My dad's advice, which has served me well: "When you are buying a tool for the first time, DON'T buy the expensive tools. Also, stay away from the cheapest tools, but buy something inexpensive. If you wear it out that means it's a tool you use with some frequency so you should replace it with something of much better quality. Otherwise, it's likely just a tool that's sitting on a shelf."
Yes agreed the biggest investment should be your time taking care of and maintaining your tools. I was lucky in the fact that I inherited alot of my tools from my great grandfather who was a shipwright back in England in just have to restore them all I have to give his brace a new handle which I have a lovely piece of walnut set a side for
I'd add an exception and say if you're going to buy chisels, get dirt cheap or top end (veritas or lie Nielson). Flattening $25 a piece chisels with convex backs sucks
This video was one of the most useful I've seen on TH-cam. As it progresses, I was running a 'Got It, Need It' checklist. Many years ago, an old neighbour gifted me with his box of hand tools, before he moved to a retirement home. Those tools, including a brace and bits, assorted hand planes, and other essentials, were ancient then. They still work today! Thank you!
I am amazed and humbled by someone like you not being a tool snob and providing great solid advice. Thank you for drumming sense into my head who had an hour ago bought yet another stanley sweetheart plane that looked prettier (just canceled the order, am going to be content with my no 4). Thank you and God bless. Regards from Pakistan
About the only "formal" experience I have had in wood working was from my days in middle school. That being said. I have been having this itch to start wood working again. My wife says I should be making wood working into a career path, but I never really gave much consideration into it because I thought it was just a really expensive thing to start getting into. This video has definitely helped me realize I can get started next paycheck. Thank you for your very comprehensive video. With some hard earned skills I can get started on making that dream of wood working for a living a reality. That and I can stop spending money on a lot of furniture in the house. lol
I like how how quite alot of these hand tools already I have a brace planes,a variety of spoke shaves, calipers, Compasses ect. All of which are in dire need of restoration they about 150 years and belonged to my great grandfather who was a shipwright in barrow and Furness. I also have a Japanese pull saw that my friend gave me. My first project will be a new handle for the brace and probably a shave horse
Excellent advice, and the best part is that you start with sharpening. A sharpening solution must necessarily be part of your very first tool kit: it’s just no fun when your tools aren’t sharp. Well done for including it at the very top. I disagree with one thing: a square should be there on the first day, too. And another remark: I have two proper straight edges (24" and 50") and I use them all the time. I think something that is reliably flat or straight should be part of the kit fairly early on.
Pretty good list, the only thing I would change is switch out the try square for a good combination square, just more versatile. And all I would add is a tenon saw, I find my sash saw bottoming out constantly and its so frustrating. And some kind of knife (not a marking knife) something like a mora 106, I use it constantly for chamfering end grain on chair legs or tenons, or making small adjustments to things. But over all great video that I am sure will help a lot of people out.
Oh one other thing, I would say start with the number 5 then build yourself a krenov style smoother. its super simple and makes planing a million times more fun + bragging rights :P
This video is perfect. Exactly the info I was looking for. It's a concise list and you give great reasoning for your choices. I'm happy to be a new subscriber! Thanks!
I decided I wanted to find a hand plane first than anything else since it's been one of the harder tools to find, but today I bought an old brace for $10. It's handles are a bit banged up but it works perfectly fine. I can't wait to find a hand plane and the rest of the tools. :)
It's like minecraft, you start with some wood and make some tools. Btw I love how you show the most minimal setup you can possibly get. I'm getting into minimalism but I do love crafts and hobbies
Hey, me too! It's part of why I'm looking into woodworking with hand tools -- I want to build my own tiny house, so I need tools, but I also need them to not take up too much space :P
My accumulation of hand tools took place pretty close to your recommendations. I use a Millers Falls #2 hand drill a lot to make small holes with either twist drill bits or antique straight flute bits. I have smaller and larger hand drills but If I could have only one it would be my # 2 or a stanley of approximately the same size
I was so inspired by this video. Bought some starting tools, made a pointer (cause that was the recommendation to learn how to use a chisel and planer). Now I'm trying to make a sawyer's bench. Having so much trouble squaring the boards to get started. I don't have a way of securing the wood to plane an edge or face flat. Does anyone have a recommendation? James, you mentioned building a bench with a small set of tools. How did you plane the wood you used?
you can make a plane stop by driving a couple nails or screws into the surface you are working on. they should stick up a bit less then the thickness of the board. you then plane the board toward the hails. here is a video of me using the planing sop on my bench. you could do the same thing with just a couple nails or screws. th-cam.com/video/KefwKuvJEb4/w-d-xo.html
"Wood By Wright"and "WranglerStar" are both doing TH-cam videos on Basic Tools For a Hand Tool Woodworking Shop - Starter Tool Set for the workshop! You both are on the right track for helping Newbies. My son needs this info; I will forward your TH-cam channel info to him. Thanks for the video. Keep up the good work!
Paul Joseph Hilchey don't send him to wranglerstar, that dude is a preachy shill hack. WBW all the way. -this is my opinion and not necessarily an opinion from WBW
There are many components to running a woodworking business. One resource I found which succeeds in merging these is the Enata Wood System (check it out on google) definately the no.1 blueprint that I have ever seen. look at the super info.
Agreed, I had to unsubscribe from WS a few years ago and my brain thanks me every day. (I know, I'm not European so how could I possibly grasp what Cody is talking about.) ;) If a suggestion is needed send them to Paul Sellers which the beginning of WBW's tools are based upon... except for the modern saw.
Great video, this is a very comprehensive list of tools to get started. I like the fact you threw in some options. Ie. the use of high grit sandpaper vs the high $$ diamond stone. People like to have options especially getting started. Cost can prohibit people from enjoying the craft.
I like how you did the dovetails on your bench, I did mine the same way with the wood dowel pegs. I went one step further and skirted the edges in red oak. I bang in to the sides so much walking around it and propping things against it, I wanted something better than soft pine around it. The top extends a 1/2 inch further out from the legs. I have two front vises and no leg vise, so it is not an issue.
This is a great video. I especially like the comment about buying tools as you need them for a given project. I think the same can be said of cooking. I used to buy a given spice because I thought it would be interesting to experiment with. I've since evolved and don't buy anything unless a specific meal calls for it.
Wow I was hoping to find that I needed something else. sounds like this is the list to keep in my tool box underneath my work bench. Thanks for the information.
I went to Aldi and picked up the chisels today. Now, after I get a hand plane, my wood working journey can officially begin. Thank for these videos. You really have a way of making all of this seem possible to get into and not so daunting.
You literally found them at Aldi? That's awesome. It's seems so random what they'll have there besides food. I guess I'll check there as well. I'd really like to get into this as well.
@@ericromano4028 Yes I did. Four chisels for $6.99 I think. You can't beat that price, I'll probably go grab another set later. Also, there's a picture on the Wood By Wright website.
What a helpful video. Your presentation is very down to earth too. I loved the boring pun. You're very sharp. Do you ever do videos reviewing your favorite audio books?
Hi I built the side table and I am happy the way it turned out. Thank u hope u will do more like that I injoy your show IAM 72 starting using just hand tool only and I injoy it please respond
Awesome video thanks. I know you spoke of Harbor Freight tools.. I think it would have been nice to mention when someone would think about upgrading to higher quality tools such as Woodpecker tools etc. love the video and showing it to my son when he gets home from school.
completely agree with the buy as you need motto. I started with pretty much a saw, a combo square, a no 4 bench plane and a chisel and now have found myself always picking up a tool for a project or seeing something at a swap meet that I know would make a common task easier (ie files and rasps instead of 60 grit sandpaper for shaping). I would add wood glue and painters/masking tape to the starter list. before I started making wedge c-clamps I used masking tape and heavy objects to glue up. and while some may say perfect joints don't necessarily require glue...starting out and even still I have gaps that need glue to make a strong joint.
I like your contributions and the order of additions right from the get go. I was looking for videos and lists like this a couple of years ago. They were few and far between. I compiled a list far here and there and from watching project videos. Jacob Farnsworth has a good list. There is also a good one by Frank Klausz which can be found on Farnsworth where shows how to on reconditioning used starter tools. But sharpening is the best first place/start tool and where to begin. Best first skill to develop. 🤗
Fantastic video, i can vouch for this as well. i have a multi purpose saw, a coping saw, 4 chisels and 2 planes. All i would add is a speed square. Apart from these tools i use sandpaper and a £15 drill + bit set. Thats it, it might not last or be the world best quality tools but they work, and if you can use a cheap/ not so great tool, when you do get a great tool you will appreciate it 1000% more. Once again brilliant video!!
A lot of video's put people off - you only need a table saw, planer , bandsaw etc. which is great if you have the budget and space, but lets face it not everyone can start with those tools and get put off instead of just getting a saw and some sandpaper and having a go!
Great stuff. I have started to fill out my shop with hand tools, but my biggest issue has been making super straight cuts with hand saws. For instance, how would you go about making a perfectly square cut to some table legs when the leg won't fit in a miter box?
Usually you cut your line and then saw a little ways away from it. Then you can come back and plan it back to the line. There are ways to improve your skill with proper technique but for most people it takes a good long while to be able to cut a clean straight line right off the saw. I have a few videos on that if you want to see more.
Excellent video. I would add the Swanson Speed Square. It's cheap, it's reasonably square, it's extremely versatile and it's easy to use to layout cuts. Respectfully submitted.
Wood By Wright the best part of this addiction (ahem) ‘hobby’ is that there are endless ways to do the same job. I really enjoy your channel. Thanks for your work!
I've been making my "starter set" and some people think you have to spend a ton of money on tools but you don't, I've been buying the best tool I can in my price range and its working just fine. The expensive tools are nice to have if you can afford it and I can't
Some tips from sweden. Bahco makes exelent saws. Their superior line is actually worth the money Hultafors makes high quality modern folding rulers with both inches and cm
So.. im very new to this woodworking stuff and am proud to say I completed my first project (small jewelry box with dovetails). Ive amassed and restored a Stanley 3,4, and 5 and block plane. I got a decent set of chisels, marking tools, dovetail, cross cut and rip saw, brace and bits, and egg beater drill. Im having trouble deciding what tools to buy next. I was thinking a router plane and a large plane like 7 or 8... or should i get a combination plane? Which ones are truly more useful?
It depends on what you want to make. if you want to make large pieces such as furniture that having a large plain would be very beneficial. If you are wanting to build boxes and other intricate jewelry then a router plane would be a great choice. If you wanting to do molding and detailed edges a combination plane would be a great choice. They are all fairly equal and how often I use them.
I guess im mostly set. I think you might want to have some worksurface and a clamping method listed. A bench. That is very helpful. Also, an awl is good to have.
Thank you so much for this video...I've wanted to start doing some small woodworking projects but I live in a condo and don't have access to a shop. I thought about using a small folding workbench and some hand tools so I don't disturb the neighbours :P
Agree with the part when you say buy them when you need them. A set of screwdrivers is basic as well even to setup your plane. Although if you are going to do woodworking you might already have those.
Well, I did already start but I feel that I do miss some useful stuff but don't know what. I hope this video will help me. Thanks for uploading! Also, a friend of mine did ask me to do a tutorial video on making a leather USB stick since he didn't find my videos clear enough. I was wondering if you were interested to get that as a gift? That way I want to thank you for the support and knowledge that I got from you!
Paul Sellers - whom I'm sure you've heard of, made an extended base for his plough plane - perhaps you Americans call it a hand router - it's used to flatten bottoms of housings (dadoes). I made one but then started noticing its drawbacks - high coefficient of friction, the fact that you can't see what you are doing until you are almost on top of a line and the fact that the base is quite thick. To overcome these problems, I re-made mine out of 1/4" (6mm) thick clear acrylic. It works a treat. I've photographed it and would lover to show it to you but I don't know how to upload photos to youtube. Any ideas?
Sweet! the extended bace for mine is out of Oak but acrylic would be a fantastic idea. youtube does not allow pictures in the comments, but you can email me at JamesWright@woodbywright.com
Great video. Couple of questions: 1) Any suggestions on building a workbench for handtools, which includes a vise and holes for bench dogs? I can't seem to find many plans on TH-cam or Google. Especially easy ones for beginners with limited tools. 2) Where did you get that apron? I can't find any at the big box stores (I should check the specialty stores here).
thanks. 1. next month I am going to be making my new main bench and that will mostly be done with a hand saw hand plane and set of chisels. I am also hoping to have plans available for it too. 2. here is the one I use. amzn.to/2pgNXn0 fairly cheap and works well.
Good list. For my money I would go for a Record 044 rather than the Stanley 45. It’s a simpler tool, not as versatile maybe, but easier to set up and use. Cheap too. I love using my 044, but the 45 rarely comes out of the box.
What can you tell me about the folding rule (when were they made, companies, etc.)? I was luck enough to find one when cleaning out an aunts house recently. Thanks for the information. I really enjoy the videos.
they were really common tell the 50s and every company under the sun made them. often they were given away with large tool orders. some of them are worth a ton, but most are around worth $3-$8
wow how long does it take you to drill a whole for say a 3 inch screw? I think a power drill would be the only power tool that I would just HAVE to have
when I drill 3 and 4-inch holes I use a hole saw. It normally goes about an inch a minute or so for that size. I actually have a power drill but it almost never gets used in the shop as a brace is often faster and has more torquee.
Sure babe. You could use anything you want to beat on a chisel. The downside to rubber is they just don't transfer as much energy to the handle as a wooden one would but they work.
Buy your tools at a car boot or junk sale. Chisels are cheap and easy to restore to extreme sharpness. Saws will need sharpening (NOT the hardpoint type)buy a small file for sharpening also at junk sales. Also junior hacksaw tiny fine blade great for tiny clean cuts. Great video for beginners!
I went to see our local head stone maker and he gave me some polished flat granite for free. heavy, doesn't move on the table and awesome to use as a flat surface for sharpening. (and truing up and oil/ whetstones!)
Is there some tips you can give for people who have very small spaces to work with? I don’t really have room in our small house nor outside it. I’m also scared of the sawdust getting everywhere in my house.
with hand tools there is almost no saw dust. so that makes it a lot easier. my first shop was about 10' X 10' but if I did not make larger furniture I could have gotten by around 6'X6' the biggedt thing is the bench is the center of the shop everything else should be with in reach when working at the bench.
I’m just getting into woodworking, so sorry if this is obvious and I just don’t know. Is a small axe or adze not pretty important? I want to make bowls and I’ve seen them done basically only using these tools. I was considering using them too.
if you are wanting to make hand carved bowls then a hatchet and bowl adz are very important, but for most of the rest of woodworking they are not needed. if you are planning to turn bowls then they are not needed.
I'm assuming you're referring to an egg beater drill? if so usually those are only used for bits that are smaller than a quarter inch. Quarter inch and larger go into a regular brace and bit The exception to that would be a breast drill which is a longer version of an egg beater drill. But it has a much larger crank.
I have just started, literally two days in. After reading Hood Clean Fun. My question may be irrelevant due to your earlier videos that I haven't, but will, watch. What are, or do you have some kick ass references, to plans that could be made with these simple tools? I've set out to search, but always come across objects: tool boxes, pens, stools, etc... that require band saws, lathes or other power tools. Not that I have a problem with that, but as a person fresh to the game, I certainly do not have the nest egg to drop that kind of money on such tools. My current list is hand saw, no 4 hand plane that I restored and chisels, I have cordless drills, but saw, skill saw and other common tools from previous projects, but I want to explore more on the hand powered sort of objects built with good ole American pride. so...suggestions or references to projects requiring only simple hand tools would be very much appreciated
Sweet! glad to have you here. about two years ago I was in your place I started this channel when I got my first-hand plane. I built several tools and my bench with little more than a hand plane cheap chisel and free hand saw from the big box store. I try to leave most tool needs off of my plans as most everything can be built with those three tools. you just need to get a bit creative. if you go back and watch my early videos you can see a whole progression of learning and experimenting where I started off with $12 in tools and grew from there. Just a warning the early videos were meant for just me to watch untell I found out others liked to watch that kind of thing. LOL other than that Shannon Rogers is about to release a new semester in the Hand Tool School that will be all about getting started with almost nothing. I buy everything he puts out whether I need it or not because the info is so good. if you have any questions feel free to email me anytime I would love to help out. as to specific things to build I am a firm believer that the first thing anyone should build is your bench from construction lumber, it will teach you the skills faster than everything else. and along the way toy will make tools and jigs to get the work done. don't be afraid to make mistakes hand tools are all about gaps and curvy lines. the only way to get better is to make more mistakes. un like power tools you can not get a better tool to do better work. I can give you the best hand tools in the world and they will not help you at all untell you learn from messing up.
I just subscribed. I can't believe that you built the bench without clamps? No screw drivers in you workshop? I have got almost everything you said you showed and more.
There is always a way to build with out clamps or they can be made for the situation which is what I did to laminate the top of that bench. I would put screwdrivers and hammers in there homeowners kit. they are the things everyone has. you do nto need much at all to build. you just need more to make it easier, but if you make it too easy then that takes the challenge out of the game in my book.
Love all the videos. Trying to get into woodworking, but you say you can make a mallet with just 3 tools, and then link to a video where you use more than those 3...
ya the video where I did that was back when I started it was a wile ago. I might have to do another one here some time. just need a saw, and chisel. a plane if you want to be efficient.
of coarse if you wanted to you could do it all with just one chisel. I have a video where i chopped down a tree and made a bench with just a half inch chisel. th-cam.com/video/7pByKF7gC3Q/w-d-xo.html
You put together a good list for the beginner. About the only thing to add would be a straight edge. Of course now "we" won't be able to find good vintage planes at yard sales.
Funny you did this video, I actually was considering doing a video on a similar topic. thanks for beating me to it! lol Good stuff though, it's good that you're helping newbies out with this stuff
Those Veritas saws are darn sexy for what they cost. My crosscut carcass saw is one of my favourite tools, and easily my most used saw. For chisels, I'm really digging the Narex ones that Lee Valley sells, they are cheap but you wouldn't really know it to handle them.
Incidentally, apprentice carpenters are usually tasked with making a tool box or tool tote as one of their first projects. There are a lot of free plans available with a Google search and can usually be made with the first three tools James mentions. I have a number of old toolboxes made by apprentice and journeymen carpenters going back before WWI. They can be quite elaborate.
Kevin Wixson WwI? Amazing! I was asking because I'm not sure how practical they are. I've seen videos of what you mention but somehow I can't make up my mind if it's worth the build. What's your opinion on it?
I do not travel much at all so it all goes on the Shelf. I do not like tool boxes for storage unless i were to travel with them but I would like to make one some time.
It's a plane designed (or modified) to take a lot of wood with each pass. Usually this is accomplished with a narrow plane iron which is slightly convex (round). Converting a plane to be used as a scrub plane is as simple as grinding, filing, etc. a curve into the end of the iron.
As a woodworker and Carpenter I can honestly say that in the shop I almost never ever use a block plane. Or anything but my jack for that matter. But on a job site I I find myself using a block plane pretty much daily.
Great information, especially buying tools as you need them. (I just need to remember not to let my ambition outstrip my skill set.) I see you've made a lot of beautiful tools. Did you make any with your three basic tools? I've been wondering if I could start simple and make decent planes and such as needed.
I made my mallet, plow plane, beam clamps, and bench with my initial set. you can do a lot with the two. if you go back and look at my initial videos the catalog my Hand tool experience and how I learned everything. they are not great quality but it is interesting to watch.
Thanks James. I'm surprised to not see any of the popular Japanese pull saws in your kit. Not saying they should be, just surprised that they aren't...
it is difficult to switch back and forth between the body mechanics of a pushing method and a pulling method especially when first starting. that is why I rarely use any pull tools. but each to their own. that is one fo the great things about woodworking. so many different ways to do it!
I would suggest a regular stockman style pocket knife. I use the sheep's foot blade for marking and the other two come in handy for various tasks. And you can carry it in your pocket.
Wet Stones - amzn.to/2oppydi
Dimond Plates - amzn.to/2oppz0J (I use Extra coarse, Medium-fine, and Extra fine)
Chisels - amzn.to/2i26mzX
Panel saw - amzn.to/2hjAura
Hand plane - amzn.to/2hc6LQZ
Square - amzn.to/2ia9M3Z
Marking Knife - amzn.to/2hPHf34
Marking gauge - amzn.to/2i0jvHx
Mortising gauge - www.highlandwoodworking.com/veritasdualmarkinggauge.aspx?A=1367&B=28
Sash saw - www.highlandwoodworking.com/veritas-rip-carcass-saw.aspx?A=1367&B=28
Card scraper - amzn.to/2lGyFF0
File set - amzn.to/2l0czdB
Brace - amzn.to/2hPEs9Y
Auggers - amzn.to/2hZVT5T
Bar clamps - amzn.to/2oplZE1
Block plane - amzn.to/2ikkaqg
Coping saw - amzn.to/2kCe68X
Spoke shave - amzn.to/2lKn6ND
Plow Plane - amzn.to/2lKozUf
My dad's advice, which has served me well: "When you are buying a tool for the first time, DON'T buy the expensive tools. Also, stay away from the cheapest tools, but buy something inexpensive. If you wear it out that means it's a tool you use with some frequency so you should replace it with something of much better quality. Otherwise, it's likely just a tool that's sitting on a shelf."
Wise man.
Can your dad be my dad too?
Good advice. 👍
Yes agreed the biggest investment should be your time taking care of and maintaining your tools. I was lucky in the fact that I inherited alot of my tools from my great grandfather who was a shipwright back in England in just have to restore them all I have to give his brace a new handle which I have a lovely piece of walnut set a side for
I'd add an exception and say if you're going to buy chisels, get dirt cheap or top end (veritas or lie Nielson). Flattening $25 a piece chisels with convex backs sucks
This video was one of the most useful I've seen on TH-cam. As it progresses, I was running a 'Got It, Need It' checklist. Many years ago, an old neighbour gifted me with his box of hand tools, before he moved to a retirement home. Those tools, including a brace and bits, assorted hand planes, and other essentials, were ancient then. They still work today! Thank you!
My pleasure. Glad I could help. Sounds like a lot of fun
I agree with these tools.
thanks!
Not enough socially distant garbage on the floor imo
I am amazed and humbled by someone like you not being a tool snob and providing great solid advice. Thank you for drumming sense into my head who had an hour ago bought yet another stanley sweetheart plane that looked prettier (just canceled the order, am going to be content with my no 4). Thank you and God bless. Regards from Pakistan
Lol here to help looking forward to seeing what you make.
It is amazing that you built that work bench with just those 3 tools! Great video, thanks for posting!
It does not take much if you think about it! LOL but I am the crazy one!
Things to make big pieces of wood smaller. Things to join your now smaller pieces of wood together. Great little kit there James.
LOL right on!
About the only "formal" experience I have had in wood working was from my days in middle school. That being said. I have been having this itch to start wood working again. My wife says I should be making wood working into a career path, but I never really gave much consideration into it because I thought it was just a really expensive thing to start getting into. This video has definitely helped me realize I can get started next paycheck. Thank you for your very comprehensive video. With some hard earned skills I can get started on making that dream of wood working for a living a reality. That and I can stop spending money on a lot of furniture in the house. lol
thanks Joshua! that means a lot. it really is a hobby that can be as expensive or a cheep as you make it.
I found a couple antique deep cut coping/fret saws for less than $10 last year. I was so excited.
I like how how quite alot of these hand tools already I have a brace planes,a variety of spoke shaves, calipers, Compasses ect. All of which are in dire need of restoration they about 150 years and belonged to my great grandfather who was a shipwright in barrow and Furness. I also have a Japanese pull saw that my friend gave me. My first project will be a new handle for the brace and probably a shave horse
As always thank you for your practical advice!
Excellent! I hate measuring anything. So long as it looks nice and is functional. Best beginners tool guide I've seen. Thanks!
thanks Edy!
Excellent advice, and the best part is that you start with sharpening. A sharpening solution must necessarily be part of your very first tool kit: it’s just no fun when your tools aren’t sharp. Well done for including it at the very top.
I disagree with one thing: a square should be there on the first day, too. And another remark: I have two proper straight edges (24" and 50") and I use them all the time. I think something that is reliably flat or straight should be part of the kit fairly early on.
The saw has a square and a straight edge.
@@charliesmith7169 Kind of - the plastic handle is square enough to mark beams when you put a garden shed together, but it’s not a decent square.
Pretty good list, the only thing I would change is switch out the try square for a good combination square, just more versatile. And all I would add is a tenon saw, I find my sash saw bottoming out constantly and its so frustrating. And some kind of knife (not a marking knife) something like a mora 106, I use it constantly for chamfering end grain on chair legs or tenons, or making small adjustments to things. But over all great video that I am sure will help a lot of people out.
Oh one other thing, I would say start with the number 5 then build yourself a krenov style smoother. its super simple and makes planing a million times more fun + bragging rights :P
yup everyone has their own list. one of the great things of woodworking!
This video is perfect. Exactly the info I was looking for. It's a concise list and you give great reasoning for your choices. I'm happy to be a new subscriber! Thanks!
thanks man! let me know if you have any questions. i would be glad to help!
I decided I wanted to find a hand plane first than anything else since it's been one of the harder tools to find, but today I bought an old brace for $10. It's handles are a bit banged up but it works perfectly fine. I can't wait to find a hand plane and the rest of the tools. :)
It's like minecraft, you start with some wood and make some tools. Btw I love how you show the most minimal setup you can possibly get. I'm getting into minimalism but I do love crafts and hobbies
also useful to have a chest and crafting table!
Hey, me too! It's part of why I'm looking into woodworking with hand tools -- I want to build my own tiny house, so I need tools, but I also need them to not take up too much space :P
My accumulation of hand tools took place pretty close to your recommendations. I use a Millers Falls #2 hand drill a lot to make small holes with either twist drill bits or antique straight flute bits. I have smaller and larger hand drills but If I could have only one it would be my # 2 or a stanley of approximately the same size
great advice. everyone has their own likes!
I was so inspired by this video. Bought some starting tools, made a pointer (cause that was the recommendation to learn how to use a chisel and planer). Now I'm trying to make a sawyer's bench. Having so much trouble squaring the boards to get started. I don't have a way of securing the wood to plane an edge or face flat. Does anyone have a recommendation? James, you mentioned building a bench with a small set of tools. How did you plane the wood you used?
you can make a plane stop by driving a couple nails or screws into the surface you are working on. they should stick up a bit less then the thickness of the board. you then plane the board toward the hails. here is a video of me using the planing sop on my bench. you could do the same thing with just a couple nails or screws. th-cam.com/video/KefwKuvJEb4/w-d-xo.html
"Wood By Wright"and "WranglerStar" are both doing TH-cam videos on Basic Tools For a Hand Tool Woodworking Shop - Starter Tool Set for the workshop! You both are on the right track for helping Newbies. My son needs this info; I will forward your TH-cam channel info to him. Thanks for the video. Keep up the good work!
thanks Paul! that means a Lot!
Paul Joseph Hilchey don't send him to wranglerstar, that dude is a preachy shill hack. WBW all the way.
-this is my opinion and not necessarily an opinion from WBW
There are many components to running a woodworking business. One resource I found which succeeds in merging these is the Enata Wood System (check it out on google) definately the no.1 blueprint that I have ever seen. look at the super info.
Agreed, I had to unsubscribe from WS a few years ago and my brain thanks me every day. (I know, I'm not European so how could I possibly grasp what Cody is talking about.) ;)
If a suggestion is needed send them to Paul Sellers which the beginning of WBW's tools are based upon... except for the modern saw.
Ya don't bother with Wranglerstar his info isn't very good it's mostly an ego trip. Go with Paul sellers.
Great video, this is a very comprehensive list of tools to get started. I like the fact you threw in some options. Ie. the use of high grit sandpaper vs the high $$ diamond stone.
People like to have options especially getting started. Cost can prohibit people from enjoying the craft.
I like how you did the dovetails on your bench, I did mine the same way with the wood dowel pegs. I went one step further and skirted the edges in red oak. I bang in to the sides so much walking around it and propping things against it, I wanted something better than soft pine around it. The top extends a 1/2 inch further out from the legs. I have two front vises and no leg vise, so it is not an issue.
Nice. I did something similar on my next bench. really makes a difference.
What a concept! Starting with the basics. Super video.
You are walking on the right path!
So true. Thanks.
Good list. as a hand tool guy I find that I like to and do spend a good amount of money on high quality layout tools
right on. a great tools is always worth the money!
This is a great video. I especially like the comment about buying tools as you need them for a given project. I think the same can be said of cooking. I used to buy a given spice because I thought it would be interesting to experiment with. I've since evolved and don't buy anything unless a specific meal calls for it.
Right on. Spend money when it is needed not when it is wanted.
Wow I was hoping to find that I needed something else. sounds like this is the list to keep in my tool box underneath my work bench. Thanks for the information.
LOL thanks Robert!
I went to Aldi and picked up the chisels today. Now, after I get a hand plane, my wood working journey can officially begin. Thank for these videos. You really have a way of making all of this seem possible to get into and not so daunting.
thanks Mak that means a lot!
You literally found them at Aldi? That's awesome. It's seems so random what they'll have there besides food. I guess I'll check there as well. I'd really like to get into this as well.
@@ericromano4028 Yes I did. Four chisels for $6.99 I think. You can't beat that price, I'll probably go grab another set later. Also, there's a picture on the Wood By Wright website.
What a helpful video. Your presentation is very down to earth too. I loved the boring pun. You're very sharp. Do you ever do videos reviewing your favorite audio books?
Also you will need Band-Aids, mainly the finger and knuckle type, but an assortment is always a sound investment.
LOL sounds like experience talking!
Hi I built the side table and I am happy the way it turned out. Thank u hope u will do more like that I injoy your show IAM 72 starting using just hand tool only and I injoy it please respond
Awesome video thanks. I know you spoke of Harbor Freight tools.. I think it would have been nice to mention when someone would think about upgrading to higher quality tools such as Woodpecker tools etc. love the video and showing it to my son when he gets home from school.
completely agree with the buy as you need motto. I started with pretty much a saw, a combo square, a no 4 bench plane and a chisel and now have found myself always picking up a tool for a project or seeing something at a swap meet that I know would make a common task easier (ie files and rasps instead of 60 grit sandpaper for shaping).
I would add wood glue and painters/masking tape to the starter list. before I started making wedge c-clamps I used masking tape and heavy objects to glue up. and while some may say perfect joints don't necessarily require glue...starting out and even still I have gaps that need glue to make a strong joint.
+Kirby Tate right on.
also once you have a saw, chisel, and some wood you can build some of the tools you don't have but want.
I like your contributions and the order of additions right from the get go. I was looking for videos and lists like this a couple of years ago. They were few and far between. I compiled a list far here and there and from watching project videos. Jacob Farnsworth has a good list. There is also a good one by Frank Klausz which can be found on Farnsworth where shows how to on reconditioning used starter tools. But sharpening is the best first place/start tool and where to begin. Best first skill to develop. 🤗
right on! I love both of their stuff!
Fantastic video, i can vouch for this as well. i have a multi purpose saw, a coping saw, 4 chisels and 2 planes. All i would add is a speed square. Apart from these tools i use sandpaper and a £15 drill + bit set. Thats it, it might not last or be the world best quality tools but they work, and if you can use a cheap/ not so great tool, when you do get a great tool you will appreciate it 1000% more. Once again brilliant video!!
thanks man. everyone has their own list.
A lot of video's put people off - you only need a table saw, planer , bandsaw etc. which is great if you have the budget and space, but lets face it not everyone can start with those tools and get put off instead of just getting a saw and some sandpaper and having a go!
👍 video
Great stuff. I have started to fill out my shop with hand tools, but my biggest issue has been making super straight cuts with hand saws. For instance, how would you go about making a perfectly square cut to some table legs when the leg won't fit in a miter box?
Usually you cut your line and then saw a little ways away from it. Then you can come back and plan it back to the line. There are ways to improve your skill with proper technique but for most people it takes a good long while to be able to cut a clean straight line right off the saw. I have a few videos on that if you want to see more.
I can here from my teacher and I didn't regret it thanks so much for keeping this video fun while watching especially the starting 🤣🥺❤️
Always great advice James sir
Excellent video. I would add the Swanson Speed Square. It's cheap, it's reasonably square, it's extremely versatile and it's easy to use to layout cuts. Respectfully submitted.
Thanks man. I have never been a fan of speed squairs but a lot of people really like them.
Wood By Wright the best part of this addiction (ahem) ‘hobby’ is that there are endless ways to do the same job. I really enjoy your channel. Thanks for your work!
I've been making my "starter set" and some people think you have to spend a ton of money on tools but you don't, I've been buying the best tool I can in my price range and its working just fine. The expensive tools are nice to have if you can afford it and I can't
right on that is the best way to learn and grow.
Some tips from sweden.
Bahco makes exelent saws. Their superior line is actually worth the money
Hultafors makes high quality modern folding rulers with both inches and cm
Great and very useful video. Thanks for sharing
So.. im very new to this woodworking stuff and am proud to say I completed my first project (small jewelry box with dovetails). Ive amassed and restored a Stanley 3,4, and 5 and block plane. I got a decent set of chisels, marking tools, dovetail, cross cut and rip saw, brace and bits, and egg beater drill. Im having trouble deciding what tools to buy next. I was thinking a router plane and a large plane like 7 or 8... or should i get a combination plane? Which ones are truly more useful?
It depends on what you want to make. if you want to make large pieces such as furniture that having a large plain would be very beneficial. If you are wanting to build boxes and other intricate jewelry then a router plane would be a great choice. If you wanting to do molding and detailed edges a combination plane would be a great choice. They are all fairly equal and how often I use them.
i love this tools.. i remember my granpa tools..can we add a pencil and hammer tool too..
I guess im mostly set. I think you might want to have some worksurface and a clamping method listed. A bench. That is very helpful. Also, an awl is good to have.
ya the bench and screwdrivers were kind of a give in for me. but I should have mentioned them!
At 2:42 you mention that you are going to make something with only chisel and mallet. Do you have that link?
+abstractsbybrian I have not yet done that. But it is on the list for later this summer or early fall.
Thank you so much for this video...I've wanted to start doing some small woodworking projects but I live in a condo and don't have access to a shop. I thought about using a small folding workbench and some hand tools so I don't disturb the neighbours :P
Sounds like a great opportunity. I have a friend that made a bench that could double as a dining room table for just that.
Thanks for an utterly helpful video.
Thanks Joseph. My pleasure.
Agree with the part when you say buy them when you need them. A set of screwdrivers is basic as well even to setup your plane. Although if you are going to do woodworking you might already have those.
Well, I did already start but I feel that I do miss some useful stuff but don't know what. I hope this video will help me. Thanks for uploading! Also, a friend of mine did ask me to do a tutorial video on making a leather USB stick since he didn't find my videos clear enough. I was wondering if you were interested to get that as a gift? That way I want to thank you for the support and knowledge that I got from you!
Great video. Thanks 😊🙏
Paul Sellers - whom I'm sure you've heard of, made an extended base for his plough plane - perhaps you Americans call it a hand router - it's used to flatten bottoms of housings (dadoes). I made one but then started noticing its drawbacks - high coefficient of friction, the fact that you can't see what you are doing until you are almost on top of a line and the fact that the base is quite thick. To overcome these problems, I re-made mine out of 1/4" (6mm) thick clear acrylic. It works a treat. I've photographed it and would lover to show it to you but I don't know how to upload photos to youtube. Any ideas?
Sweet! the extended bace for mine is out of Oak but acrylic would be a fantastic idea. youtube does not allow pictures in the comments, but you can email me at JamesWright@woodbywright.com
"Drilling is boring " a good joke. Delivery was a bit wooden thoe
I don't know. I think it was a bit dull. Lol thanks.
it was a bit plain.
He probably just wanted to froe it out there.
@@flynnlongley8911 the joke mitre worked better from a different angle.
Awesome video! Really learned alot and I consider myself a pretty skilled diy'er. Keep up the great work!
thanks Jason. glad I could help!
Sound advice and easy on the wallet! Thanks so much.
thanks Steve
Great video. Couple of questions:
1) Any suggestions on building a workbench for handtools, which includes a vise and holes for bench dogs? I can't seem to find many plans on TH-cam or Google. Especially easy ones for beginners with limited tools.
2) Where did you get that apron? I can't find any at the big box stores (I should check the specialty stores here).
thanks.
1. next month I am going to be making my new main bench and that will mostly be done with a hand saw hand plane and set of chisels. I am also hoping to have plans available for it too.
2. here is the one I use. amzn.to/2pgNXn0 fairly cheap and works well.
Fantastic, looking forward to it.
Good list. For my money I would go for a Record 044 rather than the Stanley 45. It’s a simpler tool, not as versatile maybe, but easier to set up and use. Cheap too. I love using my 044, but the 45 rarely comes out of the box.
What can you tell me about the folding rule (when were they made, companies, etc.)? I was luck enough to find one when cleaning out an aunts house recently. Thanks for the information. I really enjoy the videos.
they were really common tell the 50s and every company under the sun made them. often they were given away with large tool orders. some of them are worth a ton, but most are around worth $3-$8
Just a heads up the Wet stone link takes you to a space heater.
Thanks I will hit that one. Got to love it when links change from time to time.
great video James very instructional thanks for sharing.
thanks Opa!
You are the man James! Thank you
LOL thanks!
Thanks for this! I am getting started and this greatly helped.
thnaks Jared. if you ever have questions feel free to ask anytime.
First project is my workbench, I'm sure I'll have a ton of questions haha!
wow how long does it take you to drill a whole for say a 3 inch screw? I think a power drill would be the only power tool that I would just HAVE to have
when I drill 3 and 4-inch holes I use a hole saw. It normally goes about an inch a minute or so for that size. I actually have a power drill but it almost never gets used in the shop as a brace is often faster and has more torquee.
Could i use my old rubber mallet? I see many videos about wood mallets but idk which is better or if it matters.
Sure babe. You could use anything you want to beat on a chisel. The downside to rubber is they just don't transfer as much energy to the handle as a wooden one would but they work.
Hi James,
Just wondering when it comes to hand saws which would you suggest a rip or cross cut?
For a hand saw usually you want rip cut for that big of a saw. For a back saw crosscut is usually more useful.
@@WoodByWright
Thank you very much 👍
Buy your tools at a car boot or junk sale. Chisels are cheap and easy to restore to extreme sharpness. Saws will need sharpening (NOT the hardpoint type)buy a small file for sharpening also at junk sales. Also junior hacksaw tiny fine blade great for tiny clean cuts.
Great video for beginners!
Right on!
I love the way You do your Videos! Ceep on going!
thanks Fritz. that means a lot!
Hugely useful video, thank you
my pleasure
Well!! Excellent guide ever. Beautiful voice. Calm n woody!!! :)
“I love my tools, so pretty.” Everyone understands this.
I went to see our local head stone maker and he gave me some polished flat granite for free. heavy, doesn't move on the table and awesome to use as a flat surface for sharpening. (and truing up and oil/ whetstones!)
I use to have a pece I got from a counter top shop. Great source
Is there some tips you can give for people who have very small spaces to work with?
I don’t really have room in our small house nor outside it. I’m also scared of the sawdust getting everywhere in my house.
with hand tools there is almost no saw dust. so that makes it a lot easier. my first shop was about 10' X 10' but if I did not make larger furniture I could have gotten by around 6'X6' the biggedt thing is the bench is the center of the shop everything else should be with in reach when working at the bench.
Wood By Wright thanks for the advice!
I’m just getting into woodworking, so sorry if this is obvious and I just don’t know. Is a small axe or adze not pretty important? I want to make bowls and I’ve seen them done basically only using these tools. I was considering using them too.
if you are wanting to make hand carved bowls then a hatchet and bowl adz are very important, but for most of the rest of woodworking they are not needed. if you are planning to turn bowls then they are not needed.
Did you make that diamond plate platform? That's really cool
thanks. yes if you search for wood by wright sharpening station you will see it.
I have a old school drill, hand-cranked, is that a supplement for a bit brace?
I'm assuming you're referring to an egg beater drill? if so usually those are only used for bits that are smaller than a quarter inch. Quarter inch and larger go into a regular brace and bit The exception to that would be a breast drill which is a longer version of an egg beater drill. But it has a much larger crank.
@@WoodByWright It's a breast drill
Nice video.Thanks.
I have just started, literally two days in. After reading Hood Clean Fun. My question may be irrelevant due to your earlier videos that I haven't, but will, watch. What are, or do you have some kick ass references, to plans that could be made with these simple tools? I've set out to search, but always come across objects: tool boxes, pens, stools, etc... that require band saws, lathes or other power tools. Not that I have a problem with that, but as a person fresh to the game, I certainly do not have the nest egg to drop that kind of money on such tools. My current list is hand saw, no 4 hand plane that I restored and chisels, I have cordless drills, but saw, skill saw and other common tools from previous projects, but I want to explore more on the hand powered sort of objects built with good ole American pride. so...suggestions or references to projects requiring only simple hand tools would be very much appreciated
Sweet! glad to have you here. about two years ago I was in your place I started this channel when I got my first-hand plane. I built several tools and my bench with little more than a hand plane cheap chisel and free hand saw from the big box store. I try to leave most tool needs off of my plans as most everything can be built with those three tools. you just need to get a bit creative. if you go back and watch my early videos you can see a whole progression of learning and experimenting where I started off with $12 in tools and grew from there. Just a warning the early videos were meant for just me to watch untell I found out others liked to watch that kind of thing. LOL other than that Shannon Rogers is about to release a new semester in the Hand Tool School that will be all about getting started with almost nothing. I buy everything he puts out whether I need it or not because the info is so good. if you have any questions feel free to email me anytime I would love to help out.
as to specific things to build I am a firm believer that the first thing anyone should build is your bench from construction lumber, it will teach you the skills faster than everything else. and along the way toy will make tools and jigs to get the work done. don't be afraid to make mistakes hand tools are all about gaps and curvy lines. the only way to get better is to make more mistakes. un like power tools you can not get a better tool to do better work. I can give you the best hand tools in the world and they will not help you at all untell you learn from messing up.
A well-chosen tool !
thanks!
I just subscribed. I can't believe that you built the bench without clamps? No screw drivers in you workshop? I have got almost everything you said you showed and more.
There is always a way to build with out clamps or they can be made for the situation which is what I did to laminate the top of that bench. I would put screwdrivers and hammers in there homeowners kit. they are the things everyone has. you do nto need much at all to build. you just need more to make it easier, but if you make it too easy then that takes the challenge out of the game in my book.
Great Info!!! Thank You!!!👍😎😁
Great advice clearly explained
thanks John!
Amazing very usefull
Love all the videos. Trying to get into woodworking, but you say you can make a mallet with just 3 tools, and then link to a video where you use more than those 3...
ya the video where I did that was back when I started it was a wile ago. I might have to do another one here some time. just need a saw, and chisel. a plane if you want to be efficient.
of coarse if you wanted to you could do it all with just one chisel. I have a video where i chopped down a tree and made a bench with just a half inch chisel. th-cam.com/video/7pByKF7gC3Q/w-d-xo.html
@@WoodByWright awesome. Ill have to check that out. So would I "drill" the whole in the block with a chisel?
Any tips on the best way to improvise a vice until I can go buy one/have time and budget to build a workbench?
You put together a good list for the beginner. About the only thing to add would be a straight edge.
Of course now "we" won't be able to find good vintage planes at yard sales.
thanks Ken. you just got to get there early for the good stuff.
Would like to see compare and contrast with Wranglestar.
lol that would be interesting
Funny you did this video, I actually was considering doing a video on a similar topic. thanks for beating me to it! lol Good stuff though, it's good that you're helping newbies out with this stuff
go for it! I would love to see your list. and your video might get linked with mine helping us both out.
Wood By Wright that's a good point! I think I'll give it a shot. I'll link to yours for sure as well
Sweet! I would love to see your list!
great video
Those Veritas saws are darn sexy for what they cost. My crosscut carcass saw is one of my favourite tools, and easily my most used saw. For chisels, I'm really digging the Narex ones that Lee Valley sells, they are cheap but you wouldn't really know it to handle them.
Right on. they are great tools for the money
Max Thrust I have a bunch of Narex kit and I agree. Best value in quality chisels.
Awesome video. I'm wanting to start woodworking and this was perfect. Thank you. Subscribing
Thanks Alex. My pleasure!
great kit. Do you keep your basic kit in a bag or case, ready to go, or do you keep it on a shelf?
Incidentally, apprentice carpenters are usually tasked with making a tool box or tool tote as one of their first projects. There are a lot of free plans available with a Google search and can usually be made with the first three tools James mentions. I have a number of old toolboxes made by apprentice and journeymen carpenters going back before WWI. They can be quite elaborate.
Kevin Wixson WwI? Amazing! I was asking because I'm not sure how practical they are. I've seen videos of what you mention but somehow I can't make up my mind if it's worth the build. What's your opinion on it?
I do not travel much at all so it all goes on the Shelf. I do not like tool boxes for storage unless i were to travel with them but I would like to make one some time.
James, what is a "scrub plane?"
God Bless my friend.
It's a plane designed (or modified) to take a lot of wood with each pass. Usually this is accomplished with a narrow plane iron which is slightly convex (round). Converting a plane to be used as a scrub plane is as simple as grinding, filing, etc. a curve into the end of the iron.
Thanks guy, I had never heard of such.
God Bless my friend.
here is a video on it. th-cam.com/video/3ZVhadFoq8E/w-d-xo.html a very useful plan when working with any rough sawn wood.
The thing that I would have liked in this video is him going into more detail about each tool.
I have a live video on the second video where I could take the time to go into all the tools.
I found a vintage set of Irwin auger bits with good spurs and lead screws in box with original paperwork
Nice find!
@@WoodByWright thanks and thanks for the teaching
As a woodworker and Carpenter I can honestly say that in the shop I almost never ever use a block plane. Or anything but my jack for that matter. But on a job site I I find myself using a block plane pretty much daily.
Great list to start also great advice buy when you need or save until you can. Don't go into dept buying tools
LOL right on!
Great overview. Very helpful, thanks James!
-Caleb Harris
thanks man
Hi James what is a good begginers hand wood saw to buy sir
it depends on what you are cutting. the sash saw is the most used saw in my shop followed closely by the hand saw.
Great information, especially buying tools as you need them. (I just need to remember not to let my ambition outstrip my skill set.)
I see you've made a lot of beautiful tools. Did you make any with your three basic tools? I've been wondering if I could start simple and make decent planes and such as needed.
I made my mallet, plow plane, beam clamps, and bench with my initial set. you can do a lot with the two. if you go back and look at my initial videos the catalog my Hand tool experience and how I learned everything. they are not great quality but it is interesting to watch.
Thanks James. I'm surprised to not see any of the popular Japanese pull saws in your kit. Not saying they should be, just surprised that they aren't...
it is difficult to switch back and forth between the body mechanics of a pushing method and a pulling method especially when first starting. that is why I rarely use any pull tools. but each to their own. that is one fo the great things about woodworking. so many different ways to do it!
I've never used a pull saw, but I like the narrow kerf they seem to make.
I would suggest a regular stockman style pocket knife. I use the sheep's foot blade for marking and the other two come in handy for various tasks. And you can carry it in your pocket.
did you build your workbench without clamps?
I built my clamps as part of the workbench build.