Wood is hygroscopic. That is, it expands and contracts in response to ambient moisture. If you’re acclimating stock for a future project in a basement or garage workshop that lacks climate control, you need a way to gauge changes in ambient temperature and humidity. By recording recent maximum and minimum levels, this digital meter can help you monitor shop conditions so that you can fit panels and other parts appropriately based on anticipated seasonal wood movement. It’s a nice little tool to help reduce the guesswork in your woodworking.
#153698 $25.99
Tester: Joe Hurst-Wajszczuk
Taking a cue from model makers, woodworkers are discovering that airbrushes can quickly lay stain or a finish coat on turnings, jewelry boxes, and other small projects without leaving a brush mark.
For those who don’t yet own a full-size gun, this airbrush offers an inexpensive way to start spraying. For those who already own a spray gun, the airbrush serves as a handy solution for smaller projects and touch-ups. I found that I could spray several coats and clean the tool in about the time it would take to properly wash, rinse, and comb my good paintbrush.
#153569 $39.99
Tester: Kent Harpool
