Holiday Gift Guide 2021!
Not sure what to give the woodworker in your life?
This list is full of great ideas for woodworkers of any level. We use these tools on a daily basis, and if they can hold up to a pro shop, they can work for anyone.
Happy Holidays!!
1) Measuring Tape
This is my favorite tape for a few reasons. It reads the same no matter which direction you pull it out from (no more reading it upside down!) It also has readings at each fraction down to 16ths. I prefer the 16’ length, and it even has a built in pencil sharpener!
2) Combination Square
The gold standard in measuring tools, Starrett has been the go to for those who demand accuracy in their tools. The 12” combination square has many uses in a wood shop including layout, measuring, and machine setup. With proper care they will last generations, I should know, I still use my grandfathers.
3) Dovetail Saw
A small hand saw is a must in the shop. This one is setup to cut dovetails, a hallmark of fine woodworking. It is a great budget/performance option.
4) Clamps
The old saying goes “You can never have enough clamps” . Truer words have never been spoken. Clamps come in all sizes, shapes, lengths and configurations. It’s enough to make your head spin. But I found parallel clamps to be a great all around option. They have lots of clamping force and help to keep parts aligned during a glue up.
5) Setup Bars
Proper machine setup is critical. These might look like simple pieces of metal, but they are actually precision milled aluminum bars. Each one is milled to a specific dimension to aid in easy and presice setup of tools including routers, table saws, shapers, and drill presses.
6) Drill Bits
These bits are a great timesaver. They drill a pilot hole and countersink at once. The countersink is also adjustable for different length screws. They are always the first ones i reach for.
7) Calculator
Yes, math is hard. We all need a friend in the shop who can help us add up those crazy fractions. Besides that, this can help convert fractions to metric, find square footage, angles, and roof pitches. Very handy for more than just the shop.
8) Angle Gauge
The ultimate table saw accessory. This unassuming block will give you the exact reading of the angle of your table saw blade. It’s magnetic base sticks to the blade and quickly gives you a digital reading of the saw blade angle down to the 10th of a degree. Wether you need it at a perfect 90 or anywhere in between, this has you covered.
9) Block Plane
The No. 60 1/2 adjustable mouth block plane is a beautiful, functional piece of American made tooling. Lie Nielsen is the pinnacle of hand tool manufacturing. Made in Maine, and crafted to exacting standards, this tool will be passed on for generations.
10) Fine Woodworking
The best gift you can give is education. Over 30 years of fine woodworking magazine at your fingertips. It is and endless supply of tips, techniques, plans, videos, podcasts, and more. This is the answer to any and all woodworking questions.