There’s much to love about woodworking. Studies have shown that it can help reduce cortisol levels, and it’s also a useful way to keep the body and mind fit. Throw in the fact that your efforts will result in an item that you can use or give to someone special, and it becomes pretty clear why it’s a popular hobby for people with time and space. But there are a few things you need to know in order to set up for successful woodworking projects.
We’ve put together a few often overlooked tips that can make a real difference to the success of your woodworking projects. Let’s take a look.
Work in an Organized Space
Where you work will ultimately influence how you work. Don’t work on the floor. Use a work table that’s appropriate for the job at hand.
And, studies have shown that cluttered desks reduce productivity and produce poorer results. If someone carried out a similar study on disorganized spaces and their impact on woodworking project results, they would probably conclude the same thing.
Invest in organization, and try to keep the space as minimalist as possible. It’s also recommended to tidy up and sweep at the end of each session—all professional woodworkers do this and for a reason: it makes a difference.
Invest in Quality Tools
A pro chef knows the importance of having quality kitchen equipment and high-end knives. An experienced woodworker knows the value of using quality tools. Great tools don’t just make your projects easier to complete; they also influence the final result so you can achieve successful woodworking.
A quality tenon saw, crosscut saw, portable work table, and chisel set really can be worth their weight in gold. Plus, the best way to improve your woodworking skills is by practicing as much as you can, and you’ll be much more likely to spend time in your workshop if you have quality tools to work with.
Seek Guidance
No one is born with a natural talent for completing woodworking projects to the highest of standards, not even Norm Abram. Everyone needs some help on their journey. If you’re growing frustrated with your skills, then seek help.
Most people start their woodworking journeys by following YouTube tutorials, but videos can’t teach you everything you need to know. Look for hands-on woodworking courses in your local area. You’ll pay for them, but you can learn a lot of useful tips and tricks that can improve your woodworking projects.
Add New Techniques Each Time
Finally, look at gently improving the difficulty every time you start a new woodworking project. You’ll make more progress, more quickly if you’re gently raising the bar of what you do with your skills. In the early days, you can make progress by including jointing and planing, routing, and drilling. Eventually, you’ll be getting into the realm of dovetail joints, wood inlays, and other advanced successful woodworking techniques.
