Reply To: Beginning beginner: what tools first?
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Hi Dale
Dont go out and buy lots of tools.
You dont need to, and it may be a barrier that prevents you from even starting the first project.
I reccommend that you find a project that you would like to make.
You mentioned a bookshelf, which is a great beginner project. You only need to buy the tools to complete that project first. It looks like youve had some good advice already. I would only add that if you only need one chisel for a bookshelf’s dado joints – it should be the width of the shelves you want to use. Probably 22mm.
Dont worry about brand names. Veritas are good, but rather buy a long panel saw from the local hardware than a short Veritas panel saw. You will appreciate the lenght in use. And its nicer to learn to sharpen on a cheaper saw. Dont buy anything with special tips, which prevents sharpening and thus decreases the lifespan. For panel saws, you will only need a cross-cut sharpened blade to start. You could also probabaly make a bookshelf with a back saw only.
I wouldn’t buy a plane just yet either, or even a vise. Buy PAR (Planed All Round) timber from the hardware which comes smooth and ready to use. If you buy a plane you will need to make winding sticks before you start your bookshelf. Planes are great, but setting it up and learning to use it might prevent you from succeeding in your first project. Its not too difficult, so definately use one for the second project. Vices are amazing, but you will need to bolt it to something. And unless you are planing, or chopping mortices the a ‘workmate’ should be just fine.
Be weary of what people tell you that you need on YouTube. They often get the tools for free provided they have enough people subscribing to their channel, and that they tell you that you definately need that tool.
Most importantly, look in the right attic! You might find a nice surprise up there.
Good Luck & Enjoy!