How to make a basic box. And why you need to know how. | Woodworking BASICS. 

My dad was a carpenter and passed away a few years ago when I was 18. All of his tools have been sitting in my mom's garage and I've been inspired lately to try and start some woodworking myself, partially as an ode to him. I remember a lot of what to do from him, but these videos have been really helpful and I appreciate them a lot. Thank you for posting

As an actual beginner I find the mystery was not taken away here lol... "I like to clean up one side first then turn it around and rip it to the exact width..." is baffling to me, while using a load of big and expensive looking electric wood working tools. If anyone knows of any vids for absolute beginners I'd love to find some! Tia.

One of Steve's best quotes is something like " it won't be perfect, but you made it. Don't let your mates criticise it, after all, what have they made? Nothing, because they spent the weekend stuffing their faces watching box sets on Netflix"

I made a box! Thank you. It's sitting on my desk right now, and I'm very proud of it. Even if I did get turned around somewhere along the way and the grain of the end panels runs vertically. Call it a design choice. This great little project helped me build some new skills, get comfy with the table saw and I really feel capable of moving forward. Very good video, guide and plans.

Nice. Now all I need is a table saw, work bench, garage,wood, clamps, sander, straps,safety gear and I should be good to go. Ps. And a stir stick.😉

Steve I just wanted to say. I've been woodworking since about 2020. I started it around the time I lost my mom to cancer. It really was how I coped and kept myself mentally healthy in that time. This video is what I did for my second project and it really ignited my love for this craft/hobby. I have grown a lot in my skills since then but I attribute it to this video sparking my interest. So thank you for what you do and how you do it. I don't know you but you helped me out of a dark place. I wish you all the best and hope you are doing well.

First, let me say I am 63 yo and never really tried word working. Been thinking about a hobby after retirement. I came across your videos and got hooked. I've had a table saw for years. Recently bought a 12" miter saw. I think I got hooked at that point. Today I got a Router/Plunge Router set and gave it the good ol college try. Not there yet, but boy did I have cutting rabbits and coves and this and that. Don't know if I will ever be good at this, but thank you for your video's! They are fun to watch and easy to follow. Going to try the box tomorrow I think. I will hopefully let you know how it turns out. Thanks again.

This guy has a great charisma, love him, so encouraging, down to earth and truthful

I’ve watched this video probably 50 times, and after months of interest and watching all of Steve’s videos, I broke down and bought a table saw. I built this box as my first project, and I am hooked. Thanks Steve!

Create another basic box using manual tools like chisel and hand saw. Some beginners only have those tools as they are just starting. Hope you'd at least consider. Thanks!!

I took up woodworking in my 70's in retirement. The first thing I did was sign up for Steve's woodworking for mere mortals Weekend Woodworker course, after I bought his recommended tools. That course changed my life and I've been using the many lessons I learned ever since to make all kinds of things from wall hangings to a queen sized bed. Steve makes it easy and fun, and throws a few laughs in along the way. He also teaches many lessons on safety, and always keeps your pocketbook in mind. I'm no artist, so I prefer to follow instructions....and I've found no one better than Steve Ramsey to provide those instructions.

Hi Steve, just wanted to let you know how much I appreciate your videos. As a (very) mature lady with not much expertise, and even less money, just starting out on my woodworking journey, I love your practical approach and easy to follow instructions. I’ve been a subscriber for a few years now and continue to watch your videos multiple times. You are one of the very few woodwork RU-vidrs who still appreciate that the majority of viewers don’t have access to Festools and CNC machines. I’ve unsubscribed from quite a few who have lost sight of us hobbyists out here, or just want to post videos that keep their sponsors happy but have little actual value. So, stay humble and don’t sell out to the sponsors and leave us behind. Thank you Steve!

Beautiful work. Your enthusiasm for woodwork is infectious. No nonsense, no gimmicks, just straight instruction.

This was well explained and the demonstrations seemed easy to follow. I have never tried wood working (beyond decorative wood burning) before, but once I build up some basic skills I’d love to rewatch this video and try to make this beautiful box!

Hi Steve. Long time viewer. Retired carpenter. For my entire career, when asked what I do for a living, I responded,”I make boxes”. You really nailed this one. 😅

Just want to say thank you for the videos. I've watched this video numerous times now and I am still learning new things each time I watch. Since this has become my new hobby and therapy, your videos are perfect and always very detailed on how to do it all. So thank you.

every time I cut a rabbet I`m always a hare off

I love your enthusiasm and natural approach to teaching. Thanks for sharing.

I discovered woodworking during the pandemic. I have always had a knack for making things. I took it to the next level and emersed myself in it. It literally saved me.

Steve, this is such a well delivered instruction video! The simple skills, done right, can make so many things! Thanks again, and keep it up!!

I LOVE that you're making these kinds of videos again!! So much I love them.

You provide such great material to your viewers. I appreciate all of your hard work. I truly appreciate it!

Steve what I like about your videos is not only the educational part but that you use equipment that is what the average woodworker might afford/have. Thank you!

Thank you sooo much I have never wood worked before and have limited tools. I was able to make my father a box for his vintage knife collection for Christmas. I can not wait to give it to him.. thank you so much for making beginner friendly videos for guys like me.. thank you with all my heart.

Man you made my day with this. So cool to have you back. We need you Steve!!!!!

I just started woodworking and I like this guy Steve, and learning a lot from him especially basic knowledge. However, what kind of beginner have 8 pcs of Clamp, and Table Saw.....

As a woodworker, I learned the hard way. I started off not knowing how to do anything, and worked my way up. I originally used to nail everything together. Boxes, desks anything really. In reality, the best way is wood glue and a dovetail joint. I have enough skill now to chisel a dovetail joint. But, I would not recommend this for beginners. A miter joint is simplistic and easier to produce. By no means am I an expert, and I still have a lot to learn, but I want to encourage everyone to try woodworking. It is tons of fun and the final product is extremely rewarding.

Thanks for the suggestion, I am 74 years old and since I am practicing social distancing and staying home this was the perfect project....it was rough but I got it done

Love your videos you explain everything to where everyone can understand them

Love the energy you have Steve, even on these simple things.

So many complain about the costs... $1K... but so many of those same people spend that much on golf clubs, media set-ups or auto accessories... it is a modest investment in a lifetime hobby or potentially a start-up business adventure... I know lots of friends who anguished at spending $1k on the first beginner DSLR/camera... then went on to pay $2-3k for a new lens or camera body upgrade... THANK YOU for the great information for some one who currently owns a $150. table saw but is now eyeing an upgrade.... I am just waiting for the $600 ones to come on sale...

You are one of my favorites, I truely enjoy the funnier videos. Your humbleness is so entertaining. Thank you so much for the years of truely amazing content.

It doesn't matter how advanced or how many tools I have I been watching for many years and totally enjoy your videos.

Always great content. As a weekend woodworker myself your videos have been a great help over the last few years. Thanks for the inspiration and advice I for one really appreciate it.

I appreciate you very much! I have been binging on your videos for two weeks now and I wanted to say hi and THANK YOU! I picked this vid to post on, as it is both rather fresh and has this beginner, weekend woodworker spirit as well. I assume there are a lot more passive viewers of your channel than active ones. It must suck not to be able to know how many people you are actually inspiring and educating with this. I have enormous respect for what you are doing here. Too bad I don't own a house and a garage for my own workshop yet. For guys like me, living in a city or without workshop real estate, there are options still. Hobby enthusiast workshops are growing like mushrooms in bigger cities (in Germany at least). There might be such a thing in your vicinity.

I just finished the box and it was an AWESOME learning experience and for to spend time with my father. I changed the height from 3" to 5" and put hinges on it. Thank you so much for the plans.

Enjoyable video, Steve. I especially appreciate that you took the time and effort to show how one can cut those rabbets without using a router. Like lots of people, I don't own a router--yet.

Hey +Steve Ramsey, I like how you explain your project with simple easy to learn instructions. Also thanks for your tool list, I manage to pick up a lot of tools well under $1000.

Thank you Steve Great tutelage I’ve enjoyed all of your videos I just finished setting up my woodshop making my first desk for my office! Your guidance has been very much appreciated especially learning to use jigs

Thank you Steve Ramsey for doing these videos. For us new woodworkers, these are wonderful.

Finishing my second box. Gave the first one to my wife. You got me hooked Steve. Thank you. PS Next one I might try miter joints.

Welcome back “ole’ Steve!” Loved this video!

Basic instructions and basic box for an old guy with very basic skills. Valuable for me. Thank you!

I really appreciate straightforward instruction on practical projects. Thanks.

Wow, you do great teaching videos!!

Hey Steve! - Been marathoning your vids for a couple days now haha. Must say I really love how you explain every thought process behind your videos/projects. Very easy to follow for someone who has zero experience with wood working. I move into my first house in a good 2 months! Since I am needing furniture for everything, I thought about trying out making my own (I am the kinda person who loves DIY projects/Hobbies like these, so could be fun!) as your videos have really inspired me! Keep up the awesome work!

Love your videos. I just got into building outdoor furniture last year and your videos are very helpful- thank you!

Steve, you always avoid hype and I really appreciate that. Your channel is some no nonsense, down to earth stuff with some great advice (like don’t clamp edge to edge pieces too tight or you’ll get a buckle.) Thanks for sharing your approach!

I will say, I've completely loved my flat ground blade. They cost just as much as normal atb blade and having it as a backup and for special purpose use has been useful. I know people don't always like investing in table saw blades, but having the right tool for the right job I think is really important. There's no single blade really does everything well. Having Rip blades, cross cut blades, combination blades, and dado stacks all have their purpose. Investing in your shop can allow you to work more efficiently and more safely. Not to mention you'll end up with better tool wear - saving you in the long run.

Steve you are one of the best content creators on RU-vid. Well done and best wishes to you.

I love your enthusiasm and explainations! Thanks for the video!

Dude, you are incredible. Thank you for your time and patience building these wonderful teaching tools.

10:18 that lid close sound, so satisfying

Always start with Steve for any new project type. Offers great, easy approaches for "stuff."

I've learned so much from not only your knowledge but your way of teaching! Thanks for the info

This was the best and funest project I have ever made. Thanks Steve. I was ambitious and used oak and it came out just great

great explanation! that's why your videos are so good!

You are so right about that - can you make a box you can make anything. I might copy that line ;) Well made video and a great channel!

Thanks for your videos. I've recently gotten into woodworking and this is the first thing I'm working on.

Steve: Thank you so much for your web sight and RU-vid channel. Really like your style and instructions for the projects. Having fun learning and doing... 👍

I’m sitting on a small mountain of timber from Western Australian Jarrah trees that I milled myself a few years ago. I’m a steel fabricator by trade and am keen to get into wood work to do something with all that I have. I’m enjoying your videos and just wanted to say thank you for all of your invaluable information. Cheers.

Nice work Steve! Great to see you again!

How to make a basic box, a classic beginners project for people starting from scratch. *jumps straight to the table saw*

I subbed immediately. Loves the way you say that most woodworking comes from knowing how to make a box because it really is the fundamentals of dimensional construction.

dang that sound of the lid dropping in at the end was so nice.

"rebates in the UK" Thank you for making me super sure I wasn't going crazy watching US woodworkers! Much love from the UK

Those sanding sticks are legit. I made a few with different grits and loved them in my latest project, the mobile table saw cart. I wish u had reviewed this video again - the advice on making rabbets is spot on and I could have used the refresher before my first rabbeting attempts. Test pieces are no joke. Thanks Steve - this video is excellent.

This was the first video of Steve's I ever saw...not entirely sure how it came into my algorithm, but I have never looked back since. Current member of the Weekend Woodworker and Weekend Workshop courses! Love it.

This is the first one of your videos I've ever seen, and I liked and subscribed one minute into your video.

Great video Steve ! Learned alot !

I've been woodworking for years, but I learned some great tips from this video! These tips are AMAZING!!!

This was super helpful, I may not have all the tools but I know the direction I need to go in so that I can make something special for someone. Thank you for the help!

Steve, thank you for these basics videos. I am an aspiring woodworker thanks to Channels like wood and crafted workshop but those guys are way beyond what I can do at this point in my small two bedroom apartment. I do not have the ability to have a table saw at this point but I make it work with what I have for small projects. Keep the videos coming! If you have any suggestions for us apartment people I would definitely be interested in hearing your ideas.

Steve you're the best! And wow, I love woodworking or the thought of it but I'm a beginners beginner...even this box is extremely difficult for me 🤦‍♂️

Thank you your tips are great !!! Just starting with a bed project, dont want to mess it up

Ive always been interested in being handy and learning how to make things with my hands. I've always felt like I start things too late but seeing all these folks of all different levels in the comments gives me hope.

You are a genuine legend. Keep up the good work.

Steve, you are a great woodworker and you are a great presenter. Congratulations on the beautiful work ! I take your work as my source of inspiration and learning in the art of working wood.

Beautiful work, thanks for showing the build.

Thanks man for all the info in all your videos. Really helped me make desks for my daughters. They are very useful in times like these.

I could watch your videos all day Steve 😍😍😍

Steve, I have a confession to mmmmmmicro jig! I miss those intro's I have to admit. You always made me smile with them. Thanks for the video and keep up the great content.

Nice piece Sir! Watching your videos, helps me a lot on side stepping all of those landmines in woodworking for beginners! Thanks!

Ingenious. My dad taught shop for over 35 years. Nothing he couldn’t make. I would love to know if he has ever seen this… have to ask him on the other side.

Hey, one of my favorite tools. The free paint stirring stick. It's so versatile.

You are an excellent instructor. With a minimal intro, you dive right into the project or lecture and you are very concise and well versed. I always learn something when I watch your videos - extremely valuable to a novice such as myself. Thanks - So Much - for sharing your knowledge and expertise!!!

Thank you so much for this explanation it really helps to have it broken down!

I love your videos and how you explain things. Thanks so much for sharing your knowledge.

When I learned to sew, I learned everything was a pillow case. I love basic, accessible instructions like this. Thanks! And thank you for using safety gear. So tired of seeing videos where people maybe doing good work but modeling crappy habits.

I’ve been looking up woodworking classes near me and then I found you. Going to try this first before spending $300 on a basic box making class lol. Thank you

I did my first box with your instructions. Thank you very much. God bless!

Woohoo! Made my first box after watching this using the rabbit joint. My table saw has always been intimidating for me. Getting a better feel for it. Thanks!

Good job as usual young man. 😎

Thanks for wearing safety gear! People forget that in videos a lot of times.👍😃

It's great you did this with basic tools. Most tutorials out there are using 7 high end machines in a 20K workshop for the same purpose.

Thank you for all your videos! I made my first box today!

"That you can do with simple tools." *starts on table saw*

A bit of twine and a couple twists of a stick are a decent alternative to the strap. Nice demo. ~Hans

WOW, This is a really useful video. Thank you. Ill go give this one a try for sure!!!

Safe, simple, clean and clear... great job!