Tools You Should Consider Buying — In Order for Your Shop
“If I had to do it again this is what I would do.”
Tools You Should Consider Buying — In Order for Your Shop
Starting a woodworking shop should follow the way beginners actually use tools. The right sequence lets you complete real projects early while slowly adding precision as your skills grow.
1. Circular Saw — First Cutting Tool
A circular saw gives beginners immediate ability without large cost.
It can:
- Rip boards
- Crosscut lumber
- Cut plywood and panels
With a straight guide, most beginners get huge capability on day one.
👉 Check price on Amazonhttps://amzn.to/3N58t6k Dewalt circular saw 20v
2. Drill/Driver & Impact Driver Kit
These are everyday shop essentials.
- Drill/driver for holes
- Impact driver for screws
- Assembly and jigs
Good batteries make them part of every project.
👉 Check price on Amazon https://amzn.to/49q8uJG Dewalt drill and driver set
3. Random Orbital Sander
A sander makes beginner projects look professional.
Best for:
- Removing mill marks
- Leveling glue
- Preparing for finish
Start with several grits and good lighting.
👉 Check price on https://amzn.to/4q4P6J3 Bosch orbital sander
4. Router & Router Table
This unlocks joinery and edges.
It can:
- Cut dados and rabbets
- Shape edges
- Build shop jigs
A router table expands even more.
👉 Check price on Amazon https://amzn.to/3YW6jIL Dewalt router
5. Clamps — Real Foundation
Clamps should come early in the plan.
They help:
- Square assemblies
- Hold glue ups
- Sand safely
Inexpensive but mandatory.
👉 Check price on Amazon https://amzn.to/3N4pSfu Jorgensen clamps
6. Jigsaw — Curves & Décor
Great for beginners once boards are to length.
It works for:
- Curved cuts
- Templates
- Door hangers
- Signs
Easy learning curve.
👉 Check price on Amazon https://amzn.to/497C9s3 Dewalt jigsaw
or checkout our Jigsaw Blog Best Beginner Jigsaw: Top Picks & Buying Guide
7. Miter Saw — Precision Angles
After mastering basics, this improves speed.
It excels at:
- Accurate length
- Angled frames
- Repeat cuts
Confidence booster for DIY.
👉 Check price on Amazon https://amzn.to/4qZrmX9 Dewalt Miter saw
or check out our Table saw vs Miter saw blog Best Beginner Table Saw vs Miter Saw: Which Should You Buy First?
8. Table Saw — Shop Upgrade
This is the heart once skills grow.
Best for:
- Accurate ripping
- Sled crosscuts
- Plywood processing
- Cabinets & furniture
Higher growth ceiling.
👉 Check price on Amazon https://amzn.to/4qEqxT8 Dewalt Table saw
or check out our Table saw vs Miter saw blog Best Beginner Table Saw vs Miter Saw: Which Should You Buy First?
9. Dust Collection
Sawdust grows as capability grows.
- Protect lungs
- Clean shop
- Better finishes
Even portable systems help.
👉 Check price on Amazon https://amzn.to/4bk8ltC Shop Vac
10. Sawhorses — Transform Any Space
These turn a garage into a shop.
- Support long boards
- Raise panels
- Portable work
Budget friendly.
👉 Check price on Amazon https://amzn.to/4b4HCRZ Worx Saw horses.
Bonus Tools (Later)
- Scroll saw
- Band saw
- Planer
- Specialty jigs
These can wait until traction.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need all of these now?
No — follow the order and add slowly.
Why Saw Hores Last? Once you have the essentials you can use lumber and tools to make saw horses.
Table saw or miter saw first?
You learn miter first, table later — just like you planned.
Most important early?
circular + drill kit + clamps +sander
Final Thoughts
This order matches how beginners finish projects rather than how experts talk about tools.
If your serious about getting started don’t forget to checkout bundle packages like this Dewalt Three tool Package https://amzn.to/3N4Xf1I
Or This full set up with Dewalt that can easily get you started crafting right away https://amzn.to/3YZGQ14.