If you have ever been good with your hands, you need to make sure that you give woodworking a try. Woodworking has been around for many years. People still appreciate the look of a great wood piece, and with the following tips you can improve your skill.

Gel stains are a good way to stain furniture. Liquid-based stain often runs on application, and gel stains stay put much better. Gel stains will create a more consistent finish on pieces, as well.

TIP! Understand the characteristics of the woods you’re using. Woods can differ substantially.

Never use your fingers like a guide. Instead, push the pieces through your saw with a long strip of wood. This will help to keep you from cutting off your fingers, which would be a travesty.

You should have a small ruler on you. To solve this problem, purchase a metal ruler and keep it next to a small telescoping magnet in your pocket. The magnet will keep the ruler safely in your pocket.

Choose correctly-sized nails. A nail that is too large in diameter will often split the wood, causing it not to hold properly. However, too small of a nail will not penetrate deep enough to keep the wood held together. The right size nails are crucial for having a successful project.

TIP! Add some springiness to your grip. There are times when you may need to use a spring clamp, but you might only have the use of one hand.

Make sure to wear sturdy shoes when doing woodworking. This is necessary since your work area may be full of wood chips, nails and all types of tools. This will shield your feet from nails, heavy objects and miscellaneous debris. The shoes must be tough enough to endure your work environment.

Do not become too much of a perfectionist with your tape measures. Use story sticks and work up to cutting. Using scrap wood for a practice cut is a good way to experiment with your project. You can avoid becoming bored by planning your cuts in various ways.

Search estate sales, garage sales and other resale venues for woodworking tools. There are many wonderful deals that will help save you money on used equipment for your projects. You can save lots of money this way when you are a beginning woodworker.

TIP! Tape measures are good to use, but not necessary all the time. Many times, making cuts out of scrap wood is preferable.

Always keep your eyes open for furniture that someone is getting rid of. Many times you can spot decent wood furniture at reduced prices or even free. Always review your options before deciding. A dresser that seems too short may be great for conversion into a bookshelf.

Woodworking is a great way to work using your hands. Having read this article and its advice, you are primed for success in woodworking. Apply the advice in this piece and begin honing your skills to an impressive level.