There's something magical about the relationship between books and making. Before you pick up a chisel or fire up a table saw, chances are you've cracked open a book—dog-earing pages, studying joinery details, or dreaming about your next project while sipping coffee in a cozy reading nook.
That's why we're so honored to share that Saratoga Joinery is the February beneficiary of Northshire Bookstore's Round Up program.
If you haven't experienced the joy of shopping at Northshire yet, you're missing out on one of our region's true treasures. This locally owned, independent bookstore has been a gathering place for readers, thinkers, and learners for decades. But they're not just selling books—they're actively giving back to our community through their customer-backed Round Up program.
Here's how it works: when you make a purchase at Northshire, you can choose to round up to the nearest dollar, and those extra cents go directly to a local nonprofit. It's a simple, painless way to support community organizations while you're already shopping for books you love. And this month, every rounded-up dollar supports our mission of making woodworking accessible to everyone.
Speaking of books you'll love—Northshire carries an excellent selection of woodworking titles that can inspire your next project or help you level up your skills. Here are a few favorites currently on their shelves:
A practical guide drawn from the expertise of Fine Homebuilding's trusted contributors, this book covers the design and construction of custom storage solutions that can transform any room. From freestanding bookcases to floor-to-ceiling built-ins, it offers detailed instruction on measuring, planning, and executing projects that look professional and stand the test of time. Essential reading for anyone ready to tackle more ambitious furniture and storage projects.
Don't let the humble box fool you—this book teaches fundamental woodworking skills through progressively challenging box projects. It's an excellent resource for developing precision, understanding proportions, and mastering essential techniques that apply to all woodworking.
Part practical guide, part love letter to making things with your hands, this book from actor and woodworker Nick Offerman is as entertaining as it is educational. It's a great introduction to woodworking for young makers (and young-at-heart adults) who want to learn the craft with humor and heart.
Perfect for beginners or anyone who wants to explore the meditative art of carving with just a knife and a piece of wood. This beautifully illustrated guide covers techniques, tools, and projects that you can tackle anywhere—no workshop required.
An inviting introduction to woodworking that proves you don't need advanced skills to create beautiful, functional pieces. This book features 20 accessible projects—from planters and shelving to outdoor furniture—that blend Scandinavian design sensibility with beginner-friendly techniques. It's perfect for anyone who wants to make things that are both practical and aesthetically pleasing without getting overwhelmed.
This comprehensive guide is like having a master woodworker's entire library in one place. Packed with tips, techniques, projects, and troubleshooting advice, it's the kind of book you'll keep returning to as you grow in your craft.
This February, when you're browsing Northshire's shelves—whether you're picking up one of these woodworking titles or the latest novel that's been calling your name—please consider rounding up your purchase. Every penny goes directly toward supporting Saratoga Joinery's mission of providing accessible woodworking education, building community, and creating a space where makers of all skill levels can learn, create, and connect.
And if you've been thinking about joining us at the shop, taking a class, or starting your first woodworking project—maybe one of these books is the perfect place to begin.
To the entire team at Northshire Bookstore: thank you. Thank you for being a cornerstone of our community, for championing local organizations, and for creating a program that makes it easy for neighbors to support neighbors. We're deeply grateful to be your February partner.
Visit Northshire Bookstore in Saratoga Springs or Manchester, VT, and don't forget to round up at checkout. Happy reading (and making)!
Saratoga Joinery is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and relies upon the support of the community to keep our blades spinning.
