Being good at DIY and woodworking can be a notable help if moving into or living in a cottage. Aside from maybe just wanting to get involved in the maintenance of your space, you may also find it a lot more reasonable. Thatched roofs tend to need moderate care and both thatching and other DIY factors are important in this and can make your life easier.

So, we asked Ted’s Woodworking what tips they could provide for people looking to make inroads in this area and here is some of the advice given.

Which Tools Should I Buy? Advice on Woodworking for Cottage Owners

If you are interested in getting started with working, and do not know how to begin, the best thing to do is jump in headfirst. Try your hand at a project and see how it goes. Real life experience will help you determine what machines to purchase going forward.

There are, of course, a few tools that are necessary to have at the beginning of your woodworking journey. After you become proficient with them and determine what else you want, you can make additional purchases so that you have the tools at your disposal that are important to your projects. You don’t want to rush into buying a bunch of tools only to realize that you either don’t need them or you aren’t interested in woodworking after all.

Hand tools are essential for Cottage Care

Make sure you have a screwdriver, a hammer, several chisels, nails, a try square, a hack saw, clamps and a work desk. When it comes to power tools, opt for a jigsaw and a drill. You will find these useful even if woodworking does not become your passion. While these tools won’t help you make showroom quality furniture, they can assist you with a number of different projects.

You can find tools at all different price points

Most salesmen will direct you toward high quality tools that are going to work for years. However, these tools will be very expensive. Pick up some inexpensive tools initially. Work with them, and then when they break, determine whether it is worth it to spring for a high quality upgrade. Also, you may be surprised at how long the “cheap” tool works for you.

A circular saw is also a good choice when Caring for a Cottage

This tool is much more efficient than a jigsaw, and it is not as difficult to cut in a straight line when you use it. In addition, if you will be working with large plywood sheets, this tool is essential (regardless of whether you have a table saw). If you purchase this item, as well as the ones listed above, you should be in good shape.

A few other options to consider are a hand plane and possibly a workbench that includes a visor. You could even construct a workbench on your own if you would like.

Finally, think about picking up a doweling jig. A pocket hole jig is another option, although it is not my favourite choice.

With some persistence, an openness to learning, Ted’s woodworking plans and the right tools you should be able to keep your thatch space up to standard and save a lot in the process.