Start at the beginning.
We all start somewhere. No matter what it is that you are wanting to learn, the first step in anything is to just start.
Every woodworker out there started at the same spot as you. They knew nothing. They weren’t just born with this knowledge of how to use power tools and create awesome things for their home from scratch. It takes time. It takes patience. It takes trying and failing. But I promise you, you will get there. Carpentry is a never-ending trade of areas that you will be able to grow in. I started woodworking four years ago, and if you are reading this I may know more than you do, but I can promise you that I have years and years of learning still to do. I think that is why I love it so much. I might always feel like an amateur. But at least I am having fun doing it. And so could you!
Once you have decided to start learning, the next tip I have is to pick a project and learn what tools you need to complete that project.
If you are anything like me then you probably have some pretty big builds that you have been dreaming up. My best advice is to start small. Pick a project where you don’t need that many tools and it is something that will dip your toes into this hobby. I promise you that if you enjoy it, there are more projects to come. And there will always be more tools to add to your collection. To be a good carpenter you do not need all the tools in the shed. You need time and patience which in time will develop into skill. I can’t tell you how many carpenters I have met over the years or even watched on Youtube who doesn’t use a single power tool.
For The
Crafter
This is for you. The one that is new to DIY projects. You want to install trim. Make that serving tray you have had saved on your Pinterest board for the past 3 years. You’ve been wanting to build a bench and upholster it. Wanting that board and batten wall? These tools will go A LONG way for thousands of projects.
For The Carpenter
You’ve got big dreams in the carpentry world. I’m talking dining tables, bathroom vanity, full room renovations. You want to learn it all. From the small builds to the big. This list of tools will get you started on building pretty much anything that you can think of. Keep on dreamin’ because the possibilities are endless.
Shop Essentials
Tape Measure
I use my tape measure at home, but I even bring it with me to the store. You will never not need this.
Wood Glue
Titebond II works awesome for any project. If I was doing something like gluing up a tabletop or something that is going outside I would use Titebond III. It takes longer to dry but it’s waterproof.
Level
You can get levels in all different sizes. I like to keep a small, medium, and large one in my shop.
Clamps
You will never EVER EVER hear a woodworker say, “I have too many clamps”. Trust me. Get them.
Wood Filler
There are tons of different fillers out there. I like certain ones for different projects.
Caulking
I buy mine in white or clear depending on the project. Caulking can completely transform projects in your home. It can turn that shiplap wall you just completed into “Wow who did you get to install your shiplap?”
Gator Finishing Sander
Look it up. I am not kidding you I have used these time and time again without fail. They are awesome!
Needle Nose Pliers
This might just be me, but I use these constantly. They are one of those tools that I somehow never know where I put last.
Maybe that seemed like a lot. But the reality is, for most projects you only need a couple of tools. Especially the first few projects. When I started woodworking I started with a drill. I slowly added to my shop. One project at a time. There are so many different alternatives that you can use instead of investing in a big list. You could make your own sanding block and just purchase sandpaper to replace it when you need to. A good hammer and nails work great too instead of a nail gun. You can get a miter box with a saw for like $10 and use that instead of investing in a chop saw.
Okay okay. I know you have been thinking about what project to start first. Make sure you take it one step at a time, read all the instruction manuals for your new tools. Safety first. Put on those safety glasses and earplugs and get to work! I can’t wait to hear about what you are making.