Want to start woodworking but don’t know what tools to get? This article will explain the ten tools you need to start your new hobby.
A new year is beginning! Giving you the chance to try a new hobby. This year, you decided to try your hand at woodworking. Don’t worry. Acme Tools has covered a few things you’ll need to start. You can also work on some projects on your own.
We have another blog post about the three things you’ll need to start a woodworking shop. Now, we’ll cover the essential tools you need to start or expand your shop. Here are the top ten other tools you’ll need to get started on your woodworking journey.
Clamps
You will always need clamps if you are starting or an established woodworker. They are for securing pieces to a work area so you can have free hands.
You can also use them to set your project together for sturdiness when you are adding screws, nails, or glue. Clamps are versatile tools that can be used however you need them to fit your current job. With various styles and sizes and made out of different materials, you can find one that can handle your project.
Pocket Hole Machines
This item is for the woodworker who doesn’t like to see screw holes in their projects. The pocket holes will discretely hide screws in your project while offering more support.
Circular Saw
Now, any saw can be used, but for portability and to fit in your hand, a circular saw is something you need to look into getting. A circular saw will allow for flexibility to fit into different jobs and is the most affordable saw. With other attachments, you can convert it into a track or table saw if you want.
Router
You would use this tool to add rounded edges for refined looks onto your piece and not make edges so sharp. You could also use these to make dado and slots for specific uses. This tool can be on the later-to-buy list, but you’ll be glad you have it in your shop when it comes up.
Hand Planer
A planer is an alternative to a router if you prefer more control or a different style for your work. The tool comes in either as a hand tool or electric; depending on your skill level and budget, you can pick the best one that suits you.
Hand Saw
This tool may be counterintuitive to the other items on this list, but sometimes it is needed to get the job done. Hand saws offer control, and certain ones allow precise cutting in tight areas where other saws can’t reach or would leave a rough edge. Available but will take the most to use for larger projects, but perfect if you need to make less than ten cuts.
Miter Saw
A great addition to a shop that makes quick cuts if pieces need to be the same length. Depending on the saw itself, you can even get beveled edges and make them consistently. Powerful enough to handle thicker boards, you can have this stationary in the shop, so you don’t have to chase it down.
Drill
Use this tool to make pilot holes to add screws to your projects. Then secure multiple screws fast, thanks to this little device. It will be a time saver compared to having to hand screw. Then, with interchangeable heads, swap out between bits for different jobs.
Impact Driver
For denser woods, securing multiple pieces, or using different materials together an impact will drive screws through them, giving you the security you need. Not to mention if you want to use bolts or thicker fasteners this can quickly drive them into the material.
Dust Collection/ Respirator
Either would be fine, but you must always have at least one in your shop. Wood dust can be harmful, and clearing or preventing the air from entering your respiratory system is essential for your safety.
This may seem like a lot to start with, but the early investment now pays off later. Of course, you are not required to get any of these items. Choosing the right tools and the ones you will use most often. But if power tools aren’t your way to go, there are plenty of affordable hand tools to choose from if you don’t mind the elbow grease that will be required.
No one wants to get into a hobby, and they won’t find fun in every aspect. These tools can help you enjoy making a new piece of furniture or decoration while finding new ways to improve your skills and use them on your next build.
Starting Projects
A few good starting projects would be to start simple and make a cutting board or a simple sign. You will learn all the basics of getting an object flat and actual while getting familiar with your tools. But if you are looking for more challenging woodworking projects, we have plenty of DIY posts and videos that you can use to build something you like. The posts and videos follow step-by-step instructions and the supplies you need to complete the project.
Makerspace (Createspace)
Are you on the fence about doing woodworking and the tools?
- Don’t worry; some places, like Makerspace or Createspace, offer woodworking classes.
They usually have classes on tool safety as well as some basic builds. If you are interested in this option, you should check your local area to see if they have a similar place. Grand Forks has a Makerspace that offers a place for people who don’t have the tools or the space to put them to create their pieces. They also offer classes on some fun and simple decoration pieces.
Renting is an Option
But if you don’t need classes but still don’t want to buy the tools, you can’t rent them. Use them for as long as you need, try different brands, and find out which ones you need while completing your project.
Did this article answer your question on what tools to buy? If we missed anything, please let us know in the comment section below. For experienced woodworkers, what else would you advise for new people getting into the hobby? If you are looking for the best tools and deals, go to the Acme Tools online store. Find deals on a variety of tools and brands. Keep up with the blog for more woodworking tools and other DIY articles. That way, you can always Do Your Best Work.
