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.