What tools do I need?

Naturally the answer to this question depends on what you are setting out to do, to narrow the field; I’m going to make a few assumptions. Yes, I know it’s best not to assume, but sometimes it’s necessary just to get the ball rolling. OK, here goes, you may be male, female, any shape or colour, living in your own home (owned or rented) and you want to do some simple woodwork. This could be for maintenance, decoration or construction and you don’t know which tools you should buy or how to use them.

First, some don’ts. Don’t be tempted to buy a set of tools, no matter how good a deal it seems.
Don’t buy your tools from a DIY or home store, the woodworking hand tools on sale here are next to useless.
Don’t go on a buying spree, after acquiring a few basic items, only buy each new tool as needed.

Choose a specialised supplier of professional hand tools like Axminster tool centre or Classic hand tools for example. Shops like this stock good quality tools and most importantly have informed staff who can give you advice. If you are unable to get to a shop like this Axminster for example has a very good online shop and will send you a comprehensive tool catalogue free of charge. (Postal charges apply if you life outside the UK)



Professional quality hand tools may look expensive at first, this is an illusion as you will only need to buy once if you look after them and they will give a lifetime of service. Long after you have forgotten the cost you will still continue to enjoy the quality.

Shopping List:

Hammers
Saw
Tri-square
Pincers
Small Hand Plane
Chisels
Drill
Clamps
Screwdrivers
Tape
Sharpening system.

You will also need a surface to work on, ideally about 32 inches high (80cm) and fairly sound. You may need to use some imagination like making a false top for your dining table or perhaps buy a fold-up bench like a workmate. These are not ideal substitutes for a real workbench, but then I'm not writing for someone with a fully equiped workshop. I'm writing for someone who is just about to make his or her first cut in a piece of timber. We will be looking at aspects of work holding later in the series.

These basic items can get you going on an amazing range of projects and with a few additions can allow you to realise your creative ambitions.

Next blog, I will talk through the different points of each item on the list above……………