What does a woodworker’s basic tool kit look like? If you are keen on getting a headstart in this hobby, here are some tools and things to start off with.
It’s important to have a power jointer and thickness planer. A power jointer efficiently flattens the faces of rough or reclaimed lumber, while the thickness planer saves a lot of time compared to most handheld tools. A power drill or two are also necessary to have in your starter kit.
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There are different types of saw that are essential to have in your woodworking kit. A circular saw performs rough dimensioning, particularly long rip cuts. Hand saw, a router, and two router bits are all tools useful for cross-cutting, straightening edges, and cutting boards down to final width. Think of tools such as a crosscut saw, rip saw, backsaw or dovetail saw, coping saw, and hacksaw.
A jigsaw is another must-have. It allows users to cut curved and circular patterns in stock, and although a band saw is more likely to be more accurate and a source of thicker stock, the jigsaw can be perfectly effective for beginners. Don’t forget the random orbital sander, too, which uses hook-and-loop fastened sanding disks and employs a random sanding motion instead of sanding in patterns.
Note that a good tool doesn’t go out of style, so it makes sense to go for quality at all times. Some woodworkers will, in fact, tell you that some old tools can be pricier than new ones because of their caliber.
Randall Bendersonis a retired professional photographer from the sunny state of Florida. He likes traveling and exploring new crafts and hobbies. Learn more on this page.
