As you can see in my videos, you don’t need a lot of expensive woodworking power tools to do your own projects. The minimum required is a jig saw, a circular saw, and a router.
Any of those three tools can be attached to your first table saw. Ideally, you should design a quick attachment system for the table saw so that you can reconvert them into portable tools in a matter of seconds. Apart from that, we should also have a cordless screwdriver, a sander, and a vacuum system.
In this article you’ll find more detailed information to help you choose the perfect power tools to mount on your homemade table saw.
You’ll also need a few woodworking hand tools, such as a hammer, gouges, chisels, wrenches, files or clamps.
Also, materials such as sandpaper with different grit types, oils and varnish, screws, glue, some wood, and, of course, lots of plywood!
Depending on the machine or project, you’ll need different degrees of woodworking knowledge. If you take a look at my videos, you’ll get a feel for how complex each project is and how far your knowledge and tools will get you.
The greatest advantage of building your own tools is the insight this gives you into how the tools work, apart from general knowledge of carpentry.
When you finish building them, there will definitely be things you wish you’d done differently – it always happens… But that’s why doing your own projects is so great!
Besides, since you’re the creator of the project, maintenance and repairs will be easier. After years of using them, you might want to rebuild some of your homemade tools. It’s at that time when the woodworking expertise you’ve acquired over the years will be put to good use.
Some knowledge of CAD software could come in handy, it’ll open up a whole lot of possibilities… SketchUp and MaxCut are the programs I use most often.
SketchUp is an indispensable CAD tool for woodworkers, and it’s free. You can make your own 3D models, with custom and sectional views and annotations. It will give you a better understanding of the model, allowing you to take measurements anywhere at any point.
MaxCut is a program that makes cutting diagrams so that you can get the most out of your plywood. You can also run cost and cut simulations. It’s free and easy to use.
Next article in the series:
4- Which DIY woodworking tools should I start with?
