Tool Buying Guide for Woodworking

NOTE: This page is sorted by tools first, supplies and consumables, safety equipment, work clothes, and finally computer and camera equipment to make it easier for you to navigate.

I’ve been woodworking and creating online content for several years now. I’ve had the opportunity to try a lot of products and services. This page is a list of those items that I currently recommend. I personally own, or have used everything on this page. I will never recommend a product that I don’t like or think isn’t good quality. These have my stamp of approval.

I get commissions for purchases made through links in this resource page. For more information, read our affiliate disclaimer. As an Amazon Influencer, I earn from qualifying purchases. This helps support my website so I can continue to make content like this. Using an affiliate link means if you purchase anything through the links I may receive a small commission. It costs you nothing extra, so it’s an easy way of showing your support without any extra effort. I greatly appreciate your support!

New To Woodworking?

If you are new to woodworking and are looking for advice on buying the right tools to get started, buying, and storing wood, and many more tips, check out the following videos to help you.

Woodworking Power Tools

Cordless Tools for Woodworking

Choosing cordless tools can be very confusing when you’re just starting out. These are my picks based on experience from using these brands in the shop. Buy brushless motor cordless tools if at all possible. This gives you more powerful motors and longer battery life. However, if you’re on a budget you can get brushed motor cordless tools for much cheaper.

  • Budget Pick - Ryobi Combo Kit https://homedepot.sjv.io/y2Z3oD This is a brushed set of tools, but you get almost everything you need to get started in one combo kit. Ryobi has an amazing tool selection and the tools are very good for the price. I did a video on Ryobi tools here: https://youtu.be/TTtzXsfWt5M For an upgraded option, look into the RYOBI One+ HP Line which have better brushless motors giving you better battery life and more power.

  • Best for Most People - I think most people will get years of value out of a couple of top brands in the cordless tool space. I really like the Milwaukee M18 line of tools. The Milwaukee M18 router is one of my favorites. The DeWALT 20 Volt MAX line of tools are excellent as well. I would recommend getting the DeWALT XR version, if you want the top of the line DeWALT.

  • Compact Tools If you want tools that are smaller and lighter weight I really love the Milwaukee M12 FUEL tools. The M12 Drill and Driver combo is my favorite to use in the shop because they are small, compact, powerful, and have good battery life. And the tool selection is like no other offering with tools like the new 6-inch sanders, a very useful orbital detail sander and one my my favorites for small parts sanding, the small 3-inch sander. Not to mention the dozens and dozens of others M12 tools you can choose from. The only thing missing for woodworking for me is an M12 Router.

  • Honestly, go with what you like. The brand of tools matter a lot less now than in the past. If it’s a top brand name, the tools are likely very good and will last for years.

  • If warranty is the priority, it’s hard to beat the Ridgid Line of tools https://homedepot.sjv.io/eKnM5g with their Lifetime Service Agreement. That’s the reason I chose Ridgid as my first cordless tools. I had to take advantage of that recently when my Ridgid Router stopped working 5 years after I purchased it. Video on my experience with that here: https://youtu.be/2mkD8UiI_ZE

Table Saws I Recommend:

Miter Saws I Recommend:

  • Budget Miter Saw (beginner level or on a tight budget). The SKIL 10-inch Miter Saw is the BEST budget miter saw that I’ve used. I have a full review of the SKIL Miter Saw and was quite impressed.

  • My all-time favorite Miter saw is the DeWALT DWS779 https://amzn.to/3BpvKqi This saw is a workhorse in the shop! The only drawback is the sliding rails stick out of the back of the saw which means you can’t mount it flush against a wall, taking up a bit more space than some others. But still an amazing saw for all types of woodworking!

  • Top of the line Miter Saw (buy once cry once) Festool Kapex. https://amzn.to/3M8un4v This saw is crazy expensive. It is very accurate and I do love it but if you don’t have the budget or even want to spend that kind of money on a saw, then check out the Makita at more than half the price of the Kapex https://amzn.to/3o0ajcm I did a comparison video of those two saws here: https://youtu.be/dWeMqK3-d6U

Woodworking Orbital Sanders I Recommend:

  • Best Budget Sander - Black+Decker Orbital Sander https://amzn.to/3I7Zegg I purchased and reviewed this sander https://youtu.be/62BoqZJnTz4 For about $30 this is a good sander to start with. I will note that you will likely experience hand fatigue using this sander. Meaning, it has a lot of vibration and your hand will likely start to feel numb as you use this sander.

  • Best Sander for Most People starting out, I pick the DeWALT Random Orbit Sander https://amzn.to/4521WxF It has variable speed, has less vibration than the budget pick and will likely last a very long time. I used this sander for years when I first started. There is also a slightly less expensive version of this sander made by Craftsman https://amzn.to/3IdWmOZ They are exact replicas of each other other than the color and brand name. The Craftsman also doesn't have variable speed.

  • Best Sander Under $100 - I bought sanders from Harbor Freight, DeWALT, Bosch, Makita, and more and tested them to find the best one under $100. You can watch the full video here: https://youtu.be/9C4gZA-XxTc

  • Best Top of the Line Sanders - The Festool ETS EC 150/5 is by far my favorite corded sander I’ve used and own to date. Worth every penning in my opinion.

    • I also use the Festool ETS125 as my “go-to” finish sander. https://amzn.to/3Ms1q4M This is one of the best finish sanders that I’ve ever used. It is more expensive than the other picks, but you get a much better finish, significantly less hand fatigue, and just a better overall sanding experience in my opinion. You can also check out my review video for this sander here: https://youtu.be/ifVesG68MWI

  • Bosch is the New Festool? - The Bosch GET75-6N 6-inch Sander is a very good sander if you need to remove a ton of material FAST! I have a full review on this sander and compare it to the Festool ROTEX sander.

  • Best Cordless Sanders - The Milwaukee M12 FUEL 6-inch sanders are the BEST cordless sanders I’ve owned. Check out my full review of them to see them in action.

  • The best sandpaper I have found that lasts a long time and removes the material the best is the 3M Xtract Cubritron paper. https://amzn.to/3M8B06T I use 80 grit, 120 grit, and 220 grit the most often. This paper will work on almost any sander with hook and loop attachment pad, which all of the above have.

  • Sorting sand paper can be a pain. I’ve found that this ArtBin storage box https://amzn.to/3MrgwaF makes the perfect organization for sandpaper.

Benchtop Spindle and Belt Sanders

For a Budget Oscillating Spindle and Belt Sander check out the WEN https://amzn.to/42IhOUw This is a great choice for a good price at around $200. If you don’t need the belt sander portion you can save some money with just the WEN Spindle Only version https://amzn.to/3pLLCkE I have a video on the WEN Belt and Spindle sander here https://youtu.be/JigsGhB6_mA

For a compact spindle sander, check out the WEN portable spindle sander.

The Ridgid Oscillating Edge Belt / Spindle Sander is what I have https://homedepot.sjv.io/xkkW3k It’s been a great asset to my shop. Full video review of the Ridgid here https://youtu.be/jgPGa9wa7Mc

Woodworking Routers

There are basically three types of routers woodworkers use for various tasks. Trim (also known as palm) routers, fixed base routers, and plunge routers. Fixed base and plunge can be interchangeable with a swappable base.

For videos on woodworking routers check out the following

  • Best Router For Most People - DeWALT DW618PKB is the router I recommend as your first router https://amzn.to/3Br33JJ I made a video detailing why this should be your first router you can watch here: https://youtu.be/O2B5eEHUwXw But to sum it up, you get both a fixed and plunge base with this router. It is a 2 1/4 HP router, which gives you plenty of power to do almost any routing task. It’s a great all around router. You could also check out the Bosch 1617 https://amzn.to/3o2i2XA I have this router in my router table.

  • My pick for the best palm router is the Milwaukee 18V https://shrsl.com/42016 or the DeWALT 20v https://amzn.to/3Oj9QN4 If you already have tools with a different battery platform like Ryobi, Ridgid, Makita, etc. Just buy a cordless router from the same platform. You’ll want to make sure you buy a brushless motor version. Brushless motors are more powerful and have longer battery life vs brushed motors.

  • Router lift I use in my router table is the Kreg Precision Router Lift. https://amzn.to/3IeQ7KW I built my own router table, you can see that build video here https://youtu.be/Re_YJ9qE9KA

  • Best Router Bits to start with: Whiteside has a 4-piece router bit set that I recommend https://amzn.to/44UP10B In this set you get a chamfer and 1/8” rounder bit which are used to finish the edges of projects and boards. And you get two flush trim bits which can be used with templates and other applications. I made a video detailing the first 5 router bits you should buy here: https://youtu.be/CVS31pmXy_U I also really like Bosch Router Bits and you can get them in various size sets usually with more bits for the money vs the Whiteside bits.

Router Tables

Kreg Router Table - The Kreg PRS1045 Precision Router Table System is a very nice option if you just want to be able to assemble and start working. The fence is fantastic on this router table and you can mount virtually any router to the table. Full review video here. Also you can drop in the Kreg Precision Router Lift if you want to be able to adjust your router from the top of the table.

SKIL Benchtop Router Table with Router - The SKIL RT1323-01 Router and table combo is a great option for those on a budget or need to save some space. Full Review here.

DIY Full Size Router Table - If you’re looking for a full size router table for your woodworking shop, I have a detailed build video and build plans available.

DIY Benchtop Router Table - I built a mini router table that’s perfect for those wanting to save some space while also adding a router table to the shop. This mini router table uses your exising trim router. Build plans are available as well.

Dust Collection and Dust Extractors:

  • Best Dust Extractors I’ve used are the Festool line of extractors. My favorite is the CT36 https://amzn.to/3Bq0esf It comes with a HEPA filter, hose, and a fleece bag. This is, to me, the perfect dust extractor for sanding, using with a router, circular saw, and even a miter saw. I have two Festool dust extractors in my shop. One that stays connected to the miter saw and the other I use for smaller tools, but mostly for sanding. Since getting the Festool extractors I have noticed a significant difference in the amount of fine dust that collects on surfaces in the shop. These really are “game changes” for small woodworking shop.

  • Best Budget Dust Extractor that I’ve tested and reviewed is the Harbor Freight Hercules Dust Extactor. Very impressive dust extractor at this price point.

  • 3M Dust extractor https://lddy.no/1f1fx is also a nice one if you don’t care about the Festool system.

  • Budget Dust Collection - If you’re on a budget and want a decent dust collection set up. Get a shop vac that has a HEPA filter and put the Dust Right Separator https://amzn.to/3W8zypM between the tool and the vac. This will filter out the big chunks of sawdust, which prevents your shop vac from filling up so fast. The HEPA filter keeps the fine particles from re-entering the air.

  • Air Filtration is important in an enclosed garage, basement, or shop. I use the Laguna CleanAir Air filtration unit https://amzn.to/3Bwtrli Dewalt makes a similar version https://amzn.to/453Cyrc as does WEN https://amzn.to/42SXS0U These type units filter any fine airborne dust that the dust collector or extractor can’t pick up.

  • Whole Shop Dust Collectors - The market is full of big dust collectors meant to collect the dust from multiple tools. I have the Laguna P-Flux 1 https://amzn.to/3OaByLW I did a full review of the Laguna here https://youtu.be/u9MXoNUEvkk Oneida Air Systems also makes great dust collection systems https://amzn.to/3Bwvl5q I have never used their systems but do have friends that have them and they are pleased with their performance.

  • What dust collection parts do you need? https://youtu.be/rYXyY0aNvSE Check out the video to see the parts and pieces I use in my dust collection set up.

Track Saws:

Planers and Jointers:

Wahuda 8” Benchtop Jointer

  • Best Planer on a Budget I think is the Craftsman 15Amp planer https://amzn.to/3M8QXtT It’s not overly expensive (as far as planers go) and does a good job. If you need a planer and don’t have the budget for the other picks, this is a good option. You give up some features found on the other higher end planers, but that is to be expected with a budget option. I did an entire video comparing planers here: https://youtu.be/9C7FckbtnfI

  • Best Planer under $1000 has to be the workhorse, DeWALT DW735X https://amzn.to/3pK4xMs If you intend on planing a lot of boards and using this for years to come, the DeWALT is hard to pass up. If you don't want to drop that much on a planer but still want a great quality tool, check out the DeWALT DW734 https://amzn.to/3IdJs3o

  • Best Overall Planer that I’ve used is the Oliver 13” planer. This planer has the very popular helical cutterhead installed from the factory. This makes your boards have a smoother overall finish as it comes out of the planer. Helical cutterheads also outperform standard straight knife planers in cut quality, efficiency, and durability. This planer also features a Wixey digital read out, two speeds, and a ton of other nice features. I did a review of the Oliver 13” Planer you should check out.

  • Best Jointer for most people is the Wahuda 8-inch bench top jointer https://amzn.to/3LXNEFG I’ve had this jointer for over four years now and it has worked very well for me. You can check out my 2-year review video here: https://youtu.be/C0hb3sXWUdY This is one of the only 8-inch jointers in this price range.

Bandsaws:

Benchtop (small) bandsaw I had was the WEN 9-inch bandsaw https://amzn.to/42C101f It’s a nice little bandsaw for cutting very small parts and curves but is not a good choice for resawing boards. I did a full video review of this saw here https://youtu.be/YfRe8V4WfqA

I have also owned the 14-inch Rikon Bandsaw https://amzn.to/4505QXZ It was a game changer in the shop for so many reasons. You can see it in action in this video https://youtu.be/XoINoDnY9cw

I now have the Harvey Alpha HW615Pro Bandsaw and it’s one of the better woodworking tools I own. With it’s smooth gliding fence, rust proof top, and easy to adjust guides, it’s just a joy to use. Check out my full review of the Harvey Bandsaw.

Other Woodworking Power Tools

  • Drill Press - I have used the WEN Drill press in my shop for a couple of years now. It is a great option for a bench top style drill press. https://homedepot.sjv.io/oqN3Do There are a lot of options in this space, but price and performance, I think the WEN is the best choice for beginners. I made a video about 5 drill bits every woodworker needs you should watch here https://youtu.be/ebPu6SPVFUE

  • Paint Sprayer - My go-to paint sprayer on a budget is the HomeRight Finish Max HVLP Paint Sprayer https://amzn.to/3W4wnz7 I’ve used this sprayer for almost 5 years and it does a good job. Keep in mind it is not a $1000 HVLP set up. But for most projects, I’ve had great success with this one. Video review of the HomeRight HVLP here https://youtu.be/NRFxMDOvlQ0

  • HVLP Spray Gun Set https://amzn.to/41D940v I’ve had this set for over two yeas and they are an excellent deal for what you get. You get three spray guns, inline filter and air regulators all for under $150. If you have an air compressor, this is the best way to go for spraying paints, stains, finishes, and more. You need a decent size compressor to push enough air for these. The small pancake style compressors don’t have enough capacity.

CNC Machine and 3D Printers I Recommend

I previously had the Shapeoko 4 XXL before upgrading to the Shapeoko 5 Pro CNC. Both are excellent machines that beginners and advanced can use.

Buying the wrong CNC can be a big mistake. CNCs typically are a big investment for a lot of people. I made a video to hopefully help you decide what is best for you and overcome some of the negative https://youtu.be/7M9zAcn0bT4 I also made a video about the 10 Benefits a CNC gives Your Woodworking Business https://youtu.be/213EWoxpSwU

One of the main reasons I love working with Carbide 3D and the Shapeoko line of CNCs is their customer support. They believe in their machines and stand by them. They also offer free CNC training (even if you don’t have a CNC) you can take here https://my.carbide3d.com

I have a Bambu Lab X1-Carbon 3D Printer. I made a video review on this 3D Printer here: https://youtu.be/TmrF7RNLNCs?si=T73s9CRX6XYAe8ak This machine has been a lot of fun having in the shop. I enjoy making custom organization items with it.

Hand Tools

Tape Measures:

The chisel set I use

Narex chisel set I use

  • Best Tape Measure for most people has to go to the FastCap 16-feet Old Standby https://amzn.to/41Hky34 I have 4 of these scattered around my shop. This is my favorite tape measure that I’ve used. They also make a flat tape https://amzn.to/3Ie3ECq if you don’t like fighting the concave tape measures to get precise marks. There is also a lefty/righty measuring tape https://amzn.to/3BqaD7h that has the measurements on each side of the tape.

  • Workbench accessories like these bench cookies https://amzn.to/3W75VoB are some of my most used tools. These are great for elevating your work so you can cut, sand, rout, or finish the project.

Chisels and Rasps

Best Chisels for Most People - Some of the best bang for the buck chisels are the Narex Richter chisels. I recommend this box set https://amzn.to/42Xu17v But you can buy them individually as well https://amzn.to/3pHNGdp I did a full video review of these chisels here https://youtu.be/dQK4i6C3BO8 You can also check out Two Cherries chisels https://amzn.to/3MuqjNs I have both of these brands and they are very nice chisels. One of the easiest ways to sharpen chisels https://youtu.be/A-hYk4Slb-0 Chisels are one of those tools you don’t want to go cheap on, unless you need some for very rough work.

Rasps are great tools to have in the shop. I have this set https://amzn.to/3o0zI5M

Layout Tools:

  • My favorite pencils for woodworking are the Pentel Graphgear line of pencils https://amzn.to/3pG05P0 I use both the .9mm lead and the .7mm lead in the shop. I’m also a fan of the Pica-Dry pencils, especially the ones with the different color lead https://amzn.to/41BJhWK The yellow shows up a lot better on dark wood like Walnut and Purple Heart versus standard pencil lead.

  • Rulers

    • Budget picks for great quailty and accurate woodworking rulers and t-rules are the WEN hand tools. I have a full review of these nice budget picks.

    • Top Picks in my opinion are the Woodpeckers rulers and Paolini Pocket rules.

  • Edge Rules are some of my favorite layout tools. I have this set from Woodpeckers https://amzn.to/3O7VY8z

Woodworking Squares:

  • BEST Woodworking Squares - Woodworking squares are the most used tools I own. I use them in every project so having a good quailty square is important to me. There are two that I really love and recommend. Woodpeckers makes excellent top quailty squares for woodworking. JessEm also makes amazing woodworking squares that are highly accurate and pack a ton of features in. It’s hard to say which is better of the two, I don’t think you can go wrong with either.

  • Best Budget Square in my opinion is the classic Swanson Speed Square. https://amzn.to/450j078 These are some of the most useful, durable, and accurate squares you can buy. The last thing you want in woodworking is an inaccurate tool. Swanson tools have been around for decades and make some awesome tools.

  • Best Small Square - One of my all time favorite squares is the DFM small carpenters square. https://amzn.to/3M4jEYI I use this square on almost every project. It’s small, lightweight and accurate. If you prefer Woodpeckers tools, they have a similar square that I also like a lot https://amzn.to/3o5Wb1l These small squares are surprisingly useful in the shop!

  • Best Mid Size Square - Small squares that are about 6 to 8 inches in length are some of the most used in the shop. A lot of people overlook the machinist squares like these https://amzn.to/3OtvY7V that are very affordable and some of the most accurate squares on the market.
    Best Large Squares - From time to time you’re going to need a large square for checking cabinets, and large projects. A great option is a framing square, also known as a rafter square. I recommend this one from Starrett https://amzn.to/3Mul6ow If you have a big budget and want the best, check out the Woodpeckers 18 inch square https://amzn.to/3pEOzn4

  • Best Combination Squares I think are the Swanson if you’re on a budget https://amzn.to/42TRkiz or the Starette Combination Square https://amzn.to/3IedyDX and my absolute favorite is the Woodpeckers In-Dexable Square https://amzn.to/3BuZ9Q9 You’ll be pleased with any of these choices and use them all the time.
    Best Double Squares - These are excellent layout tools that a lot of woodworkers love. My personal favorites are from Benchmark https://amzn.to/3pLA4h1 and Woodpeckers https://amzn.to/41xIyFW

  • Woodworking Rulers - There are so many options available for rulers but these are my favorites. If you’re on a budget and want accurate and well made rulers, check out these: https://lddy.no/1fs70 If you have more of a budget and want the top of the line rulers, I love the Paolini Pocket Rules from Woodpeckers https://amzn.to/45dwgWm

Woodworking T-Squares

  • Best T-Square for woodworking might come down to two different companies take on the classic tool. Woodpeckers makes an excellent t-square. But new to the game, JessEm released a very cool take on these tools that I really like as well. Check out my review of the JessEm T-Square to see them in action.

  • Budget T-Square - Amazon sells this t-square that I tested a while back and found it to be a nice budget option.

Wrenches and Sockets

  • Combination wrench set that I have is this Tekton set https://amzn.to/41DMPrh that has both metric and SAE.

  • The socket set that I chose to buy is the DeWALT 192 piece set https://amzn.to/3I8j0YT It comes in a nice carry case to keep that 10mm socket from getting lost…..maybe.

Jigs and Set Up Tools

  • Tool Setting Gauges are great for setting up accurate cuts.

    • JessEm Tool Setting Gauges are great options for setting up router bit depths, table saw blade depths and fence distances. There are two sizes to choose from with each having it’s uses. The bigger is best for the table saw and router table, the smaller is great for trim and fixed base routers.

    • Kreg Set Up Blocks are my favorite set up tools for setting router bit depths, fence distance, blade heights, and more. https://amzn.to/3pKJ2vi

  • Best Pocket Hole Jig I’ve found is the Massca M2 Pro. I have used this jig in tons of projects on the channel. It’s extremely well made and comes with a lifetime warranty.

  • Kreg Pocket Hole Jig - The Kreg 720Pro is a good option for pocket hole joinery as well. I find that it drills a slightly cleaner hole vs the Massca but the jig is almost entirely plastic and less robust vs the Massca.

  • A right angle attachment https://amzn.to/3M6Ucll is a great accessory to have to drill or drive screws in tight spaces.

Table Saw Jigs and Upgrades

Fence Upgrades - The Bow Xtender Fence is one of the better upgrades you can make to a tablesaw, especially if you’re using a small contractor or jobsite style saw. Check out my full video on the Bow accessories.

Clamps

Shop Fixtures, Workbenches, and Storage

  • Heat and Air may be something you want to add to your shop at some point. https://amzn.to/3MtsuAP It made a HUGE difference in my shop being able to work comfortably in any season. I chose the Mr. Cool 24,000 BTU Mini-Split for my shop. It was easy to install and keeps the shop at a comfortable temperature year round. My install video here: https://youtu.be/GhCEB67lP5A

  • Dehumidifier is an excellent thing to add to your shop to keep the humidity level low. https://amzn.to/3M6wrtF This prevents your wood from warping and twisting as the humidity changes with the weather. And an added benefit is your cast iron tools like table saws, jointers, band saws, etc. don’t rust when you regulate the humidity. Check it out in my video here https://youtu.be/H4Iu7inZf7Y?t=262

  • Shop Lighting is important in a woodworking shop. https://amzn.to/3pJ8GR2 I bought this set because it was easy to install and they can daisy chain (plug into each other). This gives me a ton of light for woodworking. I made an install video there: https://youtu.be/wd1NJR4dM7A

  • Stationary Workbenches are a staple in any woodworking shop. There are several good options depending on your needs.

  • Portable Workbenches are useful to have when you need a little extra space. I have a full video testing 5 popular portable workbenches.

    • WORX Pegasus - I like these Worx Portable workbenches that can set up and store away easily. https://amzn.to/42XVXIA I have two of these I use a lot.

    • Bora Centipede - The Bora Centipede is a great option if you need maximum space savings but also need a full workbench when assembled. It’s easy to set up and take down too!

    • RYOBI Speedbench - The RYOBI Speedbench is a great 2-in-1 workbench if you need a handtruck and workbench all in one. Also great for space savings. Check out my full RYOBI Speedbench Review.

    • Festool MFT - Top of the line, and most functional portable workbenches on the market that I’ve used is the Festool MFT/3 Multifunction Table. If you have a track saw this table is next level! Out of all the portable workbenches I’ve tested, this is my favorite and I use it quite often around the shop.

    • DIY Portable Workbench - If you need a portable workbench that you can clamp virtually anything to, I built one and have a full build video guide. There are also plans available for this build.

  • Tool Wall Organization has been a huge productivity booster for me. Being able to easily store, see, and organize my tools has helped me work faster in the shop. I have the Omniwall Weekend Warrior XL system https://amzn.to/42D0BvK They make smaller systems as well if you don’t need this much storage. I put this over my miter station and it is the perfect set up for me. Full install video here: https://youtu.be/hVWSGLYduvw

  • RYOBI Tool Wall Organization - I’ve recently added a lot of the RYOBI Link wall organization items to my shop. These are extremely nice to have to organize your tools, batteries, and more. I have a full video review of the RYOBI organization system.

  • Milwaukee PACKOUT Wall Organization - I also utilze Milwaukee’s PACKOUT Wall organization in my shop as well. These are great for storing batteries, PACKOUT Boxes, first aid kits, and more on the wall. You can see how I am using them in my Shop Upgades Video.

  • Tool boxes are a great way to store hand tools, small parts, and supplies. I bought the Husky Hutch with two side cabinets. https://homedepot.sjv.io/doz45q I had to add an extra side cabinet https://homedepot.sjv.io/9WYvy0 to complete the set up that I wanted. This gives me a lot of organization in the shop. Check out my review of this set up here: https://youtu.be/hsS-iT2a5tg

  • Lumber Storage is almost a necessity in the Woodshop. I use the Bora Wood Racks https://amzn.to/45epOhO They are easy to install and super strong.

  • For drawer and small parts organization it’s hard to beat these tool organizer trays https://amzn.to/3IeJwjr


Consumables (Woodworking Supplies)

  • Wood glue is probably the most used consumable in most woodsheds. I use Titebond 3 https://amzn.to/3W1Br7D because it is waterproof (good for cutting boards, etc.) and is designed for both interior and exterior use. I also use BossDog Woodglue. BossDog was started by a woodworker just like you and I and I love to support fellow woodworkers when I can.

  • Super Glue aka CA Glue is second only to wood glue for usefulness in the shop. https://amzn.to/42PflYg You can use this to fill knot holes, repair parts, and so much more! I keep CA glue in black, brown, and clear in the shop at all times. BossDog also makes quality CA Glues if you want to support a small business.

  • Buying Hardwood Online can be tricky. You want to ensure you’re getting quality wood. The drawback is usually the shipping costs. But my go-to suppliers for hardwood is my partner Ol Loggin Sawmill https://www.ollogginsawmill.com/collections/wood-kits offering FREE SHIPPING on our hardwood kits. Also check out Woodcraft https://www.woodcraft.com/categories/wood Keep an eye on Woodcraft as they have regular sales on their hardwoods!

  • Table Saw Blades can be confusing on which ones to buy and use on your table saw. Most table saws are 10 inch blades, unless you have a compact or jobsite style table saw. I really like CMT Chrome saw blades. I use a 50 or 60 tooth blade almost 99% of the time. https://amzn.to/41xVpIc A 50 tooth is a great all around blade to use. I also use a 24 tooth ripping blade https://amzn.to/3pKJTf7 if I am going to be ripping down a lot of boards.

  • Dado Blades for Table Saws - I use the CMT Locking Dado Stack. You can see my full review of the new CMT Dado blades to see it in action. I also use this Freud Dado Set https://amzn.to/3BqBlwD with my table saw. Check your table saw specs to ensure it can accept dado stacks.

  • Buying quality Router Bits makes a big difference. My favorite bits that won’t break the bank are made by Whiteside. They sell a 4 pack of the most commonly used bits https://amzn.to/3o0PdKW but you can buy them individually as needed https://amzn.to/3MrQc05 I also like Bosch Router Bits and you can get them in various size kits, depending on your needs.

  • Forstner Bits are some of the most useful bits in a Woodshop. I have two sets. A budget set made by Irwin https://amzn.to/3nXdPo6 And a more premium set made by Fisch https://amzn.to/3pBoXqV

  • I keep this standard drill bit set on hand in the shop https://amzn.to/42Wb5WD

  • I have this Milwaukee hole saw kit https://amzn.to/3BtwmeK These are great bits in a nice storage box.

  • A good set of countersink bits is always handy to have. I have this set from Owl Tools https://amzn.to/3OhB3A5

  • Brad point drill bits are very useful in woodworking. https://amzn.to/41El5mg The point keeps the bit from walking on you when starting to drill the hole.

Safety Equipment

  • A Fire Extinguisher should be in every shop. https://amzn.to/42S7l9j They are inexpensive and could save a life or a shop.

  • Hearing protection is very important when working around loud machines. There are a few options depending on what you’re comfortable with. I like the 3M WorkTunes over the ear hearing protection. https://amzn.to/3OclppE They are Bluetooth so you can listen to your music, books, or podcasts. Also check out IsoTunes https://amzn.to/3Byp0q9 They have options for in-ear and over-ear hearing protection that is OSHA approved.

  • Push blocks are essential for safety at the table saw, jointer, bandsaw, router table and more. For the table saw there are two very good options to choose from. The Milescraft GrabberPro (full review here) and the MicroJig Grr-Ripper. The GRR-Ripper GB-1 https://amzn.to/3og0ZBe is my favorite for the jointer and router table.

  • Dust Masks are a necessity even if you have dust collection. My go-to dust masks are the RZ Mask M2. https://amzn.to/3o5tFwT They come in a variety of colors and the inner filter is replaceable.

  • For eye protection I use these all the time https://amzn.to/3M0AiZg You can get them in packs of 12 and scatter them around the shop. If you’re looking for anti-fog safety glasses, give these a try https://amzn.to/44ZhSAO

  • I believe every shop should have a few tourniquets in the event of a major accident. https://amzn.to/3BL0lPD These could literally save your life or someone you love. Do not cheap out on these! Make sure you learn how to apply them correctly and train with them regularly. Check YouTube for some good videos on properly application.

  • First Aid Kits are great to have in the shop for minor cuts and burns. You can get a basic kit https://amzn.to/3W8dRGo or you can even get a Class A Type III 79 piece Milwaukee First Aid kit in a Packout Case https://shrsl.com/42g0m or even a larger Class B Type III 204-piece set in a Packout case https://shrsl.com/42g0q

Work Clothes and Boots

Camera and Computer Equipment

I think it is important to note that this equipment was gained over time. I started using my iPhone to film my videos and used an iPad to edit. I have used my phone to edit using various apps. If you want to start a YouTube channel, don’t wait until you can get camera equipment, etc. Just press record and make a video. You’ll gain confidence and equipment over time.

Computer Equipment

I use the Sony 16-35 GM for most of my content

Camera Equipment

Sound Equipment

Studio Equipment

  • For the livestream background were using sound proofing wood panels. These acoustic slat panel walls help with sound (reducing echo) and look more modern https://amzn.to/3MIRdAM

  • For background lighting I use the ADJ Products Mega Bar RGBA https://amzn.to/3pU3SYQ

  • My computer chair I use is the Secret Labs Titan Evo 2022 https://amzn.to/3BwX9qm I used cheaper chairs for years and kept having back pain. Since using the Titan, no more back pain.

Software

  • Video editing I am currently using Final Cut Pro because it works very well with my Mac. However, I used Davinci Resolve for a number of years and it is FREE but still very powerful and will likely do anything you want for video editing.

  • Mobile video editing apps I use regularly to make REELS, Shorts, etc. are Videoleap, CapCut, and Mojo. These can be found on your App Store of your device of choice.

  • Photo editing software I use for my thumbnails is Affinity Photo 2.

  • CNC software I use for my Shapeoko 5 Pro is Carbide Create and Carbide Motion. Both are free to download and use. Carbide Create is used to design the files I want the machine to cut. Carbide Motion is used to control the machine itself. There is some very good FREE training on using both of these softwares from Caribde 3D here https://my.carbide3d.com

  • Build plans we sell on our website are all designed in Sketch Up. Steve Ramsey has an excellent tutorial for woodworkers getting started with Sketch Up.