Newbie Tool Epiphany

[Rich Engelhardt]

For instance, I posses three planes made by Stanley. Ha ha! I don't even know what kind of planes they are, let alone how to use them.

Next step after that is having 6 tools that you don't even know what they are, let alone what they do or how to use them....
Welcome to the fun!

[Fred Perreault]

George.... a lot of good advice here. Most of us have some tools that we wanted, but the majority of our tools are needed to take advantage of out creative and curious ambitions. Not knowing where you are on your woodworking journey (experience, wood knowledge, shop area), it is kinda difficult to throw out suggestions. But start by building something that you need, and see what basic tools you would need for that endeavor. The work bench idea should be at the top of the list. Then you would need some shelves to hold your few new tools. Then later you might make some basic doors for the shelves to keep the dust off of the tools. By then you might be getting a better idea of where you are going on your journey.

Then make a few gifts for the family or friends, or maybe a few new items for the house. It is a progression.... ideas, tools, projects. Then, bigger ideas, more tools, new and more complicated projects. A few good books and magazine subscriptions would help a lot, but the Creek is one of the best at any price.

Hand worked pieces with chisels, scorps and drawknives bring you closer to the wood and provides an intimate connection (and they look great hanging on the wall). It is a journey, not a destination...

Some of the finest and most beautiful furniture pieces in museums and homes (and the homes themselves..) were done without the benefit of electricity, but power tools sure do let us get more done in a limited lifetime. Go get'em