If you are new to the world of woodworking, you may get intimidated by the thought of having to spend a fortune to own the right tools to be able to do a decent job. Well, there is no reason to try and own every tool you see at a hardware store. Here are my recommendations for the most essential woodworking tools that will help you do just about anything as a beginner and as you grow into an experienced woodworker.
1. Hammer
It is probably the most basic tool for any woodworker, there will always come a time you may need to knock a nail into place. Some people would say this is more of a carpentry tool, but I think even during woodworking there is going to be a for a hammer and unlike a nail gun, a hammer can also help you pull out nails and it is a lot harder for you to end up accidentally hammering a nail into your foot, which makes it safer for beginners.
2. Chisels
There are different types of chisels, a beginner may need to have about 4 which they can use for carving, designing and shaving. If you went to a hardware store, you can ask for Bevel edge chisels, mortise chisel, sash mortise chisel and paring chisel.
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3. Wooden Mallet
Like a horse and carriage, the chisels go with a mallet so if you are going to be using a chisel, it is a good idea to have a wooden mallet. I think I should point out as well that for a beginner, an ordinary hammer will not be a good idea.
4. Random orbital sander
There are a number of sanders, but drawing from my experience when I was a beginner, the random orbital sander is the best choice for a beginner because it does not move in a particular pattern which minimizes the chance of having sanding marks in the direction that the sander was moving. A sander is important if you want to smoothen the surface you are working on.
5. Screw drivers
These are actually essential for any handyman, beginner or expert, woodworker or steel worker. Screws are needed to fasten different parts together so it is important to always have screw drivers. If you have the budget for it, you can opt for an electric one but to save money and space, manual ones will work just fine.
6. Jigsaw
If you are going to be cutting curved partens, you will really appreciate this tool. The jigsaw is a versatile tool and you can change the blades to suit your needs. It is important though to get one with an easy blade changing system.
7. Tape measure
There is always need for precision and a tape measure comes in handy at such times.
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8. Masking/ Painters tape
There will be times when you may want to varnish or paint some parts without getting any paint on another side, this can be common when dealing with cabinets, in such instances, you can use masking tape to cover the area you do not want to be painted that way your work will look neat and professional.
9. Handsaw
When you need to make a straight cut on the wood you are working on, a handsaw may be the best option for a beginner, this is a lot cheaper than an electric saw and it may be easier to carry around.
10. Brushes
If you are going to be applying varnish or paint to some of your work, then it is only natural that you have the right brushes to do this. You, however, should include a light and stiff brush that you will use to clean the wood as you prepare it for finishing.
11. Power drill
There is usually some drilling involved in woodworking. Some beginners may think it is a good idea to have a cordless drill but I would recommend the corded one which is actually cheaper than a good cordless drill.
