For so many years I have watched programmes and videos on woodwork because it was always a love of mine. Unfortunately, I was never allowed to persue it because it wasn't "academic" or "ladylike" and now at 31 years old I look on longing to start. I have no money and no tools. I do have a a garage space however after a recent move and for the first time ever, I actually feel a little hopeful, like maybe I could actually do this...Thank you for this video, you have made it seem possible...
You totally could. You are exactly where I was when I got started with hand tools. I would love to see what you make. Let me know if you have any questions I would love to help out if possible.
@@WoodByWright Thank ypu i really appreciate that! Did you have any experience before your first work bench? I am such a lamen and I feel so behind. My other issue would be difficult for you to address because I am in the UK and lumber is no where near as cheap or easily attainable. Do you know of any British RUclipsrs that started in the same situation? X
If you go back and watch my first few videos. (be warned they are horrible videos) I show everything from my first hand plane through building the bench right off the bat. Don't expect to build a perfect bench the first time, but a completely usable one can be made by anyone on the first project. I do not know of any UK youtubers that started that way, but i have heard from a few in your situation that just do not do videos. you totally got this!
Also if you have questions email is often better as I do not see all the responses to comments on here. you can find it on my web site any time. WWW.woodbywright.com
Yep. I agree. Wood workers back in the day had a log or limb. Pieces of stone and reed or hide straps... mallet! Start from square one. There's love and accomplishment in it. Thanks James. You are an inspiration.
I would have to agree with you.....bench first.....as I did. My second project was a mallet......from there.......well I just in the deep end and took some black locust logs and broke them down into usable material.....cut all the mortise and tenon jointery, did some steam bending......and before I knew it.....a dog sled was sitting in my basement.....all made from black locust and ash. the first couple of joints were not as tight as I would have liked....but for my first ones.....they worked.....the last few were quite nice. the way I see it......don't EVER settle for someone telling you that you can't do something......just scratch you brain for a few minutes....then go for it......if you fair....you have learned how not to do something. it is never a waste of time if you are at least trying........you will get further than all the nay sayers that would rather sit on the couch and never try to do anything.
The way you started is inspiring. People who start this way have passion. If you have that as a driving force, your accomplishments can be boundless. Your passion has been your greatest tool.
I have a shop class and I kinda wanna do some hand tool woodworking because of NCIS since Mark Harmon (fun fact: he's a carpenter before he hit it big) plays a main character who is a federal agent who have some hand tool woodworking. I always kinda wanna build a boat or something without power tools lol
Me too. Because don't have any place to even start woodworking and placing my bench. All I can do is watch RUclips videos. Living in an apartment sucks.
@@Scootenfruity I dont even have a garden, but my bedroom is starting to look like the garage i had when i was married. Thinking of moving my bed into the living room.
I Already had a bench although it was made with nails oof. So I got some old 2x4's screws a ryoba saw a chisel a mallet and a hammer. I squared everything up and screwed the 2x4's at 45 degree angles to the legs and 1x4 supports. now I need to remove the nails. Maybe I should have done that first :'(
Yes, my first project was a bench. But I built it with screws. It was very rickety. Then I came to this channel and started learning about joints and wood glue. My second bench is much more solid. Thanks for all your teaching :-)
So awesome! Glad you mentioned that you have playlists with projects. I'll be trying to follow your steps. Thanks for sharing your journey and knowledge! 👍🤓💖
Thank you, Mr. Wright! I watched the video on my TV & checked this page for your 'suggested tools'. I saw your page & it's fine but I think I need list of beginner tools to get started w/. I'd really appreciate suggestions from a guy that started w/ nearly nothing. Because that is kinda' where I am. Have a GREAT day, Neighbor!
Winding sticks were not in all the shops I was exposed to while growing up but I like that you knew you'd need them to make the top flat and well joined.... So much for my edumacation growing up.
they are not needed at all but they are a great opportunity to experiment with inlay, banding, and doweling as well as dimensioning. and to top it all off it is hard to mess up two sticks with he same hight. LOL
I agree, bench was my first project. I loved doing it. Use it every day. I would do a lot different now and spend less but what the hell. Some things about it bug me but it works so I moved on. Good advice
so true. on of the best reasons to work on shop tools is if you mess them up, who cares you just learned for the future and you did not mess up on someone else's project.
Those are inspirational words. I've started working on my bench over a year ago. I was following Paul Sellers' series to make the English joiner's bench. So I got the tops done and a pair of legs for one side of the bench. But the assembled set of legs wasn't square, and I had problems getting the tops flat. So I stalled and it's just sitting there at the moment. Lately I started to think that maybe I should just go and start over again. Now that I hear how your journey started, I feel inspired and I reckon that the work that I've done so far shouldn't be lost, and I can go ahead and make it a fully functional bench still. Thank you!
Sweet! defiantly keep going. The best way to learn is to fix the issues you find. There will be big problems in every new thing you learn. The learning comes from solving those problems.
Very good advice. Not just for woodworking. Great life advice. If you break most problems down into individual tasks and work on them one at a time most of us can do anything. But you have to DO. very good video. Keep it up.
Awesome video and advice, and I think one of those being so important that you mention is get out of your comfort zone. It was one of the best pieces of advice I was given.
Just wonderful, I been tryin to find out about "woodworking tools near me" for a while now, and I think this has helped. Have you heard people talk about - Denia Diyictoria Bulldozer - (just google it ) ? Ive heard some super things about it and my work buddy got great success with it.
I've got lots of power tools and am proficient with them but, I had always wanted a heavy work bench. Mine is about 5 1/2 feet by 30 inches and 35 inches high. It is nearly finished and although far from perfect, is 100% handmade and I am very proud of it.
Absolutely. I have built up my shop over the years by buying the tools or router bits for the job at hand. After a while you have all the tools you need and have some skill with them. Saves you a TON of money as well. Really good advice for the new woodworker.
I have never bought a set of router bits. I buy them as I need them. The only sets I bought was my chisels and my drill bits. Everything else came when needed and I think this way they are all better quality.
I'm Dutch so my first project should probably be clogs. I don't even own a pair. I should be ashamed of myself. Also, I go to a college that has an agricultural course and some of those students actually wear those things to school.
Buy two 12 foot long 4x6s, and one 2x4, cut them to 6 foot length. Glue them together and that's the top of a bench. Lay them on a pair of store bought sawhorses. Make a bench hook, winding sticks, and a shooting board. Then make the base for your bench.
I wish I had done it that way. Hindsight is 20/20. I had a lot of misteps that cost me time and money I could not really afford to lose. I think most woodworkers would agree that the bench is the most critical tool to have, yet it is expensive to buy one already made, and it is a challenge for a novice to build. A beginner starts off staring at that mountain and wondering what on earth to do. I bought a dozen books hoping to get a good answer, but never did. I made a bench, but it was rough. It did help me make the one I have now, though even it is not my dream bench.
If my experience is anywhere close to normal, I think most beginning woodworkers in our situation benefit greatly (in terms of experience) from building their first bench which will probably not be very nice. BUT it will get the job done, and make building a second, much nicer bench way, way easier. I made many mistakes and oversights while building my bench, and I'm definitely not happy with it, but I've made quite a few (what I consider to be) beautiful projects on it so far and I can't wait to build a new, nicer one!
Just came across this. My own first 'project' was whittling a couple of little boats using a pocket knife and a flat rock (for sharpening) when I was 10. My first major build twenty years later was a houseful of cabinetry for Habitat for Humanity. I built those pieces on the floor of my garage with a circular saw and a router. Thirty years later, they're still in use. Now, my work is varied and mostly concentrated on hand work, restoring old tools and making my own jigs and fixtures. I wish I'd had this advice way back when and hope new woodworkers take it to heart. Goodonya.
Thankyou, you've been an inspiration to me these last few months. I love all of your videos, I know that I'll be smiling after I've watched, and that is a really big thing for me right now. I've just made a marking gauge, and finally got my plane to work. I'll soon be building my bench. So thank you again, for your positivity, and genuineness. Love to see more building and projects from you. Take care
Ive been woodworking for about 4 years now. I love it. Its my hobby and passion. I love getting out in my small small workshop and figuring out fun, small things to make. I want to go full hand tool worker but i still depend on my table saw for large rip cuts and my mitre saw for cuts when i need a lot done in a short amount of time lol.
This was my first video by James and now I am back here and it is a great starting point for this channel. I have really enjoyed this channel and wood by wright 2. I put them up there with Paul Sellers... Better dad jokes though.
Highly motivational, James. Thank you. I'm currently in the middle of making my first bench and while much of it is daunting it continues to be an edifying experience.
I love this video, I'm finishing up my handmade rebate plane to use on my chest I'm going to build next. This is exectly what I've been doing and it's better to make the tools you need and save money instead of buying expensive tools that you might not even use or need.
A lot of wood working seems to be wood working for wood working. I need to wood work so I can start wood working. Then once you master wood working, now you can begin to work with wood.
I agree, bench first. Nothing sucks like trying to use a bench plane on a rickety work surface without decent work holding. I think a Nicholson style bench from construction lumber with lots of dog holes on the top and front apron with a pair of holdfasts. It's a cheap and easy way to get started. It's surprising the array of appliances and gadgets you can build from scrap to aid in work holding. You can always add a vise or two later.
Great video James! Sorry to always be your copy editor, but the title card for this video says "SHARPENING GOUGES". 😂 You can hire me to copy edit if you'd like! Haha.
I don't know what stores you have around. There are a lot that can not be purchased at the big box stores, but I usually do not suggest buying much at the big box stores.
thanks for the reply. my point is saying the project cost 100bucks when you found the material and tools at flee makets doesn't give the viewer a good idea of the cost of the project, and insted of waiting for years to find the stuff at a discount, sometimes going to a hardware store is the only realistic option. I donno, 300$ seems like a good budget for tools and wood. but it is good for people to know, if you look around there are deals to be had. Great vids btw, thanks!
As always, great video and much appreciated advice. Once my wife and I move, I'll definitely be making a bench of my own. At the moment I'm just practicing joinery on free scraps of wood with a cheap set of chisels and some quik-clamps. Also, thanks for taking the time to answer my question on the podcast this week. Was very informative discussion and much enjoyed.
I agree that the first project for a hand tool woodworker should be a workbench, after using a piece of plywood on some saw horses to mill my wood for my workbench, it made the necessity of a workbench plainly known to myself. Every step that I've completed have made using hand tools so much easier. When I finished laminating one side of my split top roubo it made laminating the other side 1,000 times easier. Once I had a tail vise installed it made holding work pieces so much more convenient. Your fist project should most definitely be a workbench.
Well, I'm glad that I stumbled across this video. I've been wanting to get into woodworking for a while, but I always overthink everything. Instead of starting at the beginning, I always seem to try and jump in somewhere in the middle of it all. Thanks for the inspiration! Now I know where to start. Step 1 ... Clean out the basement/garage.
I enjoy all your videos James. Love your thought process. Im what you call a hybrid worker dictacted by time (and my lack of patience only) . Built a mallet as my first all hand tool project truly inspired by you. Can't thank you enough. Keep up the great work!
This video was a huge inspiration to me. My current goal project is a Moravian workbench as seen on Wood and Shop. I recently finished my own take on Rex Kruger's $30 workbench, which will allow me to make the wooden-bodied planes and give me the holding options I need. Thanks for sharing your story and making woodworking so approachable. I really appreciated the joy with which you spoke about the process and showed off the tools you made.
power tool shop owner here, making the expansion toward hybrid shop. will probably shift to total hand tools once my machinery wears out... Hand tool work is just so much more satisfying. powertools have a very important place on the job, as they make your time = more money. but if your just puttering around at a home shop killing a sunday afternoon, why rush? The joinery is the destination =)
Your title slide @ 0:13 says Gouge Sharpening. I agree that your first project should be whatever you need or the things to make what you need. I'm not so keen on the bench because the style of bench may be determined by what tools you can get. I have aprons on my bench but I really hate them. A bench more like your bench would have worked better for me because I started off with clamps that work better on a bench without aprons. If I had some hold fasts I might change my mind.
LOL I did not notice it till it was up. oh well, can't change it now. so true David. but you never know tell you try. plus that is just another reason to build another bench!
I agree with everything you said here. Before I started getting serious about woodworking, I would just start building things. Wasn’t necessarily good, but I started it. When I started to think too much about it and tried to make sure I thought I was within ability level, I’ve stopped most projects before they begin, or I’ve completely screwed them up by thinking I can’t do it. So In the beginning I’d say to just jump in and go to town. Your mistakes are going to be the best way to learn. When I started to take advice from the professionals is when I became less of a woodworker and more of a dreamer.
Great video, I agree, totally, that the best way of gaining experience is making the stuff to make the longer range projects. Question, do you think your frame saw could handle a 1 tooth per inch blade, and if so, would it be useful?
I started watching you at the beginning. Funny thing is I started with hand tools around the same time. I guess you could say we learned together but your skills are a bit better than mine. I just love the show. A bench was my first hand tool project also. I think it is time another myself. I want one with drawers for all my hand tools inside of it. The configuration of my workshop I have little wall space but lots of floor space. So a massive work bench with internal tool storage.
Very informative and well done, as always! Really neat to see your first bench and your first set of hand made clamps! Awesome information to keep in mind, even for those who aren't beginners!
Thanks, this is a very interesting and informative video; especially for someone just getting into woodworking with no materials or experience. Would you by any chance have plans, or just plan to do a video on that very first bar clamp? Building a bench would be great, but bar clamps in South Africa are CRAZY expensive where I look
Yeah, I know about that one. It is also very good. But I would have a hard time getting the hardware for it in SA. At least, for a workable price. Keep up the great videos. They are very helpful for someone new to woodworking. I do enjoy the handworking more. Meaning no machines, or minimal. I don't for instance have a table saw and the bigger stuff, so learning by hand first is also good to get into the practice.
Peter McKinlay - Me too. If you are able to set up a dedicated space, then you can work on a project in small steps (10 minute chunks). I've come to love hand tool woodworking because I can work on projects after the kids go to bed. (Power tools would wake them up.)
that is something everyone has to find for themselves. having a frank conversation with the wife is the best place to start though. I work int he shop when my wife works but even then I still ask her if I can go work for an hour the next day and schedule it into the calendar. hand tools make it easier so it is not too loud for them
Very inspirational. Are you saying you never got classes from a teacher? I always wanted to start with woodworking and now I'm purchasing and preparing some good old tools like planes, chisels and bits. Your channel and Paul Sellers are definitively my favourites. Thank you so much. Greetings from Uruguay, South America.
Wood By Wright Thank you por your answer. I strongly believe in self teaching, but balanced with taking lessons with a teacher who show you his/her point of view. In person or in an interactive way Like your vídeos. Thank you again!
I love The Wheel of Time series, they're the next choices for me on my own Audible account! Glad to see another craftsman listening to books in the workshop.
I read them all in print format, but I've found that listening to a book is extremely enjoyable. Especially listening to people interpret how someone would sound.
I agree with you on the bench as the first project. I have folks come into my woodshop all the time and they want to learn woodworking. So the bench is the best first project because it will be the most useful tool to have in the long run.
Thanks Jon. I wanted it to be a bit more of a family chat so I did not even clean it up before shooting. maybe that was just a bit of laziness for me LOL
oh for me I made the clamps to make the top. at that point, I did not have any clamps so rather than letting that stop me I made the clamps to glue up the bench top.
So this is like Minecraft. Once you make your crafting table you can make everything else!
Exactly! I should use that one next time. LOL
That’s right Minecraft
Lol can't believe this was the first comment I saw. I've been playing MC for years lol
Funnily enough, wasn't the crafting table first called the workbench?
Dr Max "Piano" Schneider I believe so
For so many years I have watched programmes and videos on woodwork because it was always a love of mine. Unfortunately, I was never allowed to persue it because it wasn't "academic" or "ladylike" and now at 31 years old I look on longing to start. I have no money and no tools. I do have a a garage space however after a recent move and for the first time ever, I actually feel a little hopeful, like maybe I could actually do this...Thank you for this video, you have made it seem possible...
You totally could. You are exactly where I was when I got started with hand tools. I would love to see what you make. Let me know if you have any questions I would love to help out if possible.
@@WoodByWright Thank ypu i really appreciate that! Did you have any experience before your first work bench? I am such a lamen and I feel so behind. My other issue would be difficult for you to address because I am in the UK and lumber is no where near as cheap or easily attainable. Do you know of any British RUclipsrs that started in the same situation? X
If you go back and watch my first few videos. (be warned they are horrible videos) I show everything from my first hand plane through building the bench right off the bat. Don't expect to build a perfect bench the first time, but a completely usable one can be made by anyone on the first project. I do not know of any UK youtubers that started that way, but i have heard from a few in your situation that just do not do videos. you totally got this!
Also if you have questions email is often better as I do not see all the responses to comments on here. you can find it on my web site any time. WWW.woodbywright.com
@@WoodByWright Thank you, you have been so supportive! I will no doubt have questions and email you at some point lol. X
First project should be a pair of wooden cloggs to wear in the workshop.
+Silver surfer
Or a video camera so you can record stuff to post on You Tube.
LOL sounds about right!
Wood By Wright James, your videos are gr8..what's your next project..? Thanks again!
and use them to clogg your sink
Yep. I agree. Wood workers back in the day had a log or limb. Pieces of stone and reed or hide straps... mallet! Start from square one. There's love and accomplishment in it. Thanks James. You are an inspiration.
So true!
"and even shoes!" -only thing said about insanely ornate wooden shoes
Lol yup got to love shop shoes!
I would have to agree with you.....bench first.....as I did. My second project was a mallet......from there.......well I just in the deep end and took some black locust logs and broke them down into usable material.....cut all the mortise and tenon jointery, did some steam bending......and before I knew it.....a dog sled was sitting in my basement.....all made from black locust and ash. the first couple of joints were not as tight as I would have liked....but for my first ones.....they worked.....the last few were quite nice. the way I see it......don't EVER settle for someone telling you that you can't do something......just scratch you brain for a few minutes....then go for it......if you fair....you have learned how not to do something.
it is never a waste of time if you are at least trying........you will get further than all the nay sayers that would rather sit on the couch and never try to do anything.
I could not ahve said it better Chris! well done jumping in!
That homemade clamp of your's is a brilliant idea!
The way you started is inspiring. People who start this way have passion. If you have that as a driving force, your accomplishments can be boundless. Your passion has been your greatest tool.
thanks! I feel much the same way!
I have a shop class and I kinda wanna do some hand tool woodworking because of NCIS since Mark Harmon (fun fact: he's a carpenter before he hit it big) plays a main character who is a federal agent who have some hand tool woodworking. I always kinda wanna build a boat or something without power tools lol
I haven't watched the video but I am so angry.
Sounds about right. LOL
Me too. Because don't have any place to even start woodworking and placing my bench. All I can do is watch RUclips videos. Living in an apartment sucks.
Damn right. I can do some woodworking in the garden, but there is no place fo r a real bench
@@Scootenfruity I dont even have a garden, but my bedroom is starting to look like the garage i had when i was married. Thinking of moving my bed into the living room.
Calm down, Karen. :P
I Already had a bench although it was made with nails oof. So I got some old 2x4's screws a ryoba saw a chisel a mallet and a hammer. I squared everything up and screwed the 2x4's at 45 degree angles to the legs and 1x4 supports. now I need to remove the nails. Maybe I should have done that first :'(
Yes, my first project was a bench. But I built it with screws. It was very rickety. Then I came to this channel and started learning about joints and wood glue. My second bench is much more solid. Thanks for all your teaching :-)
Thanks Tom. that means a lot. sounds like you are having fun!
So awesome! Glad you mentioned that you have playlists with projects. I'll be trying to follow your steps.
Thanks for sharing your journey and knowledge! 👍🤓💖
Great video and advice. I love the make what you need to make what you want philosophy.
thanks man!
"YES I CANNN!!!" (Professor Clump)
LOL yup
Thank you, Mr. Wright!
I watched the video on my TV & checked this page for your 'suggested tools'.
I saw your page & it's fine but I think I need list of beginner tools to get started w/.
I'd really appreciate suggestions from a guy that started w/ nearly nothing.
Because that is kinda' where I am.
Have a GREAT day, Neighbor!
Here you go. ruclips.net/video/vek049MUK0o/видео.htmlsi=uS9zxHCS_nBFMzgR
Winding sticks were not in all the shops I was exposed to while growing up but I like that you knew you'd need them to make the top flat and well joined.... So much for my edumacation growing up.
they are not needed at all but they are a great opportunity to experiment with inlay, banding, and doweling as well as dimensioning. and to top it all off it is hard to mess up two sticks with he same hight. LOL
I had a busted hammer, got loaned a rusty saw and built a garden seat with a table........
I agree, bench was my first project. I loved doing it. Use it every day. I would do a lot different now and spend less but what the hell. Some things about it bug me but it works so I moved on. Good advice
so true. on of the best reasons to work on shop tools is if you mess them up, who cares you just learned for the future and you did not mess up on someone else's project.
Those are inspirational words. I've started working on my bench over a year ago. I was following Paul Sellers' series to make the English joiner's bench. So I got the tops done and a pair of legs for one side of the bench. But the assembled set of legs wasn't square, and I had problems getting the tops flat. So I stalled and it's just sitting there at the moment. Lately I started to think that maybe I should just go and start over again. Now that I hear how your journey started, I feel inspired and I reckon that the work that I've done so far shouldn't be lost, and I can go ahead and make it a fully functional bench still. Thank you!
Sweet! defiantly keep going. The best way to learn is to fix the issues you find. There will be big problems in every new thing you learn. The learning comes from solving those problems.
Did you get to finish your bench?
Very good advice. Not just for woodworking. Great life advice. If you break most problems down into individual tasks and work on them one at a time most of us can do anything. But you have to DO. very good video. Keep it up.
So true Bill!
I have no room for a workbench yet, but I definitely want to make a mallet like that.
Nicely done and well said. So many times people confuse a new tool as progress when really what is required is practice.
so true! but doesn't this new tool make me a better woodworker?
Awesome video and advice, and I think one of those being so important that you mention is get out of your comfort zone. It was one of the best pieces of advice I was given.
So true. you cant learn from what you know!
Just wonderful, I been tryin to find out about "woodworking tools near me" for a while now, and I think this has helped. Have you heard people talk about - Denia Diyictoria Bulldozer - (just google it ) ? Ive heard some super things about it and my work buddy got great success with it.
I've got lots of power tools and am proficient with them but, I had always wanted a heavy work bench.
Mine is about 5 1/2 feet by 30 inches and 35 inches high. It is nearly finished and although far from perfect, is 100% handmade and I am very proud of it.
NICE!!! sounds like a fun time all around!
Absolutely. I have built up my shop over the years by buying the tools or router bits for the job at hand. After a while you have all the tools you need and have some skill with them. Saves you a TON of money as well. Really good advice for the new woodworker.
I have never bought a set of router bits. I buy them as I need them. The only sets I bought was my chisels and my drill bits. Everything else came when needed and I think this way they are all better quality.
I'm Dutch so my first project should probably be clogs.
I don't even own a pair. I should be ashamed of myself. Also, I go to a college that has an agricultural course and some of those students actually wear those things to school.
nice. I love mine! I would get mocked if I wear them out side but around the shop they are great!
Agreed on the bench first. That's what I did. A solid bench made the most difference to my woodworking. It's all big joints easy to learn on.
So true John!
This was great advice, and I’m so glad you didn’t say the ideal first project is a cutting board!!!
LOL there is not that much to learn in making a cutting board.
Buy two 12 foot long 4x6s, and one 2x4, cut them to 6 foot length. Glue them together and that's the top of a bench. Lay them on a pair of store bought sawhorses. Make a bench hook, winding sticks, and a shooting board. Then make the base for your bench.
deezynar Very interesting approach. Did you do it, and are there pictures, or video?
that is a great way.
I wish I had done it that way. Hindsight is 20/20. I had a lot of misteps that cost me time and money I could not really afford to lose. I think most woodworkers would agree that the bench is the most critical tool to have, yet it is expensive to buy one already made, and it is a challenge for a novice to build. A beginner starts off staring at that mountain and wondering what on earth to do. I bought a dozen books hoping to get a good answer, but never did. I made a bench, but it was rough. It did help me make the one I have now, though even it is not my dream bench.
If my experience is anywhere close to normal, I think most beginning woodworkers in our situation benefit greatly (in terms of experience) from building their first bench which will probably not be very nice. BUT it will get the job done, and make building a second, much nicer bench way, way easier. I made many mistakes and oversights while building my bench, and I'm definitely not happy with it, but I've made quite a few (what I consider to be) beautiful projects on it so far and I can't wait to build a new, nicer one!
Wow, this is old, but very good advice
Great advice James! Now I want oysters.
+Wildman Tech I always do!
OMG u are such a big inspiration I'm 13 and wanting to do some project
Just came across this. My own first 'project' was whittling a couple of little boats using a pocket knife and a flat rock (for sharpening) when I was 10. My first major build twenty years later was a houseful of cabinetry for Habitat for Humanity. I built those pieces on the floor of my garage with a circular saw and a router. Thirty years later, they're still in use. Now, my work is varied and mostly concentrated on hand work, restoring old tools and making my own jigs and fixtures. I wish I'd had this advice way back when and hope new woodworkers take it to heart. Goodonya.
Thankyou, you've been an inspiration to me these last few months. I love all of your videos, I know that I'll be smiling after I've watched, and that is a really big thing for me right now. I've just made a marking gauge, and finally got my plane to work. I'll soon be building my bench. So thank you again, for your positivity, and genuineness. Love to see more building and projects from you. Take care
Fantastic! looking forward to seeing what you build!
Ive been woodworking for about 4 years now. I love it. Its my hobby and passion. I love getting out in my small small workshop and figuring out fun, small things to make. I want to go full hand tool worker but i still depend on my table saw for large rip cuts and my mitre saw for cuts when i need a lot done in a short amount of time lol.
This was my first video by James and now I am back here and it is a great starting point for this channel. I have really enjoyed this channel and wood by wright 2. I put them up there with Paul Sellers... Better dad jokes though.
LOL thanks man! that means a lot! more fun to come!
Found a chunk of dense exotic hardwood at woodcraft for $2 per pound. Bought it and two longer pieces for a handle for $10.
Mallets stock is out there
Oh ya that sounds like some good stuff.
This guy is inspirational !
Highly motivational, James. Thank you. I'm currently in the middle of making my first bench and while much of it is daunting it continues to be an edifying experience.
Thanks Johann. if you ever need help just drop an email. I would love to see what you make!
I love this video, I'm finishing up my handmade rebate plane to use on my chest I'm going to build next. This is exectly what I've been doing and it's better to make the tools you need and save money instead of buying expensive tools that you might not even use or need.
so true Holly! not to mention no better place to mess up than the stuff that stays in the shop.
A lot of wood working seems to be wood working for wood working. I need to wood work so I can start wood working. Then once you master wood working, now you can begin to work with wood.
Lol yep that's about the way it goes.
My first wood working project was a star nosed mole carving, I did it when I was like 12 and it was horrible, but that's what started it all.
I agree, bench first. Nothing sucks like trying to use a bench plane on a rickety work surface without decent work holding.
I think a Nicholson style bench from construction lumber with lots of dog holes on the top and front apron with a pair of holdfasts. It's a cheap and easy way to get started. It's surprising the array of appliances and gadgets you can build from scrap to aid in work holding. You can always add a vise or two later.
Right on! there are sm many different things you can do with that bench!
Great video James! Sorry to always be your copy editor, but the title card for this video says "SHARPENING GOUGES". 😂 You can hire me to copy edit if you'd like! Haha.
LOL ya I did not notice that one tell it is up. I can not change anything in the video once it goes live.
Comment down below
Hi there from Portugal,
Nice tips :D
I also start more or less like you :D
Obrigado(Thanks)
+Blog das Madeiras thanksan!
I made a generic work bench for the garage and got bit by the wood working bug, haven't looked back.
LOL it is adictive!
The key to a good beginner project is "begin".
how much would it cost to buy the lumber and he tools at a store? im just looking for a realistic starting budget.
I don't know what stores you have around. There are a lot that can not be purchased at the big box stores, but I usually do not suggest buying much at the big box stores.
thanks for the reply. my point is saying the project cost 100bucks when you found the material and tools at flee makets doesn't give the viewer a good idea of the cost of the project, and insted of waiting for years to find the stuff at a discount, sometimes going to a hardware store is the only realistic option. I donno, 300$ seems like a good budget for tools and wood. but it is good for people to know, if you look around there are deals to be had.
Great vids btw, thanks!
As always, great video and much appreciated advice. Once my wife and I move, I'll definitely be making a bench of my own. At the moment I'm just practicing joinery on free scraps of wood with a cheap set of chisels and some quik-clamps.
Also, thanks for taking the time to answer my question on the podcast this week. Was very informative discussion and much enjoyed.
Thanks for listening man! I love the fact you are not letting the lack of a bench stop you!
I agree that the first project for a hand tool woodworker should be a workbench, after using a piece of plywood on some saw horses to mill my wood for my workbench, it made the necessity of a workbench plainly known to myself. Every step that I've completed have made using hand tools so much easier. When I finished laminating one side of my split top roubo it made laminating the other side 1,000 times easier. Once I had a tail vise installed it made holding work pieces so much more convenient. Your fist project should most definitely be a workbench.
So true. I used a folding table to build my first one. no fun!
Well, I'm glad that I stumbled across this video. I've been wanting to get into woodworking for a while, but I always overthink everything. Instead of starting at the beginning, I always seem to try and jump in somewhere in the middle of it all. Thanks for the inspiration! Now I know where to start. Step 1 ... Clean out the basement/garage.
LOL yup step 1 is almost always some shop organization.
I enjoy all your videos James. Love your thought process. Im what you call a hybrid worker dictacted by time (and my lack of patience only) . Built a mallet as my first all hand tool project truly inspired by you. Can't thank you enough. Keep up the great work!
thanks Tony. that means a lot!
You got to stop trying to pull us over to the dark side James LOL. Great video my friend.
LOL where is the fun in that!
Hey, what's up Opa?
Thomas Russell Not much just getting back in the shop.
This video was a huge inspiration to me. My current goal project is a Moravian workbench as seen on Wood and Shop. I recently finished my own take on Rex Kruger's $30 workbench, which will allow me to make the wooden-bodied planes and give me the holding options I need.
Thanks for sharing your story and making woodworking so approachable. I really appreciated the joy with which you spoke about the process and showed off the tools you made.
Thanks. Looking forward to seeing what you make. My wife is in the middle of making her first bench too. A moravian bench.
power tool shop owner here, making the expansion toward hybrid shop. will probably shift to total hand tools once my machinery wears out... Hand tool work is just so much more satisfying. powertools have a very important place on the job, as they make your time = more money. but if your just puttering around at a home shop killing a sunday afternoon, why rush? The joinery is the destination =)
+fakiirification so true. Enjoy the work not just the finished project.
Your title slide @ 0:13 says Gouge Sharpening. I agree that your first project should be whatever you need or the things to make what you need. I'm not so keen on the bench because the style of bench may be determined by what tools you can get. I have aprons on my bench but I really hate them. A bench more like your bench would have worked better for me because I started off with clamps that work better on a bench without aprons. If I had some hold fasts I might change my mind.
LOL I did not notice it till it was up. oh well, can't change it now. so true David. but you never know tell you try. plus that is just another reason to build another bench!
I agree with everything you said here. Before I started getting serious about woodworking, I would just start building things. Wasn’t necessarily good, but I started it. When I started to think too much about it and tried to make sure I thought I was within ability level, I’ve stopped most projects before they begin, or I’ve completely screwed them up by thinking I can’t do it. So In the beginning I’d say to just jump in and go to town. Your mistakes are going to be the best way to learn. When I started to take advice from the professionals is when I became less of a woodworker and more of a dreamer.
So true. Thanks!
I use tools meant for welding to work with wood since it’s what i got
Great video, I agree, totally, that the best way of gaining experience is making the stuff to make the longer range projects. Question, do you think your frame saw could handle a 1 tooth per inch blade, and if so, would it be useful?
it could but I don't think I would go that big untell I wanted to make it into a pit saw.
Hmm, pit saw eh? I have a bout 6 feet of excellent Woodmizer blade....
now that sounds like fun!
I started watching you at the beginning. Funny thing is I started with hand tools around the same time. I guess you could say we learned together but your skills are a bit better than mine. I just love the show. A bench was my first hand tool project also. I think it is time another myself. I want one with drawers for all my hand tools inside of it. The configuration of my workshop I have little wall space but lots of floor space. So a massive work bench with internal tool storage.
Now that sounds like a fun project. I would love to see it! thanks Anthony!
Totally agree. My first project was saw benches in order to make my bench. Then bench, now whatever.
yup. I cheated and used a folding table. thought I made a few tools to make the bench such as the clamps to laminate the top.
Spot on, James. I've always been a proponent of 'pick the project, get the tools.' Well said in the video.
Thaks John. right on!
Very informative and well done, as always! Really neat to see your first bench and your first set of hand made clamps!
Awesome information to keep in mind, even for those who aren't beginners!
thanks Frank!
Excellent fireside chat! Thoroughly enjoyed your instructions.
Thanks Alan!
I love it when he has to begin with a trigger warning! 🤣😂😁
I say your first project should be whatever you want to build.
that is the best advice you can give! if it captures your mind then go for it!
Very helpful and insightful video. Thanks for your channel.
thanks you Scott.
I need a card scraper. I can't count how many cheap handsaws I passed up at flea markets that I could've used. Grrr.
LOL yep. There lots of them out there.
Wow really helpful, interesting how you started with DIY bench as well. Great Video!
If you go back to my first few videos I document every tool I got and how I built the bench.
You are a great man, thank you for the inspiration.
my pleasure David!
brilliant video, really helpful and real. Love your thought process and found this really motivational to be honest! thank you !
Thanks Man!
i just finished my mallet today and got a bench. i think i might make an oyster. hahaha kidding aside i might make clamps now
Sounds like fun!
Great advice. Just start making stuff.
Thanks Frank!
Can we all agree if u can build a bench wood working isn't for u
Thanks, this is a very interesting and informative video; especially for someone just getting into woodworking with no materials or experience.
Would you by any chance have plans, or just plan to do a video on that very first bar clamp? Building a bench would be great, but bar clamps in South Africa are CRAZY expensive where I look
I might have to do that some time. I do have build videos on the other one but that one is more intensive, but a better clamp.
Yeah, I know about that one. It is also very good. But I would have a hard time getting the hardware for it in SA. At least, for a workable price.
Keep up the great videos. They are very helpful for someone new to woodworking. I do enjoy the handworking more. Meaning no machines, or minimal. I don't for instance have a table saw and the bigger stuff, so learning by hand first is also good to get into the practice.
great video !
thanks!
That is a very nice piece. I just started my own channel so I subscribed to yours to get inspiration.
I love this video! Great job.
Emmy Braxtly
Thanks Emmy.
Agreed
thanks Mike!
My first was a bench then a trestle table.
That sounds like a great order!
Fails will teach.
that they will.
Thanks! Appreciate it!
I remember many of these projects; old man of the channel? cheers...rr
Yup you are one that has been around much longer than most!
Hey James, side question; How do you fit your woodworking in around work and family stuff? I'm struggling with that at the moment.
Peter McKinlay - Me too. If you are able to set up a dedicated space, then you can work on a project in small steps (10 minute chunks). I've come to love hand tool woodworking because I can work on projects after the kids go to bed. (Power tools would wake them up.)
that is something everyone has to find for themselves. having a frank conversation with the wife is the best place to start though. I work int he shop when my wife works but even then I still ask her if I can go work for an hour the next day and schedule it into the calendar. hand tools make it easier so it is not too loud for them
Very inspirational. Are you saying you never got classes from a teacher? I always wanted to start with woodworking and now I'm purchasing and preparing some good old tools like planes, chisels and bits. Your channel and Paul Sellers are definitively my favourites. Thank you so much. Greetings from Uruguay, South America.
I was taught power tools by my father. And hand tools I picked up through trial and error and a lot of RUclips videos.
Wood By Wright Thank you por your answer. I strongly believe in self teaching, but balanced with taking lessons with a teacher who show you his/her point of view. In person or in an interactive way Like your vídeos. Thank you again!
right on. I am much the same way.
I'm number 1!!!
LOL I need to come up with a prize for that.
I love this channel and your attitude!
I thought I was the only person who said, "the world is your oyster." Nice to know I'm in good company.
+Steven Maduri lol there is a big group of weirdos
Wood By Wright yeah, isn’t it great? Hahaha.
Good advice
Thanks Douglas!
I love The Wheel of Time series, they're the next choices for me on my own Audible account! Glad to see another craftsman listening to books in the workshop.
thanks. it was my second time through the series. Looking forward to them trying to do it on Amazon!
I read them all in print format, but I've found that listening to a book is extremely enjoyable. Especially listening to people interpret how someone would sound.
I agree with you on the bench as the first project. I have folks come into my woodshop all the time and they want to learn woodworking. So the bench is the best first project because it will be the most useful tool to have in the long run.
so true! and if it does not look perfect, then oh well it stays in the shop.
I have always presented two starting options. One like your beginning from glued up framing lumber the other a 4X4 frame with a solid core door top.
Collecting tools and shop projects, great but anything outside the shop is more
+Adamast that is what I was referring to as goal projects.
I love the angle you shot this video from.
Thanks Jon. I wanted it to be a bit more of a family chat so I did not even clean it up before shooting. maybe that was just a bit of laziness for me LOL
Wooden shoes class!
LOL that would be a good one!
First bench -- makes sense. Second ... clamps?
+Duncan McRae I have 3 b2nches in the shop now. What question did you have about the clamps.
Wood By Wright just the order in which the project should be tackled. I'm always looking for clamps. :)
oh for me I made the clamps to make the top. at that point, I did not have any clamps so rather than letting that stop me I made the clamps to glue up the bench top.
Cool
Thanks.
The world WILL be my oyster
Great video! Love hearing your story! =)
Thanks.