Gil’s Guide to Woodworking

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.  

Share This:
hammer

Using a Hammer if you are Blind or Low Vision

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 blind or have limited vision use a […]

Read more
Person using a permanent marker to mark the measurement of wood

Measuring Tips and Techniques

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 issue. However, there are several ways to take good measurements if you have difficulty seeing the markings on a ruler or tape measure. Tip: Measure twice; […]

Read more
Repainting an end table

Refinishing Furniture

Refinishing furniture can be a rewarding way to restore well-loved pieces, express creativity, and gain hands-on experience with woodworking techniques. If you are blind or have low vision, this type of project is not only possible but can also be enjoyable and empowering with the right tools, safety practices, and adaptive strategies. Whether you’re sanding […]

Read more
Applying wood glue

Repairing a Loose Chair Rung

A loose chair rung can make an otherwise sturdy chair unstable, but fixing it doesn’t require professional help. With some basic tools, a little glue, and a few simple adaptations, you can make this common household repair yourself—whether you are blind or have low vision. This guide will walk you through techniques for applying glue […]

Read more
Person wearing safety goggles and drilling a hole into a wall

Drilling Holes

Whether you’re building a shelf, repairing a chair, or working on a craft project, chances are you’ll need to drill a hole at some point. If you’re blind or have low vision, you might wonder how to place a drill bit precisely or keep the tool steady. The good news is that with a few […]

Read more