Only a few short years ago, we first started on this journey into woodworking for ourselves. Both of us had experience with repairs and renovations around the house, and as the economy recovered from the pandemic, we decided to take on building some of our very own furniture.
Woodworking is a rewarding craft that provides the ultimate freedom to take a piece of lumber and turn it into something creative, beautiful, and useful. Whether your aspirations lie in building furniture for your home, creating ornaments, or turning out the occasional repair job around the house, getting started in woodworking doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Here’s everything you need to know for the complete novice to start turning wood today.
Essential Tools for Beginners
First, some basics. Before you get started on your first project you’ll need a few tools, which will be used for just about every job: measuring, cutting, shaping, nailing, screwing, sanding. Here are the most essential tools you’ll need for DIY projects.
1. Tape measure: You’ll need a 25-foot tape measure with both metric and imperial units.
2. Claw Hammer: A 16-oz hammer with a soft handle will help you drive nails and pull them out more easily.
3. Chisels: A small set of chisels (like these) in various sizes is essential for carving, shaping and squaring off joints.
4. Hand Saw: You should have a hand saw that you can use on both crosscuts and rip cuts – for making straight cuts in wood.
5. Drill: A cordless drill with variable speeds and a set of drill bits will be handy for drilling holes and driving screws.
Tips for Finding Inexpensive Materials
Woodworking doesn’t need to be an expensive hobby. There are ways to source affordable materials, and of course, you are already reading an article about finding woodworking projects for inexpensive or recycled wood. The following tips will assist you in locating inexpensive or recycled wood:
1. Recycle old wood: Old furniture, pallets, and crates are great for finding wood. Check around your neighborhood, if anything is being thrown out, or look online, such as on Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace. With a bit of sanding and cleaning, reclaimed wood is ready to serve.
Tip: Refinishing or restoring a dated piece of furniture is a great first project!
2. Shop at Local Sawmills: Many local sawmills or lumber yards will sell offcuts or scrap wood at a reduced price. These are usually a good size for small projects or practice.
3. Scavenge At Building Sites: Lots of building sites have leftover wood, and are often happy to give it away or to sell it cheaply. Always ask first, though, as you don't want to accidentally steal materials.
4. Home Improvement Stores: Big-box home improvement stores often have a clearance section where you can find discount wood. They also sell all kinds of damaged or irregular pieces for a discount. Never take anything you might find lying around the back of the store without asking first.
5. Community Woodworking Clubs: Joining a local woodworking club can help connect you with experienced woodworkers who might have spare materials they’re willing to give away or sell at low cost. Search Facebook groups to start finding some near you.
Getting Started with Your First Project
You’re equipped with your basic tools and some low-cost supplies. It’s time to get started on a project. Below are steps to follow.
1. Pick a beginner project: Start with a simple project – a birdhouse, a small shelf, a picture frame, or something similar – to master the basics of the craft without getting ahead of yourself and overwhelmed.
2. Plan and Measure: Plan the job and measure twice. Proper measurements are critical to your project.
3. Cut and Assemble: Use your hand saw to cut parts to length. Nail or screw your parts together using wood glue. Make sure everything fits together properly before moving on.
4. Sand and finish By all means, sand your project to remove any rough or sharp edges or surfaces, and then, if you like, paint, stain, or clear-coat it to protect the wood and bring out its natural beauty.
Learn and Improve
You’ll soon gain skills and confidence, so check out YouTube tutorial videos, woodworking forums and blogs to pick up new techniques and learn about people’s projects, and maybe take a class or join a local club to get your hands working.
If you choose to learn woodworking, welcome to the journey of learning and creating. If you can afford average tools and inexpensive materials, and if you are willing to practice, you can learn to create beautiful things with your hands and are likely to find yourself completely satisfied with your work. Happy woodworking!
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