What is TedsWoodworking?
TedsWoodworking is a downloadable guide created by Ted McGrath, a professional woodworker and designer. According to its promotional materials, the package contains 16,000+ woodworking plans, complete with step-by-step instructions, detailed diagrams, and material lists for projects of all shapes and sizes. The plans range from small, beginner-friendly items like birdhouses to more complex furniture pieces such as cabinets and bed frames.
Ted’s goal, as stated, is to simplify woodworking and make it accessible to people of all skill levels, from novices to seasoned carpenters. The program promises to eliminate the guesswork in woodworking projects, allowing users to follow clear blueprints and achieve professional-quality results.
What’s Included in TedsWoodworking?
The package contains:
- 16,000+ Woodworking Plans: From small decorative items to full-scale furniture, the plans cover a broad spectrum of woodworking projects.
- Step-by-Step Instructions: Each project comes with detailed steps to follow, making it easy to progress from start to finish.
- Material and Cutting Lists: These ensure that you know exactly what materials and tools are required before starting the project, helping to avoid unnecessary trips to the hardware store.
- High-Quality Diagrams: Clear, colorful diagrams accompany each plan, helping users visualize the process and end product.
- Bonus Features:
- A DWG/CAD plan viewer to customize designs.
- A guide to starting a woodworking business.
- Free lifetime updates to the plans.
The Pros of TedsWoodworking
1. Comprehensive Range of Projects
One of the standout features of TedsWoodworking is its sheer volume of plans. Whether you want to build a simple coffee table or a sophisticated outdoor shed, the program offers something for every skill level. This diversity makes it a versatile tool for hobbyists looking to try different types of projects.
2. Beginner-Friendly Instructions
The detailed instructions and visual aids make it easier for beginners to approach woodworking with confidence. Users often praise the clear material lists, which take the guesswork out of preparation.
3. Affordable Compared to Individual Plans
Purchasing woodworking plans individually can add up quickly, with many single plans costing $10–$50 or more. By bundling thousands of plans for a one-time fee, TedsWoodworking provides good value for money, especially for those who plan to complete multiple projects.
4. Flexibility and Customization
With the inclusion of CAD/DWG software, users can tweak designs to suit their personal preferences or project requirements. This feature appeals to advanced users who want to make adjustments to existing plans.
5. Lifetime Access and Updates
Users benefit from free lifetime updates, which ensure that the collection remains relevant and continues to grow with time.
The Cons of TedsWoodworking
Despite its popularity, TedsWoodworking is not without criticism. Below are some common concerns expressed by users:
1. Overwhelming Number of Plans
While having access to 16,000 plans sounds like a major advantage, many users find the sheer volume overwhelming. The plans are not categorized in a user-friendly way, making it difficult to sift through the collection to find the perfect project.
2. Inconsistent Quality
Not all the plans are created equal. Some users report that certain plans lack sufficient detail, making them difficult to follow. Others complain about outdated designs or low-quality diagrams that don’t meet modern woodworking standards.
3. Digital Format Limitations
TedsWoodworking is a downloadable product, and some users find it inconvenient to rely solely on a digital format. Printing out detailed plans can be cumbersome, especially for larger projects.
4. Marketing Hype
Some buyers feel that the marketing for TedsWoodworking exaggerates the simplicity of the plans. While many are beginner-friendly, more complex projects require advanced skills and equipment, which might frustrate novices who lack the necessary experience.
5. Similar Free Alternatives
Experienced woodworkers point out that many high-quality woodworking plans are available for free online. While the convenience of having all the plans in one place is a plus, some users feel that TedsWoodworking doesn’t justify its price when free resources are readily available.
Is TedsWoodworking Legit?
The legitimacy of TedsWoodworking lies in its ability to deliver on its core promise: providing a vast collection of woodworking plans. While the product does offer substantial value, especially for beginners, it’s important to manage expectations. Not every plan is perfect, and the program may not meet the needs of advanced woodworkers looking for highly specialized or intricate designs.
It’s worth noting that Ted McGrath’s credentials as a professional woodworker are genuine, and many satisfied users have successfully completed projects using his plans. However, the criticisms regarding organization and quality control are valid and should be considered before purchasing.
Who Should Buy TedsWoodworking?
TedsWoodworking is best suited for:
- Beginners: If you’re new to woodworking, the straightforward instructions and wide range of projects make this an excellent starting point.
- DIY Enthusiasts: Hobbyists looking for inspiration or a comprehensive collection of plans will appreciate the convenience of having so many designs in one place.
- Budget-Conscious Shoppers: For the price of a few individual plans, you gain access to thousands, making it a cost-effective option for those planning multiple projects.
However, experienced woodworkers or those seeking cutting-edge designs might find the collection less appealing due to inconsistencies in quality and outdated plans.
Final Verdict: Is TedsWoodworking Worth It?
TedsWoodworking delivers on its promise of providing a massive library of woodworking plans, making it a valuable resource for beginners and hobbyists. However, it’s not without its flaws, including inconsistent quality and organizational challenges. While it may not live up to all the hype, it remains a legitimate product that has helped many users create impressive projects.
If you’re considering purchasing TedsWoodworking, take stock of your skill level, expectations, and goals. For those who prioritize convenience and diversity in plans, it’s a solid investment. But if you’re an advanced woodworker looking for precision and innovation, you may want to explore other options.
