We are jess and Jef, we have been Full-time woodworkers for 2 years now and we want to help and inspire others with the things we’ve learned along the way through lots of hard work and trial and error. Thanks for checking out our blog. Be sure to follow us on any social media platform!
What tools do you need to start woodworking?
For a majority of projects you will need a way to cut, sand, and assemble. Most people who want to build things are on a budget, which is why we choose to build things ourselves! All you need is the right tools for the job. If your comfortable searching craigslist and other used sales forums this should be your first stop to save some money. If you don’t know what your buying ask for help, most makers on social media will gladly help! If you just want to buy new tools and learn along the way I put togerther a list of tools that will tackle most projects for UNDER $250.
PowerTool Combo kit
The best way to save some money is to purchase a combo kit of tools. There are many toolkits on the market that offer drill and saw combo. If you would rather buy your own set and start fresh check out this Ryobi 8pc combo kit. It has great reviews and is affordable. This kit will tackle all your cutting and drilling needs!
This Kit offers you TWO ways to cut, a reciprocating saw and a circular saw. The circular saw can be used for cutting lumber in any direction. The reciprocating saw is perfect for tight spots for home repairs or cutting apart pallets! It also includes a drill which is used for EVERYTHING, I use my drill almost daily.
Kreg Jig Kit
This is another tool that is a huge help when learning how to build. This allows you to join wood together in a quick easy manner. A lot of people use this tool and there are a ton of woodworking plans revolving around this tool alone! Click here examples of free Kreg Jig plans
This tool is not necessary right away but I feel its a huge advantage. Its effective and it allows you to hide the joinery. If you are on a tight budget I would buy the sander and tool combo kit over this. If your interested in this tool check it out on Kreg Jigs Youtube before you buy it, there are tons of tips and projects there.
Sanding
How well you sand the item your making can make or break your build. Not structurally but aesthetically. If you don’t sand the item enough it will not stain or paint well. You’re investing a lot of time into your projects and you want them to look good! You don’t need a high-end sander to start. This tool can easily be found on craigslist or facebook marketplace, find any random orbital sander that looks lightly used for less than sticker price. For an all around sander, the random orbital sander is the best choice. When you have a higher budget a belt sander is also a nice tool to have on hand.
The tool above is the Black+Decker random orbital sander. This is the most affordable sander with the highest reviews that I can find. We do not own this sander but we do own a jigsaw and it has been going strong for 5 years now!
Its Time to get Building!
We are not sponsored by any of these companies we are simply recommending tools that will be most affordable and versatile for anyone looking to get into DIY projects to save some money. Tools are very expensive up front but with little patients and practice you can save thousands of dollars in repairs and buying furniture over the life of your tool investment. Its very rewarding to build your own furniture! I mean come on! you made that!!!! If you have any questions we will gladly help! Send us a message on one of our social media accounts or comment below!
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