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Woodworking can be both an exciting and daunting hobby. The truth is, no matter where you are in your journey, you’ll always feel like you’re “faking it until you make it.” But, with the right tools, you can improve the quality, speed, and safety of your projects. Here are some of my favorite tools that have made my woodworking experience better, even if I’m still figuring it out along the way.
1. Toggle Clamps
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Toggle clamps are incredibly useful for keeping your workpieces secure, ensuring precise cuts while keeping your fingers out of harm’s way. For example, using a couple of toggle clamps on a picture frame sled allows for safer, more accurate cuts. If you’re serious about woodworking, this is a tool worth investing in.
2. Building Sleds
As you get into more complex projects, you’ll realize the importance of batching out parts quickly and accurately. When I was making chairs, I built custom sleds for each part. This allowed me to make precise, repeatable cuts with ease, significantly speeding up production.
3. Router Table and Patterns
If you’re intimidated by the router table, you’re not alone. However, to create projects with curves, you’ll need to use patterns and templates. Toggle clamps on the router table are a must to secure your workpiece and keep your hands far from the router bit. These clamps are inexpensive but essential for both safety and precision.
4. Reliable Runners for Sleds
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When using a sled, Runners ensure accuracy and repeatability. While you could make your own from wood, I recommend purchasing aluminum Runners. They’re durable and won’t contract or expand with humidity, saving you hours of frustration. My go-to brand is Kreg, and while they are pricier, they are well worth the investment.
5. Spring Clamps and Strap Clamps
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For smaller projects like picture frames or boxes, Collins spring clamps are excellent. Their pointed ends provide high clamping force, though they can leave minor indentations in softwoods, which is easily fixed if you place the clamp points where splines will be cut. Additionally, the Bessey strap clamp is great for larger projects, such as nightstands, offering strong clamping force for non-90-degree angles.
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6. Templates for Cutting Boards
To step up your cutting board game, consider using templates for non-standard shapes. These templates use vacuum pressure to hold the wood securely, saving time and ensuring accurate cuts. If you’re on a budget, you can also use double-sided tape with a handheld router, though a vacuum pump makes things quicker.
7. Battery-Powered Portability
For projects that require outdoor work, a portable battery like the Jackery 1000 Pro is a game changer. It eliminates the hassle of extension cords and provides enough power for various tools. Plus, it’s portable and can be charged with solar panels, making it perfect for outdoor tasks.
8. Simple Inlay Systems
Want to add bow ties or inlays to your projects? There’s no need to be intimidated. The Slab Stitcher system is a turnkey solution that includes everything you need for perfect inlays, from router bits to various wood species for the inlay itself. Supporting small businesses like this is a win-win, and it’s an easy way to add a touch of class to your woodworking.
9. Router Recommendations
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Though I’m a loyal Makita user, I’ve recently fallen in love with the DeWalt trim router. Its micro-adjustment feature and built-in lights make it far more precise than Makita’s offering, which I’ve had issues with. If you’re looking for a trim router, DeWalt’s is a fantastic choice.
10. Doweling Kits
For anyone not ready to tackle more advanced joinery techniques, dowels are an excellent alternative. A high-quality doweling kit like the one from JessEm allows for strong, accurate joints without the hefty price tag of a Festool Domino. It’s perfect for projects where pocket holes aren’t an option, like visible chair arms.
11. FastCap Tape Measure
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If you’ve ever been frustrated by reading a tape measure, you’ll appreciate the FastCap tape measure. It has easy-to-read markings down to 1/16th of an inch, making it perfect for reducing measuring and marking mistakes.
In woodworking, accuracy, efficiency, and safety are key. By investing in the right tools, you can improve all three and enjoy your projects even more. If you want more tips on upgrading your woodworking game, check out my latest video!