Remember, woodworkers are "makers". We make not only stuff, but often the tools and jigs we use to make stuff. We learn how to tune up junk into good working tools. Winding sticks, story poles, pinch rods, marking scribes, squares, scrapers etc. Almost no money. Every build of anything teaches and the more you make for yourself, the more you understand and appreciate the tool.
Sure, a Veritas or Lie Neilson plane for hundreds of dollars is pretty, but my re-furbed Stanlys work just as well. I love my Florip dovetail saw, but I learned how to sharpen and can make a Crown cut just as well. My favorite marking knife was a bare blade-kit. Turning saw, a Talor kit. Favorite marking gauges from China. Dividers from Harbor Freight. We love our Starrett or Woodpeckers layout tools, but iGauging and others are just as good for 1/3 or less. Vises? and clamps? A bit of twine and a dowel can do a lot or a few bricks can do wonders. So can blue tape.
Be creative and cost will not hold you back. Even if your interests are in power tools, do not dismiss hand tools. I can prep a plank for the planer quicker with a scrub plane than is one of those on-line experts leveling trays. Cut something quick? A hand saw is often quicker than dragging out a power saw. Intimidated by fancy joinery? We do take pride in it, but modern glues are stronger than the wood, You can make fine furniture without traditional joinery.
Sure, a Veritas or Lie Neilson plane for hundreds of dollars is pretty, but my re-furbed Stanlys work just as well. I love my Florip dovetail saw, but I learned how to sharpen and can make a Crown cut just as well. My favorite marking knife was a bare blade-kit. Turning saw, a Talor kit. Favorite marking gauges from China. Dividers from Harbor Freight. We love our Starrett or Woodpeckers layout tools, but iGauging and others are just as good for 1/3 or less. Vises? and clamps? A bit of twine and a dowel can do a lot or a few bricks can do wonders. So can blue tape.
Be creative and cost will not hold you back. Even if your interests are in power tools, do not dismiss hand tools. I can prep a plank for the planer quicker with a scrub plane than is one of those on-line experts leveling trays. Cut something quick? A hand saw is often quicker than dragging out a power saw. Intimidated by fancy joinery? We do take pride in it, but modern glues are stronger than the wood, You can make fine furniture without traditional joinery.
. I looks like I MIGHT be rained out. So, maybe I’ll be there.
