When it comes to woodworking, as a hobby or as a job, everyone can get involved. Whether building a birdhouse or a mansion, or creating a fence or filigree, there is a level of participation anyone can enjoy. Learning all you can about the field is key, so start by reading all of the great tips in this article.
The reason why many power tools have guards on them is to keep you safe. Never remove the guards off of any of your tools. You may not understand why they are there, but they are there for a reason. They are there to protect you from sharp blades, moving parts and other things that could potentially hurt you.
Woodworking can be expensive. The actual wood is one of the most expensive parts of any project. The rest of the cost is usually labor, glue and hardware. Sometimes you can save some money by buying a cheaper grade of wood for areas of your project that are not visible. Areas like drawers, backs and bottoms are excellent places to use this wood.
When you are making a budget for woodworking, consider the tools. It’s easy to forget this when you are just focusing on the cost of the wood. If you need these tools and don’t have them, they can make you go over your budget.
Before using any new tool, do your research on it in full. New tools can mean serious injuries for those that use them incorrectly. Even if you’re pretty sure of how to use it, don’t risk it. Study up via the web and books related to the tool in question.
If you will be re-coating an existing finish, be sure that the surface is clean and free of any wax or oils. Then, let it dry completely, and lightly scuff the surface with a 220-grit sandpaper so that the finish you are applying will have something to hold onto.
Never skip sanding when it is necessary or think that staining hides imperfections in the wood. Wood with scratches, dents and nicks absorbs much more finish or stain than wood that is smooth. When you skip sanding or do not do a thorough job of it, the imperfections stand out even more because of the increased absorption.
Before you cut into a piece of wood, you need to inspect it to make sure there are not any pieces of metal in the wood. Screws, nails, staples and other metallic object will not only damage your blades, but also pose a safety hazard. Always inspect the wood before you cut.
Always be on the lookout for good woodworking tips. If you meet professionals, ask them for their best tips. If you find a magazine chock full with tips, pick it up so that you can keep it in your archive. Even record TV shows that have woodworking in them to glean any tips you my find there.
Learn about using pilot holes. This is pretty simple to do. When driving a screw or hammering a nail into a little piece of wood or getting pretty close to the edge of a piece, it tends to split. Sometimes it’s unavoidable to put a fixing into a place like this. However, drilling a hole through the joint that’s a bit smaller than the fixing can prevent it from splitting.
With all of this great information in mind, you are ready to build anything your mind can dream up. Use these tips one by one to make woodworking the amazingly enjoyable experience you’ve yearned for. In time, you will find that you get better at it and the items you produce become exceptional.
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