Woodworking can be baffling for newcomers – with so many tools on the market, it can be difficult to know which ones are necessary to get the job done. Read our handy guide to get a better understanding of all the tools you’ll need in your workshop to get started.
Getting Started in Woodwork
Taking up woodwork as a hobby doesn’t need to be expensive, nor do you need a huge collection of tools. Whether you’re cutting wood or assembling joints, there are just a few pieces of equipment required to get started.
How to Stay Safe During Woodworking Projects
Compared to other activities, woodworking is definitely high up on the scale in terms of danger, mainly because of the powerful equipment used. Therefore, you must know exactly what you’re doing and how to use all of the equipment correctly.
Wear safety gear
Before even thinking about getting to work, beginners must deck themselves out in the necessary safety gear.
Safety glasses are essential for any woodworker, and it’s important to make sure they cover the sides too to stop anything from getting into the eyes from any angle. Gloves will help keep your hands from danger, and the right hearing protection will ensure you do not encounter any long-term hearing loss.
Follow the correct practices with your tools
Before getting started on any project, learn how to use the tools correctly. This will help avoid any dangerous situations and produce a better end product!
Keep tools maintained
Every good woodworker knows to clean up their tools after using them, as this clears them of dust and any other particles. In addition, this ensures your devices will continue to produce accurate work in the future.
It is also important to keep your hand tools sharp and replace blades and bits regularly for continuous smooth results. It’s always worth investing in high-quality items so that they do not need replacing as often.
The Best Saws for Woodworking
Handsaw
A handsaw is a handy piece of equipment that can be used for smaller woodworking jobs and more intricate work. Again, a sharp blade is recommended here for the highest quality results.
Estimated cost: £10
Circular saw
A circular saw is a handy hand tool that is used to cut through wood. There are a variety of blades to choose from depending on the kind of cuts that you require.
Estimated cost: £50
Jigsaw
While circular saws cut through wood in a revolving manner, jigsaws operate using an up and down action. As a result, Jigsaws are useful hand tools as they produce precise cuts that vary in shape and size.
Estimated cost: £40
Table saw
You’ll find a table saw at the heart of any woodworker’s shop, as it provides quick, convenient cuts each time it is used. The blades used in table saws sit below the table, exposing the top for precision cuts at various angles.
Estimated cost: £250
Compound miter saw
For cutting angles, woodworkers cannot go wrong with purchasing a compound miter saw. This tool allows for various cuts, from a miter cut to a bevelled cut, perfect for any woodworking project.
Estimated cost: £100
Bandsaw
If your project requires a lot of curvy cuts into wood, a bandsaw is the best tool for you, even if it is particularly heavy-duty material that you are working with. A bandsaw has a continuously looped band of teeth and is also good for cutting irregular shapes.
Estimated cost: £150
Essential Tools for Filing, Planing, and Sanding
Random Orbital Sander
Orbital sanders are great for beginners because, when used, they do not leave obvious marks behind on your work. In addition, they are easy to use and can get into corners without difficulty.
Estimated cost: £40
Planes
Hand planes are used at an angle and help you make finishing cuts, trim end grain and smooth and shape boards. There are different types of planes for different uses; for instance, a jack plane is used for general smoothing.
Estimated cost: £30
Rasps
Rasps are specialty chisels with individual teeth set quite wide apart and are used to shape wood or other materials like metal roughly.
Estimated cost: £11
Half-round files
Woodworkers find half-round files convenient as they are chisels that can be used to smooth flat wood surfaces and cut grooves.
Estimated cost: £7
Mill files
Mill files, which are single cut and tapered, are chisels that can be used to sharpen saw blades and knives. A mill file is often used to finish off work too.
Estimated cost: £5
Tools Needed for Assembly
Mallet
A wooden mallet is a type of hammer used to make wood joints. Mallets are also good for hammering chisels, and when used with a lot of force, they can make a big impact.
Estimated cost: £15
Hammer
Woodworkers will find great purpose from hammers, which are used to drive nails and tacks and put together smaller joints. A lighter nail hammer is a convenient and easy-to-use hand tool that is great for those just starting.
Estimated cost: £5
Electric drill
This can be the most important tool in your workshop. A lighter type is easier to use for beginners, while professionals may choose to opt for larger drills. Electric drills are used for making holes and driving nails/screws.
Estimated cost: £30
Powered screw gun
Screw guns are handy for projects where a drill is just not efficient. In addition, it has more driving force, meaning that you can work with tougher, more durable materials.
Estimated cost: £125
The Best Measuring Tools
Tape measure
This item should not be overlooked in anybody’s workshop. A successful woodworker needs a durable tape measure with a secure lock that keeps the tape in exactly the right place.
Estimated cost: £7
Squares
Squares are convenient as they ensure perfect corners every time! The best squares on the market will be easy to hold, have precision blades, and will be made of durable material.
There are different types of squares with many advantages. For instance, with a sliding bevel square, an existing angle can be transferred too!
Estimated cost: £9
Metal ruler
A metal ruler is great in a workshop because it is hardwearing and won’t break easily. When taking part in any woodwork DIY project, the correct wood measurements are essential, and a ruler is there to help!
Estimated cost: £4
Safety Equipment
Glasses/Goggles
Any beginning woodworker will require a sturdy pair of glasses or goggles. They couldn’t be more important, as they protect your eyes from any dust or flying chips.
Estimated cost: £5
Gloves
A good set of gloves are crucial when dealing with hand tools such as saws and hammers. The best kind of gloves are both resistant to any potential scrapes but are flexible enough to not get in the way of work.
Estimated cost: £9
Hearing protection
As much as you need to protect your eyes and hands, you should also protect your ears – it can get fairly loud in a workshop! Again, there are different types to choose from based on your needs, ranging from over the head to ones that can be attached to your helmet.
Estimated cost: £20
Face mask/Respirator
For some projects, a face mask is a great idea as it protects from any flying chips and other particles in the air getting to your lungs.
Estimated cost: £10
Steel Toecap boots
The last thing you want while woodworking is to chop off your own feet with an electric saw; therefore, good protection is crucial. Choose boots that are comfortable, slip-proof, and durable enough to reduce the risk of injury.
Estimated cost: £90
Suitable clothing
You will not want to wear anything that is too loose or is made of thin material. Comfortable, multi-layered trousers or shorts are essential, and an apron/vest can also be useful.
Estimated cost (of trousers): £50
Estimated cost (of apron): £10
Final Thoughts
The main takeaway from this guide is that you make sure it is of high quality no matter what you buy. Woodworking can be dangerous, so you will want to invest in the best tools and the finest quality safety equipment to avoid any danger.
Great quality woodworking tools will also last you a long time, meaning that you can rely on your devices to continue to help you make some truly amazing things with wood in the future!
FAQs
What are the basic tools for woodworking?
The key woodworking tools are saws, sanders/files, mallets, and hammers to aid in assembly. Measuring equipment and high-quality safety equipment such as steel topped shoes are also essential to ensure all of the sizings are correct and that you are kept safe while working.
Which saw should I buy first?
There are different types of saws for different projects; however, a lightweight handsaw is a great place to start as a beginner. These are easy to manage and make accurate cuts and are therefore a perfect introduction to woodworking.
Are power tools dangerous?
Yes, power tools can be dangerous if they are not being used correctly or if the user is not wearing the correct protective gear.
To avoid injury, make sure you have read the instructions and use the right tool for the task. In addition, ensure you have the necessary safety equipment.
Where can you buy woodworking tools?
To shop the biggest range of blades and accessories that are fully compatible with the most popular multi-tools, check out our website – all you need to do is create an account to start shopping.
You can buy woodworking equipment from various retailers both online and in-person, and you can also find a broad selection of items at industrial outlets.