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7 MUST-HAVE Tools for Woodworking!
Alright, so you want to get into woodworking, but you have no idea what tools you need to get started. Good thing you’re here, because I’m going to show you exactly what you need to get started in your woodworking ventures. You may be under the impression that you need thousands of dollars’ worth of equipment and a fully functioning shop to make any decent woodworking pieces. This is simply not true.
I’m going to show you everything you need from hand tools to power tools. I buy nearly all my woodworking tools from Amazon because they have a huge selection and they tend to have better prices than hardware stores. You can purchase all the woodworking tools we recommend from Amazon for less than $500!
Power Tools
1. Router
A router is one of my favorite woodworking tools because of its versatility. I swear I’m finding new ways to incorporate my router with every woodworking project. Let me give you the run down on all a router can do. It can cut rebates and grooves, it can trim and shape wood, it can be used to cut décor flutings in your projects, it can drill holes, make hinges, it can cut joints, and so much more. If you’re trying to get into woodworking, invest in a router right now. I tried getting away without one when I was a beginner and you simply won’t make it without one. The router we recommend is a plunge router and it will get the job done perfectly without breaking the bank. It’s lightweight, easy to use, and has every attachment you could ever need for your woodworking needs!
Our Recommendation: DEWALT DWP611 1.25 HP Max Torque Variable Speed Compact Router with Dual LEDs
2. Circular Saw or Table Saw
Another versatile tool you must have for your woodworking toolbox is a circular saw. They are an excellent substitute for table saws as they can cut wood just as accurate as a table saw when using a straight edge. They are fairly inexpensive and can practically do anything a table saw can do, just a little less conveniently. I would recommend a circular saw for someone getting started that’s on a budget.
If you’re willing to put in the money, a table saw will make your life a lot easier. Although a circular saw can perform all the functions of a table saw, a table saw will ensure precision. Rather than depending on additional equipment such as a shooting board and a straight edge, a table saw will do all the work for you and you won’t be second guessing your cuts.
Our Recommendation: Skil 5280-01 15-Amp 7-1/4-Inch Circular Saw with Single Beam Laser Guide
3. Random Orbit Sander
You’ll definitely find an orbital sander useful on every project you tackle. Basically, it’s an electric sander which has a disc on the end to sand your wood. It spins in a random circular motion to ensure even sanding. Of course, there are other sanders out there that serve a variety of different purposes, but this one is very simple to use, and you won’t ever get swirl marks with the random orbiting motion. I recommend picking up a 6” because it’s going to save you a lot of time on your sanding.
More: Interested in heavy woodworking? If so, you need to learn about lathe machines!
4. Jigsaw
The great thing about the jigsaw is how easy it is to use! They can cut curves and straight lines and they can cut them with precision. Even if you settle for a cheap one, or you already have a cheap one, you’re going to be sanding your cuts afterwards anyways. This will eliminate any imperfections in your cuts. The one we recommend is probably the best one on the market for the price, and it comes with every piece you need!
5. Drill Set
A drill is a woodworking necessity. You’re going to be drilling holes and driving screws so be sure to pick up a nice electric drill. We recommend getting this one from Amazon because it comes with a drill plus multiple other tools you’ll need to get the job done. It’s also very reasonably priced for everything included.
Our Recommendation: BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX Drill & Home Tool Kit, 68 Piece
Hand Tools
6. Chisel set
A lot of people think that power tools are the most useful tools in your toolbox. However, hand tools are just as important. A nice beginner chisel set with several different sizes, specifically 1”, ¾”, ½”, and ¼” will cover all your woodworking needs. With a set of chisels, you can do various things such as making mortise cuts, chopping, and shaving wood.
7. Combination Square
First of all, you can get away with purchasing a much cheaper version of this tool than the one we recommend, and I got away with it for years. However, once I purchased a 12” Starrett combination square, I realized what I was missing out on. It will ensure your planes are level, your stock is jointed right, your chisels are square, and all your work is perfect. It is a foundation for clean work in your woodworking projects. Like I said, the one we recommend isn’t necessary, but I had to recommend the Starrett because it’s one of the most useful tools I own, and it will save you from guessing the accuracy of your lines with a cheap one. Plus, all Starrett products are American made!
Our Recommendation: Starrett C33H-12-4R 12-Inch Combination Square with Square Head Only
If you enjoyed this list of the top 7 must-have woodworking tools, be sure to check out some of our other reviews below.
More: Teds Woodworking review.
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