Builders Tools & Equipment

Woodworking Woodworker Magazine I want to learn how to build things from wood!?

I have always had a love for things made out of wood. I recently purchased a bunch of tools for woodworking at an estate sale. I purchased a mitre saw, table saw, scroll saw, circular saw, plunge router, and many hand tools and clamps. There is just one problem!! I don’t know how to start!! I have never made anything or even used these type of tools before. What is the best way to start making stuff from wood? I bought a couple of woodworking magazines but I think I must be too dumb because I can’t always figure out what there talking about. Maybe I need it explained like it is for a kid or something. Or is it really that hard to be starting from square one to be a woodworker.
I don’t know anyone that does that type of stuff

Don’t worry about starting from square one. Everyone has to start there.
First, always use safety precautions. Wear eye protection and hearing protection when using the power tools. Next thing, have someone instruct you on proper use of the power saws. They are very dangerous if used incorrectly. I would go to the local Lowes or Home Depot and see if they are having seminars that you can attend. If there is a vocational school nearby, see if they have a class on woodworking. Look in the yellow pages for a cabinet making shop. Go there and talk to some of them and see if someone there would be willing to “school” you on proper use of the power tools. They could come to your house and show you on your own tools so you can become familiar with their operation. Be prepared to pay for that.
As for building something, start with a box. Then go from there. You need to learn how to read a tape measure accurately. Know what every mark on the tape means. There is much more but that will get you started.