You don't need a workshop full of machines to start woodworking — a handful of good hand tools will take you a long way. Here's the essential checklist every beginner should have, organised by task.
Measuring & Marking
- Try square — for accurate 90° marks and checking square.
- Measuring tape and steel rule.
- Marking knife and pencil — for precise lines.
- Marking gauge — for consistent lines along an edge.
Cutting
- Handsaw — for general cross-cutting and ripping.
- Tenon/back saw — for fine, accurate joinery cuts.
- Coping saw — for curves and shapes.
Shaping & Joinery
- A set of chisels — essential for joints and detail work.
- A wooden or rubber mallet — to drive chisels.
- A hand plane — to flatten and smooth surfaces.
Holding & Clamping
- Clamps — to hold work steady and during glue-ups.
- A workbench or sturdy surface with a vice.
Finishing
- Sandpaper in a range of grits.
- A finish — oil, wax, or varnish to protect the wood.
A Smart Starter Setup
A handsaw, a set of chisels, a try square, a marking knife, a hand plane, and a couple of clamps will cover most beginner projects. Add tools as your skills grow.
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