Hey everyone! I'm looking to kick off a furniture-making side hustle, focusing on commission projects for my local community and possibly selling through Etsy. I want to create quality pieces like desks, coffee tables, and lounge chairs using joinery techniques. I've worked with softwoods like Poplar and Oak for three years in school, but I'm eager to learn more about joinery since that wasn't covered during my training. I plan to invest around $2000 in tools and equipment but only have basic Ryobi tools and a few measuring devices right now. What's the best way to go about this? How should I spend that budget effectively to get started, and any tips for learning joinery?
3 Answers
I started a similar journey a few years ago, crafting mainly hardwood pieces. Check out local secondhand marketplaces for good deals on core tools—like a decent table saw and miter saw—they'll be crucial. Don't ignore dust collection if you're working from home; trust me, it helps keep the peace!
It's awesome that you're diving into furniture making! I suggest starting small—build some pieces for yourself or family to refine your skills before venturing into commissioned work. It’s way more efficient to add tools as you discover what you really need for your projects. Also, keep in mind that your $2k can disappear quickly, so be strategic with your purchases!
Thanks for the advice! I definitely plan to start with some personal projects.
Great idea to focus on a couple of profitable builds first! Use the income from those to gradually gear up. You’re right about needing mostly used tools to make that $2000 stretch. A jobsite table saw and a circular saw are must-haves, along with an orbital sander and a decent router. These essentials will go a long way!
That sounds like a solid plan! I'll prioritize those tools for sure.
Thanks for the tips! I'll definitely keep an eye out for good deals locally.