Preparation: Selecting the appropriate species of hardwood or softwood, cutting it to rough size, and preparing its surfaces (e.g., jointing and planing) to ensure flatness and squareness.
Shaping and Cutting: Using various saws (table saws, band saws, hand saws) to rip (cut with the grain) and cross-cut (cut across the grain), as well as routers, lathes, and carving tools to shape profiles, edges, and intricate forms.
Joinery: Creating strong, stable connections between pieces of wood using techniques like:
Mechanical Joints: Mortise and tenon, dovetails, finger joints, and box joints (often secured with glue).
Simple Fixings: Screws, nails, and biscuits/dominos.