Woodworking is an excellent pastime. Observing simple blocks of wood evolve into practical pieces of furniture can be tremendously gratifying. However, it might take a while to acquire all the gear you need.
So, which woodworking tools should you purchase first? It’s recommended that you pick up the following items to tackle the majority of projects:
- Miter saw
- Jigsaw
- Power Drill
- Hand tools
- Random orbital sander
- Shop vacuum
- Lots of clamps
- Safety gear
- Track saw
- Band saw
- Router and bits
- Measuring and marking equipment
- Sandpaper
Though this might seem like a long shopping list, this equipment can be used for dozens of projects. But what should you consider when shopping for them? Let’s investigate this topic further so you can set up your woodworking workshop with confidence.
You would be surprised how frequently this question arises. We often discuss topics like this during our live workshops on Cucamonga Woodworking. You can check out our past workshops on YouTube here (Link to Cucamonga Woodworking).
🔧 Essential Woodworking Tools You Need
There are plenty of woodworking tools you may want to obtain. Initially, you’ll need some dependable saws to cut the wood. Then you’ll want a sander. You’ll also need essential safety equipment and a method for keeping your workshop tidy.
Before beginning any woodworking venture, make sure you have the correct equipment. This includes fundamental items like measuring tools and pencils. Additionally, ensure that you have sufficient clamps and wood glue. These affordable items will form the core of your toolbox.
As you tackle more complex projects, you’ll often require more equipment. For instance, a power drill and a reliable saw will help you cut the wood. Let’s delve into some of the items you may need.
📏 Must-Have Saws for Woodworking Projects
One of the most crucial tools is a saw, which allows you to make various cuts. You might want to consider getting a miter saw, a jigsaw, a track saw, and a band saw. Each will be valuable in different scenarios.
The type of saw you need depends largely on the kind of projects you intend to undertake. With so many models available, it can be overwhelming for newcomers to know which ones to use.
Miter Saw
Miter saws are primarily used for cutting precise angles. They’re a good choice for constructing joints on furniture or slicing trim in a room. You can control the stop, enabling you to cut multiple pieces to the same length.
Jigsaw
Sometimes, you might opt for a jigsaw. Featuring a thinner blade, it grants greater control so you can cut shapes. Another advantage of a jigsaw is the wide variety of blades. With the right blade, you can even slice through thicker materials such as drywall or steel. Check out my article on jigsaws to see which one I prefer (Link Here).
Track Saw
Another popular type of saw is the track saw. It attaches to a metal guide on your workbench, allowing you to cut in an immaculate straight line. These cuts are extremely accurate—so much so that you might skip the sanding step. Plus, this saw is typically quite portable, so you can easily bring it from job to job.
Band Saw
Lastly, there’s the band saw. This saw is commonly used on thicker lumber, slicing it into more manageable portions. The sturdy blade may also cut through tough materials, like metal, and can even be used to cut curves in wood. For more details, see my article on band saws (Link Here).
🛠️ The Best Saw Options for Beginners
With all these saws on the market, choosing your first one can be challenging. Generally, either a circular saw or a track saw is the best starting point because both tend to be portable, come with plenty of online support, and can handle a wide variety of cuts.
Many newcomers feel overwhelmed by the countless saws available, each specialized for a particular task. Your initial saw should be either a circular saw or a track saw. They’re very versatile, which means you can accomplish numerous types of projects with just one tool.
Additionally, these saws come in portable forms, so they won’t hog all your workshop space. They often include a carrying case for convenient storage.
Another major advantage is how easy these saws are to operate. Within a few minutes, you’ll get a sense of how they function. Though they include instruction manuals, there are also numerous online tutorials demonstrating usage. After a bit of practice, you’ll feel entirely at ease handling them.
✨ Discover the Most Versatile Tool for Your Projects
The track saw is one of the most versatile options you could choose. It produces precise cuts and can also cut at an angle. Because of this, it’s suitable for most tasks around your workshop.
Most people can only budget for one or two saws. If that’s the case, consider a track saw. It can accommodate the majority of cut types, including angle cuts, making it especially handy for building joints.
Another benefit is its accuracy. As noted, you’ll be able to use the track to ensure each piece is cut to the exact same length. For this reason, a track saw often becomes the backbone of any woodworking space.
🪚 Choosing the Right Sander for Your Needs
When picking a sander, there are a few considerations. First, think about the type of wood it’s meant to handle. You should also decide on whether you want it corded or battery-powered.
After cutting, you’ll need to sand the wood to remove rough edges and prepare it for paint or finish. You can sand by hand for smaller projects, which can be faster than setting up a power tool. However, for larger endeavors, a power sander is much more efficient.
There are countless sanders to pick from, but typically, you only need one for general woodworking. You’ll just swap out different sandpaper grits based on the kind of wood you’re dealing with. When deciding on a sander, think about the scale of your projects. Some are built for heavy-duty wood, while others have rounded heads that excel at smoothing larger surfaces.
In most cases, an orbital sander is perfect for hobbyists. It fits the bill for the vast majority of jobs. Then you can decide if you prefer a corded version or a battery-operated model, which is largely personal preference. Check out my article on orbital sanders for more details (Link Here).
🔒 Essential Safety Gear for Woodworking
It’s critical to remain cautious while woodworking. You’ll want some eye protection, along with a mask and gloves if necessary. Lastly, be sure you have a reliable vacuum cleaner to clear away dust.
Safety is one of the most significant considerations in woodworking. Tools like saws and the dust they generate can raise the likelihood of accidents or health issues. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to guard yourself.
First, always wear eye protection. This prevents debris or wood fragments from flying into your eyes. It also keeps dust away, allowing you to concentrate. Eye protection is a must whenever you cut.
Depending on your tasks, extra precautions might be warranted. If you’re working with wood prone to splinters, wear gloves. If you’re in a closed environment, use a mask to avoid inhaling dust. This is crucial if you have respiratory conditions like asthma.
Lastly, you need to keep your workshop clean. Excess dust can create slipping hazards or trigger breathing problems. Luckily, this is easily addressed by a vacuum. After cutting, suck up the dust and debris. Just be sure to choose a vacuum built to withstand the demands of a workshop. Often, this means spending a bit more on a heavy-duty model.
My article on safety gear provides even more helpful insights (Link Here).
📋 The Best Order to Buy Woodworking Tools
It’s wise to begin with a track saw and a sander, alongside some safety equipment. These basics will suffice for most starter projects. As you gain more experience, you can expand your power tool collection.
The sequence in which you purchase tools is guided by two considerations: budget and skill level. Both will grow as you pursue woodworking, especially if you decide to sell some finished pieces for extra income.
When you’re just getting started, you don’t need the most advanced devices. Usually, you’ll only need some fundamental tools like marking pencils, rulers, and wood. If money is tight, it might be simpler to begin with hand tools. Although they require more physical work, hand tools are far cheaper than power tools.
Before you cut anything, make sure you have the proper safety equipment. This isn’t usually a big investment. Furthermore, high-quality safety gear will likely last you for many years.
Once you’re ready to step into power tools, the first item to consider is a track saw. As noted, this is the most versatile choice, allowing you to work on an extensive range of projects. While extremely useful, it can be a bit pricier.
Next, ensure you have a reliable sander. This saves you from the hassle of sanding everything manually, conserving a lot of time. An orbital sander is typically the best because you can use it under the widest variety of conditions.
As you broaden your skill set further, you may wish to tackle more complicated projects, which means purchasing additional power tools. It’s wise to buy these as you need them.
It may take a few years to gather all the tools required for any woodworking project. However, following this gradual approach means you’ll truly understand how each device operates and in which situations it shines.
🔧 Top Woodworking Tool Brands to Consider
There are multiple brands known for producing top-quality woodworking tools. These include DeWalt and Makita. If you need something more budget-friendly, Black and Decker or Ryobi are good alternatives.
With so many tools on the market, picking the right brand can help narrow your choices. It also ensures you’ll get dependable customer service and that your tools will stand the test of time.
If you’re looking for premium tools, consider DeWalt and Makita. Both have been around for quite a while and have a strong record of delivering high standards. The downside is that they can be more expensive.
On the other hand, if you want to conserve funds, Black and Decker or Ryobi might be right for you. Though less costly, they generally maintain a solid level of quality and often come with decent warranties. I have some specific recommendations in this article (Link Here).
If you’re not sure about the quality of a certain tool, reading online reviews will give you a good sense of customer satisfaction. If a product has a large number of negative reviews, it’s probably best to look elsewhere.
It’s also smart to check the warranty. If something malfunctions, you’ll want the peace of mind that you can get it fixed. Typically, the warranty length is listed in the specifications. Keep in mind, most warranties don’t cover user mistakes, so always read the instructions prior to use.
📊 How to Budget for Woodworking Equipment
The cost of woodworking equipment can vary widely. Some individuals choose to invest more in high-end tools that provide added features and greater durability. Others prefer to focus on more basic models to save money.
Woodworking often involves specialized tools, making it a potentially more expensive hobby. Below is a table to give you an idea of potential price ranges for both lower-end and higher-end models (note that these figures are just approximations and can change over time):
| Tool | Lower Cost | Higher Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Track Saw | $150-$300 | $1,250-$3,000 |
| Miter Saw | $150-$300 | $500-$1,500 |
| Jig Saw | $30-$100 | $150-$250 |
| Power Drill | $80-$100 | $250-$300 |
| Hand Tools (Hand Plane, Filer, Hole Punch, etc.) | $50-$100 | $150-$200 |
| Orbital Sander | $50-$125 | $250-$550 |
| Workshop Vacuum | $50-$150 | $250-$500 |
| Clamps | $20-$35 | $40-$70 |
| Safety Gear | $15-$30 | $50 |
| Band Saw | $150-$400 | $600-$800 |
| Sand Paper | $5-$10 | $15 |
| Wood Glue | $5-$10 | $15 |
💡 Final Thoughts
Whether you want to build your own furniture or install floor trim, or even craft pieces to sell for some extra money, woodworking is a fantastic hobby. You don’t need a huge assortment of tools to start. Typically, a basic track saw can be an excellent investment. As your confidence grows, you’ll be able to work on more sophisticated projects and incorporate more complex tools into your collection.