Replies

1. 
   cosmo111 | Jan 22, 2018 06:35am | #1

   I was totally in the same spot, so I hear ya. I did some in-depth research and found this blog that helped me get started, http://www.joineryplans.com/blog/5-first-steps-get-started-woodworking/. It was simple enough that I was able to breathe. Lol. Then I went and bought some plans to build a dining room table, which came out awesome. I recommend it to anyone starting out like myself. Happy WW!! 

2. 
   mikaol | Mar 02, 2020 06:10pm | #2

   You could try searching "woodworking guilds+Vermont."
   Good luck

3. 
   user-6001446 | Mar 02, 2020 08:22pm | #3

   It starts with what do you want to build or what do yo need? Start basic but start with something useful or something that captures your imagination. Once you know this is the hobby for you, you can build shop furniture/tool storage and jigs to build skills and practice. Does you father have power tools?

4. 
   DRBWWing | Mar 03, 2020 10:33am | #4

   Depending on where you want to go, WW'ing definitely has a learning curve, there is a difference between a carpenter and a woodworker, slthoug sometimes not much ;-)

   It is not a cheap hobby, either. Quality tools will get very expensive very quickly.

   Hand tools can cost as much or more than a power machine, for example an #8 jointer plane can easily cost more than a lunchbox planer.

   That said, either you have to know what tools you need to start a project, or the project will depend on the tools you have available. I've always said a step stool or tool tote are very good ways to start out.

   You might also look for classes and research Makerspace in your area. There are lots of guys with experience who are very giving with their knowledge, as evidenced by forums like this.

   Learn about tools and brands, and oh, stay away from Harbor Freight (well except for a few things like clamps)

5. 
   _mj_ | Mar 03, 2020 01:50pm | #5

   The idea to start with what you need is perfect, and will lead to simpler projects that will get completed in a reasonable amount of time. A simple shelf to drop the mail on or box to hold the remotes can be as simple or complex a build as you like.

   You'll need to be able to make square cuts with squared edges and then fasten parts together. Basic portable power tools can fill the bill for quite some time. By the time you start thinking about making more refined things you'll know what to buy to get there, and that loop will never end.

   Circular saw, drill, combination square, and some sandpaper and screws will get you started.

6. 
   user-7529300 | Mar 04, 2020 08:36am | #6

   Here is what worked for me:
   - Start with cheaper pre-dimensioned softwood (No strong need for handplanes and crazy expensive jointer/planer stuff)
   - I've built four picture frames with different styles and techniques (two with pine, then one with poplar and the last one from rough sawn walnut)
   - So far I've only built one "needed" piece of furniture (a writing table for my daughter from red-oak), but in the same time I've built 3 tool chest-of-drawers for my shop. Again pine, red-oak and the last from plywood. Now I'm working on a cherry chest of drawers that will go into the house. All these chest of drawers are treated as pieces of furniture. Except the plywood version, they are traditionally joined. Although they were always intended for the shop, I went to great detail to learn as much as I can, including finishing. Along the way I've used stains and finishes and these chests are finished to a degree that they can "live" in the house. So one recommendation is to build shop furniture and built it like you mean it.
   - Don't get obsessed with "the bench built". First learn your way of working (height, organization, vise location, etc). I've built a bench now, but when I did I knew pretty well what I needed out of it.
   - One last recommendation: Build a tool e.g. a Paul Sellers Joiners Mallet.

   Be smart with money and don't think for a minute you can't do this or that because your are missing a jointer.