Your introduction to beginner projects woodworking should also include an introduction to the hand tools you will be using. Many of these tools are things that you have probably used in jobs around the house or in other situations. However, it never hurts to get a refresher to ensure that you get a start on your projects. Woodworking hand tools can be varied, but here is a look at ten of the most used tools.
The following hand tools will be used quite a bit in your projects woodworking. Woodworking beginners should be familiar with all ten of these tools and have them as part of their equipment .
Claw Hammer – The claw hammer is something you probably already have. It is used for hammering and removing nails. There are many styles, so choose the style that you like the best and feel most comfortable using.
6″ Layout Square – You will have to make a lot of square lines in your projects, so you will need the square. It makes making square lines simple and fast.
25′ Retractable Tape Measure – If you want to stop wood waste and to ensure your projects are on scale then you need a measuring device. A tape measure is an essential tool and simple to use. You will find that you cannot through a project without it.
Utility Knife – When you need to make a quick mark or do a small cutting job then you will love having a utility knife on hand. Make sure you also have replacement blades.
Chisel – Your chisel is the only tool that makes it easy to get joints clean. Just make sure you are keeping it sharp or it may not work so well on your projects. Woodworking beginners may like to have multiple sizes of chisels for different types of projects.
Level – A level is, as the name suggest, a tool that helps ensure your projects are level. You don’t want any crooked finished projects. Woodworking levels come in many different styles so shop around for one that suits you.
Screwdrivers – You will need multiple styles and size for your projects. Woodworking may use different head styles, like flat, phillips or even metric so be prepared with different sets.
Sliding Bevel – This works like a square, but it is adjustable. It is great once you start getting into more complex projects.
Nail Sets – You will need multiple sizes and types of nails, depending on the projects that you are doing.
Block Plane – Used for shaving, this tool lets you clean edges or simply just get your project level. There are many times when you will use this tool to finish off a project and make it perfect.
When choosing your hand tools there is a lot of options. Most tools come in a variety of styles so you can choose the tool that you like the best. It is important that you feel comfortable using your tools and that you like using them. You will probably be using the same hand tools for years so make sure they are high quality.
John Helton
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