Wood is a material that lends itself to being worked on with all sorts of tools, from machinery that’s literally and figuratively cutting-edge, to more traditional equipment which has been used for centuries.
Here are some examples of popular woodworking tools, and ways to use them effectively, to guide your own projects and purchases.
CNC Milling
Imagine a tool that can produce intricate designs with high precision on wood.
That's what Computer Numerical Control (CNC) milling machines do.
Understanding and getting to grips with the basics of CNC milling robots is vital for any modern woodworker. These automated tools follow your digital instructions, effortlessly translating them into precise movements that carve and shape wood into your desired form or design.
CNC mills offer flexibility, accuracy, and repeatability, which are capabilities you can harness for creating either detailed artworks or functional structures from wood of all types.
While it may sound complex initially, learning how a CNC mill operates opens numerous creative possibilities in woodworking. And because it starts with a digital design, you don’t need to spend years mastering the use of a manual tool to get great results.
Rotary Tools
Handheld rotary tools are a boon for any woodworker, offering flexible operation in many tasks. Let's get stuck into the various types and their applications:
- Dremel: Commonly known as the 'all-rounder', this enduringly popular tool is versatile with grinding, carving, and sanding capabilities. It makes refined detailing work on wood easier than ever.
- High-Speed Cutters: Ideal for hollowing out areas on wooden surfaces efficiently, these cutters passionately commit to both precision and speed.
- Diamond Wheel Points: Designed specifically for detailed engraving or carving intricate line works that require finesse.
- Sanding Drums: These tools are perfect for tackling rough edges and achieving smooth finishes with variable coarseness options.
Jigsaws
The jigsaw, a power tool staple in woodworking, is known for its ability to produce precise cuts in various shapes with relative ease. Here's how you can unlock its true potential:
- Straight Cuts: Contrary to popular belief, jigsaws are not only for curved cuts. With the right blade and slow steady speed settings, they can effortlessly accomplish pristine straight cuts.
- Curved Cuts: The primary strength of a jigsaw shines when it tackles intricate curves on specific parts of your wooden pieces. Simply follow your line marks carefully!
- Beveled Edges: By adjusting the baseplate angle of your jigsaw correctly, creating beveled edges or 'slant' cuts becomes remarkably straightforward.
Chiselling
Traditional yet timeless, the chisel maintains its significance in woodworking despite modern advancements. It provides a touch of authenticity that machines can seldom replicate, and is useful in all sorts of projects, from carving a wooden ring to furniture building and beyond. Here are several considerations when using chisels:
- Sharpness is Key: A sharp chisel makes precise cuts while preventing the unwanted splitting of wood fibers.
- Grip Strength and Control: Firmly grasp the handle at an angle that offers best control, ensuring each strike hits home exactly where you want it to.
- Selection Matters: Pick the appropriate type (bevel edge, mortice or carving) and size based on the nature of the work. Detailing job calls for smaller chisels, while larger tasks need wider blades, for example.
Final Thoughts
Most of the craftspeople who have mastered woodworking don’t just stick to one type of tool, but have an array of different examples in their workspace, and an appreciation of the part that each can play in transforming an idea into a tangible reality.
As with any pastime or professional pursuit, the more time you put into working with wood using the aforementioned tools, the better the results will be. So rather than procrastinating or researching endlessly, grab a tool and get to it!
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Aleksandra Djurdjevic
Senior Content Creator
Aleksandra Djurdjevic is a senior writer and editor, covering jewelry, accessories, and trends. She’s also works with services, home décor. She has previously worked as ESL teacher for English Tochka. Aleksandra graduated from the Comparative Literature department at the Faculty of Philosophy in Serbia. Aleksandra’s love for the environment, crafts and natural products over the years helps her continue to be a top expert at Wooden Earth.
