Watching do-it-yourself (DIY) videos of people crafting wooden projects may spark an interest in woodworking, a fun and worthwhile hobby. What makes woodworking a great hobby is that you get to unleash your creativity. For instance, you can build unique furniture or customize it. You can go with any color you want since it’s your own work.
Aside from expressing your creativity, you can spend quality time with loved ones. Your little ones could apply what they learned from math class while helping you with a project. And while mastering your craft, you could make new friends from an online woodworking community or from your woodworking classes.
Woodworking can be more than a hobby, though. It can also be an extra source of income or even a stress reliever.
If you’ve made your decision to give woodworking a try, you’ll have to gather the necessary tools. As you might have seen on DIY shows or tutorials, various tools are used, depending on the project’s complexity.
To start building your woodworking arsenal, you’ll need to invest in some woodworking machines and power tools. Having all the essentials ready will ensure you’re on the right track.
Read on to know about the must-have woodworking power tools for your DIY projects.
Circular Saw
For many woodworkers, a circular saw is a vital tool. Although you’ll find various brands on the market, all circular saws have distinctive circular or round blades laden with sharp teeth capable of slicing down wood into pieces. Most models run on electricity, but cordless models are now available. You won’t have any difficulties handling it as you can see in the Wen Manuals, it’s pretty easy to set up and you will be able to properly use it from the start.
There are three types of saw blades in a circular saw: ripping, crosscut, and combination. If you look closely at the blades, the difference is the design of their teeth. A crosscut blade has spaced teeth while a ripping blade has evenly spaced teeth. As for the combination blade, it’s a hybrid of a ripping and crosscut blade.
Jigsaw
Invest in a good-quality jigsaw to ensure positive results from your woodworking projects. A jigsaw is known for having a reciprocating blade that strikingly resembles a saber. This power tool is a must-have since it allows you to create intricate cuts in straight or curved lines.
The teeth and composition of the blade in a jigsaw vary from one model to another. The difference between a jigsaw from a circular saw is that it slices through the wood in a back-and-forth motion. Apart from wood, a jigsaw is capable of cutting plastic and metal.
Operating a jigsaw usually requires only one hand, so you can securely fasten the wood with the other. If you’re building something that requires you to create small-sized pieces, a jigsaw is worth investing in.
Table Saw
If you’re confident about your woodworking skills, it may be time to consider investing in a table saw for better cutting precision. However, even beginners can invest in one to gain a better edge. One of the main benefits of using a table saw is providing superior cuts that other woodworking power tools can’t achieve.
In terms of design, a table saw is similar to a circular saw but in an upside-down position, exposing the blade from below the work surface. You can adjust the blade angle and depth for better precision as well.
Today, you can choose from three models of table saws on the market, such as a fixed model or a portable one. The three models are suitable for woodworking, and your choice will depend on the projects you’ll be working on.
A cabinet table saw is popular since it’s suitable for all-around projects and powered by a belt and pulley system. You’re likely to see one as the centerpiece in workshops on most DIY shows. A benchtop model is ideal if you prefer a portable option. You can transfer it from one location to another and store it conveniently when not in use.
Random Orbital Sander
If you’re already familiar with woodworking, sanding is a tedious phase. No matter how clean your project looks, sanding is necessary before applying a finish.
An orbital sander is needed to make the sanding process manageable. Remember that if you’re going to use one, make sure to wear a protective mask to avoid inhaling the particles. When searching for a sander, it may be best to go for a random orbital sander since it ensures a better-quality product without the undesirable swirling pattern that other types of sanders leave behind.
Nail Gun
When you find the task of manually driving nails a challenge, you should buy a nail gun or a nailer. Aside from wood, a nail gun can easily drive nails into other materials, such as plywood and drywall. If you check out the selection on the market, you’ll find various types available, such as framing, finish, brad, and pin nailers.
In woodworking, the most suitable choice is a brad nailer. It’s a universal option that works well with various woodworking projects. If you decide to invest in a nail gun, it can give you an advantage. Although hammering nails manually is just as effective, using a nail gun will make your projects more manageable.
Power Drill
Most homeowners are likely to have a power drill. If you already have one, it’ll come in handy in your woodworking projects. A power drill is one of the important woodworking power tools that’s also beneficial in repair jobs. In addition to drilling holes, you can use various attachments to transform your drill into a versatile tool.
Nowadays, you’ll find corded or cordless models on the market. Depending on your specific needs, corded models are available at an affordable price but are more powerful while cordless models are more convenient.
Screw Gun
In woodworking, screws are essential pieces that serve as fasteners. It holds pieces together securely and can be removed when disassembling an object. Although most feature a screwdriver, consider investing in a powered screwed gun to make the task of driving screws easier and faster. Generally, a screw gun is useful if you’re working on a project involving multiple screws.
Final Thoughts
You’re off to a good start when you have the basic tools for woodworking. Although having the skills and knowledge will lead to a successful DIY woodworking project, possessing the right tools is just as crucial.
