Hey everyone! I'm looking to dive into woodworking but could really use some pointers before spending my limited budget. I'd love to start with small projects like boxes and accessories for tabletop games and need to think about creating a compact, portable workspace. I don't have any tools or a dedicated area yet—just the motivation to get started! The spaces I have available are my parents' garage (not ideal for a permanent setup) or my small, uneven backyard (about 8x15 feet). I need something that's easy to set up and take down, and I have a hatchback to transport my gear. I'm also quite unsure if I really need a table saw or if there are better, smaller options. Any recommendations for essential tools, project ideas, or general beginner advice would be amazing!
2 Answers
Consider taking a woodworking class at a makerspace or community college if you can. It’ll save you a ton of time and potentially money in the long run!
For a solid starter kit, you'll want a tenon saw, some chisels, and a number 4 plane (look for a used Stanley—it’s reliable). A rabbeting block plane will cover many bases, too. Don't forget a modern hard tooth saw from Home Depot and basic measuring tools like a tape measure and square. With these, you can tackle a lot! A good first project could be a mallet, and after that, you could build a small, portable workbench. Good luck and keep us posted on your projects!
This is great! Thanks, stranger!
Valid point! I've mostly self-taught myself in the past, so I'm wondering if a class offers something online research might miss.