Television Host

Tommy MacDonald

Tommy has been teaching woodworking since 2006. His series The Rough Cut Show on Bob Vila’s website helped pioneer the woodworking How-to video space – well before Youtube caught on.

Tommy is the rare artisan who is not only a master of his craft but an effective, entertaining teacher. His delivery is direct and no-nonsense but at the same time accessible and anything but dry. Tommy’s follow-along tutorials and project videos cover the woodworking spectrum – from beginner step stools and basic table construction to his masterpiece, the Bombe Secretary. No matter the difficulty level, Tommy’s buoyant personality and infectious energy fill the viewer with the inspiration, information and self-belief needed to tackle the project at hand.

A firm believer in learning from mistakes, Tommy has always resisted editing his videos to omit his own woodworking gaffes, choosing instead to use them as teachable moments for the viewer and a reminder that woodworking requires constant focus and attention to detail.