If you are a beginner woodworker, you must always be on the lookout for ways to increase your skill, knowledge and experience in craft. Whether you aim to stay a hobbyist or hope to make woodworking your profession, these top five tips will help you along the way as you learn your craft.
Take Advantage of Tested Plans
Rather than trying to make your own table, birdhouse or other object based on your own ideas, it’s a good idea for you to take advantage of tested plans or blueprints. Another woodworker has already used the plans to create something, assuring you that if you follow the instructions exactly, you will end up making the same thing. Following established plans can help you succeed and build up your confidence to tackle even bigger woodworking projects of your own design.
Plan Ahead
You may be quite excited about all the fun you will be having in woodworking, and want to just jump right in with a project. However, you are more likely to succeed when you take time to plan ahead. Think about all aspects of the project. For example, how much wood will you need, and of what type? What do the plans and instructions tell you about the type of tools you need? Estimate how long the project will take, so you can tell whether you will finish it before supper or if it might take a whole weekend.
Start With Simple Projects
It can be natural for a beginner woodworker to want to work on an elaborate project. You can imagine making a beautiful desk with drawers and special designs, without realizing that complex projects require a lot of experience, patience and time. Instead of biting off more than you can chew in terms of skills, labor and materials, first take on a set of small projects that you can reasonably finish.
Join a Group
A great tip that many woodworkers find advantageous is to join a group of fellow crafters. This could be as simple as signing up for a high school or college course, or finding a local group of hobbyists. Joining a group enables you to learn from people who are at your approximate skill level, as well as to meet more experienced woodworkers who can give you advice about your projects.
Keep it Clean and Organized
Keeping your woodworking area clean and tidy is important for multiple reasons. For one thing, it is safer to work in a clean environment. If you allow sawdust, chunks of wood and other debris to remain on the floor of your workshop, it will pose a safety hazard. You or a visitor can trip and get injured. Keeping your tools and materials organized enables you to work more efficiently. If you can’t find the right saw or hammer that you want, how can you continue working on your project?
No matter if you’re just starting out in the wood working game or are an experienced professional, the right woodworking machine is paramount. Ron Mack Machinery has a superb collection of used woodworking machinery as well. Why not check out their range!