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Woodworking Basics: Tools and Terms

The basic tools and terms that come up constantly when you first start woodworking.

Sandpaper (Sanding)

The lower the grit number, the coarser the paper; the higher the number, the finer it is. The usual approach is to shape the surface with coarse grit first, then switch to progressively finer grits to smooth it out.

Chisel

A tool for carving out wood or cutting grooves, used either by striking it with a mallet or pushing it by hand. Working with the grain rather than against it is the basic rule.

Clamp

A tool that holds a workpiece steady so it doesn't shift during gluing, cutting, or assembly. It's also commonly used to hold pressure on a joint while glue cures.

Wood Glue

An adhesive for joining wood to wood that can create a strong enough bond without nails or screws. Clamping the joint after gluing improves the bond further.

Oil or Varnish Finishing

A final step where oil or varnish is applied to a sanded surface to bring out the grain and protect it from moisture and stains. Different finishes produce different levels of sheen and texture.

Wood Grain Direction

The direction the wood fibers run. Cutting, sanding, and chiseling all need to account for grain direction for a smooth surface and to avoid splitting the material.

Solid Wood vs. MDF

Solid wood is milled directly from timber and offers good weight and durability, while MDF is made from compressed wood fibers, is more affordable, and has a uniform surface, making it widely used in furniture making.

Start with a small project

Woodworking involves a wide range of tools and processes, which can feel overwhelming at first. Building something small, like a cutting board or a shelf, is a good way to naturally pick up the basic flow of sanding, gluing, and finishing before moving on to projects with more complex cutting or assembly.

Don't forget safety gear

If you plan to use power tools, basic safety equipment like eye protection, a dust mask, and hearing protection is worth having on hand. Forcing a cut against the grain also raises the risk of the material splitting or an injury, so take it slow.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I start woodworking without power tools?

Yes β€” hand tools like a handsaw, hand plane, and chisel are enough for simple projects. It just takes longer, so many people add power tools once they get more comfortable.

What order should I use different sandpaper grits in?

A common approach is to shape the piece first with a coarse grit around 80-120, then move up through 180-240, and finish with 320 or finer for a smooth surface.