Now that I have a few more projects under my belt that have been mostly cordless, I realize I have a terrible sense of design and proportions. It feels like my projects always turn out blocky looking or are too thick. Is there any books I should read or rules of thumb to follow for traditional design? I was trying to think of a simple and functional project for my next project. Something that won't take a huge time commitment. I have decided I want to try the 5 board bench.I have looked at several examples online and some look like projects from a high school shop class and some look like a more refined piece of furniture while still remaining simple. I am looking for the latter example. I want to maintain simplicity but yet have it look like it was made by a Craftsman and not an amateur project. Some have a long curve in the center boards or the seat or a simple design in the legs. I guess where do you guys start when designing a new project?