Most people don’t know much about the hobby of woodworking. They think it’s just a matter of cutting some wood, slapping it together and calling it a success. The fact is that there is more to it than that, and the tips below will guide you through the process.
Reusable sanding blocks save you time and money. To make them all you need is a few pieces of scrap lumber. Cut a piece of 2×4 into a rectangle approximately 2 inches wide and 4 inches long. Cut a piece of sandpaper the size of your block. Then, spray one side of the piece of lumber with spray adhesive and adhere the sandpaper to the block of wood.
Organize your shop’s extension cords to keep your shop safe and tidy. You can make your own cord keeper with nothing more than a scrap piece of wood. Simply cut a piece of wood in the shape of an I and wrap each of your extension cords around the wood.
When working with stains, dab a small amount in a test area to see how it comes out. This will help you to pick the right stain color for your project. This simple testing tactic lets you counter the unpredictability of wood.
Be certain you know what your budget is able to handle. Many people are surprised at how much it costs to make some woodworking projects. It can be disappointing to find out that the money isn’t there after you have already completed half of the project. If you research this prior to starting, you can avoid this type of disappointment.
When you are working on a project, be sure to face your light directly on your working area. The bright light will enable you to detect any drips or runs you may not see otherwise. Missed areas will also be more visible. Be sure to always work in a well-ventilated area as well.
Become more accurate by using a drafting square. If you need an accurate square that’s about 2″ to 3″, you have limited options. Drywall squares tend to be very inaccurate. With carpenter squares, you have to hook them onto your work piece’s edge. A drafting square can be easily used if you happen to have one lying around. If you don’t, they are pretty cheap to find at art stores. They are incredibly accurate and as useful as a tape measure.
When sanding a piece of lumber, a lot of sawdust and debris is produced. To help remove those bits of dust and debris from your project vacuum the area. Then, remove the remaining debris using a tack cloth. Wipe both sides of the lumber to remove all traces of debris for best results.
Buy some scrap wood and use it to practice on. Scrap wood is really cheap, and it makes for great practice wood. Use it to try new skills that you’re learning. Practice with new tools on it. Make your mistakes here, not when it counts. You’ll be happy you did in terms of budget.
Before you start any woodworking project, get all of the tools you will need for the project ready. Always remember to bring a calculator and tape measure with you when you go to purchase your wood. Make sure you have any specialty tools you will need for your project available as well.
As you learn more about woodworking, you’ll find that things become easier. You’ll be able to plan out your projects better, complete them on time and have end results which are impressive. Use this new knowledge to make your hobby the best it has ever been, time and time again.
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