If one is not fortunate enough to have been exposed to woodworking through your parents, and you develop an interest in the craft later on, the challenge is - how do I get started? It is a simple question, but there is no single, correct answer. Most seasoned woodworkers advise getting started with books, basic tools, or classes. I personally like using books as a basis and then actually start with building simple projects.
Researching the topic on the internet I found that the most common answer to the question of how to start coincides with my personal preference. Many people recommended starting with easy woodworking books on basic techniques and then gradually building a library to start including more advanced topics. You will therefore start with beginner projects and learn safety practices and the proper use of tools at the same time. These 3 aspects will form a solid foundation from which you can move forward. Focusing on more advanced woodworking topics that are specific to areas that interest you is the next logical step.
If learning from books is not your style, attending woodworking classes at a high school adult education program or local community college is an alternative option. These classes are normally inexpensive (occasionally even free). In this way, you will gain hands-on experience and a solid foundation in safety. Once you have attended these classes, you will be in a position to decide how far you want to go with woodworking and in what direction you want to specialize.
Amassing tools is common advice given to beginners, but the advised approach varies. Some recommend starting with projects that only require hand tools and moving on to power tools later whilst others advocate starting with a table saw because of its versatility. Beginning with pre-cut wood projects that only need assembly with basic hand tools is one approach, but it might be too simple for others. One website I saw recommends beginning by whittling with a lock blade pocketknife. This will teach you about the dangers of working with sharp equipment and also allow you to get a feel for the differences in wood types.
Some of the best advice I gleaned is to only buy tools as you need them. Start by buying only the tools you need for a particular project, and keep buying additional equipment as you need them for more advanced projects. Using this method will gradually increase you tool collection until you end up with a fully equipped workshop. Interestingly, not a single article or book I came across advocates buying the cheapest tools. Some say to start with "middle of the road" quality tools; others advise one only to buy the best.
Which advice you decide to follow will ultimately be a personal choice and will depend on your personality. Your first investment in woodworking will probably be in books, classes, or tools. There is no right or wrong way to begin, but all experienced woodworkers agree it is a rewarding and worthwhile effort. Who know, you might even end up doing an advanced project such as building you own Adirondack chair.
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