Most people don't know much about the hobby of woodworking. They think it's just a matter of cutting some wood, slapping it together and calling it a success. The fact is that there is more to it than that, and the tips below will guide you through the process.
Gel stains are great for staining furniture pieces. Liquid-based stain often runs on application, and gel stains stay put much better. Not only that, but gel stains tend to be thicker than liquid, so that the pigment is consistent, which makes for a more even stain on vertical and horizontal pieces.
In a pinch, you can use a hacksaw blade as a makeshift compass. Often you can't find a compass when you need it in room, when you are away from your shop. You can quickly nail a hole in the middle of a hacksaw blade, then steady the pencil against the proper tooth to get the right length. Draw that circle.
Before using any new tool, do your research on it in full. New tools can mean serious injuries for those that use them incorrectly. Even if you're pretty sure of how to use it, don't risk it. Study up via the web and books related to the tool in question.
When sanding a piece of lumber, beginning with a coarse sandpaper. Remove the excess dust from the lumber. Then, once the largest scratches are removed, sand again with a smoother sandpaper. Follow this sanding with a tack cloth. Continue using smoother sandpaper until the lumber feels smooth when you run your hand across it.
Unless you are charging it, never leave your tools plugged in and unattended. You never know who might approach your tool, accidentally setting it off. Not only can this damage the items around it, but the person could be hurt and you could be left liable for the end result.
Before you even begin sawing anything, check the blade to make sure it's in good condition. If you allow a saw blade to become dull, you will have a tough time sawing with it. It can also cause mistakes that are costly, depending on the wood you use.
Always clean up sanding dust thoroughly before staining or applying a topcoat. If you want a smooth finish, dust is your enemy. Use a vacuum over blowing dust into the air because it settles back onto the wood, and use a damp cloth to ensure all dust is removed from the wood in your final cleanup prior to staining or applying a top coat.
If you're looking for that first woodworking project, how about starting with a simple box? In fact, that's probably the most popular first woodworking project out there. Buy some cheap wood that you like, and design a box that could work around your home. Maybe it's for writing utensils, or perhaps it's for the kitchen? There are a lot of options.
If dust and dirt get into the holes of a brad or nail gun while they are not in use, this can cause them to wear out more quickly. It is a good idea to plug the air inlet holes up with something to prevent anything from getting in there.
Don't always rely on your tape measures. Story sticks can help you out and it's wise to slowly work up to the cut you want. It's recommended that you cut on scrap wood before cutting on the wood you plan on using so that you can test it out to see if it will fit. It's always a good thing to have variety in planning cuts to prevent mental fatigue.
If you are new to woodworking, stick with a cheap and effective tool bag. Many of the tools to start with are under a couple hundred dollars and very easy to find and use for basic projects. These tools include a benchtop tablesaw, a jigsaw or sabre saw, a circular saw, a random orbit sander, a corded or cordless drill, a fixed-base or plunge router, and a pipe and small bar clamps.
Do you know that different colored tin snips make different kinds of cuts? Tin snips with red handles are used for making left hand turns. Green handled tin snips are used for making right hand turns. Finally, yellow handled tin snips are used for straight lines and gradual curves.
Wood is an expensive material to work with. It becomes really expensive when you are working on larger projects. Save some money by using cheaper and less attractive woods for areas of the project that are not on display. Save the high quality wood for the structure, tops and front of the project.
You can use woodworkers glue to secure joints if you clamp the joint securely in place while the glue dries. Many people prefer to glue the joint in addition to using fasteners. This prevents the joint from loosening if it is subjected to pressure that could cause it to give way.
Get a tool actuated shop vac to do double duty in your woodworking shop. This handy innovation can help you keep your woodworking area clean and tidy as you work. With your sander or saw connected to you tool actuated shop vac, you will have continuous cleanup of dust and shavings as you work. This makes woodworking safer and more pleasant and cleanup quicker and easier.
Use duct tape to easily mark level areas of your floor. If you have a table saw or other large tool on a mobile base, it can be hard to find just the right spot on your floor to keep it level. Once you have found a level location, place tape around the wheels or base of your tool so that you can easily position it the next time it is out.
As you learn more about woodworking, you'll find that things become easier. You'll be able to plan out your projects better, complete them on time and have end results which are impressive. Use this new knowledge to make your hobby the best it has ever been, time and time again.
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