I’ve always tried to hold off buying tools and accessories until I actually had a project that called for them.  Now of course there are some things that don’t fall into this category, like the basic stationary tools and whatnot.   But things like router and drill bits, certain hand tools, and such fall squarely in this category for me.

I’m in the midst of building a new bench.  Nothing too fancy, but full on M&T joinery and laminated 2 3/4″ maple top with dogholes etc. 

Besides the benefits of satisfaction, learning expereince, and the ability to customize to personal preferences, I’ve found another benefit:  It’s given me reason to buy a bunch of new tools – some router bits, finally a “good” dado set (Forrest), more clamps (good K-body sales at Rockler (a la carte) and Amazon (door set), etc.    

So if you need a project to rationalize some more tool purchases, I highly recommend a bench!