Starting a woodworking journey can be overwhelming with the sheer number of tools available. However, you don’t need a fully equipped industrial shop to create beautiful pieces. The foundation of great woodworking lies in a few key tools that offer versatility and precision. First and foremost is a quality chisel set. Sharp chisels are indispensable for cleaning up joints and fine-tuning cuts.
Next, a reliable hand plane, such as a No. 4 smoothing plane, can take your finishing to the next level, often surpassing the quality of sandpaper. A combination square is your best friend for accuracy, ensuring every cut is true. Don’t forget a Japanese pull saw for precise, thin-kerf cuts, and of course, a solid workbench to hold your work steady. With these five essentials, you have the power to build almost anything.
