Gil’s Guide to Woodworking

This content is also available in: Español (Spanish)

Gil Johnson, a master woodworker who passed away in 2024, was totally blind. He shared tips and techniques for woodworking if you are blind or low vision.  

hammer

Using a Hammer if you are Blind or Low Vision

This content is also available in: Español (Spanish)Using a hammer to drive in nails – as well as for many other jobs – is certainly doable with low vision or no vision. Some people imagine bruised or broken fingers that result from hammering, but this is not the case; in fact, many persons who are […]

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Person using a permanent marker to mark the measurement of wood

Measuring Tips and Techniques

This content is also available in: Español (Spanish) One of the challenges facing people with reduced vision is taking accurate measurements. For persons with some vision or no vision at all, this can seem like a real barrier. However, there are several ways to take good measurements if you have difficulty seeing the markings on […]

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Repainting an end table

Refinishing Furniture

This content is also available in: Español (Spanish)Safety is the most important consideration when using chemicals and power tools. Even if you’ve had many years of experience with power tools and home repairs, we recommend you use a safety checklist that includes the following: Safety Considerations and Preparation Using Sandpaper More About Sandpaper A Blind […]

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Applying wood glue

Repairing a Loose Chair Rung

This content is also available in: Español (Spanish)Using glue to repair a loose chair rung is certainly doable by a person who is blind or has low vision. Throughout the repair process, it’s helpful to keep your fingertips and hands free of glue, which can coat your fingers, reduce your tactual sensitivity, and make it […]

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Person wearing safety goggles and drilling a hole into a wall

Drilling Holes

This content is also available in: Español (Spanish) Using a drill to place the hole exactly where you want it is a basic – and essential – skill for most woodworking projects. This guide will describe various tools that can be used for drilling and discuss several techniques that persons who are blind or have […]

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