Hey everyone! I recently got into woodworking after buying a couple of wooden dog frames, and I'm eager to dive in. But here's the thing—I'm a total beginner and I don't have any tools yet. I've heard from a friend about Ana White's website for DIY designs, but I need some guidance on what tools to start with. I know I'll need a saw, but which type should I go for? Is a circular saw the best option? Do I need a workbench or table? Also, should I invest in a nail gun or a drill? I've been told clamps are essential too, but I'm curious about what they actually do. I'd love to get tools that are versatile enough for projects like making shelves in my garage and laundry room as well as some planter boxes. Any tips on where to start would be appreciated! Thanks!
3 Answers
If you have a Woodcraft or a Makerspace near you, check them out! They often offer classes on woodworking and give access to tools you can try out. It's a great way to figure out what you really need and gain some hands-on experience before committing to buying any tools.
The best approach is to start with a simple project first. Once you choose what to build, you’ll know which tools you need. Are you committed to this hobby or just testing the waters? Your tool choice might vary if you plan on spending a lot versus just wanting to dabble. At a minimum, you'll need something to cut wood, join pieces together, and finish the surfaces. For basic needs, think about a hand saw, hammer, nails, sandpaper, and maybe a can of spray finish. But if you're more serious, you might want to invest in tools like a miter saw, a drill, and an orbital sander. Focus on your project first, then build up your tool collection from there!
Just to clarify, my first project is definitely building shelves in my garage and laundry room. After that, I want to try making planters or even a dog bed. I’ve been good with home repairs like changing faucets and light fixtures, just haven’t worked with wood much before.
I started out with just a circular saw, drill, and some basic measuring tools and managed to build a lot over the years. You can get by with budget-friendly tools; even used ones can do the job. I only recently upgraded to a planer after decades! So, don’t feel pressured to buy everything at once. What you need initially is minimal, and you can always expand your setup over time as your projects become more complex.
Thanks for that perspective! But do you think I should also get a work table? I don’t want to risk damaging my lawn like I've seen in some videos.
Definitely consider getting a sturdy work table or a portable workbench. It’ll help you keep everything organized and protected while you work.
Great plan! Once you have your shelving project, you can look for online tutorials or community forums that guide you on the tools needed for specific builds. YouTube has tons of useful channels focusing on woodworking, just search for beginner projects to get started!