Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just dipping your toes into the world of woodworking, having the right accessories in your toolbox makes all the difference. The right tools not only help you work smarter, but make the whole process a lot more enjoyable. So, before you start your next carpentry project, make sure you’ve got the following essentials at your disposal!
1. Measuring Tape
Let’s kick things off with the most basic—but also most important—tool you’ll need: a measuring tape. Nothing throws off a project like bad measurements, and trust us, “eyeballing it” never works out as well as you hope. A good measuring tape helps make sure that everything fits together as intended. Plus, there’s a certain satisfaction in nailing those precise measurements, right?
2. Carpenter's Square
Straight lines and perfect angles? Yes, please! A carpenter’s square helps you make sure everything is, well, square. Whether you're building a frame or marking out cut lines, this tool helps you create those perfect 90-degree angles. It’s like having a built-in cheat code for precision.
3. Carpenter’s Pencils
Ever try to mark a line on a piece of wood with a regular pencil, only to have it roll away– never to be found again? Enter: the carpenter’s pencil. Its flat shape keeps it right where you left it, and thicker lead means your marks stay visible, even on rough wood.
4. Clamps
If you’ve ever tried to glue or cut something and wished you had three hands, clamps are the answer. They hold everything steady so you can focus on getting the job done right. Whether you're gluing a joint or cutting a tricky piece of wood, clamps are like your incredibly helpful assistants. Additionally, whether you need to take a quick break from a project or let wood glue dry overnight, clamps will keep your work secure and in place until you're ready to take the next step.
5. Utility Knife
A utility knife is one of those tools you don’t realize you need until you actually start using it. It’s perfect for everything from trimming excess materials to cutting drywall– or even sharpening your carpenter’s pencil. Utility knives are compact, handy, and always reliable, kind of like the Swiss Army knife of carpentry.
6. Hand Saw
Power tools are great, but there’s something satisfying about using a good old-fashioned hand saw. It’s all about control and precision when you’re making those finer cuts. Plus, it’s super versatile, meaning that you can use it for everything from crosscuts to trimming a little off the top.
7. Level
Ever hang a shelf only to step back and realize it’s...not quite level? Yeah, we’ve been there too. A good level makes sure that everything from your shelves to your framing is perfectly straight. Trust us, getting that horizontal (or vertical) line just right is key to making your project look professional, even if you’re a woodworking newbie.
8. Hardware Work Belt
Built with everything you need and nothing you don’t, a hardware work belt allows you to carry all of your essentials within arm’s reach. Built to function as a tool, the Hardware belt's performance stretch webbing delivers durability that fends off abrasion, with stiffness to carry your tools of the trade. Additionally, the belt’s micro-adjustable buckle dials in your perfect fit, no matter how much gear you’re carrying.
While we can’t help you with most of the above accessories, we can point you in the direction of our workwear belt. Our hard belt is built for tough environments without sacrificing on, oh yeah, comfort. Our signature performance stretch reformulated into a stiffer webbing, brought together with our highest tensile strength buckle system– it's a working belt made to work hard for those who go hard.
[CTA: Hardware Work Belts]
