A tape measure, speed square, pencil, saw, drill/driver, a few clamps, wood glue, sandpaper and a level are enough for most beginner builds, plus safety glasses and hearing protection.
You do not need a garage full of machines to build your first projects. A short list of tools will carry you through shelves, benches, planters and tables. Here is the minimum, what each tool does, and what you can skip for now.
The minimum tool list
| Tool | What it is for |
|---|---|
| Tape measure | Measuring and checking diagonals |
| Speed square | Marking square cut lines and checking corners |
| Pencil | Marking lines (a sharp pencil is better than a thick one) |
| A saw | Cutting boards: a miter saw or circular saw is fast; a hand saw works too |
| Drill/driver | Drilling pilot holes and driving screws |
| Clamps (2 to 4) | Holding parts while you drill and glue |
| Wood glue | Stronger joints, together with screws |
| Sandpaper | Smoothing edges and surfaces (120 to 220 grit) |
| Level | Checking shelves and tops |
Safety gear comes first
- Safety glasses every time you cut, drill or sand.
- Hearing protection with a power saw or a drill.
- A dust mask when sanding or cutting boards that make a lot of dust.
Read the manual of each tool, keep your hands clear of the blade, and unplug a tool before changing blades or bits.
What you can skip at the start
- A table saw, a router and a planer. They are great tools, but not needed for beginner projects, and they take more skill and care.
- A big workbench. Two sturdy sawhorses or a table you do not mind marking are enough for your first builds.
- Fancy joinery. Pocket screws or simple screws and glue are plenty for the projects in our plans.
Build your kit as you go
Start with the plan, check which tools it needs, and buy only those. Every Scribe & Square plan lists its tools at the start, so you never buy something you will not use.
For wood, a straight board matters more than an expensive one. Sight along each board and choose the straightest ones.
Frequently asked questions
What tools do I need to start woodworking?
A tape measure, speed square, pencil, a saw, a drill/driver, clamps, wood glue, sandpaper and a level cover most beginner projects.
Do I need a table saw as a beginner?
No. A miter saw, circular saw or hand saw is enough for beginner projects, and a table saw takes more skill and care.
What safety gear do I need?
Safety glasses, hearing protection and a dust mask, depending on the task, and always read the manual of each tool.
Do I need a workbench?
Not at first. Two sturdy sawhorses or a table you do not mind marking are enough for your first projects.
Plans that tell you the tools you need
Every plan lists its tools, boards and screws before you buy anything. Start with the free Box Ledge Shelf.
Get the free plan