The Only Tools You Need to Start Woodworking

Last Updated:  May 30, 2022

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If you’re just getting into woodworking you may be watching and reading online and thinking, “Do I need a huge shop of tools to start building stuff?”. 

The answer is no, so let me tell you what you DO need.

There are only a few tools beginners need to get started and they can all be really affordable. They’re also easy to store so, if you’ve been thinking you can’t get into woodworking because of tools or space, keep watching.

1. Circular Saw

The circular saw is a vital tool for the beginner, budget shop. It can make cross cuts and rip cuts and it’s the best tool for breaking down large sheets of plywood.

You can build easy jigs to make the circular saw even more versatile. I’ll include links to my circular saw station and track guide videos down below.

2. Miter Saw

The miter saw really only does one thing, but it does it fast and accurate. The miter saw is all crosscuts which means it cuts across the grain. You use it cut wood to a certain length.

The miter saw can also make miter cuts which are cuts on the end of a piece of wood that are less than 90 degrees. Generally, a 45 degree miter is cut into each of two pieces and they are joined together to form a 90 degree angle.

The miter saw is the largest tool on this list, but it still has a small footprint. It can be set on the floor against a wall in your garage, if that’s the space you have.

3. Drill

The drill is a must-have staple for a woodworker. Drilling holes and driving screws – you’ll do a lot of it. There are choices when it comes to drills. Watch my drill video linked down below to learn all about the drill and its options.

4. Jigsaw

The jigsaw is the most versatile tool in the shop. But, it really doesn’t do any of those particularly well. The one thing it’s great at is cutting curves at the project. The bandsaw can cut curves, but you have to bring the project to the bandsaw. If you have a large project that won’t work.

The jigsaw needs to be setup correctly and have the right blade to work. If you want to learn more, check out my jigsaw video in the playlist linked below.

5. Random Orbit Sander

You can go several directions when it comes to sanders, but just get a random orbit sander. It moves in an irregular motion that keeps it from gouging or tearing the wood. Random orbit sanders are very affordable and easy to store.


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