Okay, so I grabbed this book for my husband who's obsessed with woodturning. His reaction? Pure joy! The man hasn't put it down since it arrived.
What makes it special? First off, Raffan's projects are actually doable. Not those impossible 'look-what-I-can-do' showoff pieces. Real projects with clear steps that don't make you want to throw your chisel across the workshop.
The photos? Chef's kiss. Crisp, well-lit, and actually show what matters. None of those artsy shots where you can't see the damn wood grain.
Here's the kicker - even though I bought this as a gift, I've caught myself flipping through it too. There's something about Raffan's writing that makes complex techniques sound... well, not simple, but at least achievable.
Pro tip: If your partner/friend/dad is into turning, just get this. Saved me from another 'what do woodworkers even want?' panic attack before Father's Day.