The Essential Woodworking Tools You Need to Succeed

When starting in woodworking, knowing which tools to invest in can be overwhelming. With guidance from professionals like Marc DiGiaimo, Wood Processes Manager at NextFab, you can better understand what equipment is needed for woodworking success. We met with Marc to learn about the must-have woodworking tools, insights on what each tool does, and expert advice on essential techniques.

What is an Essential Tool for a Woodworker?

According to Marc, a good sharpening station is one of the most vital tools in a woodworker’s arsenal. “You can have the best chisel,” he says, “but if it’s not sharp, the work isn’t going to be fun.” While high-quality hand tools like chisels and planes are necessary, Marc emphasizes that they need constant maintenance to keep their edges keen. Without sharp tools, even the most seasoned craftsman can’t produce the level of precision required for fine woodworking.

For those just starting out, Marc recommends a drill kit that includes an impact driver with a variety of bits. Another great tool for beginners is the oscillating saw, which is versatile for quick cuts and notching—perfect for small home projects like cutting outlet holes or notching trim.

Must-Have Woodworking Tools

In any woodworking shop, a handful of machines and tools are considered essentials:

1. Table Saw
   The backbone of any woodshop, the table saw makes rip cuts, which are the most common cuts in woodworking. These cuts involve slicing along the length of the wood, which is necessary for projects like table legs or cutting boards. Marc notes that “a table saw can do things that even more specialized tools, like router tables, can’t.”
2. Router and Router Table
   A hand router gives wood edge profiles, creating rounded or beveled surfaces, but it can also be mounted upside down on a router table. This setup increases its versatility. However, for deeper or wider cuts, a table saw is more efficient due to its stronger motor and larger blade.
3. Bandsaw
   A bandsaw excels at making curved cuts that the table saw can’t handle. If you need to shape wood into more intricate patterns, this is the tool to use.
4. Wood Planer and Wood Jointer
   If you’re starting with raw lumber, you’ll need a wood planer and wood jointer to mill it into usable boards. These tools remove warps and smooth rough surfaces, turning rough wood into furniture-ready material. Though expensive, they’re indispensable for serious woodworking projects.

NextFab has all the tools you need for your next woodworking project! Check them out here.

What is a Bandsaw Used For?

A bandsaw is the go-to tool for cutting curves in wood. Its ability to make angled cuts, as long as they are straight, makes it perfect for shaping custom furniture pieces and intricate designs.

What Does a Wood Planer Do?

A wood planer smooths rough lumber and reduces its thickness, creating an even surface that’s easier to work with. Marc emphasizes that this is one of the more “heavy-duty” tools in the shop, essential for turning raw, warped wood into finished pieces.

What is a Drill Press Used For?

A drill press is essential for making precise, uniform holes in wood. It can be used to create clean, consistent holes in projects like a gumball dispenser.

The Most Versatile Tool

Interestingly, Marc believes the most versatile woodworking tool is the utility knife blade. He explains, “It can be used for scoring joinery, marking, or even surface finishing.” The simplicity of the utility knife makes it incredibly useful for a variety of tasks, from touch-ups to detailed cuts.

The Strongest Woodworking Joint

For woodworking joinery, Marc believes the dovetail joint is the strongest. Dovetails are known for their interlocking design, which holds wood pieces together without the need for glue in some directions. This joint is not only functional but also visually appealing when done correctly.

Additional Essential Tools

For woodworkers serious about speed and precision, the domino joiner is an excellent tool to try. This tool simplifies the process of joining wood by using dowels, eliminating the need for more complex cuts and measurements. It’s a staple in many projects due to its ease and efficiency.

Whether you’re just starting out or a seasoned craftsman, investing in the right tools is crucial for your woodworking success. Sharp tools and versatile machines are the foundation of any woodshop. From the table saw to the bandsaw, having these essential tools will help you build everything from small home projects to intricate furniture pieces.

If you’re looking to dive deeper into woodworking, consider taking a class, like Fine Furniture Making: Craft a Mid-Century Modern Lounge Chair, at NextFab. Not only will you gain hands-on experience with top-quality tools, but you’ll also learn skills that will last a lifetime. View a full list of woodworking classes here. 

In Partnership with FORMATION. Media