Woodworking and Keeping Your Workshop Organized

All woodworking workshops are not created equally, and I guess that goes without saying. Nevertheless, if you want your woodworking work area to be created more equally than the others, then perhaps, we should talk. You see, whether you are a master finish carpenter or you just like to create and build do-it-yourself projects, there is, and there always will be a right way and a wrong way to go about it. The rule of thumb being of course, "measure twice, cut once" and if you don't understand that or you are new at this, you'll soon find out why.

First, I'd like to discuss keeping your workshop organized, and clean, that's where it all starts. Sure there are folks that don't and still create some great stuff, but they are far from the perfectionist that would embody and perfectly completed project - one you can be proud of and have for generations to come.

One of the best tools, I've ever seen is the Workstation Caddy which is made by "The Perfect Caddy Company" out of Wisconsin. This is a portable work stand which can hold all of your tools, one you can move around your workshop or garage, keeping everything in order and out of the clutter.

The second thing I recommend that you get is a really solid vacuum system. Yes, you can get a Craftsman 6 horsepower shop vacuum, but it's just not the same as an industrial grade unit. Yes, there is a big difference in costs, but if you've graduated from infrequent hobbyist to serious hobbyist or professional, really that's what you are going to need. Remember sawdust is a serious fire hazard, not something to fool around with.

Next, it is both your skill as a woodworker, your planning, and your patience that will make all the difference. There are some stellar articles about woodworking online, by what I'd consider some of the best woodworkers in the country, folks that specialize in Cabinet Making, Wood Carving, and wood decks, bars, gazebos, etc. - I recommend that you read some of these articles and also subscribe to Woodworking Magazine.

If you are looking for some decent Woodworking Projects, I'd also like to recommend you check out Popular Mechanics each month, as there are some awesome project in there with custom plans, list of supplies needed, and modification options as well. If you love woodworking it just might run deep in your blood, as our ancestors made wood their material of choice, and made just about everything out of it. There is quite a bit of history there. So, please consider all this.

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Woodworking Tips - Workshop Safety

Woodworking is a relaxing hobby, but it can also be dangerous, what with all the sharp tools and equipment you'll be using. So before you undertake any kind of woodworking project be sure that you have a good attitude regarding safety. Here are tips to make sure you have a safe workspace.

First off are the clothes. Loose fitting clothes are a no-no when woodworking. You should always keep your clothes buttoned up and tucked-in. This is to prevent them from snagging onto things. You should always use safety goggles regardless of what size your project is. Just make sure that they fit comfortably on your face so you won't be tempted to remove them. You should also consider using face masks to protect yourself from the dust and fumes. And work gloves should always be a staple in your woodworking attire. Make sure that they are a perfect fit so that you won't be encumbered while working.

Next are your tools. Walk carefully when you're carrying your woodworking tools around, especially the sharp or pointed ones. With power tools, be sure that you check the power cord for damages before you even plug it in. And after using, you should always store your woodworking tools away properly. This is so you can easily find them the next time you need them and also help keep them in good working condition.

You should also know a few basic first aid techniques, and always have a well stocked first-aid kit and a fire extinguisher in your workshop just in case of emergencies.

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Woodworking Power Tools - What Every Woodworker MUST Have In Their Workshop!

I know you're anxious to get to work, so I'll keep this brief. Even beginning craftsmen need basic woodworking power tools. The more advanced and skilled you become, the more power tools you will need. That's a given. This article will help you figure out what kinds of woodworking power tools are essential for all of us, and what tools you can hold off on for now.

It is 100% obvious that each woodworker across the globe is at a different level of expertise than his or her neighbor. That's okay. The general rule for acquiring tools is to only buy the tools that are absolutely necessary for the project you happen to be working on at the moment. If you haven't built anything that requires you to use a router, then don't buy a router. Simple enough, right? Once you're ready to advance to the type of project where a table saw would be a necessity, then consider making the purchase.

Until then, just stick with what you need.

There are, however, some really elemental tools that most of will want to invest in as a base of operations, so to speak. Among these essential woodworking power tools are:

* A power drill
* Orbital sander
* Circular saw
* Jig saw
* Nail gun
* Wood plane

These should get you moving in the right direction. Eventually, heavy-duty power tools will come into play. Things like a table saw, drill press, and compound mitre saw will become your tools of choice as your skill level increases and your projects become more ambitious. Until that time, however, just stick to the basics and you'll be fine.

In just a moment, I will provide you with a link to all kinds of great power tool info and resources, including an entire DEWALT woodworking power tool set that will get you completely stocked up with the basics... for a very reasonable price. In the meantime, however, I would just like to plant the seed in your mind that you should never exceed your budget if it isn't absolutely necessary.

By the same token, you should always aim for top quality tools. New, if you can afford it. Don't take a chance if you don't have to. And always aim for quality over quantity. I will gladly spend $300 on a power drill that I know will last for many years, has a long battery life, and will do any job I ask of it. And I will always turn my nose up at a $50 drill that doesn't promise any of these things.

So grow your workshop methodically. Don't rush it in the name of saving a few dollars. If you can afford to get a whole set of tools in advance, you can usually do so at a bit of a discount. But if you really don't need the stuff yet, there's no sense in owning it yet. Spend that extra money on some top quality wood... that's what's really important!

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