Let’s talk a little about wood. If you’re familiar with the TV show Parks and Recreation, you

Let’s talk a little about wood. If you’re familiar with the TV show Parks and Recreation, you know the character Ron Swanson, played by actor Nick Offerman, was not only the endearing (even though we’d never tell him that to his face) director of the Parks and Recreation department, but also a carpenter and woodworker. This characteristic of Mr. Swanson is actually pulled from the real life of Offerman, who has been an avid woodworker for many years now. He’s out with his third book, Good Clean Fun, teaching readers everything from the tools of the trade to tips to get you started, including a range of interviews with fellow woodworkers and DIY projects. This book is sure to fit nicely in your library and next to you, in your wood shop, whether you are just picking up a new hobby or looking to dive into a career of carving and turning wood. We could all get and give a little good clean fun to get us started this holiday season. Please enjoy this Q&A with Nick about his favorite craft. —Erin

Portrait by Emily Shur | Book cover by Penguin Random House

Design*Sponge: What tools should one have to get started when building their own wood working workshop" 
Nick Offerman: It depends on the scope of your projects. You can begin with some hand tools like a nice Japanese pull saw, a hand drill, a few chisels, a block plane, and...