Getting into woodworking is actually quite easy but many are intimidated by it. Part of this apprehension can come from the misconception that you need to invest on power tools to turn your woodworking plans into actual sturdy objects.
The truth, however, is that woodworking has long been a craft even before drills, table saws, and even electricity. In fact, there is quite a lot that you can do using the most basic of woodworking tools.
What Should Every Woodworker Have?
Regardless of skill, any person should have the following basic tools to complete most woodworking projects.
1. Sandpaper
This sheet of thin, coarse material is needed to smooth, level, and shape surfaces. They are easily available at the local hardware store in varying degrees of coarseness.
2. Other Sanding Tools
For objects that are larger, one must use a sanding block. This tool will hold the object tightly which allows the woodworker to go through every surface. A sanding file, on the other hand, allows the woodworker to smooth out surfaces that are hard to reach either by hand or a large tool.
3. Spokeshave
This tool works like a miter saw but allows for a greater degree of control and precision. Basically, the spokeshave allows you to cut through wood at an angle which creates curved surfaces. The spokeshave will come in handy for projects like chairs, tables, and even wheels.
4. Wood Chisel
This is perhaps the next most important tool in any woodworker’s arsenal next to the hand saw and hammer. In the hands of a skilled person, the wood chisel can create joints, recessed hinges, and create entirely new surfaces. Arguably, they are not as effective in flattening surfaces or rounding edges but the wood chisel is so versatile that it is a must-have in any woodworking project.
5. Plane
A wood plane is used to remove uneven spots in a flat surface. When pushing the plane through the surface, a blade at the bottom scrapes off excess wood which levels the area. There is also a specialized plane used for polishing surfaces.
What Can You Do With Basic Tools?
Surprisingly enough, there are a lot of woodworking projects out there that don’t require power tools. Here are some of them.
* Bookshelves and Wall Shelves – All that is needed for these projects are a saw, hammer, nails, a plane, and sandpaper. If the shelf has only to 3 levels, it’s structural integrity will be greater.
* Chairs and Stools – Again, this project requires the usual saws, hammers, and nails to complete. For stools, a spokeshave and chisel is needed to round out the edges of the seat.
* Garden Trellis – This project is so simple that it only requires a hammer, a saw, and some nails to fasten the small wooden panels.
There are other woodworking projects out there that do not need you to feed something through a machine or invest on an electrical tool. The point is that even with just the most basic tools for the trade (and a bit of creativity on your part), you can create pieces that will last.
Please Share This Article 🙂
