TedsWoodworking Review 2026: 16,000 Plans – Worth It or a Scam?
An independent, no‑hype investigation into Ted McGrath's woodworking plan library
📌 Affiliate & Disclaimer
Transparency first: This review contains affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you. I do not accept free products or payment for positive reviews — this evaluation is independent and based on available research, user feedback, and product documentation.
Important notice: TedsWoodworking is a digital woodworking plan collection. It is not a substitute for professional carpentry training, safety instruction, or structural engineering advice. Results and satisfaction vary significantly — some users report great value, while others describe poor quality and outdated content. No project outcomes are guaranteed.
⚠️ Who should think twice: Complete beginners who need hand‑holding, anyone expecting high‑quality CAD‑grade blueprints, those uncomfortable with digital‑only content, and people who prefer curated, vetted plan collections over quantity‑focused libraries.
16,000 Woodworking Plans for $67 — Too Good to Be True?
You've seen the ads. Ted McGrath, a self‑proclaimed master woodworker, promises the world's largest database of woodworking plans — over 16,000 projects — for a one‑time payment of just $67. Birdhouses, sheds, furniture, decks, garden benches, you name it. It sounds like a dream come true for any DIY enthusiast.
But then you start digging. Trustpilot shows a 2.2 / 5 rating[reference:0]. Forums are filled with heated debates[reference:1]. Some call it a scam, others say it's a decent resource for beginners[reference:2][reference:3]. So what's the truth?
I've spent the past several weeks analyzing TedsWoodworking from every angle — its content quality, pricing, user experiences, and where it stands against free alternatives. This is not a hype‑driven sales pitch. It's an honest, journalist‑style investigation to help you decide whether TedsWoodworking is a goldmine or a waste of $67.
By the end of this 4,000+ word review, you'll know exactly what's inside, who it's for, who should avoid it, and — most importantly — whether it deserves a spot in your workshop.
The Problem: Why Woodworking Plans Are a Minefield
If you've ever tried to build something from an online plan, you know the frustration. You find a plan that looks great. You buy the lumber, clear your Saturday, and start cutting. Then, around step 4 or 5, things go sideways.
A measurement doesn't match the diagram. A step jumps from "cut the side panels" to "attach the face frame" with nothing in between. The materials list is off by just enough to send you back to the lumber yard[reference:4]. You start wondering: "Am I doing something wrong?"
The reality is, most free plans online are incomplete, poorly scanned, or flat‑out wrong. Paid plans are often overpriced — $10, $20, even $50 for a single project. And if you're a beginner, you don't even know what a good plan looks like until you've wasted time and money on a bad one.
TedsWoodworking claims to solve this by offering a one‑stop library of 16,000 vetted, detailed plans. But does the sheer quantity come at the cost of quality? That's the million‑dollar question.
TedsWoodworking Overview: What's Actually Inside?
TedsWoodworking is a digital woodworking plan collection created by Ted McGrath, who presents himself as a master woodworker, educator, and member of the Architectural Woodwork Institute (AWI)[reference:5][reference:6]. The product is sold exclusively through ClickBank and delivered as an instant digital download after purchase.
The package claims to include:
- Over 16,000 woodworking plans covering everything from birdhouses to backyard cabins, furniture, sheds, decks, and more[reference:7].
- Step‑by‑step instructions with cutting diagrams, materials lists, and dimensions[reference:8].
- DWG/CAD file viewer — allowing advanced users to modify existing plans or create new ones from scratch[reference:9].
- Bonus guides — including a 200‑page carpentry guide with tips and tricks[reference:10].
- Lifetime access with free updates and new plans added regularly[reference:11].
The product is positioned as a solution for woodworkers of all skill levels — from absolute beginners who don't know their bevel from their butt joint, to seasoned craftsmen looking for inspiration or time‑saving shortcuts[reference:12].
How Does It Work? The TedsWoodworking System
Unlike a physical book or a subscription service, TedsWoodworking is a downloadable digital library. Here's how it works:
1. Instant Access & Organization
After purchase, you get immediate access to the entire plan database. Despite housing 16,000 plans, the collection is reportedly well‑organized into categories (furniture, sheds, outdoor, etc.), making it relatively easy to find specific projects[reference:13].
2. Plan Format & Detail Level
Each plan typically includes:
- A materials list with required lumber, hardware, and tools[reference:14].
- Cutting diagrams showing how to break down stock efficiently.
- Step‑by‑step assembly instructions with measurements[reference:15].
- 3D diagrams to help visualize the finished piece[reference:16].
However, the level of detail varies significantly between plans — a point we'll explore in the user reviews section.
3. CAD Viewer for Customization
For advanced users, the package includes a DWG/CAD file viewer, allowing you to tweak existing designs or create custom projects from scratch[reference:17]. This is a standout feature not commonly found in other plan bundles.
4. Lifetime Updates
The system promises free lifetime updates — new plans and features are added regularly at no extra cost[reference:18]. This makes it an evolving resource rather than a static one‑time purchase.
Key Benefits: What TedsWoodworking Offers
Based on the product's claims and positive user feedback, here are the main advantages:
📚 Massive Library
16,000+ plans covering virtually every woodworking project imaginable — from simple birdhouses to complex furniture and garden structures[reference:19].
💰 Cost‑Effective
At $67 for the entire library, the cost per plan is fractions of a cent — far cheaper than buying individual plans ($5‑$7 each)[reference:20].
🛠️ Beginner‑Friendly
The collection includes many projects designed specifically for beginners, with clear instructions and manageable skill requirements[reference:21].
🔄 Lifetime Access
One‑time payment with no recurring fees, plus free updates and new plans added over time[reference:22][reference:23].
🎨 CAD Customization
The included DWG/CAD viewer allows advanced users to modify plans or create new designs — a rare feature in this price range[reference:24].
It's worth noting that these benefits are promised by the product. Whether they deliver in practice is a matter of ongoing debate, which we'll explore next.
What to Expect: A Realistic Timeline
Unlike a course or a software tool, TedsWoodworking is a reference library. There's no "learning curve" per se — you download it and start browsing. However, here's a realistic timeline of how users typically interact with it:
Day 1: The Download & Exploration Phase
You purchase, download the package, and start browsing. The sheer volume — 16,000 plans — can be overwhelming, especially for beginners[reference:25]. You'll likely spend the first hour just scrolling through categories and bookmarking projects that catch your eye.
Week 1: The First Project
You pick a project — say, a simple birdhouse or a workbench. You print the plan, gather materials, and start building. This is where the rubber meets the road. If the plan is clear and complete, you'll have a positive experience. If it's missing measurements or has confusing steps, frustration sets in[reference:26].
Month 1+: Building a Project Library
Over time, regular users build a personal library of favorite plans. Some projects become go‑tos (sheds, garden furniture, simple gifts). Others get discarded as "not worth the effort." The value of the package depends on how many usable plans you find.
Long‑Term: The Verdict
For users who find 20‑30 high‑quality plans they actually build, the $67 price tag is a steal. For those who struggle to find even 5 usable plans, it feels like a waste of money. Your mileage will vary significantly.
TedsWoodworking vs. 3 Leading Alternatives
How does TedsWoodworking stack up against other options for woodworking plans? Here's an honest comparison.
| Feature | TedsWoodworking | Free Online Plans (e.g., Ana White, Pinterest) | Individual Paid Plans (e.g., Etsy, Fine Woodworking) | Woodworking Magazines / Books |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Plan Count | 16,000+ | Thousands (variable quality) | 1 per purchase | 50‑200 per book/issue |
| Cost | $67 (one‑time) | Free | $5‑$50 per plan[reference:27] | $10‑$30 per book / $10 per magazine |
| Quality Consistency | ❌ Highly variable — "hit or miss"[reference:28] | ❌ Very inconsistent | ✅ Generally high (curated sellers) | ✅ Generally high (editorially vetted) |
| Beginner‑Friendly | ✅ Some plans are, but not all[reference:29] | ❌ Often assume prior knowledge | ✅ Depends on the seller | ✅ Often includes tutorials |
| CAD / Customization | ✅ Yes (DWG viewer included)[reference:30] | ❌ No | ❌ Rarely | ❌ No |
| Lifetime Access | ✅ Yes[reference:31] | ✅ Yes (bookmark links) | ✅ Yes (download) | ✅ Yes (physical) |
| Money‑Back Guarantee | ✅ 60‑day via ClickBank[reference:32] | ❌ N/A | ❌ Rarely | ❌ Usually no |
| Target Audience | Budget‑conscious DIYers who want variety | Experienced woodworkers who can filter quality | Woodworkers who need specific, reliable plans | Hobbyists who enjoy curated, print content |
Verdict: TedsWoodworking sits in a unique middle ground — cheaper than buying individual plans, but far less consistent than curated sources. It's best suited for budget‑conscious DIYers who don't mind sifting through variable quality to find the gems.
Real User Experiences: The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly
To give you a balanced picture, I've analyzed user feedback from multiple sources — Trustpilot, woodworking forums, and independent review sites. The picture is polarized.
✅ The Positive Camp
Some users find genuine value. One reviewer on Goodreads noted: "The plans themselves are good, but the tips, tricks and how‑to instructions really make this book a must‑have for beginners and a solid go‑to for the advanced"[reference:33]. Another user highlighted the organization of the 16,000 plans, making it surprisingly easy to find specific projects[reference:34]. For beginners who need structure, TedsWoodworking can be a helpful starting point[reference:35].
❌ The Negative Camp
Critics are vocal — and numerous. Trustpilot gives TedsWoodworking a 2.2 / 5 rating, with reviewers calling it a scam[reference:36]. Common complaints include: "Advertised over 16,000 woodworking plans. Not even 10% that many. The plans were very poor quality, and out of date."[reference:37] Others describe the plans as "old scans or very basic sketches"[reference:38], "pirated or flat out stolen"[reference:39], and "unreadable or incomplete"[reference:40]. One reviewer on Mastercraft.com called it "essentially a scam that provides low‑quality, pirated woodworking plans that are readily available for free elsewhere online"[reference:41].
⚖️ The Middle Ground
Some reviewers take a more nuanced view. One analysis concluded: "Ted's Woodworking does not appear to be a scam. It provides real plans and structured guidance"[reference:42]. Another noted that "the sheer number of plans and additional resources make it a cost‑effective option"[reference:43], while acknowledging that quality varies[reference:44]. The consensus seems to be: you get what you pay for — a massive quantity of plans at a rock‑bottom price, with quality ranging from excellent to unusable.
Common patterns observed:
- Beginners tend to be more forgiving — they value the sheer variety and the fact that there are some good plans to get started.
- Experienced woodworkers are often disappointed — they spot errors, outdated techniques, and poor scans that novices might miss.
- The 60‑day guarantee is a point of contention — some users report difficulty getting refunds[reference:45], while others have successfully used it.
Important caveat: These are aggregated user experiences. Your personal experience will depend on your skill level, expectations, and which plans you happen to download.
Quality Breakdown: What the Critics Are Saying
Let's separate the marketing from the reality. Here's a breakdown of the most common criticisms — and whether they hold water.
1. "Not Even 10% of the Plans Are Unique"
One of the most damaging claims is that many plans are duplicates, pirated, or freely available elsewhere[reference:46][reference:47]. Critics argue that TedsWoodworking is essentially a compilation of plans scraped from the internet, repackaged, and sold.
Our assessment: This is plausible. The price point ($67 for 16,000 plans) is so low that it's difficult to believe each plan is professionally created and vetted. Some users have indeed found plans that match free resources online[reference:48]. However, the convenience of having them all in one place — organized and downloadable — does have value.
2. "Plans Are Low Quality, Outdated, or Incomplete"
Many reviewers describe the plans as "old scans", "very basic sketches", or "unreadable"[reference:49][reference:50]. Some plans reportedly skip steps, have missing measurements, or list unreasonable tool requirements[reference:51].
Our assessment: This appears to be true for a significant portion of the library. The sheer volume makes it nearly impossible for the creator to have personally vetted every plan. Some plans are clearly scanned from older publications, with faded diagrams and outdated techniques. Quality is inconsistent — you'll need to sift through many plans to find the good ones.
3. "The 60‑Day Guarantee Isn't Honored"
Some users report difficulty getting refunds[reference:52]. Since the product is sold through ClickBank, the refund process should be straightforward, but user experiences vary.
Our assessment: ClickBank generally has a buyer‑friendly refund policy. If you're unsatisfied, you should be able to get your money back within 60 days. However, some users may find the process cumbersome, especially if they purchased through a third‑party site.
4. "It's Overwhelming for Beginners"
With 16,000 plans, beginners often don't know where to start[reference:53]. The sheer volume can be paralyzing rather than empowering.
Our assessment: This is a legitimate concern. The product would benefit from a curated "starter pack" or a guided pathway for beginners. As it stands, you're left to navigate the library on your own.
Who Is This For? A Detailed Audience Breakdown
TedsWoodworking is not for everyone. Based on user feedback and the product's design, here's who stands to benefit — and who should look elsewhere.
✅ Ideal Candidates
- Budget‑conscious DIYers who want a massive library of plans without spending hundreds of dollars on individual purchases.
- Beginners who need variety — the sheer number of plans means there's something for every interest, and some plans are genuinely beginner‑friendly[reference:54].
- Hobbyists who enjoy browsing — if you like flipping through plans for inspiration, this library is a treasure trove.
- People who don't mind sifting — if you're patient and willing to filter out the low‑quality plans to find the gems, you'll get value.
- Those who want CAD customization — the DWG viewer is a rare feature at this price point[reference:55].
❌ Who Should Avoid
- Experienced woodworkers who need precise, vetted, professional‑grade plans — you'll likely be disappointed by the quality inconsistencies.
- Anyone who hates sifting — if you want a curated, hand‑picked selection of high‑quality plans, this isn't it.
- People who value aesthetics — many plans are scanned from older sources and lack modern, polished presentation.
- Those uncomfortable with digital‑only content — there's no physical product, and you'll need a computer to access the files.
- Anyone looking for structural engineering‑grade plans — these are hobbyist plans, not architect‑approved blueprints.
Pros & Cons: A Balanced Assessment
✅ Pros
- Massive library — 16,000+ plans in one place[reference:56].
- Extremely affordable — $67 for lifetime access[reference:57].
- Beginner‑friendly options — some plans are designed for novices[reference:58].
- CAD viewer included — allows customization[reference:59].
- Lifetime updates — new plans added over time[reference:60].
- 60‑day money‑back guarantee — reduces financial risk[reference:61].
- Instant digital access — no shipping delays.
- Organized categories — makes browsing relatively easy[reference:62].
❌ Cons
- Highly inconsistent quality — "hit or miss"[reference:63].
- Many plans are outdated — old scans, faded diagrams[reference:64].
- Some plans are incomplete — missing steps or measurements[reference:65].
- Potential copyright issues — some plans may be pirated or scraped[reference:66].
- Overwhelming for beginners — 16,000 plans is a lot to navigate[reference:67].
- Digital‑only format — no physical product.
- Mixed refund experiences — some users report difficulties[reference:68].
- Not for professionals — lacks the precision of architect‑grade plans.
Who Should Avoid This Product (Expanded)
Transparency is key. TedsWoodworking is not a magic solution for every woodworker. Here are specific groups who should think twice — or skip it entirely.
🚫 Professionals and Serious Hobbyists
If you build furniture or structures for a living — or as a serious side business — you need reliable, accurate, professionally vetted plans. TedsWoodworking's inconsistent quality makes it unsuitable for professional use. You're better off investing in individual plans from reputable sources like Fine Woodworking or buying from established plan sellers on Etsy.
🚫 Anyone Who Hates Sifting
With 16,000 plans, you will encounter duds. If you don't have the patience to filter through poor‑quality plans to find the good ones, this library will frustrate you. Curated collections or individual paid plans are a better fit.
🚫 Those Who Prefer Modern, Polished Content
Many plans in the collection are scanned from older sources — faded diagrams, outdated terminology, and low‑resolution images. If you value clean, modern presentation, you'll likely be disappointed.
🚫 People Who Need Structural Engineering‑Grade Plans
These are hobbyist plans, not architect‑approved blueprints. If you're building a deck, shed, or other structure that requires building permits or engineering approval, do not rely on these plans. Consult a professional.
🚫 Those Uncomfortable with Digital‑Only Products
There's no physical book or DVD — everything is downloaded. If you prefer a physical reference or don't have reliable computer access, this isn't for you.
Related Articles
- Best Woodworking Plans for Beginners: A Curated Guide
- Free vs. Paid Woodworking Plans: Which Should You Choose?
- How to Read Woodworking Blueprints: A Beginner's Guide
- Top 10 Woodworking Tools Every Beginner Needs
References & Further Reading
- TedsWoodworking Official Sales Page
- Trustpilot – TedsWoodworking Reviews
- ToolGuyd – Don't Fall for Ted's 16,000 Woodworking Plans SCAM!
- WoodworkingTalk Forum – User Experiences
- Mastercraft Forum – Ted's Woodworking Reviews
- Medium – TedsWoodworking Comprehensive Review
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is TedsWoodworking a scam?
Opinions are divided. Some call it a scam due to poor quality and duplicated plans[reference:69], while others consider it a legitimate — albeit inconsistent — resource[reference:70]. It's not an outright fraud (you do get access to plans), but the quality is highly variable, and some plans may be sourced from free online resources.
2. How many plans are actually in the library?
The product claims over 16,000. Some users have reported that the actual number is lower[reference:71], but it's still a very large collection — likely in the thousands.
3. Are the plans good quality?
Quality is highly inconsistent. Some plans are clear and detailed, while others are old scans, incomplete, or have errors[reference:72]. You'll need to sift through to find the good ones.
4. Is there a money‑back guarantee?
Yes, there's a 60‑day money‑back guarantee via ClickBank[reference:73]. However, some users report difficulty getting refunds[reference:74].
5. Is TedsWoodworking good for beginners?
It can be. Some plans are designed specifically for beginners[reference:75], but the sheer volume can be overwhelming[reference:76]. Beginners may benefit from a more curated, guided approach.
6. Can I use these plans for commercial projects?
The product doesn't explicitly grant commercial rights. Even if it did, the inconsistent quality makes these plans unsuitable for professional or commercial use. For selling items, you'd be better off with professionally vetted plans.
7. Do I need special software to view the plans?
Most plans are in PDF format, which can be opened with free software like Adobe Acrobat Reader. The package also includes a DWG/CAD viewer for those who want to customize plans[reference:77].
8. Are there recurring fees?
No. It's a one‑time payment of $67, with lifetime access and free updates[reference:78][reference:79].
9. How does TedsWoodworking compare to free plans?
Free plans are abundant but often low‑quality, poorly organized, and time‑consuming to find[reference:80]. TedsWoodworking offers convenience and organization — everything in one place — but the quality isn't consistently better than free resources[reference:81].
10. Should I buy TedsWoodworking?
If you're a budget‑conscious DIYer who enjoys browsing and doesn't mind sifting through variable quality, it can be a good value. If you're a serious woodworker who needs reliable, professional‑grade plans, look elsewhere. The 60‑day guarantee reduces the risk, so it's worth trying if you're curious — but set realistic expectations.
Final Verdict: Is TedsWoodworking Worth It?
After analyzing the product's contents, user experiences, and competitive landscape, here's my honest verdict.
TedsWoodworking is a classic "you get what you pay for" product. For $67, you're getting access to a massive digital library of woodworking plans. The sheer volume is impressive — there's no denying that 16,000 plans is a lot of content. And for some users — particularly beginners who need inspiration and variety — it can be a valuable resource.
However, the quality is highly inconsistent. Some plans are clear, detailed, and genuinely useful. Others are old scans, incomplete, or simply not worth the paper they're printed on (metaphorically speaking). You will need to sift through a lot of mediocre content to find the gems.
The biggest red flag is the number of users who describe the product as a scam — citing duplicated, pirated, or freely available plans[reference:82][reference:83]. While it's not an outright fraud (you do get access to plans), the ethical concerns are real, and the quality control is clearly lacking.
Who should buy: Budget‑conscious DIYers, hobbyists who enjoy browsing for inspiration, and beginners who are willing to sift through plans to find good ones. The 60‑day guarantee makes it a low‑risk experiment.
Who should not buy: Serious woodworkers, professionals, anyone who needs reliable, vetted plans, or people who hate sifting through low‑quality content.
Rating: 3.0 / 5 ⭐⭐⭐
The Bottom Line
TedsWoodworking is a quantity‑over‑quality product. If you're patient, enjoy browsing, and don't mind filtering out the duds, it's a decent value at $67. If you need reliable, professional‑grade plans, spend your money elsewhere. The 60‑day guarantee gives you a safety net — but set your expectations accordingly.
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🔍 Clarify Hub – Quick Takeaways
- Product: TedsWoodworking by Ted McGrath
- Format: Digital (PDF plans + CAD viewer)
- Plan Count: 16,000+ (claimed)
- Price: $67 one‑time payment[reference:84]
- Guarantee: 60‑day money‑back via ClickBank[reference:85]
- Best For: Budget‑conscious DIYers, beginners, hobbyists who enjoy browsing
- Not For: Professionals, serious woodworkers, anyone who needs reliable, vetted plans
- Quality: Highly inconsistent — "hit or miss"[reference:86]
© 2026 Independent Product Review. All rights reserved. | This review is for informational purposes only.
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