‘American Woodshop’ begins 18th season

After 17 seasons, Scott Phillips still has plenty of ideas for this season's episodes of "The American Woodshop," which began airing Aug. 29 on PBS stations.

“Woodworking is my passion in life, and everything I do leads to 10 new projects. I think most woodworkers have a project list that is ever-growing, because nothing produces satisfaction better than working with your hands,” said Phillips in a release.

This season features 13 “Weekender” projects, including a Shaker-inspired wall cabinet, turned and band-sawn boxes, and dome-topped chests.

“We selected ‘Weekenders’ to make shop work doable,” Phillips said, explaining that the projects are designed for completion in 12 hours or less, sometimes an hour or two. A Windsor-inspired chair is his favorite, followed by deck projects and then barrel back chairs. “The barrel back chair is my creation that is made of two interlocking parts. It is very comfortable and truly one-of-a-kind.”

“We [also] share unique ways that tools can make building furniture easier, safer and more enjoyable and even stronger.”

For airtimes and other information, visit www.wbgu.org/americanwoodshop.