If you’re just getting started with woodworking, you may not know exactly what tools you need to have first. You may not have the money to buy a lot of power tools upfront. However, don’t let this stop you from working with wood!
Getting Started With No Tools
You don’t need many tools to get started. There are many ideas. This is one way to look at it: if you don’t have a lot of money or a lot of tools, you can clearly see what tools you will be using when you start doing simple DIY projects.
You might start by visiting your local library or used bookstore to find books on woodworking for beginners. Aldren Watson’s “Hand Tools”, Robert Wearing’s” The Essential Woodworker are just a few of the books that you might find useful.
Many people say, “Why in the world would you buy tools when you can borrow them?”. If you lack tools, you can always borrow them, learn how to use them and what types of projects they would be needed for, and then figure out from there what direction you want to take in moving forward.
The down side of no power tools
I hope you’re “all in” and really wanting to go at this with no power tools, but you need to have the motivation from the get-go. So, be on the lookout for some issues and warning signs that you are losing your passion and hunger for doing some woodworking with no power tools.
- Be realistic about your limitations.
- You do need skills to do this- and these skills will help you once you do purchase power tools. You will not be able to use power tools to replace your lack of skills.
- Don’t practice too much- just get right into applied work and projects – you’re more likely to be bought in and invested from the beginning.
- You can fix your mistakes quickly and without losing your enthusiasm for improvement.
The Positives of Using No Tools
- The human machine goes beyond any power tool limitations.
- You can do any woodworking job with a plane, saw and chisel-once you are comfortable using them-without the need for any additional tools.
- It doesn’t take a lot to save money.
- You can work in a very small space because you don’t need the extra space for all of the power tools.
- You’ll have much more appreciation for the hand tools once you purchase power tools to make your work easier.
- These skills will make you a better woodworker.
First Project Ideas
- Bookshelves – Who doesn’t want a bookcase? Stick to 2-3 shelves if you can, as they’re easier. You can adjust the other shelves by fixing the center shelf.
- Side Table -make this square or cube and you will have many ideas on how to make this type of table/plant stand.
- Wall Shelf – think of a box that you hang on the wall.
- Stool – A simple 4-legged stool that can be used in the home. You’ll create it with hand tools which is what people want these days.
Tools You’ll Need for First Projects
- Jack plane
- Panel saw (It could be a ripsaw or a crosscutsaw)
- 1-3 chisels (fourth, three eighths, or
- Back saw (a Carcass Saw is a good choice)
- Combo square
The Unplugged Workshop
Many woodworkers appreciate hard work and not having to use power tools. The book “The Unplugged Woodshop”, is a great gift for beginners.
“For the growing number of woodworkers who are opting out of power tools and returning to hand tools, The Unplugged Workshop is a refreshing concept and a welcome change. ”
You can also read our saw reviews if you are ready to give up and get power tools.
