Hey everyone! I've recently decided to dive into woodworking, which has been a passive interest of mine for a while now. I want to focus on using traditional hand tools because they seem quieter, more space-efficient, and way more fun! I'm looking for recommendations on what tools I should buy first and where to find good quality options. I usually lean towards vintage tools since they have character. Any tips or guidance would be super helpful. Also, if you have suggestions for fun beginner projects or books that could help me get started, that would be amazing!
On a side note, I'm also thinking about exploring tool repair, so I can refurbish classic tools. It seems like there's a lot to consider, and I appreciate any help!
By the way, I've already picked up a few books including 'Green Wood Carving' and 'Restoring, Tuning and Using Classic Hand Tools'. They were all around £3 each, which seemed like a steal!
2 Answers
Check out Lost Art Press; they're based in Covington, KY, and run by Chris Schwarz, who has written plenty of useful books. You can even find some of them available for free! 'The Anarchist's Tool Chest' has been recently updated, and it discusses essential hand tools for furniture-making as well as where to find them. It’s a great starting point!
You should definitely grab a copy of 'The Anarchist's Tool Chest.' It’s a fantastic read and will help you get started on the right foot. It’s generally a good idea to acquire tools as you tackle each project, but to kick things off, I recommend getting a No. 5 plane, a backsaw, and a set of chisels (1/4 to 1 inch; Narex is great for value). You'll also need a combo square, a marking knife for precision, and some consumables like sandpaper. Trust me, you can do quite a bit with just those essentials!
I’ve been searching for a marking knife, but they’re harder to find than I thought! ?
I've heard a bit about 'The Anarchist's Tool Chest.' Is it just about making a tool chest, or does it cover more topics?