Hey everyone! I'm new to woodworking and feeling a bit overwhelmed with where to begin. I have a few small project ideas like building a workbench, planters, a grill table, patio swing, stove covers, a wooden chest, small shed, and a dog house. I think these should be manageable for a beginner. I'm working with a tight budget, so I'm looking for advice on which tools to prioritize purchasing and what brands are reliable. I've been gifted a Ryobi drill and impact driver, and I'm borrowing a circular saw and a random orbital sander. I also have a shop vac.
I'm planning to buy some basics like a tape measure, a Swanson 7-inch square, wood pencils, and maybe a frame square. Is there anything I'm missing that would be more essential on a budget? Also, I find selecting wood pretty tricky; I went to Home Depot and got so confused by all the options! Any guidance would be appreciated! Thanks!
1 Answer
You should definitely consider investing in a used table saw first; they can be found for around $50-100. Use your circular saw for crosscuts, and you'll really get the most out of a table saw for making accurate rip cuts. I suggest skipping some of the squares for now and just grabbing a cheap speed square instead. Don't forget to pick up some clamps, specifically F-clamps from Harbor Freight—they're super versatile and affordable. Focus on basic starter projects with your current tools, and remember, when you need a new tool for a project, try to find it used. Brand-wise, just avoid the really cheap off-brands. Companies like Black & Decker, Ryobi, and Craftsman offer good value. When you start investing in bigger equipment, then it's time to think about brand reliability.
And when it comes to wood selection, stick to plywood and pine for your initial projects. Look for anything labeled as 'common boards.' Hardwood is great, but unless you've got the right tools like a jointer, planer, and a solid table saw, it might not be worth it at first.