Actually maybe this wasn't the first thing I was proud of, but it was certainly the one that made me most proud in terms of how challenging it was. I built a set of bar stools from hickory and elm. It was an interesting project, trying steam bending wood (for the backs and seats) for my first time. Steam bending required finding a local sawmill that had air (not kiln) dried wood. And I used hickory for strength of the structural elements. It was the most challenging woodworking project I've done to date, because all the pieces were curved or joined at an unusual angle, and the folding joints need to be really strong! Photos and video are at https://michael-schwartz.com/bar-stools

Some woods test your patience more than your tools. Tear-out, splinters, dull blades — the works. Which wood gave you the biggest headache, and why? If you survived, tell us how you lived to tell the tale. 🏆 Prize: $100 Sawinery Gift Card (because you earned it after that battle) 📅 Winner announced on December 15! 📍 Open to U.S. customers only (for now). We’re working on making them available in more locations soon!