The woodworking tools market is expecting to grow from $8 billion to $10 billion by 2026. This is due to an increase in woodworking projects across the country.
If you’re interested in joining the vast community of DIY woodworkers you should know a few tips before you start. This short guide will give you all the beginner tips on improving your woodworking projects.
Avoid Using Drywall Screws
Sometimes your DIY project will require you to screw two pieces of wood together. It’s better to avoid the drywall screws and go straight for a more traditional wood screw.
This can yield better results as a drywall screw contains a thread that covers the full screw. These screws can pull two pieces of wood apart due to the top threads gripping the board as it enters.
Traditional wood screws have smooth shanks at the top. This will allow the screw to not grip the board.
When drywall screws are screwed into boards they tend to break. During installation, many steel shafts of of drywall screws can break. This chance of damage increases when dealing with hardwood.
Taking the drywall screws out can cause further damage to the boards as well. The material for wood screws is thicker and more damage resistant.
This goes for all screw and nail types. Whether you’re using a pneumatic tool or a manual tool, screws and nail types all have different purposes.
Sharpen Your Blades
Planes, scrapers, chisels, and blades don’t cut well since they are dull materials. These instruments can cause an unprofessional look by cutting into the wood fibers.
Wittled and splintered tools require a grinding or sharpening method to prevent erosion. A bench grinder and wet sander can improve the look by providing a surface in which to sharpen the tools.
After the sharpening process, an oil or wet stone can help hone the tool. The wet stone is ideal if you are working on a particular fine woodworking project. You can then complete the polishing of the tools by utilizing a leather piece or a stropping wheel.
If you neglect tools, allowing them to become dull, it will obstruct the woodworking. A sharper blade can improve upon the cuts allowing for a more efficient workflow.
There are also different types of blades that react to wood differently. Certain skill saws or jigsaws can conform to the wood grain in different ways. So, try to research how the saws will cut the types of wood you intend to use.
Organization & Drafting Squares
One thing to note is the importance of the drafting square. The old addage “measure twice cut once” denotes the consequence of inaccuracy. Using a drafting square can provide a neat layout.
Sometimes, you need a two to three foot square cut to help complete your project. This can take time and require additional setup with carpenter’s square.
Drywall Squares can provide inaccurate layouts you and overencumber you. With a drafting square the cuts are cleaner.
With that said, it’s also important to develop a clean workstation. An organized workstation can provide less stress to an individual. Especially when dealing with a difficult project.
Clutter in your work area can also add to workplace hazards. Something small that lingers can cause a worker to trip and injure themselves. It can also decrease productivity since items will be hard to find.
Excess Stains & Moisture
When working with wood glue, try to prevent excess glue seeping out of wood joints. To aid in spillage, place a piece of masking tape over the joint area. Then, cut it with a knife to help capture any excess material.
You can then pull apart each piece of wood, re-glue and clamp the material. The tape will pick up and retain the material, you can then remove the making tape with ease. The lack of stains can provide a clean finish and prevent you from having to do extra cleanup afterward.
The wood also contains a specific moisture content. As every piece of wood is different. You should also understand how the wood will react to certain humid or dry environments.
The finishing wood can crack or swell if the wood content is too dry. But, the product can also warp or shrink if there is too much moisture. Make sure to understand the differences before drafting and applying the wood to your project.
There is a useful app that can allow you to detect a wood’s moisture content. This is important if you commit to constructing something with two different pieces of wood. Each piece of wood can have a separate reaction causing a rift in the project.
The Importance of Sanding
Once you finish your project, a sander with high-quality sandpaper can provide a nice finish. The sanding process may seem tedious, but even smaller manual sanders can help provide a sleek look.
You can yield more efficient results if you apply a sanding block to your woodworking. These tools can help evenly distribute the pressure. It can also provide a more flat surface in which to work on. Sanding can also keep your dovetail joint flush.
Woodworking Projects
Developing healthy habits and applying these tips will help improve your woodworking skills. Keeping an organized space and maintaining the quality of your tools will improve your workshop’s workflow.
It will also help in stressful situations and yield better results when dealing with home improvement projects. The proper lighting in your workshop and tools with accurate cuts will help define your handy work.
Follow our blog to learn more about DIY woodworking projects and improve your woodworking skills!
