"Tidying up after yourself creates a far better impression than almost any piece of work" - this is where you demonstrate a wisdom that most struggle to grasp, and why your video's are such a breath of fresh air amongst all the other gear-porn.
The best tool I had starting out (which was quite recently) is TH-cam! It's helped me find out the right tools to buy and the correct way of doing things:-) And, yes, a clamp video would be a great idea.
@@10MinuteWorkshop I agree with this completely. I have started buying clamps and keep finding that I don't have the one I actually need, yet there is some I have NEVER used.
@@10MinuteWorkshop Can you also take time to discuss whether it's a cramp or a clamp? I'm sure it won't take long, and there wont be many follow-up comments or questions! :-)
I’d love to see that too. I’m a big fan of the quick-grip one-handed clamps... but am kicking the tyres on one or two of those Festool clamps that fit into the MFT holes. Seeing yourself, Gosforth Andy and Scott Brown using them makes me think they are worth the $$.
Top tip for bench dogs...Not quite as good as the "real ones", but Screwfix Tower (other makes available all over the world I expect) 20mm conduit plus accessories. It's "exactly" 20mm to fit your MFT table holes and you can get about 60 "dogs" out of a 3m length for less than £2! Want a flat edge on the dogs/need to stop them falling through the table?...use the "spacer bar saddles" or the "female adapters". You're welcome :-)
My top 10 are as follows,and primarily cordless. 1 tracksaw. 2 oscillating multi tool/omt. 3 Impact driver. 4 cordless vacuum, to supplement a corded for quick job-site cleaning. And I agree with cleanliness, is equal to craftsmanship! 5 clamps,whether quick ratcheting or pipe clamps. 6 lithium batteries, instead of using three before lunch only one is needed . 7 routers with templating bits are a poor man's cnc. 8 pin nailers for prefinished trim and leaving a tiny hole. 9 colour matched caulk,it is fantastic for around $20 per tube. 10 CA glue,being able to instantly bond two surfaces in conjunction with slower drying wood glue. As a cabinet installer,I couldn't do without any of these! Fantastic list,and please do a clamp odyssey!
Aaah! Tidying up after yourself! That's why the first things I always take into a house (and make sure they see them) are the broom, bins, dust sheets and dustpan & brush. You can get away with quite a bit after that!
Bulls**t baffles brains as they say in the forces. I work in a large transport depot as a maintenance team leader. Apprentices are not trained to clean up their own rubbish, not realising what a difference it makes when trying to bluff the boss!
That was a reason for getting one of my first jobs: The customer saw me working and said something like: His work is as great as the work of other contractors, but he is the one who leaves the jobsite tidy and clean
Getting a transit van changed my whole professional outlook to the customer. I was taken a lot more serious and got a hell of lot more work and when I eventually got a new van, well wow!
@@10MinuteWorkshop I do impressions, such as Frank Spencer, Ted Heath and Harold Wilson. Can't work any electrical tools at all. And I also do a really bad impression of Alan Partridge.
Same here Bob. I doubled my earnings with a new van and suddenly became in demand, added a few nice quality t shirts and turned up to quotes with a folder and a carbonated quote pad and within 6 weeks I had two large estate/rental agents as my clients and through those contacts was then doing work for the local authority on my terms. Utterly bizarre. I learnt a big lesson out of a bit of a vanity purchase
Interesting perspective. I've been woodworking since about 1967 when my father bought a house. He had purchased a Skill 6 1/2" circular saw on a friends recommendation. That saw is now still in the family and is one of my favorite saws because of its size! I have found the 7 1/4" a little large. Ironically after years of using a 7 1/4 circular saw my new favorite is a Ryobi 6 1/2" 18V saw. I have the 5 1/2" but do not like it because it can barely cut 1 1/2 at 90 but not at 45 degrees. For hand drilling my go to is my 10.5V Bosch because of its ease of control and finesse, I've had that for 10 years as well. No other drill has the "feel" of this one. No other has the variable speed control that I really like. Most others are more like an on or off switch!!! 45 years ago I had a cheap Black and Decker 3/8 drill that I really liked till it died about 20 years ago. My favorite router is a De Walt 611 with dual bases, small effective and versatile. My father always said to live with the limitations of the tool and learn to do better. My perspective from Canada.
Getting a compressor and airlines changed the way my firm worked for the better. I can't remember the exact year, but it must have been around 25 years ago and from using hammers and nails / pins to using pin guns, firing both headed and for really fine work, headless pins was a revalation. We also then went from hand brushing everything to spray finishing which was a win win as not only was a better finish achieved, it was done much quicker!
Agreed throughout. The van was what made my business really a business. I bought a successive pair of Ford 1/2 T passenger vans at General Services Administration Office's auctions. I took out the rear seats, lined the interior with 1/4" plywood, and installed latticed signage inside the windows. That treatment allowed carrying 49" x 97"sheet goods flat. Built-in side pockets that rose to the window sills carried all necessary jobsite tools. The latticework signage permitted full visibility in traffic and provided considerable concealment of my tools when parked.
I have a Festool 55 track saw and have had it for a decade or so, but I just don’t use it that much. I do use it to break down plywood and the cut quality is excellent, but I just never have the confidence that I’ll get repeatable cuts for cabinets so I always go back to the table saw for final trimming - which often means that I just grab my cordless Bosch circular saw to break down plywood to rough dimension. I just ordered the Parf guides and I’m going to try to make a Parf table so I can actually use my Festool more in a repeatable way and really count on everything being square w/o using the table saw. I see so many skilled woodworkers and finish carpenters that just swear by the Festool - so I’m going to try to give it another shot.
Fascinating how those early squeeze clamps seem to have been adapted from caulking guns. Most of the mechanical parts seem to be almost an exact copy, with just a re-designed body to resemble a C clamp.
1965, just started my apprenticeship. screwing 1" T&G boards to softwood frames. 21/2" no 10s countersunk screws. No power tools just good old hand power. Blisters on my hands every day. Cordless drills what a blessing. battery powered saws and planers unbelievable just those few years ago.
Hello Peter good morning I love this list it pretty much mirrors mine. I’m when I build custom stuff I do it on the job site. I don’t have a nice workspace like you do. I totally agree with your list. The only thing I owned and no longer do is the domino I just didn’t find it something I needed Actually use my old biscuit joiner And yes, your van is a tool I have worked out of many vehicles here in the United States pick up trucks fans in the vans are what I always come back to
Great video. For me the plunge saw was a revelation as well, enabling accurate cuts and making sheet cutting fun. Another one, although not for wood working, was a rotary hammer. After years of suffering with a common hammer drill and even often putting off some things because drilling to concrete walls was such a chore, when I finally got a proper pneumatic action SDS Plus rotary hammer (and mine has a big bonus: a built-in dust extraction system) I could drill as much as I wanted, maybe more, into my apartment walls :)
Would love the festool domino, but like you I’m waiting for the right project to come along and pay for it. For the meantime, I’ll carry on with my dowel jig.
Believe it or not, a Dremel was my first best tool. You can do things with a Dremel that nothing else will do. Next, the Impact Driver, then the Oscillating tool helped so much when installing flooring, Sawzall... But above all, the tool I've most of all is my Leatherman.
“ your back catalogue.!! As demonstrated by the fact I’m commenting 2 yrs later..!! The knowledge of what you don’t need is sometimes what you do need …😁💪🏻💪🏻💪🏻
I still have my first Makita 7.2v 3/8" drill from 1985 and can still get batteries for it! That in itself is a cordless tool miracle. In the shop it's dedicated to pilot hole drilling, or countersink.
I was in denial for years over track saws. Thought they were too expensive and clamps and rail were just fine. A few yt videos, including some of yours, it slowly sank in. Pondered on it for a few months and decided on the mafell. After the first, instant, perfect, dust free cut, I realised the true depth of my folly.
Totally agree Peter. I have the same Peugeot Partner van & they are great. You need to get a roof rack to carry the 8 x 4 sheets though, they are a god send & free up so much space! I took a voluntary redundancy package from my old job when I was 52 and went into the ‘ Handyman’ business as I loved diy as my grandfather was a master carpenter & joiner & taught me a lo. Now 4 years later I am still going, and loving what I do - even though I’m creaking a bit these days lol. Great videos as always!
Thanks Chris! Yes, great vans, very sad to se mine go recently, but needs must. Good to hear you're enjoying it , and I know exactly what you mean by bits creaking, lol! 👍
@@10MinuteWorkshop did you retire/sell the van because you've retired from full-time cabinet fitting, or perhaps because it died/was dying, or was it replaced by a different one? TL;DR: please clarify your comment 🙂
Sounds like you've had a very similar journey with tools as myself. I moved on to the Makita DSP600 twin 18V plunge saw about 2 years ago, which was a game changer compared to my original corded TS55. The super thin blade kerf helps reduce waste and cuts through material like butter. I use this tool every day, even on weekends with the constant work on my own house. I keep the Festool as a backup, or for jobs that require the accuracy of a thicker blade, such as trimming hardwood doors, which the thin Makita blade struggles to cut without deforming. And yes, the van is the ultimate tool. I was lucky when I started out I used to borrow my dad's van, but I had too many tools to keep organised (which I'd collected from about age 14). Every day I would dread the thought of digging through my tools to find that one thing I need, only to have to cram it all back in the van again later. Now I have my own fully kitted-out van / mobile workshop which has made life so much easier. It takes me 10 seconds to find whatever I need from the racking and only a few minutes to tidy everything away again. So I would say the one thing I wish I'd had starting-out was a well thought-out + organised van.
Great video! I agree with your list. Please do a clamp video. I’ve been using a bunch of cheap quick clamps that are all breaking and not sure what I should replace them with.
For me the best are the lithium battery interchangeable tool ranges. So much better than the loads of different chargers and batteries lying about. Next track saws. Cant believe howawkward it was cutting sheet goods before getting one. I have a pop up bench with clamps on it. So much better than the work mates
Now that I have watched the video, got to say I fully agree with pretty much all of your list. I started out a year and a half ago doing handyman work out of the back of the family minivan. It didn't take long into it that I got a dedicated work van, and have picked up most of these tools along the way, except the domino. Now I do mostly custom cabinets and finish carpentry work, and have upgraded most of my tools to match. Thanks to your videos, I have been eyeing up the Lamello Zeta.... One upgrade to 1/4" router I would recommend would be to have a cordless version- it's really a great upgrade. Granted, when you have a dust extractor set up beside you, power access isn't a big issue, but there's been a number of times it comes in handy. You can never have too many clamps- especially now, it seems like there are different clamps for different applications, and you just got to have them all. A clamp video would be fun to see. 👍 Definitely agree with the portable bench. Hoping to get around to finishing my MFTC bench cart and retire my folding DeWalt table. Have you had a go at BORA Tool's Centipede? Really comes into it's own for breaking down plywood. I recently picked up a couple of the bench tops the make to add function, and it pretty decent.
Thanks! Yes, I've just picked up a cordless router, wanted to see what they were like. I can absolutely see the appeal! Ditto the centipede, don't have one but absolutely see how useful they'd be. 👍
I baulk at paying £750 for a Festool domino. Kity used to make a universal with a morticing setup. I regret not buying that when I started. The nearest I get is my morticing machine. I’ve never used a plunge saw but I do have a wonderful Sedgwick circular saw which I bought with a mortgage. It’s given me decades of use. For anyone starting up now and using hand tools I would strongly recommend a Worksharp. It’s quick and accurate and your tools can be permanently razor sharp. Of course back when I started money was in short supply.
A plunge saw is next on my list. Justified by a fitted wardrobe project I'm about to do. Not strictly a tool, but what about TH-cam? I would not have been able to do half the projects I've done without it.
I have been in the Carpentry, renovation, contracting world since I was 16 (16 years ago). I picked up the Makita 36v track saw 8 months ago and it is an absolute game changer. not to sound cliché, but I really really don't know how I worked without one. if anyone in the industry is on the fence about it and reading this. I implore you to take the plunge (lol) you really wont regret it.
@@foxtrot9000 I know what you mean. I upgraded last year to a track saw after using a standard skill saw for at least 25 years and hated every time I had to use it. Now love reducing boards and more accurate!!!
foxtrot9000 Thanks for the recommendation. I was on the fence about what to get. I have been using a Bora track with a circular saw, but really felt that a dedicated track saw would be much better. I like Makita products, so that is nice to know.
Before the clamp police roll up, can I give a shout out to the humble, maligned Solo clamp. Dozens of them have provided me with decades of sterling service. It's about working within the capabilities of a tool. I find that quick grip type pithless by comparison and don't get me started on the unjustifiable cost of the longer ones!
Well my old dad swore the dewalt overhead saw changed his woodworking - I would agree with you totally about the domino - but plastic storage boxes that keep the dust out - the sys boxes have helped keep everything tidy dust free and organized have been a revolution
Might seem overly obvious, but a decent tape measure really helped me jump forward. Spent years with free ‘hand-me-downs’ and cheap tapes. A Hultafors talmeter and a sharp pencil made me kick myself that’d I’d muddled on for so long.
I received a little blue hultafors talmeter in a crate of Forklift parts from Sweden. I immediately grabbed it, didn't think much of it at first, I just didn't want anyone else to have the freebie. I imagine the Swedish storeman was looking for his missing tape measure. Once I used it I wished I had more, now the tape's been bent, I just wish I had one.
A freind of mine did a major remodel on his home. Before work started, he bought a used truck for $3000. His car never carried lumber, concrete or rubbish. When the job was done, he sold the old truck for $3000. Smart.
Enjoy your work! I have been a woodworker for a very long time. About 5 years ago I bought a Minimax C26 combo & it is a great too, but given my time over again I would join the track saw brigade, as it & the MFT table have revolutionised the workshop. I am now retired & work mostly in solid wood & for my own pleasure & recently built a hybrid traditional workbench with an MFT grid in a torsion box top & am over the moon with its versatility. If I were to starting out, I would have a quality 14" bandsaw, a 10" planer/thicknesser, a tracksaw & MFT table with bells & whistles, plus the Domino also seems to be a very versatile tool.
Hi Peter, a great video, how about one on the top 10 pups! The only spanner you need, drill anything drill bits and so on. I still keep a fit all spanner (still covered will knuckle flesh) that a brilliant salesman demonstrated a bike show, to remind me not to buy any thing like that again (I still get mesmerized by these showmen)! Thanks again!
I enjoyed your list. A tool that I've found life changing has been an oscillating/Fein tool. It really expands what is possible, from accurately cutting existing trim for a new opening to scraping/cutting old caulk. It's a fantastic tool. Next is my dust deputy cyclone dust separator which when combined with a shop-vac with heppa filters and a filter bag is so effective and affordable. I've coveted the domino, but have been unwilling to pay for it when I can cut mortise and tennons.
Back in the day I ordered the Bosch track saw and it took weeks to come and in the end I cancelled it. I bit the bullet and went for festool , I'm so glad I did as it works so well with the extractor and saves time in the long run not having to mess around adapting things to never quite fit.
Definitely do a clamps video Peter, I've had the same original clamps like that for over 30 years now best value purchase I probably have ever made and yes I never bought enough either in 4 or 6 inch versions. Have had the Irwin XP 36" clamp for about 6 months now as well and it is a real game changer in any tough job and a few I had never thought of before.
I too "replaced" my dewalt with a smaller Bosch cordless. Simply brilliant. I've had two Trend 1/4" plunge routers. 1st one died. 2nd one has a plunge system that no longer locks. Need to upgrade/replace it. The smaller size is too nice. A friend gave me a cheap Black & Decker 5-1/4" circular saw way back when. I thought it was a very cheap tool until another friend decided to side his house with 4" cedar lap siding. The little saw was the bees knees for working with that siding. We burnt it up doing that job. I really miss it.
Two categories: 1st is Accuracy, 2nd is helpfull. I think that is the way to mak a project "good". Thnak You for sharing and all the helpfull vids here and showing how to work accurate!
Clamps video 👍👍 By the way, I use a quick clamp (Wolfcraft or similar) for use with the holes in MFT style top. You can very easily take off the top of the clamp by just pushing a button, insert it in the hole upside down and fix the piece again on the clamp under the table. Not as fast as the festool clamp, but it does the job nicely, and they are a lot cheaper. It’s actually intended for turning the clamp into a “pusher/separator/inverse clamp”.
I think that is a great list. I would say the big game changers for me have been portable dust extraction, the track saw and the increase in power and variety of cordless tools.
I have an H3L4 Ford Transit. It could be kitted out as a small workshop, 240V to run most corded power tools and chargers, maybe a solar panel or two on the roof to charge batteries.
Totally agree with van. I spent ages using cars and loosing money on them when I eventually got a van some 20 years ago and stuck with vans ever since. Plus they hold the value very well which is a bonus
I do first and second fix carpenter and reflecting back on a chippies tool kit now compared to when I first started is remarkable. So this aren’t essential more so like you game changing 1-plunge saw 2-multi tool 3-impact driver 4-nail guns 1st and 2nd fix 5- laser levels 6-routers 7-mitre saw 8-jigsaw 9-power planer 10-portable Mortimer jig(souber) To think we used to do everything by hand feels like a different era completely. Not one I’d want to return to. All those tools can and are powered by battery these days. CAT have just released a graphene battery in the US which is an interesting development
I have always loved Citroen vans, when I lived in Normandy in the 70’s it was a 2CV van with a 402cc engine. Motorbikes had bigger engines, but the 2CV could go anywhere, carry most things and cost little to run. Back in Wales and fast forward a few years and it was a nice new shiny C15 Diesel, quirky yes, but altogether brilliant and dead cheap to run. Woodwork for me started with house renovations and was all about repairing stuff, rather than designing and making. I inherited Grandad’s hand tools and later Dad’s original 1960’s Black and Decker 240drill with sander, circular saw, grinder attachments and I used these for a good few years alongside hand tools. Dust extraction did not exist outside big workshops back then and hardly anyone wore a dust mask! Fast forward to 2016, after a life changing spinal injury the NHS sent me to a rehabilitation centre that used woodwork to aid patient recovery. This rekindled my interest in woodwork and after spending a further two years in the centre I came home and set up my home workshop so I could continue using the new skills in cabinetry that I had learned. My injury means I cannot lift heavy awkward items. Around this time I found the 10 Minute Workshop and Festool. My initial reaction was one of horror at the cost! Then I compared the weight of the tools to their cheaper copies and so in 2018 I bought the TS-55 instead of the cheaper Erbauer plunge saw which I was going to buy and a Midi 1 extractor. Since then I have added a CXS 10.8v drill driver, OF1010 router, OSC 18 multi tool and a Trion PS 300 jigsaw. Festool is quite expensive, but this quality made in Germany brand has been the game changer, for me, with superb accuracy and brilliant support.
Wow, thanks Dawn - I didn’t know your full back-story of how you got into woodworking. I agree, Festool are expensive but they last well, and can often be sold for as much - or more - than the original purchase price when you decide to trade up for new features. 👍👍
I have all the tools presented, and it took me several years in retirement to save the money to get them all. I also have the Festool Kapex which is a gem of a machine, but my two favourites are the Festool plunge saw and the Domino. Those last two tools improved my woodworking out of sight. Would not be without either of them, as I often make small tables etc. for local kindies and they make the job so easy to complete in no time at all.
Hi Peter - Great video! I agree the Van is one of the best tools to have. Also, please do a clamp video! I have probably thrown out as many clamps as I have kept and if you can provide any insight that would be most helpful.
If you are professional, there is nothing better than good tools which are accurate and give you satisfaction using them. The track saw is miles ahead for accurate, clean, almost splinter free cuts in manufactured boards and absolutely straight cuts which you can’t get with a normal power saw and straight edge. You can join pieces of timber together straight off the track saw and the domino helps align said pieces to minimise sanding. If you buy expensive tools that give you pleasure in using them, price is soon forgotten. I have two track saws I have had for many years, one for manufactured board with the supplied 40 tooth blade and one with the 20 tooth blade for ripping timber.
The tool that changed things for me was an impact driver, such a step up from the combi drill driver in my opinion. Admittedly I don't do much cabinetry, but I use it for everything. The variable power means you can be driving in 150mm screws into old hard joists one minute and assembling kitchen carcases the next. I've even used it to put up a plasterboard ceiling.
I totally couldn't do without your UK available input. I wish you could have a bigger workshop mate, that would be an excellent insight video series. And a personal odyssey for your own pleasure. I know you would like the challenge. The restrictions of the endeavour is directly linked to your family and personal areas of opportunities. I enjoy all your videos 📹 😊😊😊😊😊😊😊
I have the 12V Bosch GSR 12V-15 (which is just a 12V upgrade from the one you got), and I absolutely love it. I opted for a normal 18V cirkular saw instead of a plunge saw, as I really don't need the plunge function, but got one that supported rails (Bosch GKS 18V-Li), and got a set of rails for it. It really makes it incredibly versatile. It is really usefull for breaking down sheet goods that are too big for my jobsite tablesaw (Dewalt DW745 Type 4).
Always build in a new tool into your bids when you start out then add in a % for its replacement for all your tools along with your hr rate and profit. Now that’s tough to do when you are starting out so consider that tool part of your profit when starting out.
Delighted to hear you describe the TS55 as not only your no. 1, Peter, but also as an ‘enabling’ tool. As a DIY beginner I recently pushed the boat out and bought the TS55 and I’m amazed at its accuracy and looking forward seeing where it can take me. For starters, it worked a treat in my replicating your cross-cut jigs!
I like tools...but I have always thought it was not the quality of the tool and much as it was the quality of the tool user that counts. Great video. Your work speaks of your quality.
Thank you! Like yourself I'm sure, I've seen some outstanding work done with cheap tools - and some terrible work done with really expensive gear, lol! 👍
What you said about the domino paying for its self is one of the ways I look at tools. First thing I thing of is 'what us the cheapest one that will do the job for me?' that way I can get used to how that type of tool works in my workshop or on site without too much of a worry about having an expensive paperweight if it doesn't work out how I think. Second thing is 'price per use' this mainly goes for the more expensive tools. Like a plunge saw etc. If its £100 realistically I would want over 1,000 uses and that can be done within a month easily making it 10p per use and over the past 18 months I have probably used this for 10,000 cuts so, as you say easily pay for themselves over time
Great stuff, cheers again Peter! Totally agree on the track-saw "enabling", there's projects I dont think I would have even attempted before owning one, they would have just felt too outside my comfort zone for me. Sometimes I come across old long straight cuts that I did with a Jigsaw......eiw! On the dust collection front, a nice little surprise gem for me was Argos' own "Guild" branded wet and dry vac with take off (I know you mentioned this vid isn't about the brands, but couldnt help sharing that lovely feeling you get when you are pleasantly surprised by a budget buy!) :)
Totally agree with the 11th tool. I was using my campervan. Not much space, had to hire trailers all the time! Always wanted a dedicated one but thought I actually better buy some tools to work with first, the van can wait! We do what we can at the time.
This is one of the best bare minimum to have as a starter tool. I had already collected mine before I saw your video and totally agree with your top 11 selection. I had my share of non-essential tools collection over the years. Keep up the good work and looking forward for more of your helpful videos.
My top thirteen (!)... Drill Impact driver Circular saw Portable Table saw in a table with crosscut sled Sliding compound miter saw Palm router with table Jig saw Random orbital sander Hand planer Bench Planer Brad nailer Shopvac Clamps, clamps and more clamps Used at home for building items like chicken coops, sheds, fencing, decorative wooden wall hangings, pallet wood projects, signs, crown molding, shelving, etc
I absolutely agree with everything you mentioned. Your videos using the MFT and tracksaw drove me into that type of woodworking. I built my own MFT table and a Makita track saw. Along with the track saw should be mentioned the track itself! One without the other is useless. I have a love/hate relationship with the Domino, more love the more I use it. I now use the Domino to align things and pocket screws to do the attachment. Depends on the project. I bought the DeWalt 12V drill and screwdriver 10 years ago and have used them almost every day since. A priceless, small, lightweight tool for everything but the heavy duty large drill and impact wrench applications. You CXS comes to mind. As soon as one jumps into cabinetry and furniture, good measuring tools become a necessity. You ought to do a video about precision measurement, tools and applications. Cheers, and stay safe.
Another great video Peter - I've been subscribed for around 2 years and so much enjoy your Videos and the Content you produce. Keep them coming please!
Would appreciate a clamp video. As far as the (lack of) length problem goes, wolfcraft seems to be aware of it as they sell “connectors” that allow joining 2 of their quick clamps after removal of the fixed part. I have used it a few times and it certainly beats the setup where you use a piece of wood with 2 holes to “join” them...
Great video, found it fascinatingly interesting, as I have gone through the same journey over the years with more or less the same brand of tools. Following the same time period. I imagine there's many guys out there who have followed the same journey. Its good to see as it reinforces the logical process as you build up your customer list with new tools. Thanks
I have a request for a video Peter; I've been watching your videos for some time already and I do respect your opinion and thoughts about the subject of cabinet making and joinery. I wonder what your thoughts would be on the size of workshop you need for doing professional cabinet making. I struggle with this idea myself, some people lean towards having all of the stationary tools in the workshop and others try to outsource as much as possible. And what about producing and test-fitting cabinets in the workshop, I know this is standard practice for many. I would imagine a large shop would speed up production and therefore profit, also being able to take on bigger jobs, but at the same time I don't like the idea of working just to pay the rent of my workshop. What do you think, you usually order the panels cut to size right?
That’s an interesting one, yes. I think I’ve shown that a one-man workshop can be quite compact, but it’s been difficult, and no question I’d have loved to have more space available. I think a lot depends on where you are and how self-contained / self-sufficient you want or need to be. I am very fortunate that I have a great timber yard within 5 minutes that does an excellent board-cutting service on a wide range of panels, whereas I hear from some folks who struggle to get Birch ply locally, or MRMDF in anything other than 18mm. In those circumstances then a larger workshop where you can buy in bulk and have a readily available stock is a huge benefit. But it comes at a cost of course, in terms of rent and rates, but also general,overhead - more light, more heat, more insurance. As for specific sizes, so much depends on what you do - if you make large cabinetry then you need more space - but I guess aiming at around 500 or 600 sq ft (50-60 sq m) for a one man professional cabinetry workshop would be pretty comfortable. Unless you already have 1000 sq ft, in which case it would probably see, impossible. 🤷♂️👍
@@10MinuteWorkshop Yes, indeed it must depend a lot on the type of work you do and whether you work alone mainly or together. I rent a shop of about 90m2 in the Netherlands and I would say this is the minimum for the work I do, custom wardrobes, custom kitchens, vanities etc, a table occasionally. 50% of the workshop is filled with stationary tools though and some storage of sheet materials. If I would outsource that part I could make do with 50m2 most likely. If you do cabinetmaking at a professional level ( basically to make a somewhat decent living ) I do think that production speed, logistics and general organisation are things to consider and take serious though, I mean I noticed it's great and fun and all to enjoy your woodworking and have fun in the workshop, but at the end of the day I just need to produce a certain amount of cabinets etc during the month to pay the bills. Also, I have the feeling that we will be moving more towards a time where CNC milling and automated processes will become the norm, so at some point the role of the cabinetmaker might just become more organisation and assembly I imagine. Thanks for your feedback, feels good to share thoughts on this!
I score 9/11 on these, being workshop based don't need the bench or van. As a result of a) growing old and b) moving to a smaller workshop I have traded in my big table saw, mortiser and radial arm saw for the track saw, domino and chop saw. No regrets. The only thing I miss is the table saw for ripping small section stuff. The bandsaw does the job but the table saw was more convenient and accurate.
Thanks Lewis! I talked about the transition from photography to fitted furniture via handyman stuff for the members - TH-cam & Patreon - as it’s a bit off-brand for the public facing channels. 👍👍
We talk about work flow Peter, this video Also flowed beautifully - one of your many classics - we can all relate to our past decisions on tools 🧰- thanks for the insight 👌🏼
![My 5 Worst Buys! [video 484]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/5uoQ78879Es/mqdefault.jpg)
![My 5 Worst Buys! [video 484]](/img/tr.png)
![Torsion Box Router Bench Build 2 [**Gifted][video 478]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/Q-Vyq4ShHT0/mqdefault.jpg)
![[UNCUT]"ตุลามรณะ"ย้อนฟังคำทำนาย หมอดูทุกสาย ดวงเมืองร้อน (หมอปลาย ฟองสนาน อ.โอเล่)I คนดังนั่งเคลียร์](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/lE5az5VvT9M/mqdefault.jpg)
"Tidying up after yourself creates a far better impression than almost any piece of work" - this is where you demonstrate a wisdom that most struggle to grasp, and why your video's are such a breath of fresh air amongst all the other gear-porn.
🙌👍👍
The best tool I had starting out (which was quite recently) is TH-cam! It's helped me find out the right tools to buy and the correct way of doing things:-) And, yes, a clamp video would be a great idea.
Yes - youtube's come up a few times, and absolutely right - it's the instruction manual for the rest of us! 🗜 👍
A very good comment! 🙂
This man is speaking the truth.
thats a great point. the ability to see a video of someone doing almost anything you can think of is amazing really.
Second vote for digital callipers. Use them all the time to check things. Also a digital angle guide. These things are so cheap and accurate.
I bought a digital calipers. But upgrades to the far superior dial caliper
You must do a clamp vid Peter. They are brilliant and awkward at the same time and yes you never have enough!
Thanks Craig! Deal! 👍
@@10MinuteWorkshop I agree with this completely. I have started buying clamps and keep finding that I don't have the one I actually need, yet there is some I have NEVER used.
@@10MinuteWorkshop Can you also take time to discuss whether it's a cramp or a clamp? I'm sure it won't take long, and there wont be many follow-up comments or questions! :-)
I’d love to see that too.
I’m a big fan of the quick-grip one-handed clamps... but am kicking the tyres on one or two of those Festool clamps that fit into the MFT holes. Seeing yourself, Gosforth Andy and Scott Brown using them makes me think they are worth the $$.
Yes please, a clamp video would be great. I could then show it to "the boss" when she asks why I need more clamps ;-)
Top tip for bench dogs...Not quite as good as the "real ones", but Screwfix Tower (other makes available all over the world I expect) 20mm conduit plus accessories. It's "exactly" 20mm to fit your MFT table holes and you can get about 60 "dogs" out of a 3m length for less than £2! Want a flat edge on the dogs/need to stop them falling through the table?...use the "spacer bar saddles" or the "female adapters". You're welcome :-)
My top 10 are as follows,and primarily cordless.
1 tracksaw.
2 oscillating multi tool/omt.
3 Impact driver.
4 cordless vacuum, to supplement a corded for quick job-site cleaning.
And I agree with cleanliness, is equal to craftsmanship!
5 clamps,whether quick ratcheting or pipe clamps.
6 lithium batteries, instead of using three before lunch only one is needed .
7 routers with templating bits are a poor man's cnc.
8 pin nailers for prefinished trim and leaving a tiny hole.
9 colour matched caulk,it is fantastic for around $20 per tube.
10 CA glue,being able to instantly bond two surfaces in conjunction with slower drying wood glue.
As a cabinet installer,I couldn't do without any of these!
Fantastic list,and please do a clamp odyssey!
Thanks! And yes, absolutely all over a clamp vid! 🗜👍
Aaah! Tidying up after yourself! That's why the first things I always take into a house (and make sure they see them) are the broom, bins, dust sheets and dustpan & brush. You can get away with quite a bit after that!
Bulls**t baffles brains as they say in the forces. I work in a large transport depot as a maintenance team leader. Apprentices are not trained to clean up their own rubbish, not realising what a difference it makes when trying to bluff the boss!
Yep! 😆 👍
That was a reason for getting one of my first jobs: The customer saw me working and said something like: His work is as great as the work of other contractors, but he is the one who leaves the jobsite tidy and clean
Getting a transit van changed my whole professional outlook to the customer. I was taken a lot more serious and got a hell of lot more work and when I eventually got a new van, well wow!
Yeah - crazy isn't it? But impressions count. 👍
@@10MinuteWorkshop I do impressions, such as Frank Spencer, Ted Heath and Harold Wilson. Can't work any electrical tools at all. And I also do a really bad impression of Alan Partridge.
Same here Bob. I doubled my earnings with a new van and suddenly became in demand, added a few nice quality t shirts and turned up to quotes with a folder and a carbonated quote pad and within 6 weeks I had two large estate/rental agents as my clients and through those contacts was then doing work for the local authority on my terms. Utterly bizarre. I learnt a big lesson out of a bit of a vanity purchase
Interesting perspective. I've been woodworking since about 1967 when my father bought a house. He had purchased a Skill 6 1/2" circular saw on a friends recommendation. That saw is now still in the family and is one of my favorite saws because of its size! I have found the 7 1/4" a little large. Ironically after years of using a 7 1/4 circular saw my new favorite is a Ryobi 6 1/2" 18V saw. I have the 5 1/2" but do not like it because it can barely cut 1 1/2 at 90 but not at 45 degrees. For hand drilling my go to is my 10.5V Bosch because of its ease of control and finesse, I've had that for 10 years as well. No other drill has the "feel" of this one. No other has the variable speed control that I really like. Most others are more like an on or off switch!!! 45 years ago I had a cheap Black and Decker 3/8 drill that I really liked till it died about 20 years ago. My favorite router is a De Walt 611 with dual bases, small effective and versatile. My father always said to live with the limitations of the tool and learn to do better. My perspective from Canada.
I have a black version of that small red clamp (don’t know brand but it looks identical), love it.
Getting a compressor and airlines changed the way my firm worked for the better.
I can't remember the exact year, but it must have been around 25 years ago and from using hammers and nails / pins to using pin guns, firing both headed and for really fine work, headless pins was a revalation.
We also then went from hand brushing everything to spray finishing which was a win win as not only was a better finish achieved, it was done much quicker!
👍
Agreed throughout. The van was what made my business really a business. I bought a successive pair of Ford 1/2 T passenger vans at General Services Administration Office's auctions. I took out the rear seats, lined the interior with 1/4" plywood, and installed latticed signage inside the windows. That treatment allowed carrying 49" x 97"sheet goods flat. Built-in side pockets that rose to the window sills carried all necessary jobsite tools. The latticework signage permitted full visibility in traffic and provided considerable concealment of my tools when parked.
I have a Festool 55 track saw and have had it for a decade or so, but I just don’t use it that much. I do use it to break down plywood and the cut quality is excellent, but I just never have the confidence that I’ll get repeatable cuts for cabinets so I always go back to the table saw for final trimming - which often means that I just grab my cordless Bosch circular saw to break down plywood to rough dimension.
I just ordered the Parf guides and I’m going to try to make a Parf table so I can actually use my Festool more in a repeatable way and really count on everything being square w/o using the table saw. I see so many skilled woodworkers and finish carpenters that just swear by the Festool - so I’m going to try to give it another shot.
Yes, a video about clamps would be great
Thanks! 👍
small feedback at 9:55.
imo you should adjust the clutch on the drill drive, and push it on the Y axis (so it wouldn't grind the bit or the screw).
Fascinating how those early squeeze clamps seem to have been adapted from caulking guns. Most of the mechanical parts seem to be almost an exact copy, with just a re-designed body to resemble a C clamp.
1965, just started my apprenticeship. screwing 1" T&G boards to softwood frames. 21/2" no 10s countersunk screws. No power tools just good old hand power. Blisters on my hands every day. Cordless drills what a blessing. battery powered saws and planers unbelievable just those few years ago.
Pocket hole jig was a game changer for me. I was at the first trade show that the Kreg gig was shown at and bought one there many years ago,
Hello Peter good morning I love this list it pretty much mirrors mine. I’m when I build custom stuff I do it on the job site. I don’t have a nice workspace like you do. I totally agree with your list. The only thing I owned and no longer do is the domino I just didn’t find it something I needed Actually use my old biscuit joiner And yes, your van is a tool I have worked out of many vehicles here in the United States pick up trucks fans in the vans are what I always come back to
A super-accurate square/squares and good tape measures
👌
Great video. For me the plunge saw was a revelation as well, enabling accurate cuts and making sheet cutting fun. Another one, although not for wood working, was a rotary hammer. After years of suffering with a common hammer drill and even often putting off some things because drilling to concrete walls was such a chore, when I finally got a proper pneumatic action SDS Plus rotary hammer (and mine has a big bonus: a built-in dust extraction system) I could drill as much as I wanted, maybe more, into my apartment walls :)
Thanks! Yes, absolutely the SDS. I used mine today for probably the first time in over a year, but when you need them you need them! 👍
Thank you.
Would love the festool domino, but like you I’m waiting for the right project to come along and pay for it. For the meantime, I’ll carry on with my dowel jig.
Believe it or not, a Dremel was my first best tool. You can do things with a Dremel that nothing else will do. Next, the Impact Driver, then the Oscillating tool helped so much when installing flooring, Sawzall... But above all, the tool I've most of all is my Leatherman.
Your reviews of tools are very intresting and usefull.
“ your back catalogue.!! As demonstrated by the fact I’m commenting 2 yrs later..!! The knowledge of what you don’t need is sometimes what you do need …😁💪🏻💪🏻💪🏻
😂 😆 🙌👍👍
I still have my first Makita 7.2v 3/8" drill from 1985 and can still get batteries for it! That in itself is a cordless tool miracle. In the shop it's dedicated to pilot hole drilling, or countersink.
They were brilliant! Borrowed one a few times and was well impressed! 👍
I was in denial for years over track saws. Thought they were too expensive and clamps and rail were just fine. A few yt videos, including some of yours, it slowly sank in. Pondered on it for a few months and decided on the mafell. After the first, instant, perfect, dust free cut, I realised the true depth of my folly.
I was exactly the same with rail squares. We get there in the end. 🤷♂️👍
Totally agree Peter. I have the same Peugeot Partner van & they are great. You need to get a roof rack to carry the 8 x 4 sheets though, they are a god send & free up so much space!
I took a voluntary redundancy package from my old job when I was 52 and went into the ‘ Handyman’ business as I loved diy as my grandfather was a master carpenter & joiner & taught me a lo. Now 4 years later I am still going, and loving what I do - even though I’m creaking a bit these days lol.
Great videos as always!
Thanks Chris! Yes, great vans, very sad to se mine go recently, but needs must. Good to hear you're enjoying it , and I know exactly what you mean by bits creaking, lol! 👍
@@10MinuteWorkshop did you retire/sell the van because you've retired from full-time cabinet fitting, or perhaps because it died/was dying, or was it replaced by a different one?
TL;DR: please clarify your comment 🙂
A good list, agree about a van, the TS55 / vacuum and the Bosch 10.8v / 18v range.
Thanks! 👍
I'm starting to accumulate my tools and this was really helpful, thanks :)
👍👍
Great list. Yes, the proper vehicle for the job is indeed a tool.
👍
Sounds like you've had a very similar journey with tools as myself. I moved on to the Makita DSP600 twin 18V plunge saw about 2 years ago, which was a game changer compared to my original corded TS55. The super thin blade kerf helps reduce waste and cuts through material like butter. I use this tool every day, even on weekends with the constant work on my own house. I keep the Festool as a backup, or for jobs that require the accuracy of a thicker blade, such as trimming hardwood doors, which the thin Makita blade struggles to cut without deforming.
And yes, the van is the ultimate tool. I was lucky when I started out I used to borrow my dad's van, but I had too many tools to keep organised (which I'd collected from about age 14). Every day I would dread the thought of digging through my tools to find that one thing I need, only to have to cram it all back in the van again later. Now I have my own fully kitted-out van / mobile workshop which has made life so much easier. It takes me 10 seconds to find whatever I need from the racking and only a few minutes to tidy everything away again. So I would say the one thing I wish I'd had starting-out was a well thought-out + organised van.
Great comment, cheers Dan! 👍👍
Great video! I agree with your list. Please do a clamp video. I’ve been using a bunch of cheap quick clamps that are all breaking and not sure what I should replace them with.
Thanks, will do! 👍
For me the best are the lithium battery interchangeable tool ranges. So much better than the loads of different chargers and batteries lying about. Next track saws. Cant believe howawkward it was cutting sheet goods before getting one. I have a pop up bench with clamps on it. So much better than the work mates
Great video
I appreciate your insight snd honesty
Thanks! 👍
Couldn’t agree more sir!
My van has been a game changer
Always! 👍
Now that I have watched the video, got to say I fully agree with pretty much all of your list. I started out a year and a half ago doing handyman work out of the back of the family minivan. It didn't take long into it that I got a dedicated work van, and have picked up most of these tools along the way, except the domino. Now I do mostly custom cabinets and finish carpentry work, and have upgraded most of my tools to match. Thanks to your videos, I have been eyeing up the Lamello Zeta....
One upgrade to 1/4" router I would recommend would be to have a cordless version- it's really a great upgrade. Granted, when you have a dust extractor set up beside you, power access isn't a big issue, but there's been a number of times it comes in handy.
You can never have too many clamps- especially now, it seems like there are different clamps for different applications, and you just got to have them all. A clamp video would be fun to see. 👍
Definitely agree with the portable bench. Hoping to get around to finishing my MFTC bench cart and retire my folding DeWalt table. Have you had a go at BORA Tool's Centipede? Really comes into it's own for breaking down plywood. I recently picked up a couple of the bench tops the make to add function, and it pretty decent.
Thanks! Yes, I've just picked up a cordless router, wanted to see what they were like. I can absolutely see the appeal! Ditto the centipede, don't have one but absolutely see how useful they'd be. 👍
I baulk at paying £750 for a Festool domino. Kity used to make a universal with a morticing setup. I regret not buying that when I started. The nearest I get is my morticing machine. I’ve never used a plunge saw but I do have a wonderful Sedgwick circular saw which I bought with a mortgage. It’s given me decades of use. For anyone starting up now and using hand tools I would strongly recommend a Worksharp. It’s quick and accurate and your tools can be permanently razor sharp. Of course back when I started money was in short supply.
Great video as always Peter. I'm literally about to press the button on my first van purchase so it was reassuring to hear your closing comments!
Cheers Jason! Yes, can’t beat a decent van for work. 👍👍
A plunge saw is next on my list. Justified by a fitted wardrobe project I'm about to do. Not strictly a tool, but what about TH-cam? I would not have been able to do half the projects I've done without it.
Yes, great one actually - it's become the instruction manual for us all, lol! 👍
I have been in the Carpentry, renovation, contracting world since I was 16 (16 years ago). I picked up the Makita 36v track saw 8 months ago and it is an absolute game changer. not to sound cliché, but I really really don't know how I worked without one. if anyone in the industry is on the fence about it and reading this. I implore you to take the plunge (lol) you really wont regret it.
@@foxtrot9000 I know what you mean. I upgraded last year to a track saw after using a standard skill saw for at least 25 years and hated every time I had to use it. Now love reducing boards and more accurate!!!
foxtrot9000 Thanks for the recommendation. I was on the fence about what to get. I have been using a Bora track with a circular saw, but really felt that a dedicated track saw would be much better. I like Makita products, so that is nice to know.
Before the clamp police roll up, can I give a shout out to the humble, maligned Solo clamp. Dozens of them have provided me with decades of sterling service. It's about working within the capabilities of a tool. I find that quick grip type pithless by comparison and don't get me started on the unjustifiable cost of the longer ones!
Love my solo clamps; haven't used them for a while, but they got me going and still work as well as they did when new. 👍
Well my old dad swore the dewalt overhead saw changed his woodworking - I would agree with you totally about the domino - but plastic storage boxes that keep the dust out - the sys boxes have helped keep everything tidy dust free and organized have been a revolution
Yes! Systainers were a game-changer for me too. Stackable, and everything easy to move around. Classic 'work smarter not harder' thinking! 👍
Might seem overly obvious, but a decent tape measure really helped me jump forward. Spent years with free ‘hand-me-downs’ and cheap tapes.
A Hultafors talmeter and a sharp pencil made me kick myself that’d I’d muddled on for so long.
Yes, good one - I missed that! And completely agree about the hultafors/talmeter 🙌 👍
I received a little blue hultafors talmeter in a crate of Forklift parts from Sweden. I immediately grabbed it, didn't think much of it at first, I just didn't want anyone else to have the freebie. I imagine the Swedish storeman was looking for his missing tape measure.
Once I used it I wished I had more, now the tape's been bent, I just wish I had one.
A freind of mine did a major remodel on his home. Before work started, he bought a used truck for $3000. His car never carried lumber, concrete or rubbish.
When the job was done, he sold the old truck for $3000.
Smart.
Enjoy your work! I have been a woodworker for a very long time. About 5 years ago I bought a Minimax C26 combo & it is a great too, but given my time over again I would join the track saw brigade, as it & the MFT table have revolutionised the workshop.
I am now retired & work mostly in solid wood & for my own pleasure & recently built a hybrid traditional workbench with an MFT grid in a torsion box top & am over the moon with its versatility.
If I were to starting out, I would have a quality 14" bandsaw, a 10" planer/thicknesser, a tracksaw & MFT table with bells & whistles, plus the Domino also seems to be a very versatile tool.
Thanks Peter! Sounds like a sweet setup! 👌👍
Hi Peter, a great video, how about one on the top 10 pups! The only spanner you need, drill anything drill bits and so on. I still keep a fit all spanner (still covered will knuckle flesh) that a brilliant salesman demonstrated a bike show, to remind me not to buy any thing like that again (I still get mesmerized by these showmen)!
Thanks again!
Great idea, thanks! 👍
Brilliant found this very interesting.
Vans are a must for productivity!
Absolutely! 👍
I enjoyed your list. A tool that I've found life changing has been an oscillating/Fein tool. It really expands what is possible, from accurately cutting existing trim for a new opening to scraping/cutting old caulk. It's a fantastic tool. Next is my dust deputy cyclone dust separator which when combined with a shop-vac with heppa filters and a filter bag is so effective and affordable. I've coveted the domino, but have been unwilling to pay for it when I can cut mortise and tennons.
Back in the day I ordered the Bosch track saw and it took weeks to come and in the end I cancelled it. I bit the bullet and went for festool , I'm so glad I did as it works so well with the extractor and saves time in the long run not having to mess around adapting things to never quite fit.
Definitely do a clamps video Peter, I've had the same original clamps like that for over 30 years now best value purchase I probably have ever made and yes I never bought enough either in 4 or 6 inch versions.
Have had the Irwin XP 36" clamp for about 6 months now as well and it is a real game changer in any tough job and a few I had never thought of before.
Thanks! Yes, it’s coming! 🗜👍
Very healthy fuel for thought, your viewpoint, perceptions, explanations. Thanks.
I too "replaced" my dewalt with a smaller Bosch cordless. Simply brilliant. I've had two Trend 1/4" plunge routers. 1st one died. 2nd one has a plunge system that no longer locks. Need to upgrade/replace it. The smaller size is too nice. A friend gave me a cheap Black & Decker 5-1/4" circular saw way back when. I thought it was a very cheap tool until another friend decided to side his house with 4" cedar lap siding. The little saw was the bees knees for working with that siding. We burnt it up doing that job. I really miss it.
Two categories: 1st is Accuracy, 2nd is helpfull. I think that is the way to mak a project "good". Thnak You for sharing and all the helpfull vids here and showing how to work accurate!
Clamps video 👍👍
By the way, I use a quick clamp (Wolfcraft or similar) for use with the holes in MFT style top.
You can very easily take off the top of the clamp by just pushing a button, insert it in the hole upside down and fix the piece again on the clamp under the table. Not as fast as the festool clamp, but it does the job nicely, and they are a lot cheaper.
It’s actually intended for turning the clamp into a “pusher/separator/inverse clamp”.
I think that is a great list. I would say the big game changers for me have been portable dust extraction, the track saw and the increase in power and variety of cordless tools.
I have an H3L4 Ford Transit. It could be kitted out as a small workshop, 240V to run most corded power tools and chargers, maybe a solar panel or two on the roof to charge batteries.
Totally agree with van. I spent ages using cars and loosing money on them when I eventually got a van some 20 years ago and stuck with vans ever since. Plus they hold the value very well which is a bonus
Good selection Peter, I'm with you 100% on the rail saw and MFT top. You've now got me thinking about a square for it! Thanks again
👍👍
I do first and second fix carpenter and reflecting back on a chippies tool kit now compared to when I first started is remarkable. So this aren’t essential more so like you game changing
1-plunge saw
2-multi tool
3-impact driver
4-nail guns 1st and 2nd fix
5- laser levels
6-routers
7-mitre saw
8-jigsaw
9-power planer
10-portable Mortimer jig(souber)
To think we used to do everything by hand feels like a different era completely. Not one I’d want to return to. All those tools can and are powered by battery these days. CAT have just released a graphene battery in the US which is an interesting development
Excellent video. Good on ya for showing Festool AND cheaper items.
I have always loved Citroen vans, when I lived in Normandy in the 70’s it was a 2CV van with a 402cc engine. Motorbikes had bigger engines, but the 2CV could go anywhere, carry most things and cost little to run. Back in Wales and fast forward a few years and it was a nice new shiny C15 Diesel, quirky yes, but altogether brilliant and dead cheap to run. Woodwork for me started with house renovations and was all about repairing stuff, rather than designing and making. I inherited Grandad’s hand tools and later Dad’s original 1960’s Black and Decker 240drill with sander, circular saw, grinder attachments and I used these for a good few years alongside hand tools. Dust extraction did not exist outside big workshops back then and hardly anyone wore a dust mask! Fast forward to 2016, after a life changing spinal injury the NHS sent me to a rehabilitation centre that used woodwork to aid patient recovery. This rekindled my interest in woodwork and after spending a further two years in the centre I came home and set up my home workshop so I could continue using the new skills in cabinetry that I had learned. My injury means I cannot lift heavy awkward items. Around this time I found the 10 Minute Workshop and Festool. My initial reaction was one of horror at the cost! Then I compared the weight of the tools to their cheaper copies and so in 2018 I bought the TS-55 instead of the cheaper Erbauer plunge saw which I was going to buy and a Midi 1 extractor. Since then I have added a CXS 10.8v drill driver, OF1010 router, OSC 18 multi tool and a Trion PS 300 jigsaw. Festool is quite expensive, but this quality made in Germany brand has been the game changer, for me, with superb accuracy and brilliant support.
Wow, thanks Dawn - I didn’t know your full back-story of how you got into woodworking. I agree, Festool are expensive but they last well, and can often be sold for as much - or more - than the original purchase price when you decide to trade up for new features. 👍👍
I have all the tools presented, and it took me several years in retirement to save the money to get them all. I also have the Festool Kapex which is a gem of a machine, but my two favourites are the Festool plunge saw and the Domino. Those last two tools improved my woodworking out of sight. Would not be without either of them, as I often make small tables etc. for local kindies and they make the job so easy to complete in no time at all.
Yep, great tools the plunge saw and domino. 👍
Great video again a video on clamps would be good peter
Thanks Kevin, and I'm on it! 🗜 👍
Hi Peter - Great video! I agree the Van is one of the best tools to have. Also, please do a clamp video! I have probably thrown out as many clamps as I have kept and if you can provide any insight that would be most helpful.
Thanks! On it! 🗜👍
Clamp vid would be good. They are often overlooked
Thanks! 👍
Bit like back gardens...
@@richardclarke9966 to many months in lockdown for you with jokes like that ha ha 😂
If you are professional, there is nothing better than good tools which are accurate and give you satisfaction using them. The track saw is miles ahead for accurate, clean, almost splinter free cuts in manufactured boards and absolutely straight cuts which you can’t get with a normal power saw and straight edge. You can join pieces of timber together straight off the track saw and the domino helps align said pieces to minimise sanding. If you buy expensive tools that give you pleasure in using them, price is soon forgotten. I have two track saws I have had for many years, one for manufactured board with the supplied 40 tooth blade and one with the 20 tooth blade for ripping timber.
Totally agree. 👍👍
The tool that changed things for me was an impact driver, such a step up from the combi drill driver in my opinion. Admittedly I don't do much cabinetry, but I use it for everything. The variable power means you can be driving in 150mm screws into old hard joists one minute and assembling kitchen carcases the next. I've even used it to put up a plasterboard ceiling.
I totally couldn't do without your UK available input. I wish you could have a bigger workshop mate, that would be an excellent insight video series. And a personal odyssey for your own pleasure. I know you would like the challenge. The restrictions of the endeavour is directly linked to your family and personal areas of opportunities. I enjoy all your videos 📹 😊😊😊😊😊😊😊
Thanks! Bigger workshop? I dunno, I’d just spend more time walking around! 😂👍
Love the videos, Peter! I would love to see how you have set up your homemade router table in a video.
Thanks Jordan; it's coming as part of an overall workshop makeover. 👍
@@10MinuteWorkshop I'm looking forward to it!
I have the 12V Bosch GSR 12V-15 (which is just a 12V upgrade from the one you got), and I absolutely love it.
I opted for a normal 18V cirkular saw instead of a plunge saw, as I really don't need the plunge function, but got one that supported rails (Bosch GKS 18V-Li), and got a set of rails for it. It really makes it incredibly versatile. It is really usefull for breaking down sheet goods that are too big for my jobsite tablesaw (Dewalt DW745 Type 4).
Your videos are always awesome
Thank you so much 😀👍
Hi Peter, the clamp video that would be much appreciated. And you are right, you can never have enough of them
Cheers Martin! 🗜👍
Festool TS55 and track was my first real tool. Used it to rip yellow tongue to put a floor in my attic. Gateway drug to Festool tools...!
Yep - if only the first taste was free, lol! 😂👍
@@10MinuteWorkshop I'd pay the first taste... If everything else was free 😂
Always build in a new tool into your bids when you start out then add in a % for its replacement for all your tools along with your hr rate and profit.
Now that’s tough to do when you are starting out so consider that tool part of your profit when starting out.
Delighted to hear you describe the TS55 as not only your no. 1, Peter, but also as an ‘enabling’ tool. As a DIY beginner I recently pushed the boat out and bought the TS55 and I’m amazed at its accuracy and looking forward seeing where it can take me. For starters, it worked a treat in my replicating your cross-cut jigs!
Hi Michael, and thanks! Great saw - it made a world of difference to me when I first had one! 👍
Great video
Another excellent video, I find all your videos really helpful. Well done. Keep them coming. Would love to see one just on clamps.
Thanks! And noted. 🗜👍
I like tools...but I have always thought it was not the quality of the tool and much as it was the quality of the tool user that counts. Great video. Your work speaks of your quality.
Thank you! Like yourself I'm sure, I've seen some outstanding work done with cheap tools - and some terrible work done with really expensive gear, lol! 👍
Very nice and absolutely appreciated! Thanks so much for your workshop skills and outlook.
What you said about the domino paying for its self is one of the ways I look at tools.
First thing I thing of is 'what us the cheapest one that will do the job for me?' that way I can get used to how that type of tool works in my workshop or on site without too much of a worry about having an expensive paperweight if it doesn't work out how I think.
Second thing is 'price per use' this mainly goes for the more expensive tools. Like a plunge saw etc. If its £100 realistically I would want over 1,000 uses and that can be done within a month easily making it 10p per use and over the past 18 months I have probably used this for 10,000 cuts so, as you say easily pay for themselves over time
Great stuff, cheers again Peter! Totally agree on the track-saw "enabling", there's projects I dont think I would have even attempted before owning one, they would have just felt too outside my comfort zone for me. Sometimes I come across old long straight cuts that I did with a Jigsaw......eiw!
On the dust collection front, a nice little surprise gem for me was Argos' own "Guild" branded wet and dry vac with take off (I know you mentioned this vid isn't about the brands, but couldnt help sharing that lovely feeling you get when you are pleasantly surprised by a budget buy!) :)
Thanks Pete, and glad you've had good results from the Argos own brand stuff. 👍
Totally agree with the 11th tool. I was using my campervan. Not much space, had to hire trailers all the time! Always wanted a dedicated one but thought I actually better buy some tools to work with first, the van can wait! We do what we can at the time.
Exactly. 👍
This is one of the best bare minimum to have as a starter tool. I had already collected mine before I saw your video and totally agree with your top 11 selection. I had my share of non-essential tools collection over the years. Keep up the good work and looking forward for more of your helpful videos.
Thank you! 👍
My top thirteen (!)...
Drill
Impact driver
Circular saw
Portable Table saw in a table with crosscut sled
Sliding compound miter saw
Palm router with table
Jig saw
Random orbital sander
Hand planer
Bench Planer
Brad nailer
Shopvac
Clamps, clamps and more clamps
Used at home for building items like chicken coops, sheds, fencing, decorative wooden wall hangings, pallet wood projects, signs, crown molding, shelving, etc
Great list, thanks! 👍
Thanks Peter, really interesting and helpful for a wannabe beginner type like me. Definately Yes to a Clamp Video!!! 👍
Thanks! And noted. 👍
Thanks for this one. Really enjoyed it. Yes to clamps 🗜
🗜👍
I absolutely agree with everything you mentioned. Your videos using the MFT and tracksaw drove me into that type of woodworking. I built my own MFT table and a Makita track saw. Along with the track saw should be mentioned the track itself! One without the other is useless. I have a love/hate relationship with the Domino, more love the more I use it. I now use the Domino to align things and pocket screws to do the attachment. Depends on the project. I bought the DeWalt 12V drill and screwdriver 10 years ago and have used them almost every day since. A priceless, small, lightweight tool for everything but the heavy duty large drill and impact wrench applications. You CXS comes to mind. As soon as one jumps into cabinetry and furniture, good measuring tools become a necessity. You ought to do a video about precision measurement, tools and applications. Cheers, and stay safe.
Another great video Peter - I've been subscribed for around 2 years and so much enjoy your Videos and the Content you produce. Keep them coming please!
Thanks Phil! 👍
Would appreciate a clamp video. As far as the (lack of) length problem goes, wolfcraft seems to be aware of it as they sell “connectors” that allow joining 2 of their quick clamps after removal of the fixed part. I have used it a few times and it certainly beats the setup where you use a piece of wood with 2 holes to “join” them...
Great video, found it fascinatingly interesting, as I have gone through the same journey over the years with more or less the same brand of tools. Following the same time period. I imagine there's many guys out there who have followed the same journey. Its good to see as it reinforces the logical process as you build up your customer list with new tools. Thanks
Thanks Peter, my favourites are similar, Ive just built a large new workshop in my back Garden . . . Chris . . Norwich
Peter: great vid! Please do one on clamps, especially exposing what complete rubbish are the so-called Ratchet Clamps...
Thanks! 🗜👍
I have a request for a video Peter; I've been watching your videos for some time already and I do respect your opinion and thoughts about the subject of cabinet making and joinery. I wonder what your thoughts would be on the size of workshop you need for doing professional cabinet making. I struggle with this idea myself, some people lean towards having all of the stationary tools in the workshop and others try to outsource as much as possible. And what about producing and test-fitting cabinets in the workshop, I know this is standard practice for many. I would imagine a large shop would speed up production and therefore profit, also being able to take on bigger jobs, but at the same time I don't like the idea of working just to pay the rent of my workshop. What do you think, you usually order the panels cut to size right?
That’s an interesting one, yes. I think I’ve shown that a one-man workshop can be quite compact, but it’s been difficult, and no question I’d have loved to have more space available. I think a lot depends on where you are and how self-contained / self-sufficient you want or need to be. I am very fortunate that I have a great timber yard within 5 minutes that does an excellent board-cutting service on a wide range of panels, whereas I hear from some folks who struggle to get Birch ply locally, or MRMDF in anything other than 18mm. In those circumstances then a larger workshop where you can buy in bulk and have a readily available stock is a huge benefit. But it comes at a cost of course, in terms of rent and rates, but also general,overhead - more light, more heat, more insurance.
As for specific sizes, so much depends on what you do - if you make large cabinetry then you need more space - but I guess aiming at around 500 or 600 sq ft (50-60 sq m) for a one man professional cabinetry workshop would be pretty comfortable. Unless you already have 1000 sq ft, in which case it would probably see, impossible. 🤷♂️👍
@@10MinuteWorkshop Yes, indeed it must depend a lot on the type of work you do and whether you work alone mainly or together. I rent a shop of about 90m2 in the Netherlands and I would say this is the minimum for the work I do, custom wardrobes, custom kitchens, vanities etc, a table occasionally. 50% of the workshop is filled with stationary tools though and some storage of sheet materials. If I would outsource that part I could make do with 50m2 most likely. If you do cabinetmaking at a professional level ( basically to make a somewhat decent living ) I do think that production speed, logistics and general organisation are things to consider and take serious though, I mean I noticed it's great and fun and all to enjoy your woodworking and have fun in the workshop, but at the end of the day I just need to produce a certain amount of cabinets etc during the month to pay the bills. Also, I have the feeling that we will be moving more towards a time where CNC milling and automated processes will become the norm, so at some point the role of the cabinetmaker might just become more organisation and assembly I imagine. Thanks for your feedback, feels good to share thoughts on this!
I score 9/11 on these, being workshop based don't need the bench or van. As a result of a) growing old and b) moving to a smaller workshop I have traded in my big table saw, mortiser and radial arm saw for the track saw, domino and chop saw. No regrets. The only thing I miss is the table saw for ripping small section stuff. The bandsaw does the job but the table saw was more convenient and accurate.
Thanks for putting this together Peter. I'd be interested in hearing about how you got into the handyman/ carpentry business.
Thanks Lewis! I talked about the transition from photography to fitted furniture via handyman stuff for the members - TH-cam & Patreon - as it’s a bit off-brand for the public facing channels. 👍👍
Brilliant. Thanks for the recommendation.
Thanks! 👍
We talk about work flow Peter, this video
Also flowed beautifully - one of your many classics - we can all relate to our past decisions on tools 🧰- thanks for the insight 👌🏼
Thanks Gary! 🙌👍
Peter asked to give this video a thumbs up or two. I gave it one. How do it give it a second one?!
Just teasing, unless you have a second account... 🤔 One is plenty, thank you! 👍