Hand Tools:
Measuring & Marking: Tape measure, combination square, marking gauge, pencil.
Cutting: Handsaw, coping saw, Japanese pull saw.
Shaping: Chisels (¼” to 1”), hand plane, rasp/file.
Fastening: Claw hammer, mallet, screwdrivers.
Clamping: Bar clamps, C-clamps, quick-release clamps.
Power Tools (Beginner-Friendly):
Drill/Driver – For holes and driving screws.
Circular Saw or Jigsaw – For straight and curved cuts.
Orbital Sander – For smooth finishes.
Router (optional) – For edges and joinery.
Advanced Tools (Later Upgrades):
Table saw, miter saw, band saw, planer, drill press.
2. Beginner-Friendly DIY Wood Projects
Start small to build confidence:
Simple Shelf (Pine + brackets)
Cutting Board (Hardwood like maple/walnut)
Wooden Planter Box (Cedar for outdoor use)
Picture Frame (Mitered corners)
Workbench (2x4s + plywood top)
3. Wood Selection Guide
Softwoods (Affordable, Easy to Work With): Pine, cedar, fir (great for practice).
Hardwoods (Durable, Beautiful Finishes): Oak, maple, walnut (for furniture).
Plywood & MDF: Good for painted projects or structural parts.
Tip: Reclaimed wood is eco-friendly and adds character!
4. Basic Joinery Techniques
Butt Joint: Simplest (glue + screws/nails).
Pocket Holes: Strong & easy (use a Kreg jig).
Dado Joints: For shelves (requires a table saw/router).
Mortise & Tenon: Traditional and sturdy (advanced).
5. Safety Tips
Wear safety glasses and hearing protection.
Keep tools sharp (dull blades are dangerous).
Avoid loose clothing/jewelry near power tools.
Work in a well-ventilated area when finishing.
6. Finishing & Staining
Sand progressively (80 → 120 → 220 grit).
Stain/Paint: Use a pre-stain conditioner for even color.
Protective Topcoat: Polyurethane, Danish oil, or beeswax.
7. Free DIY Woodworking Resources
YouTube Channels:
Woodworking for Mere Mortals (Beginner-friendly).
The Wood Whisperer (Advanced techniques).
Plans & Inspiration:
Ana White (Free furniture plans).
Instructables (Community projects).
8. Pro Tips
Sketch your project first (measure twice, cut once!).
Start with pre-dimensioned wood (e.g., 1x4s from Home Depot).
Practice scrap wood cuts before the final piece.
