If you talk to woodworkers they all have their own opinions on what is the right way to do things.
Like anything else, you can ask one question and get many different answers.
One of the main questions a new woodworker will ask is ,which is better, following plans or working from scratch? Here are some of the arguments raised for both parts of this question.
To support the argument that is always better to use woodworking plans, here are the factors this is probably based on.
-For the novice it is really the only way.
The patterns contain everything they need to know to get started.
-Beginners have a hard time visualizing how they want the completed project to look.
They have a good idea of what they want ,but they aren't able to plan it out without some guidance.
-Plans save time because there is not as much time spent on revising the project.
Its all there in the plan, you just to follow the step by step instructions.
-They can be cost savers.
One, by the way they outline exactly what materials you are going to need.
Then you don't waste money on buying items you don't need.
Secondly you will cut down on waste because you're not as likely to mess up on your cuts and things like that.
That pretty well covers the supporting arguments for why woodworking plans are the best, now lets look at the arguments of why working from scratch is the best.
-Often if you have a specific item in mind that you would like to make, then you may not be able to find the plan for it.
Often when individuals are making something they want it to be unique.
You won't get that when you are using plans.
-Just because it's a woodwork plan, doesn't mean that it will be understandable or easy to follow.
Sometimes the plans can get quite complex.
Also you may not be familiar with some of the terminology that is used in the plan.
-What country the plans were designed in could be an issue as well.
For example measures and material could be different.
-If you are past the point of being a novice then you will find the plans begin to get boring.
You may start to lose interest.
-One of the worst things that can happen is they may not be accurate.
For the novice this could be frustrating.
Mostly because you won't have the experience perhaps to prevent the mistake before you make it, or be able to correct it once you have.
-You are able to develop planning skills if you do your own wood work plans.
In the beginning there will be a bit of trial and error.
Once you have reached this stage you are not likely to be a novice so you will have a good idea as to what your own plan requires.
-Finally your own design is more personalized.
Once its complete you will have the satisfaction of knowing it is completely your work from beginning to end.