Woodworking Tools Every DIYer Should Own

Woodworking Isn’t Just a Hobby—It’s Therapy with a Toolbelt

Woodworking ain’t just a pastime — it’s how you clear your head, work with your hands, and make something real. But here’s the kicker: you don’t need to empty your wallet to get started. With a little patience and know-how, you can build a rock-solid toolkit on a budget.

Start Smart — Buy Used, Buy Right

There’s zero shame in buying used tools. In fact, it’s often the smartest move you can make.

• Check out flea markets, garage sales, and estate auctions — goldmines if you know what to look for.
• Older tools are often tougher, built before planned obsolescence was a thing.
• Pick up what you need piece by piece. Quality over quantity wins every time.

Essential Woodworking Tools for DIY Projects

🔧 Chisels

• Start with a set ranging from ¼" to 2".
• Go for durability, not fancy finishes.
• Rockler makes solid budget-friendly options.
• Use them by hand or with a mallet for detail work and mortises.

🗜️ Clamps

• You can never have too many.
• Essential for every glue-up, big or small.
• Cheap used ones? Grab them every time.

📏 Squares

• If it ain’t square, it ain’t right.
• Try square, framing square, and combo square all have their place.
• A good combo square handles both 45° and 90° — super handy.
• Look for dual markings in inches and metric if possible.

🔩 Drills

• Corded drills are cheaper and powerful — no shame in using one.
• Cordless? Get good battery life and a second battery.
• Must-haves: variable speed and reverse functions.
• Don’t skimp on bits — they matter more than you think.

✋ Hand Planes

• Jack planes for rough stock removal.
• Block planes for trimming ends and edges.
• Smoothing planes give your wood that glassy, pro-level finish.
• Start with one or two — you don’t need a full antique collection.

🛠️ Other Must-Haves

• 16 oz. claw hammer
• Screwdrivers (flathead & Phillips)
• Wrenches (adjustable & fixed)
• Measuring tape (25 ft. is ideal)
• Safety glasses
• Various grits of sandpaper
• Level (at least 24 inches)
• Hacksaw
• Pliers (needle-nose and standard)
• Hand saw (crosscut or panel)

Rog’s Real Talk: What to Buy and What to Avoid

Don’t load up on bargain-bin junk. Cheap tools break, slip, strip screws, and waste your time. Instead:

• Stick to brands that last: Rockwell, Hitachi, Ridgid, Rockler
• Used hand tools? Yes — they’re often better than new.
• Used power tools? Maybe — but ask when they were bought, how often they were used, and test them before you commit.

The goal here isn’t to collect — it’s to invest. Build a bench with the right tools, and they’ll work for you, not against you.

Get More No-Nonsense Advice From Rog

Want more shop talk like this from someone who’s spent a lifetime in the sawdust? You’re in luck.

Join Rog’s crew and grab the free Weekend Woodworker’s Bible — a straight-shooting guide packed with project tips, layout advice, and wisdom you won’t get from glossy magazines.