Do you want to make a business or just have a hobby? Are you good with your hands? Would you like to try out woodworking? Try it out. This article will show you how to get started.

Choose the correct wood for your project. Different types of wood can handle different levels of stresses. Some are stronger than others. If you are unsure of how each type of wood will react to what you are trying to accomplish, you should spend some time learning about them first.

TIP! Anytime that you begin a new project you must consider your safety first. Wear safety equipment and always use tools the correct way.

Account for new tools in your budget. You may overlook this and not factor in the cost. Some of the necessary items may be very costly, so plan your budget carefully.

When you are cutting narrow pieces of wood, never use your fingers to guide them. Using a piece of wood as a guide is much safer. This will prevent you from inadvertently whacking off your fingers.

Make sure to properly protect your ears. Woodworking machinery is very noisy. You can lose your hearing if you aren’t careful. Get some cheap ear plugs or high-quality headphones that block out noise. Whichever you use, make sure to use them religiously.

TIP! Before using any stains or finishes on your wood, make sure you stir them and not shake them. Stains often have ingredients that settle to the bottom.

If you are just starting woodworking, something great to do is read plans before starting. Be sure you know what they say and that you really have an understanding of them so you know if they’re missing anything. If you cannot understand them or something is missing, someone from a local home improvement center may be able to help you.

You may enjoy drinking a beer while you are doing woodworking. However, saws and beer together is never a combination that shows good results. Never work on a project when you are drinking alcohol. Also, never take any major drugs prior, whether they are prescription or illegal.

Be very careful when working with a table saw. When crosscutting, you need to set the cut’s length with a block that has been clamped on the fence. This is preferable over utilizing the fence alone, as it prevents the board from springing back. Using the clamping method will still leave the board end free for cutting.

TIP! Gel stains are the new big thing for staining furniture and other wood projects that need staining. Stains that are liquid will run when you apply them, but gels tend to stick to lumber.

Keep your eye out for furniture that others have tossed out. These pieces are often very inexpensive or are given away for free. Think about the possibilities before you dismiss anything. You could use the wood from an old dresser to make something.

There are various hand tools you need before you can start woodworking. A necessary tool for any woodworker is a hammer. Claw hammers are best for woodworkers. Pick one that you feel comfortable using. You certainly don’t want a tool that’s too heavy to lift.

Consider reusing your sanding block. Although sanding blocks provide you with more control while sanding, this doesn’t mean you should spend a lot on sandpaper holders. Use some scrap plywood for making your own. Cut a scrap of wood for each grit of sandpaper, spray with adhesive and apply your sandpaper.

TIP! Keeping a small ruler with you in a pocket is a great idea, however it may fall out easily because of its length. A great way to remedy this problem is to purchase a metal ruler, keep this in your pocket with a telescoping magnet that is used to gather up any loose screws.

Make sure that the lighting in your workshop is adequate. Obviously, lighting is necessary so that you can see what you are doing. This will help you see any areas where extra sanding is necessary. Lighting can also give you a better view of the stain that you use.

Drafting Square

A drafting square helps you make accurate cuts. If you have a cut that needs to be done and exceeds a couple feet in length, you will likely find it hard to do perfectly. Drywall sections are often inaccurate, but carpenter type squares must be attached to an edge, so they are difficult as well. Instead, stop by your local art supply store for a drafting square. These are made for smaller measurements, making them very accurate and easy to use.

TIP! A golf tee can fix loose door hinges. Take the door off its hinges, then remove the hinges themselves, then tap the tee into the screw hole.

Have you fallen in love with woodworking? Is this something that you would like to try for yourself? Try it out today! Keep these tips in mind to accomplish your woodworking aspirations. You can successfully accomplish your woodworking goals when you use this advice.