Terms of Service
Last updated: July 7, 2026
1. What The Kerf is
The Kerf is a community site where woodworkers share plans, cut lists, and project ideas. Think of it as a friendly library built by hobbyists, for hobbyists. Anyone can browse; registered members can upload plans and leave comments.
By using The Kerf you agree to these terms. If you don't agree, please don't use the site.
2. Your account
When you register, please provide accurate information and keep it up to date. You're responsible for everything that happens under your account, so choose a strong password and don't share it.
- One account per person, please.
- You must be at least 13 years old to create an account.
- Let us know right away if you think your account has been compromised.
3. Your content
You keep full ownership of the plans and other content you upload. Uploading doesn't give The Kerf any ownership rights — but it does give us permission to host, display, and distribute your content so the site can work. Specifically, you grant The Kerf a non-exclusive, royalty-free, worldwide license to store, display, and make your content available to other users.
When you upload a plan you choose a license that tells other users what they may do with it:
- CC0 — public domain; anyone can use it for anything.
- CC BY — free to use with credit.
- CC BY-SA — free to use with credit; derivatives must share alike.
- CC BY-NC — free for non-commercial use with credit.
- All rights reserved — others may view it on The Kerf but may not copy or reuse it without your permission.
Only upload content you have the right to share. Don't upload plans copied from books, magazines, or other creators without their permission.
4. Using plans you find here
Every plan on The Kerf carries a license chosen by its author. Please read and respect that license before you download, adapt, or build from a plan — especially if you're selling something or publishing derivatives.
5. Safety disclaimer — please read this
Woodworking involves sharp tools, heavy machinery, and materials that can cause serious injury or death. Plans on The Kerf are uploaded by hobbyists and provided as-is, with no guarantee of accuracy, completeness, or structural safety. A plan that worked perfectly for one builder in one shop may not work — or may not be safe — for you.
Always follow the safety instructions for your specific tools and equipment. Wear appropriate PPE. If you're unsure whether a design is structurally sound, consult a qualified professional before building. You build at your own risk.
6. Acceptable use
Please keep The Kerf a good place for everyone:
- Don't upload spam, advertisements, or unrelated content.
- Don't upload plans or content that infringes someone else's copyright.
- Don't harass, threaten, or demean other members.
- Don't use the site for anything illegal.
7. Termination
We may remove content or suspend accounts that break these rules, at our discretion. We'll try to be fair and consistent. If your content is removed and you think that's a mistake, email us at contact@the-kerf.com to discuss it.
8. No warranty / limitation of liability
The Kerf is provided as-is, free of charge, by a hobbyist running a solo project. We make no warranties — express or implied — about uptime, accuracy, or fitness for any particular purpose. To the extent permitted by law, The Kerf's liability for any claim arising from your use of the site is limited to zero dollars, because no money changes hands.
In plain terms: we're doing our best, but if something goes wrong you agree not to sue us.
9. Changes to these terms
We may update these terms from time to time. When we do, we'll update the "Last updated" date at the top of this page. Continued use of The Kerf after a change means you accept the new terms.
Questions? Email us at contact@the-kerf.com.