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Step up to the lathe! On this episode of Whatcha Makin', Alex Duffey and Alex Adams welcome master woodturner and host of Sawdust Talk, TJ from TJT Workshop, for a deep dive into the world of woodturning.

TJ breaks down the basics, explaining what woodturning is, why it offers instant gratification, and the exciting possibilities of working with green wood. They discuss the essential tools you need to start—from affordable beginner lathes (like the Harbor Freight Bauer) to the debate between easy-to-use carbide scrapers and traditional steel gouges. TJ shares crucial safety advice, addresses the importance of high-quality PPE (including the dangers of turning with gloves!), and answers listener questions on preferred cutting techniques and how to duplicate projects using calipers and story sticks.

Plus, hear about Alex Duffey's holiday production run of CNC game boards and wooden earrings, and Alex Adams’s custom laser-engraved memorial piece and beautiful walnut sofa table. In "Whatcha Watchin'," they spotlight incredible maker projects, including intricate puzzle tables, next-level resin art, and the mind-blowing multi-axis woodturning of Derek Weidman.

Tune in for invaluable tips, shop humor, and a renewed appreciation for one of the oldest and most satisfying crafts in the maker community!

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This week on Whatcha Makin', Alex Duffey and Alex Adams tackle a topic every maker can relate to: woodworking on a budget! They share their best tips on scoring hand-me-down tools and affordable wood on Facebook Marketplace, plus creative ways to supplement your income by selling at markets or filming your own DIY projects.

Alex Duffey gives a full recap of the Texas Woodworking Fest, sharing his experiences from the classes and the expo floor, along with some memorable moments with friends (and a CNC tattoo!). Meanwhile, Adams discusses his latest projects, from a sofa/bar table to a charcuterie board. You'll also hear what broke this week (a router and a dust extractor!), and get some inspiration from their "Whatcha Watchin'" picks, which include incredible builds from the maker community.

Tune in for practical advice, real-world stories, and plenty of humor about the triumphs and tribulations of being a maker!

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This week on Whatcha Makin', Alex Duffey and Alex Adams tackle a topic close to every maker's heart: kids in the shop! They share invaluable advice on setting clear safety rules, staving off curiosity, and getting kids involved with hands-on projects, from hammering nails to using tools like a hand drill or spokeshave.

Get an update on their latest projects, including Duffey’s Yahtzee boxes and a new run of laser notebooks, and Adams’s jigsaw work on serving trays and side tables. They also get real in "Whatcha Breakin'," with broken bits and a close call with a smoking dust collector. Plus, in "Whatcha Watchin'," they spotlight incredible maker creations from the community and new documentaries you need to see.

Tune in for practical safety tips, creative ideas for engaging the next generation of makers, and plenty of laughs about the triumphs and tribulations of shop life!

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