You might be one of those people who thought they weren’t good with their hands. However, if you take the time to give it a try, woodworking can show you how magical your hands can be. With just the right tips, outlined below, you’re going to be able to make all kinds of pieces. Keep reading!
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.
Do you lose drill press key chucks often? A good way to keep them within reach is to drill a hole somewhere on the drill press they fit. On top of the press is a good place, where you can see it. Drill a small hole the exact same size of the chuck’s crossbar and it will fit in perfectly.
Do you currently have a screw that needs some tightening but is not easy to reach? The answer is waiting for you in your toolbox. Grab your 12-point socket and a long-handled screwdriver. Put the socket on your screwdriver and then attach your favorite ratchet.
Look online and at garage sales and flea markets for great deals on tools. You should be able to find great deals on good tools when you buy them used. This can save you money when building your workshop.
You make mistakes. Always remember that, but never say it. You have made mistakes in the past, you are going to make them in the future. Always treat them as learning opportunities. However, never point them out to others or talk about them. Others may not notice, or even care. They’re likely to just be impressed you did something they couldn’t.
Keep your work area as clean as possible. Woodworking creates a lot of mess, especially dust. This dust can get into your home and eventually into your lungs. This can cause real health problems down the road for you and your family. So take a few minutes after a job, and sweep up your space.
You can make a sanding block even better. Cut a small slot about 3/8 of inch deep, a little less than an inch from the outside edge. Run it the entire length of the block. Now the sandpaper will fit into this slot easily, and it will stay in place more securely.
Use premade woodworking kits if you are new to it. They have all you need to complete a project. This helps you learn all of the basics up front. Practicing now will save some money and time for you later on since you’re going to make fewer mistakes.
Look out for old furniture getting thrown out. These pieces are often very inexpensive or are given away for free. Always review your options before deciding. Even if you find a dresser that is badly damaged, the drawers might be of some use.
Always wear protective glasses when using any type of saw, and ear protectors as well when you use power equipment. Chips and sawdust can destroy your vision if even a small piece flies into your eye. Woodworking is a great hobby, but it is important to stay safe while you work.
You may think that you can’t be an expert at woodworking, but if you stay interested and learn as much as you can, your expert status is all but guaranteed. Just take it slowly and use everything you have learned here to make great-looking wood pieces that you can show off to everyone. Good luck!
Leave a Reply