To enjoy woodworking, all you need is a few essential tools, a little bit of space, and the desire to make something with your own two hands.

The Minimalist Woodworker is about making woodworking clean and simple—from the tools and the workspace to the easy-to-follow instructions. Woodworking is thriving in the hands-on, DIY, maker world we currently live in. Yet, for it’s increasing popularity, there are many crafters who don’t engage in woodworking because they falsely believe you need a large workshop and a full-blown collection of tools and equipment. The Minimalist Woodworker disproves this myth. It eliminates the fears and excuses as it demystifies the craft. Written by Vic Tesolin, aka the Minimalist Woodworker, a woodworker and woodworking instructor, The Minimalist Woodworker is a stress-free approach for the hobbyist that emphasizes the destination is actually the journey.

Beginning with an understanding of the minimalist mindset, The Minimalist Woodworker quickly details how to make a small space productive and outlines the most efficient tools for a woodworker. Each piece of equipment is explained and instructions on how to use are provided. Techniques for keeping them sharp and maintained are also explained. Once space and tools are covered, seven projects are presented: a saw bench and matching saw horse, a Nicholson-style workbench, a shooting board/bench hook, a shop mallet, and a small hanging cabinet. Each project not only develops woodworking skills, but also outfits the minimalist woodworker’s small shop. With step-by-step instruction, photos and illustrations, and an easy-going voice, The Minimalist Woodworker offers a stress-free point of entry into the life-long craft of woodworking.

Vic Tesolin began his career in woodworking after serving 14 years in the Royal Canadian Horse Artillery. After an honourable discharge, he went on to study furniture design and making at Rosewood Studio under the guidance of some of North America's top furniture makers. Following that, he started a small business (Vic Tesolin Woodworks) designing and crafting furniture by commission while working at Rosewood as a part-time instructor and craftsman in residence. 

He’s had the pleasure of holding various woodworking-related positions over the years. Following his job as editor for Canadian Woodworking & Home Improvement Magazine, he became the Woodworking Advisor at Lee Valley Tools, where he helped develop tools and traveled around the globe to teach and present at various conferences, shows, and woodworking events. Currently, Tesolin heads up all things VTW and contracts on occasion for international woodworking companies. 

Tesolin has been published in several woodcraft journals including Fine Woodworking, Canadian Woodworking & Home Improvement, and Australian Wood Review. He keeps a regular blog for Fine Woodworking Magazine and KJP Select Hardwoods, and is the author of two books: The Minimalist Woodworker and Projects from the Minimalist Woodworker, both published by Blue Hills Press. 

Vic Tesolin's profile page