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The basic woodworking hand tools you’ll need to complete the majority of your projects should include the core tools that will serve you well from project to project. You’ll need woodworking hand tools that will allow you to work efficiently with reclaimed or rough cut lumber because this type of material is less expensive. A basic list of tools you’ll need to have on hand will include power jointer, thickness planer, circular saw, hand saws, router, jigsaw, tape measure, a power drill, block plane and smoothing plane, chisels, hammer, and clamps.
Woodworking Hand Tools that can save you Time and Money
To efficiently flatten the faces of reclaimed or rough wood, you’ll need to use a power jointer. This tool will come in handy during the first few steps for any furniture project. Using a thickness planer can save you a ton of time when compared to other handheld tools.
A circular saw will be needed for rough dimensioning, especially for long rip cuts. If you already have a high-quality table saw, then that’s even better because you’ll be able to use the table saw for all types of joinery work.
Two router bits, a router, and a hand saw are the tools that used for cutting board down to the final width, straightening edges and cross cutting. The two router bits you’ll need are a flush trimming bit and a straight cut bit.
A jigsaw will be necessary for cutting curves. You can also purchase a coping saw to have on hand for more detailed work.
Other items you’ll be sure to need to include a tape measure, combination square, and pencils or crayons for marking. If you don’t already have one, you’ll also need a power drill and bits.
A block plane, smoothing plane, random orbit sander, files, and rasps are the minimum tools you’ll need to be prepared to smooth all types of surfaces efficiently. Don’t forget that you will also need some sharpening supplies for the plane blades.
It’s debatable as to whether you need to purchase joinery gadgets. Most pros are not sold on buying a pocket hole set or biscuit joiner. But if you’re totally new to working with your hands, purchasing one can save you some time.
What you need for Your Workspace
Clamps, a puttering bench, and a workmate will be sufficient for small projects. A large furniture making work bench can be costly, and you might want to wait until you’re more experienced in woodworking before you make that type of investment. Having a good amount of clamps is required for most woodworking projects and will make your work easier.