A basic set of hand tools - Part I
A common question from many beginner woodworkers is what tools they should buy first so they can get started. What are the essential tools in everyone's toolbox? But the answer is not that straightforward.
Every woodworker will have a different approach to the craft and will develop a preference for some tools as he or she gets more experienced. For instance, I prefer to work with a folding rule instead of a tape measure. Some will prefer western saws over Japanese ones, and so on...
Layout tools
Good joinery starts with precise measurements and clean layout lines. Sharp pencils, a birch folding rule, a trusty combination square like the Starrett 6" model and a wheel marking gauge are absolute essentials in my workshop. I also use a tape measure when I'm dealing with large stock and when measuring boards at the lumberyard.
If you want to go a step further, I'd advise to replace the pencil with a marking knife when you want that extra precision and add a 3" engineers square to check your tools against. I find the 3" square quite useful to layout tenons on small pieces and whenever the 6" one feels too cumbersome for the task.
To complete the kit you should add a bevel gauge so you can layout some angles and a 12" combination square. This can be used to layout larger pieces and the ruler alone can be used as a small straight edge.
Next installment: Saws
Every woodworker will have a different approach to the craft and will develop a preference for some tools as he or she gets more experienced. For instance, I prefer to work with a folding rule instead of a tape measure. Some will prefer western saws over Japanese ones, and so on...
Layout tools
Good joinery starts with precise measurements and clean layout lines. Sharp pencils, a birch folding rule, a trusty combination square like the Starrett 6" model and a wheel marking gauge are absolute essentials in my workshop. I also use a tape measure when I'm dealing with large stock and when measuring boards at the lumberyard.If you want to go a step further, I'd advise to replace the pencil with a marking knife when you want that extra precision and add a 3" engineers square to check your tools against. I find the 3" square quite useful to layout tenons on small pieces and whenever the 6" one feels too cumbersome for the task.
To complete the kit you should add a bevel gauge so you can layout some angles and a 12" combination square. This can be used to layout larger pieces and the ruler alone can be used as a small straight edge.
Next installment: Saws
Labels: tools
1 Comments:
Hey Luis............wondering where you've been. Super to have you back. I still remember the great post on the wedge tenon.
I'll have to go back and catch the last few posts.
Neil
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