Woodworking encompasses many different tasks. What may be an essential tool for one woodworker may go dusty and unused in another's shop. To a newbie, all these tool choices can be overwhelming.
But no matter what type of woodworking you're interested in, there are some basic skills universal to all. Every woodworker needs to cut, drill, shape, fasten, measure and finish, and requires the right tools to accomplish each task.
We've rounded up some of the most common tools in each category, highlighting what they're used for, and which tools are most essential. If you're working on a budget, don't buy tools, then go looking for ways to use them. Start by choosing projects you enjoy, then only buy tools germane to those projects.
A few notes before we begin:
- We're focused here on woodworking, not carpentry. There's a great deal of overlap between the two, but in general, a carpenter creates buildings and structures while a woodworker creates objects ranging from chairs to fountain pens. Many tools listed here are also used in carpentry.
- We haven't included safety tools. No matter what kind of woodworking you're doing, always have the appropriate safety gear at all times.
- Names for tools and materials vary by region. You may see a coping saw called a hand saw or dovetail saw, but it's the same tool.
