Hey everyone,
I am new to woodworking and looking to set up my first small workshop. I want to invest in essential tools that are both beginner-friendly and versatile. I have done some research but there are so many options that it’s a bit overwhelming !!
I would love to hear recommendations on must-have tools for a beginner. I am particularly interested in:
A reliable workbench
Essential hand tools
Power tools that are worth the investment early on
Any safety gear that’s a must
I will mostly be working on small furniture pieces and DIY home projects. Budget is a factor so I would prefer tools that offer the best balance between quality and price.
Would love to hear from experienced woodworkers here what tools do you wish you had when you first started: ?? Any brands or specific models you swear by: ??
Looking forward to your advice !!
Thanks in advance,
With Regards,
Marcelo
I’ve been doing this woodmangling lark since the early 70’s so I’ve been through a fair range of gear over the last few decades. Chris ‘the Schwarz’ in his excellent book ‘The Anarchists Toolbox’ mentioned that you can make almost any furniture with about 50 hand tools, but for a basic, starter setup you actually need much less than that.
Priority is a bench. Keep it simple and make it heavy…really heavy and ensure it doesn’t ‘rack’ when you’re planing on it. Second and foremost, you MUST learn to grind and hone your tools. There’s loads of different options but I’m afeard it’s up to you to find your way on that one. Personally I use the Veritas honing guide and Shapton ‘Pro’ ceramic stones but there are many other systems to choose. If you can, find somebody who can show you how to do it…don’t rely on ubiquitous UToobers, many of whom spout utter rubbish.
Tools; you need to mark out, then cut and shape your material before gluing.
Marking tools: a marking knife, engineers 150mm square (or bigger) several marking gauges (at least three) rules (150, 300mm and 1m long) sliding bevel
Cutting tools: jack plane, smoothing plane and block plane. Don’t buy the Ax ‘Rider’ planes; there are better ones available elsewhere. A small selection of bevel edge chisels; conversely the ‘Rider’ chisels are excellent and made by Narex. Perhaps a couple of mortice chisels. Spokeshaves and a card scraper or two. Western or Japanese pull saws (to cut with and across the grain), fret or coping saw, universal hand saw for cutting large boards, plywood etc.
Additional tools: mallet, hammer(s), soft white mallet. A selection of cramps; Ax do a good range but don’t be tempted to buy a load of single handed cramps as they don’t offer enough pressure. Screwdrivers, pin punch, straight edge (600mm) etc.
Remember to buy the best quality than you can afford and ‘cherry pick’ various suppliers to find the best deals. It’s also worth bearing in mind the old maxim…‘buy cheap, buy twice’!!
