master woodworker Roy Underhill. The show was educational, teaching viewers about different aspects of woodworking and showcasing traditional techniques that were used in the past. The host used the hand tools of early America, so it provided a historical perspective and the realization that we can create beautiful pieces even without the modern power tools that exist today.
2. New Yankee Workshop – Another PBS show, this one ran from 1989 to 2009 and was hosted by Norm Abram. New Yankee Workshop focused on building various furniture pieces and other projects using power tools. In the show, Abram would also offer tips and advice to viewers on how to best use these tools, and he would also show how to repair older furniture.
3. The American Woodshop – This show aired on public television stations across the United States from 1990 to 2016. It was hosted by Scott Phillips, who is a woodworking instructor and author. The American Woodshop featured a wide range of projects, from building simple items like birdhouses to more complex pieces like cabinets and tables.
4. Woodworks – This Canadian TV show aired on DIY (Do It Yourself) via satellite and cable. With 91 episodes that spanned 7 seasons, Woodworks focused many different aspects of woodworking, such as working with reclaimed wood or using alternative power tools.
5. The Wood Whisperer – This show, which is still airing today, is hosted by Marc Spagnuolo. It originally aired on public television in the United States but can now be seen online via the show’s website and YouTube channel. The Wood Whisperer focuses on teaching viewers about different woodworking techniques and projects.
6. Rough Cut: Woodworking with Tommy Mac – This show debuted in 2009 and is still airing today on PBS. It is hosted by Tommy MacDonald, who is a well-known woodworker and author. Rough Cut features MacDonald working on a variety of woodworking projects with the help of other experts. After the seventh season of the show, Tom McLaughlin was introduced as the new host.
7. Timber Kings – This Canadian reality TV show, which premiered in 2014, follows the work of a family-run timber company. Viewers get an inside look at how the business operates and the various challenges that the team faces in building the most beautiful log homes around the world.
8. The Prince’s Master Crafters: The Next Generation – This UK TV show is airing on Sky Arts, and is backed by His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales, who is also the president of Heritage Crafts. It’s hosted by Jim Moir and follows amateur craftspeople who take on different challenges in woodworking and other fields as well. In the seven-part series, the show aims to shed light as well on the rich art heritage that Britain has.
9. The Woodwright’s Apprentice – This show was a spin-off of The Woodwright’s Shop and aired on PBS from 2013 to 2014. It featured master woodworker Peter Follansbee teaching viewers about different aspects of woodworking.
Conclusion
These are just a few of the great woodworking TV shows that have aired in the last couple of years. Each one offers viewers a chance to learn about this fascinating trade and see some of the amazing things that can be created with wood. While some of these shows aired exclusively on TV, some of them have their own websites where you can watch episodes or purchase the project plans featured on the show as well. Whatever your preference is, these shows are exceptionally informative and helpful to a novice or advanced woodworker.
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.
