This part of our guide focuses on woodworking tools.
Woodworking tools are instruments used to shape, cut, and join wood to create various objects, from furniture to intricate carvings. These tools range from simple hand tools to complex power tools, each serving a specific purpose in the woodworking process.
The earliest woodworking tools were made of stone and included axes, scrapers, and saws, some with handles made of animal horns. These Stone Age tools were improved upon in the Copper Age. Adding tin to copper created more durable bronze tools in what became known as the Bronze Age, including saws and chisels. Although initially less popular, iron tools developed during the Iron Age eventually became the standard due to increased durability.
The Ancient Egyptians used tools like adzes, chisels, and saws made from copper or bronze. They also developed the bow drill and the lathe. The Ancient Romans innovated with saws having regular teeth, planes, and claw hammers.
During the Middle Ages, the guild system standardized tool production and usage. Tools like the brace and bit, and more refined saws and planes, became common.
The 18th-19th century Industrial Revolution introduced steam and, later, electric-powered machines, which revolutionized woodworking. Tools like the bandsaw, circular saw, and lathe became widespread.
The 20th century saw the development of advanced power tools, including electric drills, routers, and sanders, making woodworking more efficient and accessible.
Common hand tools used in woodworking today include the claw hammer, tape measure, utility knife, chisel, hand saw, coping saw, block plane, combination square, marking gauge, mallet, screwdriver, bench vise, wood rasp, spokeshave, brace and bit, try square, bevel gauge, hand drill, clamp, and marking knife.
Common power tools include the table saw, band saw, circular saw, jigsaw, router, power drill, random orbital sander, planer, miter saw, and scroll saw.
Woodworking tools have evolved significantly from simple stone implements to sophisticated power tools, reflecting advancements in technology and craftsmanship.
While power tools allow for much faster completion of woodworking tasks, a large community of woodworkers use only hand tools in their craft. Woodworking traditionalists are a dedicated group of artisans who prioritize craftsmanship, precision, and historical woodworking methods.
They believe that hand tools allow for precision and control unmatched by power tools. The tactile feedback from hand tools helps artisans to achieve a deeper connection with their work. Many traditionalists are inspired by historical techniques and strive to preserve the methods used by past craftsmen. Hand tools are often considered more environmentally friendly, as they do not require electricity and produce less noise and dust.
Woodworking with hand tools involves various traditional techniques. Joinery techniques are commonly used, such as dovetail joints, mortise and tenon joints, and lap points. These methods require precision and skill, often achieved through practice and experience. Hand planes, chisels, and spokeshaves shape and smooth wood, allowing for fine adjustments and detailed work. Traditional woodworkers frequently use natural finishes, such as oils and waxes, applied by hand to enhance the beauty of the wood.
Woodworking traditionalists who use only hand tools are dedicated to preserving the art and craft of woodworking. Their commitment to precision, historical methods, and sustainability sets them apart in the modern woodworking landscape.
On the other hand, power tools offer speed, efficiency, consistency, and reduced physical effort over hand tools.
Most woodworkers, however, use both.
Recommended Resources
Since 2003, the company has been selling fine hand tools, books, and accessories to woodworking enthusiasts and professionals. It has a showroom in Suffolk, England, and sells its products online. Shoppers may browse their hand tools by brand, craft, sharpening products, hardware, books, DVDs, or supplies. Customer testimonials, notices of upcoming shows, and featured products are highlighted. The address, contacts, and hours are posted on the website, and a newsletter is available.
https://www.classichandtools.com/
Based in Atlanta, the company began in 1978 as Highland Hardware, an ordinary hardware store. In 1981, the company expanded its reach with a mail-order catalog, which remains a part of its business, although the company added e-commerce to its business model in 1996, taking its current name in 2006. Today, Highland Woodworking offers a range of products, including hand tools, power tools, machinery, and accessories online, through mail-order, or through its store in Atlanta, Georgia.
https://www.highlandwoodworking.com/
Rockler Woodworking & Hardware
Rockler is a retailer specializing in woodworking tools, finishing supplies, hardware, and lumber. Family-owned since 1954, the company offers a wide range of products for beginning and advanced woodworkers. Rockler has store locations throughout the United States, each offering a full line of woodworking and hardware projects and various services, classes, and expert advice. Its online shopping site highlights its products, classes, and services, and a store locator is included.
https://www.rockler.com/
Located in Ramsey, Minnesota, the entire line of Simple Woodworking Tools is CNC machined by Harrison Specialties in Ramsey. The company's products include carbide cutters, available in full and mid-size models, that make it possible to turn nearly any project from a large-size bowl to finely detailed spindles to small custom pens. The Simple Hollowing System makes hollowing out any shape turning very easy. Its products, customer reviews, and affiliate system are featured.
https://www.simplewoodturningtools.com/
One of the oldest woodworking tools and supplies suppliers in the United States, Woodcraft Supply stores can be found in over seventy metropolitan areas. Woodcraft distributes millions of catalogs to all fifty states and over a hundred foreign countries. Its product catalog is also available online. Founded in Boston in 1928, its operations were moved to Parkersburg, West Virginia, in 1989, where they are today. A printed catalog may be requested, although products may be purchased online.
https://www.woodcraft.com/
Based in Strongsville, Ohio, Woodpeckers was established in 1988 and has always focused on woodworking tools. The company demonstrated tools and woodworking shows until 2004 and has been manufacturing router tables and mounting plates since 1993. Orders may be placed online, with shipping through USPS and UPS Ground or Air. A company profile is provided, and printed catalogs may be requested. Warranty information, a list of Woodpecker dealers, and contacts are included.
https://www.woodpeck.com/
