Woodworking is a great hobby and can be rewarding as well. It has been around for centuries because it is so enjoyable and fulfilling.

The tools that you use will depend on what type of projects you want to take on, but there are some basic types of woodworking tools that should suit your needs no matter what project you choose to work on!

Read this article for more information about the different types of woodworking tools and how they can help make your life easier in the workshop!

34 Types of Woodworking Tools

Here are the 20 woodworking tools list that every beginner should consider owning before starting their first project.

1. Hammer

This is the basic tool that is used for driving nails into wood. Many woodworkers use a collection of different hammers for various purposes.

2. Carpenter’s Square

This tool is the most used by carpenters and woodworkers to check angles while doing projects or cutting wood at 90-degree angles with skill saws, miter boxes, etc.

Several types of these tools are available in the market, starting from plastic ones up to more expensive aluminum alloy versions, which have fine teeth along their length that facilitates easy marking of straight lines on both side edges.

This usually comes in 12-inch size but you can also find larger sizes if needed so it becomes easier for you to measure accurately when working with long pieces such as planks or boards.

3. Square Level

These levels come in handy during construction work where you need to set up a straight and level platform or place something on the wall at a right angle.

Use of this tool is easy as it just needs to be placed against one edge of wood, metal, block, etc. that you want to align with another piece vertically (or horizontally if needed). If the bubble inside the small vial located in the center shows red color then your item is not aligned properly, otherwise, it is fine for use.

This little device comes in handy while installing kitchen cabinets where you need perfectly leveled ones to close correctly without any problem after the installation has been done completely by expert carpenters who know how to do their job well using these tools.

4. Tape Measure

This tool enables accurate measurements during construction work which are important when you need to cut wood in equal length, install kitchen cabinets at the right place on walls, etc.

It comes with a flexible metal tape which can be reeled back inside when not needed making it easy for you to store without any issue while carrying everywhere during your work. Different sizes of these tools are often available so you don’t have to get the one that is too big or small for usage according to convenience and comfort level.

You should choose the size accordingly, keeping ease of use as a priority factor so you feel relaxed about using them every time whenever required during the project execution phase since there could be several occasions where you will require taking measurements before cutting wood pieces vertically (or horizontally).

5. Clamps

These come very handily during furniture construction projects because they help hold items together while working on them. You can buy both types available in the market. One is a manual type that requires human power to tighten and loosen it.

Second one works by using electricity where all you need to do is press its handle/lever (usually located at side) so they get tightened or loosened accordingly ready for use during your next task.

6. Cutting Knife

This tool comes in handy when you want precise cuts on wood pieces according to measurements taken previously with a tape measure by carpenter having basic knowledge of how these tools work properly.

Cutting knives come sharp enough to enable clean cut without any problem or issue, thus ensuring accurate results every time whether used manually or electrically driven versions available for purchase depending upon the situation occurring during the project execution phase.

7. Carpenter’s Pencil

Professionals use this tool to mark project pieces or wood with straight lines indicating where cuts should be made, measurements taken, etc. before actually cutting them during construction work since it leaves permanent markings on items you want to cut as a result of that marking which can’t be erased easily thus enabling proper guidance and indication for workers involved in this process, making their job easy without any problem even if they are doing it for the first time.

8. Router

They are mainly used for making holes on wood pieces where you can insert screws, nails, etc. in order to join them together while constructing different types of wooden furniture or other wood items.

Sometimes these tools are also used by carpenters while cutting pieces vertically (or horizontally) so they can get smooth edges without any problem.

Moreover, routers come in various types and sizes, some are manual while others electric which make their usage even easier for carpenters during different phases of construction work.

9. Electric Drill

They are mainly used by workers to drill holes on wood pieces where you can insert screws etc. after cutting them vertically (or horizontally) using other tools like saws or cutters depending upon the situation occurring at that point of time during the project execution phase.

Similarly, these drills also come with different power options (manual or electrically driven versions available in market), so it’s important to choose one accordingly keeping ease of use as a priority factor since there won’t be an issue when a worker is drilling holes manually because he/she will have complete control over its working process making sure you get desired results every time.

10. Sander

Carpenters use these tools to sand edges of wooden pieces before or after cutting them vertically (or horizontally) so they can be smooth and clean without any problem.

Sometimes it’s possible that worker will have to use sandpaper manually which is not a big issue because he/she will do the job properly making sure all cut edges become smoother than earlier as well as a cleaner at the same time preventing injuries from occurring due to sharpness caused during the previous task performed using saws etc.              

11. Carpenter’s Square

These come very handily when you want to measure angles of wood pieces before actually cutting them because they enable carpenters to see whether required angles are equal or not, and if they aren’t, then it’s important for workers to take corrective action in order to get desired results without any problem.

12. Clamp

They hold objects together (like wooden pieces) while you work on them using other tools like saws etc., but sometimes it happens that workers will have to do the same task manually, which is not a big issue as long as those items remain joined securely until final construction phase where a worker can remove such clamps easily without causing damages during the removal process.

13. Circular Saw

Carpenters mainly use them during different phases of construction work to make cuts on wooden pieces vertically (or horizontally) depending upon the situation occurring at that point of time where workers will have to cut edges, holes, or other types of features.              

14. Chisel

These tools are mainly used by carpenters while cutting wooden pieces vertically (or horizontally) but sometimes it’s possible that worker will have to do the same task manually which is not a big issue because he/she can get desired results easily without any problem.

15. Sliding Beveller

These tools are mainly used for smoothing out edges of wooden pieces so carpenters don’t have to use other types of tool manually, and it also saves a lot of time while making cuts during the construction phase.    

16. Bradawl

It looks like a small ice pick, and they are mainly used for making pilot holes on wood where you want to fix screws or nails, etc., so it should be done before actually doing this job using other types of tools since these bradawls prevent damages from occurring during actual work phase when workers use different tools according to requirements every time.           

17. Jigsaw

They come in various shapes and sizes depending upon their usage purpose. Still, carpenters mainly use them to make cuts on wood pieces like straight/curvy lines, etc., so you can use them along with other tools depending upon the situation occurring during the construction phase.

For example, if a worker has to cut holes on a wooden piece, they will have to use a drill first. After that, you can fix the jigsaw blade inside the hole where required work is done successfully without any problem.

18. Chalk Line

These help workers measure distances between two points vertically (or horizontally) making sure everything goes according to planned blueprint or design because workers won’t do anything randomly instead of following plans given initially which makes things easier than earlier especially when many unauthorized changes start taking place different types of projects due carelessness or ignorance of workers.

19. Handsaw

These tools come in different shapes and sizes depending upon their usage purpose because carpenters use them to cut wood pieces vertically (or horizontally) so they should be done before actually performing tasks like drilling holes, making curves, etc., because after cutting wooden pieces using saws worker will have to make those cuts manually which is not a big issue since he/she can get desired results easily without any problem as well as damages from occurring during the job.       

20.Level

They are mainly used for finding out whether wooden pieces have been placed vertically or not. They also help carpenters make sure that everything is going according to plan while performing different tasks every time.         

21. Centre Punch

These tools help workers make a small indentation where you want them to drill holes, and it also prevents damages during the course of work.          

22. Coping Saw

They come in different shapes and sizes depending upon their usage purpose, but carpenters mainly use them for cutting curves on wooden pieces as well as making cuts along edges, etc., so if the worker has to cut holes then he/she will have to use another type of tool like drill first which makes things easier than earlier because after that, can fix coping saw blade inside the hole where the required task is supposed to be done without causing any problem at all. 

23. Moisture Meter

According to requirements, they are mainly used to measure moisture content in wooden pieces so carpenters can increase or decrease humidity levels, etc. It negatively affects the quality of wood if present in large amounts, and workers won’t get desired results easily without any problem.

24. Palm Sander

It looks like a small electric sander, but they come in different shapes and sizes depending upon their usage purpose, which is not a big issue because you will have to use sanding paper manually anyway after fixing the blade inside the sandpaper holder using other tools while performing tasks every day time.                     

25. Crowbar/Scraper (Hand)

These types of tools help carpenters excess materials from surfaces like floors where

Safety Clothes And Equipment

Aside from tools, a woodworker should have a set of protective equipment that includes:

26. Ear Protection

Woodworkers tend to have a lot of exposure to loud noises. This can cause damage from long-term or short-term exposure, so it is important that woodworkers wear ear protection at all times when operating power tools.

27. Hard Hat

A hard hat should be worn whenever there is a chance of falling objects or items hitting someone on their head. Moreover, this is helpful in protecting the head from sawdust.

28. High Visibility Clothing

A high visibility shirt allows you to be seen when working around machinery. This also protects your skin if there is flying debris or objects that have fallen on the ground while you are using power tools, etc. It would prevent any wounds and injuries.

29. Protective Gloves And Goggles

Woodworkers should wear gloves whenever they are handling wood materials or anything sharp that could cut them through their hands or fingers.

Woodworking equipment can sometimes cause serious injury, so it is important to protect yourself with protective gear at all times when operating machines such as table saws, lathes, drills, planers etc. Additionally, wearing goggles prevents dust particles from entering into the eyes while avoiding damage to the eyes.

30. Boots Or Shoes And A Repair Kit

A woodworker should always wear boots or shoes that are sturdy, comfortable, and protect feet from any injuries while working in a workshop using power tools such as drills, saws, etc.

They should also have all necessary repair kits handy when they are out repairing broken items at home or elsewhere. If you enjoy DIY projects, then having your own toolbox is essential for carrying around different types of equipment easily without cluttering up pockets with many individual pieces which can be quite burdensome if not organized properly at the beginning itself.

These also indicate what type of work you perform, so it is important to keep them well maintained because this will reflect positively on yourself and your profession.

31. Long Sleeves or Shirt And Pants

It is not a good idea to go out and work with bare hands. There are always materials that fly off the machines while working which can cause damage to your skin if you do not wear protective clothes such as long sleeves or shirt and pants. This also protects from getting splinters in the arms, legs, etc. It is important to protect yourself properly when using power tools like table saws, drills, planers, etc.

32. Belt And Pockets

It is important to carry materials or items around with you without having too many bags and pockets hanging on your waist. Woodworkers often tend to grab things like nails, screws, etc. all the time while operating machines like power drills, saws which makes it very difficult if they have a lot of stuff in their hands at any one point.

So wearing a belt ensures that these can be safely placed in the pocket for easy access while working so you do not lose anything while concentrating on completing other jobs as well.

It also allows free movement throughout workspaces allowing you to move around easily when using different tools such as table saws, drill press, etc. Moreover, belts are always helpful in keeping clothing from getting caught onto machines and ripping them.

33. Toolbox

Woodworkers use different types of machines like drills, saws, etc. which makes it difficult for them to carry individual pieces with themselves all the time while working on projects at home or elsewhere.

It is important that they have their own toolboxes where they can place tools and equipment easily without cluttering up pockets as well as workspaces with too many items together in one area taking up space unnecessarily thus causing inconvenience to everyone else who may be present there.

34. Tool Organizer And Storage Boxes

Organizing tools into separate storage boxes according to specific categories such as nails, screws drill bits, etc. Makes life easier when looking for each part specifically rather than rummaging through everything hurriedly just because you are running late on your deadlines due to having spent hours organizing your workspace.

It is also helpful for sharing with others who may be working on the same project so you do not have to spend time looking around for each part separately every time someone else needs something urgently either because of being pressed on deadlines or any personal emergencies that might arise.

Here’s an additional video for differents types of woodworking tools you should have:

Tips When Choosing the Right Woodworking Tools

Here are the things to consider when choosing the right woodworking tools.

Quality

It is very important to consider the quality of woodworking tools. You need to consider strength, durability, and suitability for your type of project.

Price

You must also consider the price. Woodworking is an investment, so you may want affordable tools, but it does not mean that they are also low in quality. It will be a waste if you buy one at its cheap rate but can hardly serve its purpose or break easily after a few uses which mean money is down the drain.

Brand Name and Reviews

You may also want to check the brand of woodworking tools. You can read online reviews so you will have an idea which brands are worth buying.

Some Woodworkers recommend using this type of tool while some don’t, it’s up to you what you choose but make sure that whatever brand or model your purchase, they must be suitable for your projects and needs.

Look for discounts when shopping around too because there is always a way to save money especially when buying expensive items like these types of tools.

Size and Weight

The size and the weight should also matter in choosing the right woodworking tools since if it is heavy or bulky then doing your project would be difficult let alone moving them around once set up in its place.

Ergonomics and Design

You should also consider the ergonomics and design of tools to ensure that they are easy to maneuver so you can finish your projects at ease without sacrificing quality or safety for comfort. You must always keep in mind what it is for, if it’s only an aesthetic appeal then go ahead but remember this one thing, everything has its purpose so choose wisely.

Accessories Included

Tools may come with additional accessories like their own storage case or something that makes them more convenient, like hanging loops, which make moving them much easier, especially when working overhead.

And finally, don’t forget about maintenance because cleanliness will determine how long these types of woodworking tools last before needing replacement parts. Having good hygiene could prolong their lives so don’t forget to clean them every after use.

Common Mistakes When Choosing Woodworking Tools

A Few of the most common mistakes when choosing woodworking tools are:

Choosing a woodworking tool that is not right for the job.

People tend to buy tools that are too big or too small for the job they need to do. This is not only a waste of money but can also be dangerous and cause injury.

Not reading reviews before buying woodworking tools online

Before purchasing any kind of woodworking tool, it’s important to read through some reviews first. It will give you an idea on how well the product works and what others think about its durability and quality.

Reading reviews from customers who have used the same product but in different applications allows you to better understand whether this is something you want/need for yourself as well. Asking friends and family members with similar interests if they would recommend certain products can also help guide your decision-making process.

Choosing woodworking tools that are more expensive than necessary

In most cases, the higher price of a product comes with better quality. When considering buying certain types of power tools or specialty hand tools it’s important to do your research and read reviews. This is because some brands may charge an exorbitant amount for features you don’t need while others will include them at no extra cost.

For example, routers are available on the market whose sole purpose is to cut decorative edges into molding pieces that can be done just as easily using other methods such as sandpaper or even freehand by router users themselves! That being said, when dealing with accessories like saw blades, drill bits, etc., it might not always be necessary to purchase the highest grade available.

Choosing woodworking tools that are not designed for your specific application

Just as important as reading reviews is making sure you’re buying a tool specifically designed for what it is you need to do with it, especially if working on an advanced project or one requiring precision work which can be difficult when using certain types of power saws and other equipment made primarily for commercial use.

Purchasing these kinds of “multipurpose” woodworking tools could result in sub-par results due to incorrect measurements & angles being cut into pieces, therefore needing additional time spent sanding/filing down so they fit together properly.

For example, there are countless radial arm saw intended only for cutting long pieces of lumber, some as long as 12ft! Purchasing this type of saw and attempting to cut smaller boards could reduce the accuracy and overall result, a waste of both time and money.

Choosing woodworking tools that are not compatible with your current set up/takes too much space

While it’s important to have all the right equipment at hand when working on projects or construction sites, having more than what you need can actually backfire by slowing down productivity instead of enhancing it. For example: If you already own a circular saw but discover there is no room for it in your garage due to other types like table-saw taking up counter space, investing in another different style might take away from valuable storage space.

Not knowing how to use new or unfamiliar woodworking tools correctly

When working on complicated projects requiring special equipment, it can often pay off in the long run by taking advantage of training courses and using manuals to help guide you through using certain equipment. To know more about woodworking mistakes as a beginner click here.

There are many different types of woodworking tools on the market today and the basic woodworking tools above will help you to know which ones to buy and what purposes they serve will help to enhance your craftsmanship while also saving you money in the long run by avoiding purchasing unnecessary equipment that may not have a very high return rate when it comes time to resell them online.